The City of Anniston is thrilled to share fantastic news related to our Chief Ladiga Trailhead at Michael Tucker Park! You may recall, Anniston was awarded a Federal Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program Grant of $597,520.00 by Governor Kay Ivey in October of 2023 (https://tinyurl.com/56h6j65m). City leadership is now set to put this grant into action, making significant improvements that will enhance the park experience for all.
We now have renders and drawings that showcase what the new and improved Michael Tucker Park will soon look like. These updates will not only make the park more accessible and enjoyable but will also serve as a crucial connection to Anniston’s upcoming Chief Ladiga Trail extension.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming:
➡ A beautiful new restroom and shower facility.
➡ Additional parking with ADA accessibility.
➡ New sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and a closed storm sewer for better drainage.
➡ Enhanced lighting and a designated pedestrian crossing.
These improvements are part of our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for visitors and trail enthusiasts. The Chief Ladiga Trail, once completed, will be the longest paved pedestrian path in the United States, linking the Georgia Silver Comet Trail to Anniston’s Amtrak station. This will open up exciting opportunities for trail bike riders and travelers to access convenient train services.
Toby Bennington, our City Planning & Economic Development Director, highlights the importance of this project, stating, “Michael Tucker Park is our city’s northern gateway, connecting us with partner communities and counties. The planned enhancements will provide a safe, efficient parking and gathering area, enriching the overall recreational experience.” Stay tuned as we make strides toward these exciting developments and move closer to establishing Anniston as a premier ecotourism destination in the South.
About Michael Tucker Park:
Anniston’s Michael Tucker Park currently serves as the southern terminus of the Chief Ladiga Trail. The park was named in memory of Dr. Michael Tucker, a noted Anniston physician and long-time bicycle enthusiast. Nestled within a pecan grove, the park currently offers trail parking, a gazebo, a drinking fountain, a 16-site primitive campground, and restroom facilities. To learn more, visit: https://tinyurl.com/3xzcta8b.
About The Chief Ladiga Trail:
The Chief Ladiga Trail is Alabama’s first extended rails-to-trails project. It extends over 33 miles and connects the cities of Anniston, Weaver, Jacksonville, and Piedmont, as it travels through Calhoun and Cleburne Counties. The trail provides a safe, non-motorized way to travel, exercise, and relax while enjoying the outdoors. Streams, wetlands, forest, farmlands, and mountains can be seen along this family-oriented pathway. To learn more, visit: https://www.annistonal.gov/chief-ladiga.