Anniston, AL – Since the groundbreaking in April 2024, Anniston’s Ladiga Trail Extension project has made significant headway, bringing this exciting trail closer to completion. In early October, project contractor B&B Developers wrapped up preparatory work for bridge construction, and there’s been plenty of progress since then. Here’s what’s new!
1. Paving Progress
In October, B&B began laying the first layer of asphalt binder from Michael Tucker Park through Hillcrest Road, stopping just short of the 47th Street crossing. This asphalt binder layer, with its larger aggregates, is designed to provide a solid foundation for the trail’s structure. Later, a thinner, smoother layer will be added for a polished finish once heavy construction traffic subsides.
2. Bridge Footing Construction
While paving continued, the concrete subcontractor, X-Roads Construction, was busy building bridge footings at Cane Creek and 4th Street. Using a high-strength 4000 PSI concrete mix supplied by Webb Concrete and a pump truck, the mix was carefully placed to form the stable foundations needed for future bridge installations.
3. Ongoing Materials Testing
The City of Anniston’s consultants have conducted extensive materials testing to ensure top quality and durability. Soil and aggregate compaction are verified using a nuclear density gauge, while the asphalt binder layers are tested for thickness and density. Concrete samples are tested for strength, ensuring compliance with project standards.
4. Grading & Safety Improvements at 47th Street
At 47th Street, grading is underway as B&B excavates old railroad trestle approaches to enable an at-grade crossing. This new crossing will improve safety by removing the previous blind curve created by trestle embankments. Excavation has revealed deep-set piers that required additional work to clear the area for safe trail use.
About the Project: The extension will add 6.5 miles to Anniston’s Chief Ladiga Trail, resulting in a total trail length of approximately 39.5 miles. This connection will link Anniston’s Multimodal Amtrak Station to Georgia’s Silver Comet Trail, creating the longest paved pedestrian pathway in the United States, spanning more than 105 miles.
