Pedestrian bridge for Pinhoti Trail to be considered over U.S. Highway 78
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Bridge would enhance safety, woodland experience along Alabama’s longest footpath
Special to the News
A project to enhance the Pinhoti Trail that was first highlighted as a trail need in 2019 in the Pinhoti Master Plan is officially underway, with initial plans to construct a dedicated pedestrian bridge over U.S. Highway 78 near Heflin.
This key infrastructure improvement will eliminate a risky roadwalk along a vehicular bridge and strengthen the Pinhoti Trail’s reputation as a premier long-distance hiking destination, while increasing the visibility of the trail as a major asset in Alabama’s recreation economy.
The Alabama Trails Foundation is leading the proposed project, developed in close coordination with the U.S.D.A. Forest Service. While the Forest Service has not issued any formal decisions, the foundation is working collaboratively with agency staff to ensure the proposal aligns with Forest Service planning standards and processes.
Currently, hikers must walk along an active highway bridge, presenting safety risks that are becoming more pressing as trail use continues to grow. The proposed pedestrian bridge would offer a safer, uninterrupted path, enhancing both user safety and the trail’s natural woodland experience.
This project is largely possible because of the ongoing support, donations and grants from Alabama’s corporate leadership and support from Innovate Alabama. The design of the bridge is currently in development phase and will likely be a modern steel pre-fabricated bridge with an aesthetically pleasing design that blends with the natural environment. Further details regarding the project timeline, design renderings and community engagement opportunities will be released in the coming months.
The Alabama Trails Foundation has engaged Goodwyn Mills and Cawood, one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast, to develop the overall plan and site placement.
“This pedestrian bridge will be a substantial step forward for the Pinhoti Trail and the thousands of hikers who enjoy its beauty each year,” said Paul DeMarco, president of the Alabama Trails Foundation. “The hiker experience has always been a top priority, and this bridge will eliminate one of the roadwalks, allowing users to spend more time in Alabama’s forest landscapes along the Pinhoti without concern for highway traffic.”
The Pinhoti Trail, stretching more than 335 miles through Alabama and Georgia, is a jewel in the crown of long-distance hiking in the Southeast, eventually connecting hikers with the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.
The installation of this bridge will not only improve safety, but also enhance the overall user experience, making the trail more attractive to both local and national adventurers.
“This planning project is a great demonstration of private-public collaboration bringing all levels of government, local businesses, hikers, and trail volunteers together to find the best solution for the Pinhoti,” added Cindy Ragland, Alabama Trails Foundation executive director. “This bridge has the potential to not only benefit hikers, but also contribute to the economic vitality of our community by drawing more visitors to the area and highlighting Alabama’s commitment to outdoor recreation.”
This project underscores a shared commitment to preserving and enhancing Alabama’s natural resources and providing safe, accessible outdoor recreational opportunities for all.
The Alabama Trails Foundation and Goodwyn Mills and Cawood is seeking input on the proposed bridge and other improvements to the Pinhoti Trail, along with additional information on the community of trail users who enjoy Alabama’s trails.
Want to share your input? Visit https://alabamatrailsfoundation.org/78-bridge-survey to help guide the process.
About the Pinhoti Trail: The Pinhoti Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that runs for more than 335 miles through Alabama and Georgia. Portions of the trail are part of the National Recreation Trails system. The trail offers diverse landscapes, rich history and challenging terrain for hikers of all skill levels.
About the Alabama Trails Foundation: The Alabama Trails Foundation works to develop Alabama’s potential as a nationally recognized trails destination. The foundation partners with other non-profit organizations, state and federal agencies and local governments to catalyze significant destination trails to become premier recreation resources and economic engines for Alabama. Learn more at www.alabamatrailsfoundation.org.
