Ferrum Park Celebrates New Accessibility Trail with AARP Virginia

FERRUM, Va. — A community-led park in Ferrum marked a major milestone on Friday, Sept. 12, with the grand opening of a new ADA-accessible trail, made possible through a $15,000 grant from AARP’s Community Challenge program.

Ferrum Park, developed and maintained by Friends of Ferrum Park—a volunteer-run nonprofit—serves as a gathering space, event venue and outdoor destination for residents and visitors. The organization is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and educating the public about its ecosystems, native species and environmental significance.

The new trail, located adjacent to the Ferrum College campus, winds through a portion of the park’s 84-acre woodlands and is already being used by hikers of all ages. The project was funded through AARP’s annual Community Challenge Grant, which has awarded more than $24.3 million to livability initiatives nationwide since 2017.

Local residents, county officials and members of the Franklin County AARP Chapter joined AARP Virginia for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Chapter President Angela Snyder praised the initiative, noting its potential to improve health and social connection in rural communities.

Friends of Ferrum Park Executive Director Rebecca Saunders also shared the park’s long-term vision during a recent chapter meeting in Rocky Mount.

For more information, visit yourferrumpark.com.