A few weeks ago we discussed Greenway Christmas wishes which included some of the items below. With some help and cooperation, we can achieve them this year. Here they are, in no particular order:
1. Completion of Phase 5: This is going to be the easiest goal to reach because we are nearly there. The front and back ends are finished and it’s just a matter of time until the Tinsley Park trail dries enough to be able to pour concrete and lay asphalt. Completion of this phase will also involve clean-up and enhancements such as new tree planting which is scheduled for next spring.
2. Placement of Distance Markers: With an uninterrupted stretch of four miles of Greenway, we can now seriously consider permanent distance markers between Mohawk Drive and Willow Street. It is unclear what form these will take, but many have expressed the need for quarter-mile increments.
3. Enhancement of Mohawk Drive Trailhead: With the opening of Phase 5, this new parking area will only become more active. The area surrounding it is in need of a good facelift and upgrade.
4. Lights on Phase 4: This was on the Greenway’s Christmas wish list. With a bit more financial help, there will soon be light poles from Mohawk Drive to Tinsley Park.
5. Clear Direction for Phase 6: It’s no secret the plan of the Greenway is to go from the current terminus on Willow Street to the Village Green Town Center. In 2012, it will be critical to identify if, how and when the southern extension will take place.
6. Apply for Grants: The Greenway has been fortunate to receive grants from the state of Tennessee and the local Healthy Community Initiative. Perhaps Phase 6 plans will affect these grant applications.
7. Greenway Calendar: The need is great for a comprehensive online Greenway calendar which lists events such as fundraisers, races, cleanup days, planting days and other items of interest.
8. Establishment of “Habitats”: In 2011, a section of our Greenway was designated an Urban Wildlife Habitat. The Tinsley Park section could qualify for this designation as well. There is also ample area to provide shelters (i.e. birdhouses, etc.) for birds and other wildlife along the Greenway.
9. Completion of Tinsley Park Upgrade: Another of the Christmas wishes expressed a couple of weeks ago was for an upgrade of playground, picnic and restroom facilities at Tinsley Park adjacent to Phase 5 of the Greenway. I have learned from Parks and Recreation Director Patti Petitt that the project has been put out to bid and will commence sometime next spring.
10. Identification of Third Restroom Location: In an ongoing effort to enhance the Greenway experience, restroom facilities are critical. The process of identifying a location for a third restroom will be a priority. Securing funding for it would be a pleasant addition to this goal for 2012.
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Online:
www.cbcgreenway.com
