Heritage Trail to open in August

[City of Ocala]

The new Heritage Trail in West Ocala will open at last with a ribbon cutting taking place on Aug. 5 after years in the making.

The West Silver Springs Heritage Trail Park, or Heritage Trail, is part of the West Ocala CRA project. The trail features art installations of prominent historical West Ocala Citizens, by artist Charles Eady.

The project was first conceptualized in 2018. Construction spanned from March 2020 until July 2024 to complete site work and the installation of amenities, infrastructures and artwork, said city of Ocala spokesperson Gregory Davis.

“The cost-to-date for the West Ocala CRA project is $308,772.66. This includes design, construction, streetlights, and artwork. Installing lighting for the panels will be done at a future date,” Davis said. “FDOT provided technical support only. FDOT entered a memorandum of understanding with the city to allow for enhanced landscaping in the State Road 40 right of way.”

The artwork features a number of prominent figures, including Dr. Richard Hughes of the ANTA Hospital, grocery store owner Austin Long, Madison Street Principal Lillian Bryant, Dr. James Ponder of Mercy Hospital, and the owner of the Miss Pearl Café.

The trail will be open for visitors 24 hours a day. The trail doubles as a sidewalk that is accessible by the public, Davis said.