An Idea is Born

State Representative Karl Boyes and his wife, Sue, often visited Presque Isle to enjoy the natural beauty. Unfortunately there was no place in the park for them to enjoy their hobbies of bicycling and jogging without worrying about traffic.

"It's a shame that people just can't come here to walk," Karl said. And so began the dream of a trail at Presque Isle where people young and old could enjoy nature while walking, jogging, bicycling and skating. Between 1984 and 1999, Representative Boyes secured nearly two million dollars of funding to create and complete this trail.

Karl Boyes (1936-2003)

Born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania, Karl graduated from Strong Vincent High School and Edinboro University. He taught locally and then spent the years following as a loyal public servant. Elected in 1980, he represented the 3rd Legislative District in the House of Representatives for over twenty years, and also acted as the House Finance Committee Chairman for eight years. Karl Boyes was, and always will be, one of Erie's favorite sons.

Presque Isle was very important to Karl Boyes. He quietly obtained funds for the rehabilitation of park roadways, marina and waterlines. But the crowning accomplishment of Representative Boyes' efforts was the Multi-Purpose Trail.

Karl



championed other local issues as well, such as securing funds for volunteer firefighters and improving local infrastructure. His passion for helping people will be remembered.

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