Public invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony of a new segment of the Roanoke River Greenway
Roanoke, Virginia – The Roanoke Parks and Recreation department, in collaboration with the Roanoke Valley Greenways Commission, is set to host a ceremonial ribbon cutting, marking the opening of a new segment of the Roanoke River Greenway. The event is slated for Friday, July 28, at 10:00 AM, at the Bridge Street Trailhead parking lot (592 Bridge Street SW).
This newly completed section spans one mile, commencing at the Norfolk Southern Materials Yard, and traverses the Roanoke River via a 270-foot pedestrian bridge, which is the longest of its kind within the greenway system. The path subsequently follows along the river, culminating at the Bridge Street Trailhead. The addition of this new segment brings the total length of the Roanoke River Greenway to just over 12 miles, starting from the Cook Avenue Trailhead in the City of Salem and ending at the Bennington Trailhead in Southeast Roanoke.
The completion of this anticipated section signifies the realization of the “Bridge the Gap” segment within the City of Roanoke. Initiated in 2012, the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission spearheaded the “Bridge the Gap” campaign, with the aim of procuring funds to connect Rotary Park in Salem and Bridge Street in Roanoke. The campaign’s success can be attributed to various private donors who generously donated over $2 million, thus bringing this section of the greenway to fruition.
Renee Powers, Trails and Greenways Coordinator for Roanoke Parks and Recreation, expressed her satisfaction with the completion of this long-awaited project, stating, “Our local greenways are a critical part of the infrastructure of the City, providing access, connection, recreational opportunities, and strengthened communities.” She added, “We look forward to continuing the work of building the greenway network here in Roanoke.”
The next phase for the Roanoke River Greenway involves the development of a small section that connects Bennington Trailhead to Underhill Avenue in Southeast Roanoke. Currently serving as an on-road connection, this section is under design and is waiting for the necessary funding. Upon completion, the Roanoke River Greenway within the City of Roanoke will be fully developed, extending from the Barnhardt Creek Bridge at the Salem boundary to Underhill Avenue at the Roanoke County line.
Those planning to attend the ribbon cutting are advised to park at the nearby Norwich Park, with shuttle services starting from 9:30 a.m. Alternatively, attendees can travel via the greenway to reach the ceremony. Parking facilities are available at Wasena Park near the ballfields. However, please note that the Bridge Street Trailhead parking lot will be closed, with exceptions made only for ADA parking and official vehicles.
