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Dalton Honors Paul Belk with Trailhead Naming Ceremony

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HERE Chattanooga

Scenic view of the Mill Line Trail in Dalton, showcasing greenery and outdoor activities.

News Summary

The City of Dalton will honor local contributor Paul Belk by naming the Chattanooga Avenue trailhead of the Mill Line after him. The ceremony will take place on Saturday at 11 a.m. and celebrates Belk’s significant contributions to the city’s parks system. The Mill Line Trail, which has become a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, was largely made possible through Belk’s generous land donation. Future developments aim to enhance Dalton’s outdoor connectivity and accessibility.

Dalton Names Mill Line Trailhead in Honor of Local Legend

In a heartwarming celebration, the City of Dalton has announced that the Chattanooga Avenue trailhead of the Mill Line will be named in honor of community member Paul Belk. Set to take place on Saturday at 11 a.m., this naming ceremony invites the public to join in recognizing the substantial contributions of Belk to Dalton’s parks system.

Mill Line Trail: A Community Treasure

The Mill Line Trail, which opened its gates to the public back in March of last year, has quickly become a cherished spot in Dalton. Spanning a convenient 1.2 miles, this paved trail gracefully runs alongside Mill Creek, offering a lovely escape for walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike. The trail doesn’t just stand alone; it also connects to the Haig Mill Lake Trail located on the lake dam, making it a vital link in Dalton’s outdoor experience.

Paul Belk: The Visionary Behind the Trail

Much of the land where the Mill Line Trail sits was generously donated by Paul Belk, alongside his late business partner Horace Sewell. Belk’s vision for this park project has transformed the area into a place where residents can gather, unwind, and enjoy nature. His dedication has not only enhanced the trail experience but has also positively impacted Dalton’s Civitan Park. In recognition of his contributions, the Dalton Mayor and Council passed a resolution to honor him with this naming.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

Belk expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honor and emphasized that he considers himself “a small cog in a big wheel.” His attitude reinforces the idea that community accomplishments thrive on collective effort, and he hopes to inspire ongoing improvements within Dalton. As part of future endeavors, city leaders are actively planning the next phase of the Mill Line project, aiming to extend connectivity between the newly named Paul Belk Trailhead and downtown Dalton.

This future development will feature newly paved trails that not only run along Chattanooga Avenue but also snake through the scenic Mount Rachel Park and connect with the Crown Mill greenway. Excitingly, participants can expect these updates to enhance the overall outdoor experience in Dalton, making it even more accessible.

One interesting note is that the second phase of the trail development has made its way onto the 2024 SPLOST ballot measure, which received voter approval last year. This exciting news keeps the momentum going for the trail system, promising even greater accessibility and enjoyment.

Shuttle Service for the Ceremony

With high hopes for a large turnout at the naming ceremony, attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the shuttle service that will be provided due to limited parking at the Paul Belk Trailhead. Shuttle rides will be available from the nearby Georgia Department of Labor building, ensuring that everyone can easily participate in this momentous occasion.

A Community Focus on Health and Safety

In a wonderful touch, the White Oak Bicycle Co-Op, a local nonprofit dedicated to public health and cycling safety, is getting involved in related initiatives. Their support adds another layer of community spirit to the event as they help promote the importance of having safe and accessible biking routes.

In summary, Dalton’s naming ceremony for the Paul Belk Trailhead marks a joyous occasion that highlights community involvement and the enhancement of outdoor living. So, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, make sure to stop by and pay tribute to an individual who has significantly shaped Dalton’s parks and trail systems for the better!