If you’ve been thinking about adopting a pet, this weekend might be the perfect time. The Walker County Animal Shelter is offering free adoptions on all animals this Friday, August 8th, and Saturday, August 9th only. The special two-day event is part of The Rescue Effect—a nationwide campaign launched by the ASPCA to help increase pet adoptions and support animal shelters across the country. Walker County Animal Shelter, located at 5488 North Marble Top Road in Chickamauga, is teaming up with the ASPCA to help more pets find loving homes. Again, all adoption fees are waived this Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit the shelter or check them out online.
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has awarded a contract to Hasbun Construction to begin development of the county’s portion of the Chickamauga Battlefield Connector Trail. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for August 13th. Once completed later this year, the trail will provide a direct 2.1-mile route for pedestrians and cyclists, linking downtown Chickamauga with the entrance to the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park at Wilder Road. In related community development news, construction continues at Walker Rocks Park, located at the Walker County Civic Center. The playground expansion has been a point of interest for many families over the summer. Crews are preparing to install concrete curbing around the new play area, which will be followed by the addition of a poured-in-place rubberized surface for improved safety and accessibility. Enhancements to park amenities are also underway. Adult changing tables have recently been installed in the public restrooms, and both a mobile charging station and Wi-Fi hotspot will soon be available, made possible through a grant awarded to the Cherokee Regional Library System.
Today is the last day of summer break for Walker County Schools. School is back in session tomorrow. Remember to watch your speed in schools zones and look out for busses starting tomorrow.
Walker County Government has launched a new initiative aimed at increasing public engagement in local decision-making. Through the creation of a community panel, residents were invited to participate in short, one-minute surveys on important county issues. The first survey, which focused on identifying community strengths and priorities, was conducted between July 30th and August 1st, with 321 participants providing feedback. Survey results indicate that access to recreation and parks, as well as physical safety and security, were recognized as the county’s leading strengths. When asked to identify the most important aspects of life in Walker County, more than 70 percent of respondents selected physical safety and the condition of county roads. Additionally, 53 percent cited the importance of local businesses and services. The survey also asked how residents believe increased sales tax revenue should be used. A majority—84 percent—favored lowering property taxes, while 72 percent recommended allocating funds to address overdue maintenance.