RCC Reopens Updated Trails

The Duke Energy Trails at RCC reopened yesterday after receiving some much needed updates. This includes widening the trails, adding a viewing platform, new trail maps and markers.

"This initiative with Duke Energy is really good for the community," said Dr. Mark Kinlaw, who retired as RCC President earlier this month, "...because they can come out and use the trails for exercise and just enjoy it."

A ceremony was held in the parking lot across from the Science Building, attracting a large audience. After opening remarks and a ribbon-cutting, guests were split into groups and given a tour of the updated trails.

"At Duke Energy, we always appreciate the partnership we have with the community college," said Hank Henning, the District Manager for Government and Community Relations at Duke Energy. "...we just wanted to have something that we could provide to the college that's going to be a lasting legacy and showcase the partnership that we've had over the years." 

Originally established in 1974 by Robert "Bob" Futrell, a former Physics and Biology Professor at RCC, the trail system offers hikers an inviting journey through a diverse landscape that includes pine and hardwood forests, meandering creeks, a variety of native plant species, and a small cascade. The trails are made up of three parts: the 0.5 mile Campus Loop Trail, the 1.25 mile Cascades Trail, and the 1.9 mile Woodlands Trail.

"...it's good for students..." said Dr. Kinlaw, "...if they're between classes, (and) they want to hang out and do some things, we've got outdoor activities that they can do."

This project was made possible by the Duke Energy Foundation, the Reidsville Area Foundation, the Dan River Basin Association, the Rockingham Community College Foundation, and the RCC faculty, staff, and students of the RCC Duke Energy Trails Program. The updates were completed by Destination By Design, a development agency from Boone, NC.

"We appreciate Duke Energy sticking with us on this..." said Tony Gunn, the Associate Vice-President of Facilities and External Affairs. "It's gonna be wonderful for the community, faculty, and staff."

This also comes one week after the Duke Energy Foundation donated $25,000 to RCC to support an advanced manufacturing workshop for local Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers.