TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — The arboretum has received a $162,000 grant going to fund new educational and recreational improvements, making the area more accessible for everyone.
“We are very grateful for this and we will be using this money to improve not only things for students here, but for the community members who come out here and tourists passing through this area,” said Dr. Alvin Diamond, Biology Professor and Arboretum Director.
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The grant comes from the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission. Diamond says the main area facing restoration is Hickory Loop Nature Trail.
Right now, a creek running through the area makes it hard and dangerous to navigate.
“We’re going to be using that money to put in two pedestrian bridges to cross the creek,” Diamond said. “That way, we’ll be able to access that area from the trials on this side of the arboretum.”
The new bridges will be wheelchair accessible. Diamond says without the money, these improvements wouldn’t be possible.
“This is going to give us the money that we need to take on a really big job, something we haven’t been able to with the resources we’ve had thus far. It’s another thing that draws people to Troy’s campus. It’ll be a positive, I think, for everybody.”
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Due to storm damage that has impacted the area in recent years, organizers plan to clear around two miles of trail and connect them to existing trails.
The grant will also help fund educational improvements, including new informational signage and a wildlife viewing area.
