By Diane Maule| This past weekend, Farmers Gardner Consultant Trey Ford, Chair of the Duval Soil and Water Conservation District and Hurtis Whyche, a local farmer, led the hike along the Emerald Trail S-Line in observance of National Celebrate Trails Day. Participants engaged in discussion on conservation and environmental justice issues in the urban core as well as the history of Durkeeville. The urban hike featured historical and cultural landmarks along the route of the S-line. Stops included Emmet Reed Park’s community garden and J.P. Small stadium, one of six Negro League Baseball stadium’s you can still visit in the U.S. Hikers also got to see the Sugar Hill mosaic, by artist Overstreet Ducasse.
Celebrate Trails Day was created by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy to encourage people nationwide to get outside and explore local trails. The S-Line dates back to 1886, when the Jacksonville Belt Railroad was constructed. CSX abandoned it in the 1980s. Now, Groundworks will include it in the Emerald Trail design. Approximately 1.3 miles of the S-Line, from 12th St. and Boulevard to E. 21st St., remain unfinished.
The 30-mile Emerald Trail will connect 14 historic urban neighborhoods to downtown, the St. Johns River, McCoys Creek and Hogans Creek. The Emerald Trail will link 16 schools, two colleges, and 21 parks among other destinations like restaurants, retail, and businesses, with an additional 13 schools and 17 parks located within three blocks of the trail. To date, 40% of the trail is in design, under construction or completed. The next Urban Hike will be on May 31st at 9 am. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
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