“…5-4-3-2-1.”

And with that traditional Huntsville ribbon-cutting countdown from Mayor Tommy Battle, a 1½-mile extension of the Tennessee River Greenway was launched.

Battle led Wednesday’s ceremony celebrating the latest addition to Huntsville’s network of greenways that completes a continuous 17-mile loop in South Huntsville.

“This loop began 20 years ago with the Aldridge Creek Greenway,” Battle said.“Huntsville’s greenways are a valuable recreation asset to the Huntsville community.

“Expanding our greenway network is an investment in the health, well-being and quality of life for everyone who visits or calls Huntsville home.”

Greenways feature natural landscapes and allow for a variety of recreation opportunities such as leisurely walks, runs and cycling.

Battle said the city’s greenway system will eventually tie north and south Huntsville and allow “everybody to walk, jog, run or ride from one end of Huntsville to the other.”

“The abundance and availability of these greenways is what sets Huntsville apart,” said District 3 Council Member Jennie Robinson, whose district includes the extension.

Construction on the addition began last September and extends from Redstone Road about three miles from the Tennessee River to Green Cove Road.

The loop includes sections of the Aldridge Creek Greenway and connects residents and visitors to Huntsville landmarks and recreation amenities such as Ditto Landing and the Tennessee River while providing a quiet escape to nature in an urban setting.

“The loop connects 13 public parks,” Robinson said. “As we all live our busy lives, it’s truly a luxury to have a robust network of quiet and peaceful greenways winding throughout the city.

“I know in south Huntsville, completing this loop is something everyone has been looking forward to.”

The greenways also provide an attractive place for different types of exercise.

“Recreation is for everyone,” said Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett.”

Whether you enjoy a morning walk, a weekend bike ride, a daily run or simply spending time outdoors with family and friends, spaces like this provide opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to connect with nature and one another.

“This is more than just a trail, it’s a place memories will be made.”