The Unity Trail started out mainly as an idea sketched out on paper by the assistant professor of biology Janet Paladino and her students one day in class on the campus of Waynesburg University; but then became a reality through private and local funding. The Assistant professor of biology Janet Paladino led the trail project, which was dedicated at a ceremony Wednesday and included a student-led tour of the trail. Paladino said countless students have put more than 2,000 hours of work into preparing the area. Students cleared invasive species, replacing them with native plants. The area has seen a lot of deforestation, Paladino said, and used to be a WWI training area. The students also worked to remove fallen trees and litter.

The Unity Trail, named to signify the collaboration between the school and the community, is about two square miles, including 1.5 miles of walking trails. The borough owns part of the property the trail runs through, so the name really highlights the “unity with the community,” Paladino said.

The trail’s start is down the hill from the end of East Wayne Street near Martin Hall on campus. Work continues as they’re determining whether they’d like to make it a loop or continue in another direction. The rear section is currently closed as they work to correct some slippage from runoff. At the entrance is a pollinator and shade garden, and the trail also has an outdoor classroom clearing with benches. Paladino is excited to see the trail now compared to the initial concept of the project, which was funded by a $20,000 grant from EQT’s foundation. Work began in 2015, though the grant in 2016 considerably ramped up development. That money went to buying tools and building a bridge over a ravine. EQT has also donated mulch that will be spread across the walking surface to make for an easier hike.

  • “Need a breath of fresh air in Waynesburg? The new Unity Trail on Waynesburg University’s campus is offering calm respite in the heart of the borough”. – The Observer-Reporter.
  • “The Unity Trail is a really nice spot to take a nice, quiet walk, to appreciate what nature has to offer and to take the children and appreciate nature firsthand”. – Janet Paladino, Waynesburg University Biology Professor & Unity Trail Leader.