A feasibility study examining the potential for a multi-use rail trail connecting Selma, Marion, Greensboro, and Newbern is on track for completion by April, with a public consultation phase planned for May.
The study is part of Sweet Trails Alabama, a broader initiative to develop recreational trail infrastructure across the state. The Marion leg of the project has been organized through Main Street Marion.
A second public input session was held on March 11 at the Harris Technology Hub in Marion. Discussion centered on:
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Community input regarding project staging
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Potential route options
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Safety features
The project team also addressed the importance of connectivity, user experience, and minimizing environmental impact.
Next steps include:
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Finalizing trail maps
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Refining cost projections
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Developing strategies to promote tourism and safety awareness along the proposed corridor
Potential funding sources include federal and state grant programs.
A rail trail is a recreational path for walking, cycling, and other uses built along a former railroad corridor. The old rail beds provide a natural foundation for long-distance trails because they are already graded and relatively flat.
