regional planning commission march 2 2026

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grant application. Additional details related to the approval process are provided within the 
statute should you wish to review the process in full. 
The proposed project includes two intertwined components which are as 
follows: Eureka Trail Extension 
This phase would extend the Eureka Trail from the current trailhead to Prof Powers Park, 
creating a terminus at the intersection of Slack Road and E. Madison Avenue. This extension 
is consistent with the McMinn County Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the City of Athens 
Master Plan for Prof Powers Park, and the City of Athens Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan. 
It represents the first phase of a multi-phase expansion intended to ultimately connect the 
trail to Market and Veterans Parks. 
 
Prof Powers Park (Lake Area and Trail Improvements) 
Improvements within the park boundary are planned to benefit both the expanded Eureka 
Trail and the Lake Area of Prof Powers Park. Proposed elements include: 
• Milling and paving asphalt from the park entrance at Slack Road to the pier 
• Installation of lighting and sidewalks adjoining the newly paved area 
• Addition of parking, lighting, and sidewalks in the Lake Area 
• Extension of the Eureka Trail within the park boundary, ending in a loop at Slack Road 
and E. Madison Avenue with connection to a pedestrian pathway within the right-of-way of 
E Madison Avenue, Slack Road, and Forrest Avenue 
• Landscaping and signage improvements at the park entrance and Lake Area 
• Construction of restrooms and a pavilion in the Lake Area 
• Clearing and grubbing of undergrowth along the north, west, and south sides of the lake 
• Removal of chain-link fencing and installation of decorative fencing within areas that 
have been cleared along the sides of the lake 
• Miscellaneous improvements to address ADA non-compliance within the limits of the 
project 
This request is based upon the broadest anticipated scope for the project. The final scope of 
this phase of the project may be reduced, if necessary, to align with the updated opinion of 
probable cost once provided by the project architect. Future phases are planned to both 
extend the Eureka Trail toward downtown Athens and make further improvements within 
the boundary of Prof Powers Park. 
I have included an attachment with this memo that provides a visual concept of the project 
described above. I plan to attend the meeting to answer any questions the Commission may 
have. Please advise if any further information is needed in advance of the meeting.