City officials will cut the ribbon on the recently completed Heritage Trail in northwest Ocala next week.
The city of Ocala will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, August 5 at the new West Silver Springs Heritage Trail.
The new trail is located along the north side of State Road 40, between NW 9th Avenue and NW 11th Avenue.
Parking for the event is available at Webb Field, which is located at 1501 W Silver Springs Boulevard in west Ocala.
Conceptualized in 2018, the city received an “outrageous” bid for the construction of the park in 2021 before deciding to take on the bulk of the project. At the time, the city said it was going to save tens of thousands of dollars by doing its own site work and from grants from the Florida Department of Transportation.
The new park showcases a decorative sidewalk, public art, and “lush landscaping,” according to a statement from the city.
Highlights include a series of art panels by Charles Eady and plaques displaying historic images that honor prominent west Ocala citizens who have “made significant contributions to the community.”
“This project celebrates the incredible contributions of West Ocala citizens who have played pivotal roles in shaping our community and preserving our rich culture and history,” according to a separate statement from the city.
For more information about the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony, contact the Ocala Growth Management Department at 352-629-8488.