The Gadsden City Council convened on September 2, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the city's trail system, particularly a new project aimed at enhancing connectivity and safety for residents. The meeting highlighted the progress made in the planning stages of the trail, which will run from the Mill Village area to the North Third Street intersection, following the existing rail bed.

City officials presented a pre-engineering blueprint of the trail, which is designed to be approximately eight feet wide and primarily constructed of asphalt. The trail will include concrete sidewalks at intersections to facilitate access from residential areas. The project aims to maximize accessibility for residents, allowing them to enjoy the trail and connect with the broader greenway system once completed.

A key point of discussion was the funding for the project. The city has secured a $3 million grant from the federal government, which requires a matching contribution of $3 million from the city. This funding is facilitated through the National Park Service, with the city working closely with Adeca to ensure compliance with grant requirements. The council expressed enthusiasm about this significant financial support, noting that it is one of the largest grants received in recent years.

Safety features were also a priority in the discussions. Plans include the installation of pedestrian lighting and security cameras along the trail to enhance safety for users. The council emphasized the importance of creating a secure environment, with features similar to those found on college campuses, including emergency call stations.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the project, with council members acknowledging the collaborative efforts of city staff and expressing excitement for the benefits the trail will bring to the community. Further steps will involve issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to qualified design firms, which will lead to the development of detailed construction documents and renderings for the project.