With over 100 neighbors, cyclists, walkers, runners, police officers, special guests, and Atlanta BeltLine supporters in attendance, the Southwest Connector Trail dedication was a huge success! The ceremony took place next to Beecher Hills Elementary School on August 10, 2013, right after students came back to school with a new amenity in their backyard. Special thanks to the PATH Foundation, Department of Parks and Recreation, and Department of Watershed Management. In case you missed it, click here to view the full Southwest Connector Trail dedication photo album.
Reverend Gerald Durley, Pastor Emeritus at Providence Missionary Baptist Church, opened with a rousing invocation, and Council Member Lamar Willis served as the emcee.
Mayor Kasim Reed also delivered remarks, along with Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell.
But the celebratory mood didn’t end with Reverend Damon Williams’ benediction, and the crowd stuck around long after the ribbon cutting. Walkers, joggers and bicyclists were waiting eagerly to break in the trail on its inaugural day.
Beecher Hills Elementary School was really hopping at the dedication – the kids at the ceremony were treated to a big bounce house, and a DJ hosted a dance party for folks of all sizes.
Lt. Baxter and the Atlanta Police Department’s Path Force joined the dedication, as well as some four-legged APD “officers.”
The Southwest Connector Trail is phase 1 of a 4.5 mile spur trail that will eventually connect the Westview Neighborhood to the Atlanta BeltLine. The trail allows for improved access to Beecher Hills elementary school, connecting the existing Lionel Hampton Trail with Westwood Avenue. The Southwest Connector Trail, along with the Eastside Trail, the West End Trail and the Northside Trail, will bring the total of permanent trails to nearly seven miles along and near the Atlanta BeltLine corridor.
This spur trail is part of the 33-mile network of Atlanta BeltLine trails that will eventually connect to the 22-mile corridor. More information on the Southwest Connector Trail can be found in the press release.
