Greenway to open in style Saturday
The Barren Fork Greenway will celebrate its official grand opening Saturday as the first phase of the eagerly anticipated project is complete.
Although many people are already enjoying the benefits of the greenway, there are still some exciting things to come, according to McMinnville Parks and Recreation Director Carlene Brown.
The Greenway has been a hope and dream for some residents for years. Now with its official opening in ceremonies at 10 a.m. this Saturday, it will mark a milestone in the cultural growth and development of Warren County.
The greenway is a trail, approximately one mile in length, running along the Barren Fork River. Riverfront Park and Pepper Branch Park serve as the trail heads with a couple other entrances along the trail.
With many points of interest, including the old cotton mill, overlooks and fishing piers, park officials say this is a family-friendly treasure waiting to be discovered.
At different areas along the trail you will be able to find signs that contain information about wildlife and trees in the area, making the walk an educational experience. The trial also includes a fishing pier for the physically challenged which is wheelchair accessible.
There are many benefits to having a greenway here, Brown noted. It provides opportunities for recreation including walking, running, biking, and skating, just to name a few.
There are some upcoming events which include wildlife and tree identification, and an organized power-walking group is planned.
Opening ceremonies will include a walk down the greenway to Riverfront Park.
Greenway guidelines
To ensure the safety of all trail users, the following Barren Fork Greenway rules apply:
1. Hours – from dawn until dusk
2. Be courteous
3. Keep right – always stay to the right as you use the trail
4. Pass on the left
5. Give audible signal when passing
6. Be predictable – travel in a consistent manner
7. Control your bicycle
8. Don’t block the trail
9. Yield when entering or crossing trails
10. When using the trail around dawn or dusk, be equipped with proper lights
11. Don’t use the trail under the influence of alcohol or drugs
12. Clean up your litter
13. Keep pets on leashes
14. Use the buddy system
15. Trail is subject to flash flooding, so use caution
There will be a complete set of rules located at all trail heads.