Pedestrians and cyclists will soon be able to enjoy a direct connection between the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park + downtown Chickamauga, GA — thanks to a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).
ARC has awarded nearby Walker County $434,131 to fund the Chickamauga Battlefield Connector Trail, a means to not only enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for residents but also connect visitors of the park to the downtown area.
Fun fact: The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park saw over one million visitors in 2023.
“This project will significantly impact our community by linking a population center with a popular natural and cultural asset,” said Chair of the Walker County Board of Commissioners Shannon Whitfield.
Currently, a major highway stands in between the battlefield and other parts of the community, meaning folks have to use their vehicles to travel to and from the sites.
The one-mile, multi-use pathway will provide a safer pathway for pedestrians + cyclists by connecting two existing surfaced trails — completing a 2.2-mile trail from the Chickamauga Battlefield (at Wilder Road) to downtown Chickamauga.
Construction on the trail is anticipated to begin as early as late summer, with a potential to be completed by the end of the year.
Folks can keep up with the project by following Walker County Government’s Facebook page for updates.