The Town Council fulfilled its promise to complete a loop of sidewalk last week, Mayor Ronnie Williams said. More than 100 Garner residents gathered Sept. 2 at Town Hall to dedicate the recently completed 4.2-mile loop of sidewalk.

The sidewalk runs along Aversboro Road, Vandora Springs and Timber Drive, connecting three schools. Council members said it would allow Garner students to walk to school safely.

Councilwoman Behringer said while the sidewalks offer residents the opportunity to stop and smell the roses, they were necessary for making Garner’s children safe while going to and from school or even while out playing.

“With sidewalks in place, their safety is taken care of,” Behringer said. “We don’t have any children to spare.”

Councilman Jackie Johns said keeping all of Garner’s residents is very important and he is excited for everyone to start using the sidewalk.

“It is something we should be proud of for our children and our senior citizens,” he said.

Johns, who walks two hours everyday, said it is also a great way for Garner residents to get fit. Johns walks about six and a half miles before 6 a.m. each morning.

Councilman Ken Marshburn said sidewalks were one attribute that drew him to the town when he and his wife moved to Garner nearly 21 years ago. He said the sidewalks are a great way to help stay healthy and active.

“Garner’s a great place for sidewalks and sidewalks are a great place for exercise,” Marshburn said.

Councilman Gra Singleton said the sidewalk was started when Vandora Springs Elementary was built in 1958. Now, 51 years later, the loop is completed and children can walk, ride their bikes and skate around town.

A great way to get started – Williams suggested residents find walking partners and get moving.

The event was originally scheduled for Aug. 31, but it was postponed due to rain. However, that didn’t deter 63 people from completing the loop and enjoying ice cream from Grill 57. All those who walked the loop also received t-shirts that say “Garner – A Great Place To Be.”