If you've been traveling along I-55 lately, you might have seen something that catches the eye—a magnificent new addition along Museum Trail. Standing tall at ten feet, stretching an impressive 70 feet in length, the Museum Trail Gateway Sign is a true landmark that has just been unveiled at Waterworks Curve.

As part of Jackson's initiative to develop its first multi-use trail, this striking gateway sign serves not just as a symbol of the city, but as a beacon for health and wellness. It's more than just a sign; it's a vibrant reminder of the importance of outdoor activity and the benefits of exercise and recreation. Each day, over 100,000 vehicles pass by—each a potential visitor being greeted by this engaging invitation to explore the great outdoors.

The completion of this phase marks a significant step forward, yet the journey is far from over. In the coming months, excitement will build as the next phase—a native wildflower garden—is set to be completed by spring 2025. Much like the stunning zinnia fields in Ridgeland, this garden will feature an array of native grasses and flowers that will not only beautify the area but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It's an invitation to nature that promises to educate and inspire visitors about the vital role these creatures play in our ecosystem.

This project has blossomed through the collaboration of various organizations, including Visit Jackson, the Jackson Heart Foundation, Great City Mississippi Foundation, and The Garden Club of Jackson, with design work by Tree Urban Design Studio. Together, they’ve crafted a project that speaks to the heart of the community’s commitment to health and wellness.

Spanning roughly 2.8 miles, the Museum Trail connects LeFleur's Bluff Park to the Mississippi Farmers Market. But the vision doesn't stop there; plans are in place for the trail to stretch even further, fostering connections not just to the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, but also to the very heart of downtown Jackson and eventually reaching Jackson State University.

At the helm of this ambitious endeavor is the Jackson Heart Foundation, driven by the mission to enhance public health in Mississippi through accessible outdoor spaces. As the Museum Trail takes shape, it promises to become a lasting legacy—a cherished path that inspires healthy living and invites everyone to step out, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the beauty of the world around them for generations to come.