Anniston, AL — A milestone more than 30 years in the making was honored in grand fashion on Thursday, April 24, as city officials, state leaders, and community members gathered for the official ribbon cutting of the Chief Ladiga Trail extension in Anniston. The ceremony, originally planned for outdoors, was moved inside Coldwater Mountain Brewpub due to weather but did not lose an ounce of its enthusiasm or importance. The event was followed by a VIP dinner at the Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association (NEABA), continuing the celebration of connectivity, community, and collaboration.
Vice Mayor Ciara Smith, standing in for Mayor Jack Draper who was unable to attend due to illness, welcomed the crowd with both pride and gratitude. “This has been 30 years in the making,” Smith said, calling the moment one of shared vision and persistence. “This trail is more than pavement and paint. It’s progress. It’s purpose.”
Smith expressed heartfelt gratitude to a wide array of individuals and organizations whose contributions were integral to the success of the project. He specifically thanked Jarvis Winters with ALDOT for his vital support in transportation planning, as well as Lori Sofel with the MPO for her efforts in regional planning and coordination. Smith also recognized Ed Turner of the Anniston Water Works & Sewer Board for his work on water and sewer infrastructure, and Elizabeth Lawler of Norfolk Southern for her involvement in improving rail connectivity. He extended appreciation to Jennifer Green of PARCA for providing valuable data and research insights, and to Dr. Don Killingsworth, President of Jacksonville State University, for the university’s ongoing commitment to community development. Gloria McCloy and Tobi Burt of B&B Developers were acknowledged for their contributions to local construction projects, while Rod Wilburn of JRWA was thanked for his work in water resource management. Toby Bennington, the Director of Planning & Economic Development, was recognized for his role in guiding local zoning and land use strategies. Smith also thanked Steven Foltz and Branton Cole from the City of Anniston for their collaborative efforts in urban development and revitalization. He expressed his appreciation to the Calhoun County Commission for its continued support and cooperation, and to Joe Meads of St. Associates for his expertise in strategic planning and project implementation. Smith’s remarks highlighted the collective effort that made the project possible and underscored the importance of each person’s contribution.
Smith gave special recognition to former Representative Jim Campbell and former Senator Doug Ghee, who first introduced the trail’s legislation in 1992. She also applauded the efforts of former Councilmember Jay Jenkins and noted the financial diligence of the project team, which resulted in cost savings of over $543,000 for the city. “This is what it looks like when people with differing perspectives work together for the good of the community,” Smith said.
Following the ribbon cutting, dignitaries and invited guests made their way to the Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association headquarters for a VIP dinner reception. The dinner provided a more intimate setting for reflection and fellowship among the many individuals and partners involved in the trail’s development. Guests enjoyed a meal prepared by local restaurant Effinas and share stories of past trail milestones, and discussed future projects that would continue to build on the legacy of the Chief Ladiga Trail. Trail-themed centerpieces. Photo displays showcased the history and progress of the trail over the decades.
At the VIP event, Vice Mayor Ciara Smith began by representing Mayor Jack Draper and the Anniston City Council, expressing her deep honor in welcoming everyone to the celebration. She emphasized that the event wasn’t just about the opening of a trail but about celebrating a journey shaped by vision, persistence, and strong partnerships. Vice Mayor Smith acknowledged the presence of several key figures, including members of the Anniston City Council, representatives from Rails to Trails, the National Park Service, and other elected officials. She took the audience through the rich history of the Chief Ladiga Trail, which began in 1990 when the city of Piedmont secured a grant for land and water conservation. She traced the trail’s various phases, highlighting significant funding milestones and the collaborations that were vital to its completion, particularly focusing on the recent acquisition of the final 1.4-mile stretch by the City of Anniston and the awarding of the construction bid. For Smith, the Chief Ladiga Trail represents more than just a recreational path—it’s a legacy that connects communities, stimulates economic growth, and enhances the quality of life in Anniston.
Following Smith, Senator Keith Kelley took the stage and expressed his gratitude for being a part of the celebration. He reflected on the trail’s journey, noting how essential collaboration and commitment had been to its success. Senator Kelley shared a personal anecdote that connected him to the trail, underscoring the shared experiences that have enriched its development. He praised the dedication of those who worked tirelessly to bring the trail to life and emphasized the ongoing need for continued support and investment in outdoor recreational initiatives that will benefit the community for years to come.
Next, Senator Andrew Jones, representing Alabama’s 10th District, discussed the broader Sweet Trails, Alabama initiative, placing the Chief Ladiga Trail within the context of a statewide effort to enhance outdoor recreation. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive plan to connect trails across Alabama, noting that such connections can stimulate local economies by attracting tourists and supporting small businesses. Senator Jones expressed his excitement for the future of the trail, highlighting its potential to bring communities together through outdoor activities while boosting Alabama’s tourism industry.
Mark Tuggle, Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the House of Alabama, followed Senator Jones, commending the state legislators present for their tireless work to improve outdoor recreation in Alabama. Tuggle shared specific details about funding allocations made by the legislature to support trail projects, including investments in infrastructure improvements and the development of new recreational areas. He stressed the significance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the state’s outdoor offerings and promoting a culture of recreation.
Tim Lindblome from Jacksonville State University then spoke about the university’s involvement in the creation of a statewide master plan for trail systems in Alabama. Lindblome discussed ongoing projects aimed at closing gaps in trail connectivity, such as feasibility studies for new trails linking major cities like Huntsville and Birmingham. He expressed excitement about how these projects could transform the outdoor recreation landscape in Alabama and positively impact local economies.
Maggie Cunningham, a board member of the Alabama Trails Foundation and owner of Pinhoti Pizza Company, shared her personal experience in building a business near the Chief Ladiga Trail. Cunningham highlighted the economic potential of eco-tourism, emphasizing the importance of community awareness about local outdoor resources. She also reinforced the connection between the Pinhoti Trail and the Chief Ladiga Trail, noting how both trails serve as catalysts for community engagement and development.
Rolando Hertz, the superintendent of the Freedom Riders National Monument, spoke next, acknowledging the significance of National Park Week and its connection to the celebration of the Chief Ladiga Trail. Hertz reflected on the historical impact of the Freedom Riders and their contributions to civil rights, drawing parallels between their fight for freedom and the accessibility provided by trails. He invited attendees to visit the Freedom Riders National Monument, emphasizing the role of national parks in preserving cultural heritage and the importance of preserving these spaces for future generations.
Finally, T.C. McLemore, Executive Director of Outdoor Recreation Programs at Innovate Alabama, closed the speeches by reaffirming the state’s commitment to leveraging its natural assets to foster economic growth and community development through outdoor recreation. McLemore expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of the various organizations and stakeholders present, assuring the audience that these combined efforts would continue to drive progress and innovation in Alabama’s outdoor initiatives.
With its completion, the Chief Ladiga Trail now extends deeper into Anniston, offering residents and visitors new opportunities for recreation, eco-tourism, and connection. The ribbon may be cut, but the journey is far from over. Vice Mayor Smith words echoed for all as the evening closed, “We’re not just celebrating what’s behind us. We’re looking ahead—to what we can build, connect, and grow together.”
UPDATE: Temporary Closure and Detour on Chief Ladiga Trail Section Near M&H Valve
ANNISTON, AL — A section of the Chief Ladiga Trail Extension, running alongside M&H Valve, will be temporarily closed from April 25 to May 25, 2025, due to the finalization of legal property matters. The closure is a necessary step in ensuring the long-term success and safety of the trail as work continues on the project.
During this period, a clearly marked detour route will be in place, guiding both pedestrians and cyclists around the affected area. Signage will be strategically positioned to ensure minimal disruption and to help users navigate the temporary reroute.
City officials have expressed their apologies for any inconvenience caused by the closure but emphasize that the rest of the trail remains open for use during this time. The City of Anniston encourages community members to continue enjoying the trail as work progresses.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents and trail users,” said city representatives. “This project is an important investment in our community, and we’re excited to bring this incredible asset to completion.”
Updates regarding the reopening of this section will be provided as soon as it is accessible to the public.
