RYAN CHARLES

After years of discussion over building a new walking trail in the city of Troy, the project is at last coming to fruition.

Construction is set to begin on the walking trail at the Troy Sportsplex and reach completion within three weeks, said Troy Recreation Department Director Dan Smith.

“The contractor J.B. Evans has his equipment on site and the trail’s been staked off by the surveyor,” Smith said. “ I’m expecting it to be complete in two to three months.”

The trail, which will be approximately two miles long, will include a single mile of paved path 8 feet wide, which will wind through the wooded area behind the sportsplex.

“I drove the trail a few times in an ATV, and it’s absolutely beautiful down there,” Smith said. “This is going is going to be an excellent feature. We’re also looking forward to securing future grants so it will eventually be over three miles.”

Once the trail is complete, Smith said it will be available for walkers, joggers or bikers.

The project will require a $20,000 match from the city of Troy and will be primarily funded by a $100,000 grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.