September 17, 2024
The Downtown Greenway in Greensboro is moving full steam ahead as construction on its final phase is now underway. This milestone brings the community one step closer to completing the 4-mile loop, which has been in development for over a decade. As excitement builds, residents can look forward not only to the finished trail but also to special events and programs designed to engage and inspire along the way. As the fiscal partner for the Downtown Greenway, Greensboro Parks Foundation is thrilled to share updates about all the great programs and events happening on the Downtown Greenway.
A Vision of Connectivity and Community
The Downtown Greenway project was created to transform the heart of Greensboro by linking neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces. Designed as a hub for health, wellness, and connectivity, this 4-mile greenway loop surrounds the city’s downtown area, offering residents and visitors a safe and scenic space to walk, run, bike, and gather. As Greensboro’s network of trails and greenways continues to expand, the Downtown Greenway is seen as being the central hub to a vast and growing system.
What makes the Downtown Greenway unique is its blend of art, nature, and sustainability. Throughout its pathway, users will encounter a collection of public art installations that reflect Greensboro’s history and diversity. Alongside this art are green spaces, native plantings, and sustainable design features that promote environmental stewardship. The Downtown Greenway’s role is not just functional; it’s a place for community connection and a model for future urban development.
The Final Phase of Construction
With construction of the “final mile” underway, the vision of a complete Downtown Greenway is closer than ever to becoming reality. This last section will connect key areas and complete the loop, creating an uninterrupted trail for users. New landmarks, including public art and gathering spaces, will be added to enhance the experience and make the Downtown Greenway a centerpiece of the city.
Construction is expected to continue through next year, with the full completion projected for late 2025. Once finished, the Downtown Greenway will be an even more valuable resource for residents, providing an expanded safe and accessible space for recreation and wellness.
Exciting Events and Programs Along the Downtown Greenway
As we celebrate the progress of the Downtown Greenway, there are plenty of ways for the community to get involved now. A variety of special events and ongoing programs bring people together while showcasing what the Downtown Greenway has to offer.
Mark your calendars for the 15th Annual Downtown Greenway Run and Block Party, an annual 5K + 1 Mile fun run/walk that takes participants through portions of the trail, offering a fun and active way to support the project. This family-friendly event takes place this year on Saturday, September 28 from 4-7 pm. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate, including dogs on-leash, and the entire community is welcome to attend the block party. Festivities include music, food trucks, beer, local vendors, tailgate-style games, children’s activities, the ECO Bus, face painting, photo booth, sponsor booths, and more.
There are several other signature events throughout the year, including the popular Wheels on the Greenway, a family-friendly event that celebrates wheels of all kinds—bikes, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and more. This event is held annually on the first Saturday in May, and encourages people of all ages to bring their wheels and explore the Downtown Greenway while enjoying adaptive cycle demonstrations, community partners, helmet giveaways, safety education, guided rides, food, and fun activities along the route. Mark your calendars for the 10th annual edition on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
The Downtown Greenway’s Community Picnic is making a return for its third offering on Sunday, October 13 from 4-6 pm. In what we hope will be a beautiful fall afternoon, residents are invited to gather together in a scenic outdoor setting, adjacent to the Downtown Greenway in the Ole Asheboro neighborhood – to enjoy good food, good music, and good conversation! Tickets will be available soon to purchase online. For $20 you can select a delicious meal from either Zaytoon Mediterranean Grill or the Historic Magnolia House – or pay $5 to reserve a seat and pack your own picnic to enjoy – along with music by p.s. edekot
In addition to special events, the Downtown Greenway is home to a broad range of public programs designed to keep the community engaged. Walking and running groups, volunteer opportunities, and environmental initiatives are available year-round, allowing residents to take part in maintaining and enhancing this vital space. You can join a guided tour that highlights the eight surrounding neighborhoods, economic development, local history, and diverse public art installations along the Downtown Greenway, or take part in community fitness events like yoga classes and boot camps hosted by local wellness instructors.
In collaboration with almost 150 community partners, year-round offerings on the Downtown Greenway focus on arts and culture, environmental education, health and wellness, social gatherings, and youth programs. With special thanks to the generosity of numerous corporate sponsors, the vast majority of our annual calendar of programs is available to residents and visitors alike at no charge.
Get Involved and Enjoy the Downtown Greenway
The Downtown Greenway isn’t just about creating a trail—it’s about creating a legacy for Greensboro. By participating in events or volunteering, residents have the chance to shape the future of this project and ensure it thrives for generations to come. The benefits of the Downtown Greenway are far-reaching, from boosting local businesses to promoting healthier, more active lifestyles for everyone.
We encourage everyone in the community to stay connected with the progress of the Downtown Greenway, take part in upcoming events, and discover how this transformative project is enriching the lives of Greensboro’s residents. Together, we are building a brighter, more connected future for our city.
By Paula Barger, Executive Director and Chelsea Phipps, Greenway & Gardens Program Coordinator, Greensboro Parks and Recreation