The Town of Chapel Hill on July 7th, sent out a dozen Connected Roads staff to assess 11 unpaved connector pathways in multiple neighborhoods. I just happened to be walking my dog Gracie through the woods like we do every day. We stopped to wait. Gracie growled at them because she knew they were up to no good. I inquired what they were doing. It became clear they intend to pave it over, regardless of local resident objections. My message? Leave us alone! We've been through this twice before. No one who lives here wants it. We need our forests, natural walkways, and tranquility. We do NOT need  more asphalt, more trees cut down, and chaos. Leave us alone! The destruction of Carolina North Forest just across MLK Blvd. to build a small town and basketball stadium is going to bring enough chaos, paving, and disruption of what used to be a wonderful way of life.  

The Town of Chapel Hill is clearly planning to pave the pathway connecting Mendel Drive Extension and Timber Hollow apartments without even asking the residents in Old Forest Creek neighborhood, and over our previous objections. This is a move that would transform this beautiful forest area into yet another paved road. This pathway and its surrounding trees offers more than just a route—it provides a serene and picturesque escape from the surrounding urban environment, enriching our neighborhood and our lives with natural beauty and biodiversity.

Mendel Drive Extension pathway is cherished by residents, walkers, runners, and nature enthusiasts alike. It is a beautiful, unpaved trail bordered by forest trees on both sides with pathways for walking into the forest which walkers, people with pets, bike riders, seniors and others use daily. Here you can see deer, hear the birds, and experience the tranquility of our buffer forest which provides wildlife and people alike a refuge from the hustle and bustle of town life. The untouched pathway allows for rainwater absorption, helping to prevent flooding and reduce runoff into our town’s water systems. This area is a vital green space, and its preservation is essential for the health and well-being of the Chapel Hill community.

Paving this pathway is not only unnecessary but would also contribute to environmental degradation. The construction process could disrupt wildlife habitats, cut down trees, harm existing plant life, and increase the area's carbon footprint. Additionally, paving can lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run, an expense that taxpayers should not have to shoulder.

We urge the Chapel Hill Town Council to reconsider their plans to pave this pathway. Instead of destroying this natural trail, let’s work together to promote sustainable development practices that enhance our town’s natural areas. We can install signage to warn cyclists and educate walkers about natural trail etiquette while ensuring the trail is kept clean and clear of obstacles.

This community treasure deserves protection, and your voice can help preserve this oasis and forest. Please sign this petition to urge the Town of Chapel Hill to leave the Mendel Drive Extension pathway in its natural state.