The public is invited to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Walking/Nature Trail at Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

The Walking/Nature Trail, located on the north end of campus, winds around a scenic four-acre lake. The trail measures approximately three fourths of a mile in length, with one half mile circling the lake.

Originally opened in 2001, the trail has been completely resurfaced and rerouted as part of the college’s development of a sports and recreational complex. This complex includes the women’s softball stadium, Nathaniel Ledbetter Stadium, a soccer field, both featuring artificial turf, the walking/nature trail, and a soon to be completed cross country trail. Plans are also underway to add picnic tables and a pavilion.

“This is for our students, faculty, and staff” said NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “We particularly want our community to enjoy these facilities.”

Dr. Campbell, an avid runner and walker, first envisioned the Walking/Nature Trail when he became president of the college. He believed the trail would promote healthy activity while providing a welcoming space for students, staff, and the community. As NACC President, Campbell has believed it is extremely important to involve the community in activities on campus.

As part of the renovation, the trail has been leveled and resurfaced, and trees have been trimmed to eliminate overhanging branches. The new route goes around the site where Northeast mascots Trouper and Roscoe are buried.  Narrative tracks tell the heartwarming stories of the beloved NACC mascots and their traditions at the college.

In addition, the college’s Learning Resources Center secured a grant to install children’s story plaques along the southern portion of the trail. Parents are invited to bring their children out to read and be entertained by the stories.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, the college will also unveil a new mustang statue along the trail. The statue, representing the college’s mascot, was donated by Dr. Steve and Lynn Brewer of Fort Payne and was obtained from the Hudson Museum in Washington, D.C.

The college also extends its appreciation to Kelly Pittman, CEO of Liberty Steel, for donating two bridges used on the trail.

Dr. Campbell encourages the public to visit campus for softball, soccer, and cross country events and to enjoy a walk around the trail.

NACC Event Planner Chasley Bellomy Brown, who is coordinating the ceremony, invites the community to attend. “Please come out and enjoy this with us,” said Mrs. Brown. “This will be a happy occasion for the college and our community!”

The Walking/Nature Trail is open daily from 7:00 a.m. until dusk. The area is patrolled by NACC Campus Police and monitored by security cameras to ensure a safe environment for visitors.

For more information, please contact Northeast Alabama Community College.