BERLIN, Ala. – The Berlin Town Council this week heard about a new project that could connect Berlin to a statewide network of recreational trails. The “Sweet Trails Alabama” project, according to its website, seeks to “identify possible routes, trail communities, outdoor recreation economy sites” to “create new opportunities in health and wellness, tourism, economic development, entrepreneurial growth, quality of life, workforce development, community engagement, and natural resource conservation.”
Town Clerk Keirstyn Montgomery told the council that a recent meeting of the project’s planners shared the possibility of connecting Gadsden and Cullman with a trail that would pass through Berlin, with another trail connecting Berlin to Alabama Highway 69, via County Road 747, on its way to Guntersville. The council agreed to seek more information on the project as it considers the development of walking trails at the planned town park around the Berlin Farmers Market.
In other council business, Mayor Patrick Bates told the council that he is talking to Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview, about possible Community Block Development Grants through the North Alabama Regional Council of Governments, to help cover the cost of resurfacing County Roads 1612 and 1614, beyond the original projected cost. An earlier estimate of $90,000 for the project included only a 4-inch deep base, raising questions about the long-term durability of the resurfaced roads. Additionally, according to Bates, the Cullman County Water Department has proposed replacing water mains along the roads in conjunction with the reconstruction. The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department also requested the installation of a 6-inch main in the area, to place a fire hydrant near residences there.
Bates also noted that the pad for the community storm shelter has been completed, and installation of the shelter itself could begin in 30 days, allowing time for curing of the pad. Barring unforeseen problems, the shelter should be in place before the start of the 2024 storm season.
Berlin Town Hall will be closed from Dec. 22, 2023, through Jan. 2, 2024.
The Berlin Town Council meets at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of each month. The public is invited to attend.
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