Featured image: One of several bridges completed along the trail (Photo by Tyler Pruett)
By Tyler Pruett
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — During Tuesday’s regularly scheduled council meeting, the Rainsville City Council approved to have a contractor move a section of fence at the Field of Dreams sports complex to accommodate the new Alabama Biking and Walking Trail. The new trail will soon be open to bikers, runners, or those that just want to take an afternoon stroll.
The trail will encompass the North East Alabama Agricultural Center. A full loop around the trail will consist of three miles. Work is still being completed, but the trail is expected to be open for use by this summer.
The biking and walking trail was the idea of local engineer Chris Johnson, who has worked tirelessly to see the trail become a reality. Johnson has done much of the work himself over the last few months. City ordinances prohibit motor vehicles in the area, so all gravel, tools, and materials must be brought in by hand. For Johnson however, the tedious work is worth the result.
“It’ll give residents an opportunity to do outdoor activities,” Johnson said, “We don’t really have anything like that on Sand Mountain. It could grow and we could see other communities build their own walking trails.”
Recently, bridges across the swampy areas have been completed, giving runners a path without having to step in ankle deep water. Any runner knows that a soaked pair of shoes can ruin a long distance run and potentially your feet.
Until the trail is completed, Johnson is hosting a volunteer work day every Saturday from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. While much has been done, help is still needed spreading rock and placing signage to designate the trail.
After the motion to move the fences passed, the Rainsville City Council commended Johnson for his work on the walking trail. The city has shown its support for the project by contributing city workers to help with the completion.
If you would like more information on how you can help complete the Alabama Biking and Walking Trail, contact Rainsville City Hall at 256-638-6331.
