Today at 9:00 a.m., the city of Tupelo held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at First United Methodist Church located at 412 East Main Street to celebrate the grand opening of Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail. All attendees were welcome to walk, run, bike or drive on the trail following the ceremony.
“A project such as this enhances the quality of life for all of our residents and the visitors to our All- America City,” said Tupelo Mayor Jason Shelton. “The projects provides access for bicyclists and 2.2 miles of sidewalks for pedestrians, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. The project also improves our infrastructure, making city streets better and safer for those who drive from the Elvis Presley Birthplace through downtown.”
Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail was an ambitious project undertaken by the City of Tupelo to upgrade East Main Street. Key Construction was the winning bidder at $11.5 million, and the project took 20 months to complete. The street has been widened to five lanes with sidewalks and bicycle lanes added. Brick planters were installed to add beauty to the project.
Among numerous featured businesses and attractions on the Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail, there are two art galleries, Reed’s Department Store and Booth Department Store where Elvis bought his first guitar. For dining, tourists can stop at Johnny’s BBQ on the trail where they can try the Elvis Presley’s favorite sandwich. Already, the newly-revealed trail has drawn dozens of citizens and tourists alike as they go past Bancorp South Arena to a special destination: Elvis Presley’s birthplace.
The trail goes to Elvis Presley’s preserved childhood home that was recently renovated. Now there are 17 acres of picnic grounds, a scenic lake with a Pavilion to enjoy for those who venture all the way down the Birthplace Trail. If all goes according to plan, which appears to be happening, Tupelo is set further its position as a true tourist destination for Elvis fans from all over the world.
Callie Daniels Bryant is the senior managing editor at HottyToddy.com. She can be reached at callie.daniels@hottytoddy.com.
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