Greenway officially opens with butterflies and a picnic
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The event drew a robust crowd with many supporters, residents, and city officials in attendance.
“This is a truly a momentous occasion,” said Pat Bigbee.
As the Indian legend of making wishes and having those wishes granted was told by Bigbee, attendees of the celebration, who had earlier in the ceremony been presented packages with live butterflies inside, prepared to whisper a wish to their butterfly and set it free.
As the butterflies spread their wings and flew, the crowd erupted in cheers. The butterflies were a special back-to-nature gift.
“For many in attendance this was a wish and dream come true”, said Bigbee.
Added Parks and Recreation Director Carlene Brown, “I’ve read newspaper articles from 30 years ago talking about wanting something like this. I’m thrilled this day has come.”
As part of the festivities, the attendees took a interpretive walk along the greenway. As the first stop, Alderman Jimmy Haley told the history of the old cotton mill and dam and provided some historic pictures of the way the area had looked in the past.
“This is something that is near and dear to my heart,” said Haley. “I’ve enjoyed this river since I was a boy and since I’ve been teaching I have brought my YSI students here so they could also learn and enjoy the river.”
Along the trail, urban forester Nick Kuhn named and described the trees that shaded the way. Wally Bigbee and Doug Ehleben identified shrubs and the beautiful wild flowers.
When the walkers made it to Riverfront Park, there was a picnic waiting to finish off the fun and refuel the group for the walk back.
When visiting the greenway, city officials ask that you please remember to read and abide by the rules as everyone’s safety on the greenway is the most important factor.