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St. Mary’s County Commissioners Support Potomac Heritage Trail
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Apr 17, 2008 - 10:22:57 AM

With support from the RC&D, Saint Mary’s and Charles counties are poised to capture a larger share of the dynamic heritage tourism market while enhancing local outdoor recreational opportunities. On Tuesday, April 15th, Southern Maryland RC&D Board Member Tom Tudor and RC&D Coordinator Jeremy West presented the Saint Mary’s Board of County Commissioners with a request for a “Resolution of Support” for an application seeking designation of a bicycling route—connecting communities and sites between Piscataway Park and Point Lookout State Park—as a segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network. Carolyn Laray, County Tourism Manager, and Bob Schaller, Director of Economic and Community Development, were on hand to assist with the presentation and answer questions from the Commissioners. 

After a brief introduction by Schaller and Laray, West explained to the Commissioners that the exact trail route is yet to be finalized but the route will roughly follow the Potomac River passing through such sites as scenic Nanjemoy, Historic Saint Mary’s City, Leonardtown and many other places. Said West, “This project isn’t about building new trails, but rather using existing roadways and bike paths to connect people to our unique cultural and natural heritage.” 

Jim Hudnall, a member of the Oxon Hill Bicycle and Trail Club, was also present to show support. Hudnall has been volunteering in support of the Trail network for many years, promoting its expansion in and beyond Prince George’s County.  In response to a question from the Commissioners about any potential nuisance or increased traffic that adjacent homeowners might experience, Hudnall and West explained that the trail is used regularly by bicyclists now, but that we need to develop the identity of the route so it will be more attractive. If residents are not being inconvenienced to date, they are not likely to, and bicycling is a low-impact form of transportation.

Other questions from the Commissioners included a concern that this route, and other planned and existing routes, could lead to sign clutter and over-interpretation.  West explained that the purpose of the Trail designation is to highlight southern Maryland’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage, and that too much signage would destroy the atmosphere we are trying to preserve and enjoy. Any signs would be small--appropriate for bicyclists--and probably go unnoticed by drivers. In addition, West explained that interpretation is largely accomplished through maps and guide books. On-site interpretation can be shared with various complementary projects, such as the Religious Freedom Scenic Byway. According to West, “The last thing we want is our historic sites cluttered by interpretive signs.”

According to Tudor, “One of the initial interests of our Board in partnering with the National Park Service on the Potomac Heritage Trail project was the fact that it only requires coordination with the local government agencies.  There is no dictating of the route and only minimal signage requirements. This flexibility has allowed for a concept route which will take hikers and cyclists by local museums and historical, cultural and recreational sites.”  To assist with signs, interpretation and identity, the National Park Service provides agencies with copies of “Identity Guidelines for Trail Partners.” According to the Guidelines, the aim “…is to maintain a visual connection throughout the Trail network while encouraging local flexibility and identity.” 

West and Tudor believe that this project will not preclude other proposed trail projects. The Potomac Heritage Trail and the Religious Freedom Scenic Byway are not mutually exclusive. The Three-Notch Trail and the White Plains to Indian Head rail-trail project can contribute to the developing network without losing their identities. “We look forward to partnering with Phil Rollins, Saint Mary’s County Recreation, Parks and Community Services, and with Tom Roland, Charles County Parks and Grounds, in bringing our respective projects together.” said West.

The County Commissioners unanimously passed a “Resolution of Support” for the Potomac Heritage Trail project in Saint Mary’s County. With this resolution, along with letters of support from numerous local and state partners, Southern Maryland RC&D can request designation for the Charles and Saint Mary’s segments of the Trail network. After formal designation, the counties may have additional access to funds for physical improvements to the route, interpretation and publications.

For more information, please visit:

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (National Park Service)

Tidewater Potomac Heritage Bicycling Route (Adventure Cycling Association)

Prince George’s County Potomac Heritage Trail On-Road Bicycling Route (Oxon Hill Bicycle and Trail Club cue sheet and map)

Potomac Heritage Trail:  A Hiker’s Guide (on-line field guide)