Here’s the dirt on a new $6.2 million Murfreesboro Gateway Trail and Island.

The city is currently constructing a trail that will ultimately connect the Stones River Greenway to the Murfreesboro Gateway office development.

The first phase on the new greenway project includes installing 2.2 miles of trails on the north side of Medical Center Parkway, with that trail to be used for hiking, walking, running, bicycling or in-line skating.

“The trail and island will be the latest addition to the Murfreesboro Greenway System, conveniently located to provide outdoor recreation for Gateway business tenants as well as the general public,” says Angela Jackson, program coordinator for greenways and wetlands with the Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department.

The trail will wrap around a Gateway pond that is already in place, then an island will be constructed within the pond.

Jackson says the island will feature a small building and gazebo that the public can access, and the pond will include floating fountains. When completed, the Gateway island will be accessed via a pair of prefabricated steel bridges.

“The building on the island will measure 1,200 square feet and include a multipurpose room and caterer’s kitchen,” she says. “It will be an ideal rental for a variety of potential functions, including weddings, receptions, corporate luncheons and reunions. It will be available for rental seven days a week, year-round.”

Jackson adds that construction of the Gateway island is ongoing, with an opening tentatively scheduled for the latter half of 2009 or early 2010.

The Stones River Greenway first opened in 1996 and the Lytle Creek Greenway was added in 1997. “Both have been very popular in our community,” Jackson says.

The news section of trail will be lighted and remain open until 10 p.m.

“The addition of Gateway Trail and Island will provide more opportunities than ever to enjoy the Murfreesboro Greenway System,” Jackson says.