After years of working out discussions and months of working out details, the Cape Elizabeth Land Trust is close to finalizing an agreement with the Cape Elizabeth United Methodist Church to purchase 6.7 acres of church property in Robinson Woods for an easement that would complete CELT’s Cross Town Trail, guaranteeing it would remain protected and natural in perpetuity.

According to CELT Board Member Bill Luneber on its web site, “CELT has long considered protecting the Cross Town Trail one of its important responsibilities”.

The trail, 7.8 miles in length, stretches from Fort Williams to Kettle Cove, passing through many of Cape Elizabeth’s natural spaces along the way.

CEUMC Lay Leader and Administrative Council Chairperson Steve Hill said, “CEUMC is pleased to join CELT in preserving this beautiful piece of forested land in the middle of Cape Elizabeth. This easement is an important part of our focus on environmental ministry and protecting the world around us. We hope this begins a long relationship with CELT that results in many collaborations going forward”.

Steve, Jim Tammaro and Pastor Priscilla Dreyman have been working closely with CELT to make this proposal a reality.

CELT recognized the church on its web site by stating, “The CEUMC has graciously allowed people to use the trail for years. The entire congregation takes environmental responsibility and education seriously. Their ‘Eco Ministry’ uses the space for walks, demonstrations and presentations, a ministry that the congregation is looking to expand in the future”.

CELT now has only until the sale closing on May 31 to raise $480,000 to complete the acquisition. It still is working out fundraising and seeking donations for the final $167,000.