Special to 1808Delaware
Preservation Parks announced on Tuesday that it has signed an agreement to purchase 60 acres of Camp Lazarus in the City of Delaware.
The acreage is located at the intersection of Winter Road and US Rt 23, adjacent to the main Camp Lazarus and Seymour Woods State Nature Preserve.
“This is a rare opportunity to acquire additional land along the Olentangy River corridor in the heart of Delaware County for public enjoyment, watershed protection, and increased trail opportunities,” said Bruce Ruhl, a park board commissioner for Preservation Parks. “This acquisition demonstrates our commitment to protecting and conserving the natural features of Delaware County amid rapid development.”
The forested land includes pine groves, maple, oak, sycamore, and hickory trees as well as an abundant understory of spicebush and several small wetlands. A small parking lot is anticipated to be constructed in an existing clearing, accessed from Winter Road. Future visitors will enjoy scenic hiking trails, a picnic area, and restrooms. The Park District anticipates nature and adventure programs and a continued partnership with the Scouts.
“The agreement is the result of a shared vision to inspire outdoor exploration and learning for all members of our community,” said Mary Van Haaften, executive director of Preservation Parks. “We look forward to working together to create even greater opportunities for hiking and exploring.”
This purchase will provide opportunities for trail connections to Seymour Woods State Nature Preserve and roughly 125 acres of parkland, north of Camp Lazarus, purchased by Preservation Parks in recent years. Funds for the $6.2 million purchase were provided, in part, through a grant from the Clean Ohio Greenspace Conservation Program as well as park funds from the 2021 voter-supported land acquisition and park improvement levy.
“We are thankful for the support of Delaware County voters who allow us to continue to be stewards of our natural spaces and for the Scouts who recognized the importance of conserving this land for future generations to enjoy,” Van Haaften said.
