Singing River Trail’s $18.4 million Reconnecting Communities & Grants sees approval

In a bid to foster connectivity and promote historical preservation, the Singing River Trail’s (SRT) latest initiative, the “Dr. Bill Sims Hike-Bike Way on the Singing River Trail: Reconnecting Old Town to Decatur’s Riverfront” project, has been approved.

In partnership with the City of Decatur and the Decatur Morgan County Tourism’s Board of Directors, SRT’s project is slated to fund the construction of the Dr. Bill Sims/Singing River Trail, spanning from Point Mallard to Old Town.

Once completed, the trail will  link several iconic landmarks including Rhodes Ferry, Deadman’s Alley on Bank Street, Etta Freeman Park, Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Museum, Judge Horton Home, Old Town Historic District, Ingles Harbor, and Malone Park.

Covering an impressive 8.77 miles, the trail will not only enhance connectivity within Decatur but also serve as a beacon for surrounding towns and cities along the Singing River Trail route.

One of the primary goals of this project is to restore connectivity to Old Town, a historically significant African-American district. By bridging the gap between Old Town and the rest of Decatur, the trail will revitalize the area, promoting accessibility and fostering a sense of community.

Moreover, the project emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for pedestrians and cyclists. The establishment of a dedicated bike and pedestrian greenway system will ensure that residents and visitors alike can traverse the city with ease, promoting active lifestyles and sustainable transportation.

The initiative has garnered widespread support from the local community, with residents expressing enthusiasm for the project’s potential to enhance the city’s cultural and recreational offerings.

For more information, please visit singingrivertrail.com/who-we-are/building-the-srt.