Eastern Shore Trail expansion continues in Baldwin County

MAGNOLIA SPRINGS, Ala. (WALA) - Drivers on Highway 98 near Fish River will encounter continued construction over the next few months as Baldwin County expands the Eastern Shore Trail east of the Fish River Bridge.

Once finished, the trail will extend from Spanish Fort at Interstate 10 for 24.8 miles.

The Eastern Shore Trail was originally envisioned by the late Teko Wiseman, an outdoors enthusiast and founder of the Trailblazers of Baldwin County. The group raised money to match grants which helped build the trail. The multi-use trail offers cyclists and hikers views along Baldwin County coastline areas.

“I think it’s just nice to have a lot of different areas to walk, especially with like beautiful scenery with the bay and all that around,” said Bailey Weaver, who was walking the northern end of the trail Wednesday near Alligator Alley in Daphne.

Trail connects multiple communities

The trail stretches from Spanish Fort, south through Daphne’s Montrose Historic District and along Scenic 98 in Fairhope. The latest section will stretch nearly two miles.

“I think it’s a great idea. I mean, I like walking anywhere and I think it really helps people get out and walk more when they can see different things, so I think it’s a good idea,” said Anna Katherine Prestridge, who was also walking the trail.

Baldwin County Engineer, Frank Lundy said the project has been built gradually as funding became available.

“As funding comes available, as grant opportunities come available, we just carried forward with this vision and piece by piece was able to build it. Now we’re, with this latest segment of almost two miles of additional trail being added we’re at about twenty-five miles,” Lundy said.

The $2.1 million dollar project is being paid for by federal funds which were secured by US Representative Jerry Carl while he was in office. County leaders said partnerships in funding have been instrumental in pushing the trail forward.

“To see this vision come to life over many years has been really good to watch,” Lundy said.

Completion of the latest part of the Eastern Shore Trail is expected by late this summer. Lundy said there is already funding earmarked for the final phase of expansion that would terminate the trail in Magnolia Springs.