The Birmingham City Council has approved a $547,619 agreement with Freshwater Land Trust to help move forward with the Shades Creek Greenway project, a major greenway expansion designed to strengthen trail connectivity across the city.

During its last meeting, the council formally approved a resolution under which the nonprofit organization will provide consulting and project management services for the Shades Creek Greenway project, according to reporting by Birmingham Watch.

The new trail will link Mountain Brook’s Irondale Furnace Trail with Flora Johnston Nature Preserve, creating another key segment of the Red Rock Trail System. The Red Rock system is a planned 36-mile loop that will connect neighborhoods throughout Birmingham with walking and biking trails.

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 City officials say the new trail will be built along the city’s right-of-way near Shades Creek and represents a significant investment in outdoor recreation and green infrastructure.

Council members expressed strong support for the partnership. Councilor Valerie Abbott emphasized the value of the Land Trust’s work and its role in helping expand trail access.

Councilor Hunter Williams credited Innovate Alabama Network for providing grant funding for the project and noted that $1.5 million from his office’s American Rescue Plan Act allocation has been directed toward the Shades Creek Trail expansion. He added that community enthusiasm is already evident, with residents eager to use the trail even before construction is complete.

The city’s collaboration with Freshwater Land Trust marks an important step in advancing trail connectivity throughout the Birmingham area and promoting more walkable, outdoor spaces for residents.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].