The Brookhaven Recreation Department has been approved for agrant to construct a new walking trail at city park, Director TerryReid told aldermen Tuesday.

The approximately $100,000, mile-long trail will be located atthe city park on Hartman Street. It will include several exercisestations for walkers to use.

“I think it’s going to be a great thing for city park,” Reidsaid.

The trail is being funded by $80,000 from the Federal HighwayAdministration through the state Department of Wildlife, Fisheriesand Parks, $10,000 from the Pearl River Basin Development Districtand $10,000 from the city. Reid said the city’s contribution couldbe in-kind assistance with equipment and manpower.

“We basically should be getting it for nothing,” Reid said. “Thecity’s out of pocket costs should be nothing.”

Reid said paperwork must be in by April 1 and the project couldstart after that date. He estimated the project would take aboutthree months to complete, although the trail could be usable assoon as pavement is installed.

The trail will be lighted to allow citizens to walk whenconvenient for them.

Reid said the lights should help with security around the park.Ward Six Alderman John E. “Buddy” Allen was appreciative that thepark would be getting more lights.

“We’ve had a number of complaints over there,’ Allen said.

In other recreation department news during Reid’s quarterlyreport, said the department is seeking prices for restrooms at theKids’ Kingdom community playground. The Kids’ Kingdom Foundation iscovering those costs, he said.

Also, department officials hope to start work on a lightedbasketball court at the A.L. Lott Complex before Christmas. Reidestimated that project would take about two weeks to complete.

Reid also touted participation in and attendance at a varietyrecreation department-related events, including football,basketball and this past weekend’s presentation of “TheNutcracker.” He also mentioned construction of a second pavilion,using U.S. Tennis Association funds, at the Lipsey tenniscourts.

“We’ve had a good year,” Reid said.