Nature area, trail dedicated

Saturday, October 23, 2010 2:12 AM EDT

A large crowd came to help dedicate and walk on the John Conner Nature Preserve Trail to the city Friday morning.

“It is a great pleasure to have something like this in the community,” said Ann Frost. “I hope people get out and try the trail out. I know I plan on trying it soon.”

The city Parks and Recreation Department and the Fayette County Foundation were recognized for their help and hard work on completing the project.

“They dedicated time and supplies to help make this trail,” said Mayor Leonard Urban.

The ceremony included a ribbon cutting, prayer and a few words from Urban and Parks and Recreation Director Mike Bottomley.

“We hope to add another mile to the trail,” said Bottomley. “Right now it is a mile long with a few river view overlooks and some beautiful scenery.”

The original plan in 2008 was to have the trail start and stop at certain locations.

“We have changed just a little from the first plan. It is not as long, but we hope to make it longer,” said Bottomley.

The trail will be open from dawn until dusk.

“There will be police patrolling the area,” said Bottomley.

The circular trail starts and ends at the entrance to Smalley’s Lake. To get there, go south on Indiana 121 to Eastern Avenue, turn west and cross the railroad tracks.