The Woodall Rail Trail has officially broken ground as the inaugural segment of the Silver Comet Connector, a transformative project aiming to enhance connectivity in the Atlanta region. This development will link to the existing Silver Comet Trail in Cobb County, eventually providing a continuous 94-mile trail network extending to Anniston, Alabama. This is a crucial step in fostering greater accessibility to outdoor spaces and recreational opportunities.
The trail’s starting point is at Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard and Elaine Avenue, coinciding with the conclusion of the Northwest Beltline’s construction slated for this year. It will stretch to The Works, a mixed-use development, and follows the picturesque Woodall Creek, which is a tributary of Peachtree Creek. Additionally, this trail provides residents with access to 14 acres of urban forest, reflecting the community’s strong demand for more green spaces.
Local landowners have demonstrated their commitment to this project by donating land for the trail. The route will be adorned with monuments and murals created by local artists, and remnants of the old Silver Comet rail line will be visible, serving as a nostalgic reminder of the area’s history.
Excitingly, the region surrounding the trail is undergoing substantial development, with new apartments already housing residents who have embraced the trail for their recreational activities. During a ceremonial event, attendees witnessed runners and families enjoying the outdoor space, highlighting the trail’s immediate impact on the community.
PATH Foundation is overseeing the Silver Comet project in collaboration with the city, and senior project manager Pete Pellegrini praised Mayor Andre Dickens for his steadfast support. Volunteers from organizations like Trees Atlanta have contributed significantly, helping to restore seven acres of forest by removing invasive species and enhancing the native ecosystem. Markers indicating local flora and fauna enrich the trail experience.
Looking ahead, city officials, including District 9 Councilman Dustin Hillis, aim to complete an additional 1.4 miles by next year’s World Cup, connecting the trail to the Silver Comet at the Chattahoochee River. This expansion presents not only opportunities for recreation but also for transportation and community building, allowing residents and visitors to partake more fully in the natural beauty of the city.
The promising trajectory of the Silver Comet Connector project underscores the growing commitment to sustainability and active lifestyles in the community, creating hopeful prospects for enhanced outdoor engagement in the years to come.