
We are thrilled to announce that the latest phase of the Three Mile Creek Greenway Trail project has officially begun! On Monday, December 16, more than 40 community members attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the Japanese Gardens trailhead and Three Mile Creek greenway trail connection. This event showcased the overwhelming community support for the Mobile Greenway Initiative. Among those present were city and county officials, representatives from the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission, Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, and members of various organizations including the Mobile United Natural Resources Committee, Alabama Coastal Foundation, Keep Mobile Beautiful, Downtown Mobile Alliance, and the Village of Spring Hill. The collaboration and enthusiasm from all corners of Mobile highlighted the importance of this transformative project.
What is the Mobile Greenway Initiative?
The Mobile Greenway Initiative is an ambitious project that will create 18 miles of interconnected parks, trails, and complete streets. Spanning the city from east to west, it will connect Japanese Gardens to Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, and north to south to the Dog River Bridge. This initiative is designed to offer Mobile residents and visitors a safe, accessible, and beautiful network of spaces for recreation, transportation, and enjoying the outdoors.
Highlights of the Current Phase
This phase of the Three Mile Creek Greenway Trail focuses on a 3/4-mile section that begins at Municipal Park, marking the trail’s starting point. Key features of this project include:
- Trailhead and Parking Lot Improvements: Significant updates will be made to the trailhead and parking lot at Japanese Gardens, enhancing accessibility and user experience.
- Investment in the Community: This $1.7 million project is funded through ALDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds and city capital, with McElhenney Construction Company, LLC leading the construction efforts.
- Timeline: Construction will necessitate the temporary closure of Japanese Gardens, starting on December 30, 2024, for approximately six months. While we recognize this temporary inconvenience, we’re excited about the long-term benefits this phase will bring to our community.
Vision and Benefits
The Three Mile Creek Greenway Trail is more than just a path—it’s a connection to a healthier, more active lifestyle for Mobile residents. By providing a safe space for walking, running, biking, and other outdoor activities, this project fosters physical wellness and community engagement. Moreover, the Greenway serves as an alternative transportation corridor, linking neighborhoods to community amenities, workplaces, and other parts of the city.
The initiative underscores Mobile’s commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and enhanced quality of life for all.
Looking Ahead
As construction begins, we’re excited to see this vision come to life. We’ll keep you updated on the progress and look forward to welcoming you to the improved trailhead and enhanced Three Mile Creek Greenway. Stay tuned for updates and join us in celebrating this milestone in Mobile’s journey toward a more connected and vibrant community.