From staff reports
Three new recreation opportunities in the region are a little richer thanks to the Get on the Trail business plan contest.
The contest, run by the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry and Tourism, was open to new or existing businesses within the Oil Region, Foxburg and Parker. Contestant concepts had to demonstrate ways to improve recreational opportunities along or near the area’s trail network.
The winners, announced Friday at Oil City’s Christmas Past celebration, were Allegheny Rentals, Trailasana and Valerie Perry.
Bicycles would be loaned to Two Mile Run County Park for the 2021 mountain bike season to test the viability of E-Bike rentals in Venango County.
Devin Gold accepted the award for Allegheny River Rentals.
Trailasana received $2,500 for a plan to provide another option for outdoor recreation in the form of paddleboard yoga.
Funds would be applied to equipment expenses including paddleboards, paddles and anchors.
Bobbi Jones accepted the award for Trailasana.
Valerie Perry received $5,000 for a plan for “Oil Region Food Tours.” The tours are typically a 2-3 hour experience that combines a walking tour of a destination with food and drink tastings at 5-7 establishments.
Trail users who overnight in Franklin will likely have one day to sample what the town has to offer.
“We’re excited for these new opportunities in the Oil Region and applaud their potential to expand our local economy,” said contest organizer Kim Harris, the Oil Region Alliance project manager.
