Kendal at Granville has been awarded a grant for $10,000 from Kendal Charitable Funds to implement an engineering survey that will examine the feasibility of constructing a one-mile bike and pedestrian path.  This path will connect Kendal at Granville to the T.J. Evans Path at Granville’s Wildwood Park providing equal access from Granville to the newly acquired Licking County Land Conservancy at Spring Valley.  In addition, matching funds are being sought from The Granville Foundation, The Licking County Foundation, The Evans Foundation, Granville Township Trustees, Denison University, and individuals.

The proposed one mile-path will connect Kendal at Granville/Grandview Road/Ohio Route 16 intersection with the T.J. Evans Path at Granville’s Wildwood Park. (See map attached.)  Crossing the south edge of the village, east to west, is the T.J. Evans pedestrian/cycling path, constructed during the mid 1980’s on the old rail bed of the T&O Railroad which was purchased by the Evans Foundation. At this time there is only direct access to the park via automobile at the entrance on Ohio Route 16 which is considered dangerous for foot traffic. This project would be part of a larger initiative to secure surface transport for non-motorized traffic throughout Granville. Pedestrian and bicyclist access to this site is important to residents.

“This grant is an important first step toward increasing walking access from the township into our village,” says Doug Helman, Executive Director of Kendal at Granville. “But matching funds are imperative for us to begin this important project.  Additional sources for funding will include the Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds.  This initial grant from Kendal Charitable Funds is needed to conduct a complete engineering study, which is a critical component for obtaining other grants and fundraising.  At this point, we do not have an official estimate for the cost of this project, although we predict it's in the neighborhood of $1.5 million.”  Additionally, Mr. Helman said, “The Licking Land Trust acquired Spring Valley to conserve the land and offer it to area residents as a nature reserve.  Our proposed bike and foot path would offer non-motorized access near this nature reserve for many Granville area residents.  This concept is very consistent with Granville's comprehensive plan and Kendal’s values of environmental and community stewardship.”

Kendal at Granville is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) with a total of 110 residences.  Kendal at Granville embraces the life care concept which assures a home to its residents even if they outlive their resources. This commitment to residents is made possible by generous donors.

Kendal Charitable Funds, incorporated in 1994, is the umbrella organization for various Kendal Corporation outreach efforts. In addition, residents of Kendal affiliates, together with a wider constituency, support various funds to help ensure economic diversity in the resident population as well as assistance to residents who may need help.