It is with great sadness that we report that Bob Beck, chairman of the Dryden Rail Trail Task Force, died on Friday afternoon, June 14, 2024, after an unexpected illness.
In 2015, Bob, who was a member of the Town of Dryden Conservation Board, was approached by the Town of Dryden to create a Task Force that would establish a rail trail along the abandoned Lehigh Valley railroad lines, extending from the Village of Dryden through to the western edge of the town to connect with the East Ithaca Recreation Way. He assembled a steering committee composed of town leaders, Dryden residents, and representatives from bicycling, hiking, and nature organization. This group later became the Dryden Rail Trail Task Force and began the process of procuring easements from property owners and applying for grants to build the trail. Bob’s enduring devotion to the Trail—as well as the effort and work he put into talking with landowners, making friends, and leading the Task Force—is the primary reason for the great success that the Task Force has had in completing the length of trail that is now open to the public.
We will miss Bob terribly, and will be providing more information as soon as we are able.
In memory of Bob, please go out and enjoy the trail.
Dryden Rail Trail 