Press Release: Leaders Announce Flint Creek Project Bringing Premier Paddling to North Alabama
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 24, 2025 at 4:45 PM
Leaders Announce Flint Creek Project Bringing Premier Paddling to North Alabama
Decatur, Alabama – North Alabama Trails & Recreation (NATR) and Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT), together with Senator Arthur Orr (Senate District 3), hosted a press event on November 24 at 1:30pm to announce the launch of the Flint Creek Exploratory Paddle Area Project.
This transformative initiative will create North Alabama’s premier paddling destination with five improved launch sites, a comprehensive digital platform, interactive kiosks, and a destination marketing campaign. The $270,000 project—already $75,000 secured—will be implemented over 24 months, removing barriers and making paddling more accessible for all ages and skill levels.
“For years, paddlers have told us how confusing and limited access can be at Flint Creek. This project is a turning point,” said NATR Executive Director Jared Carter. “Families, beginners, and enthusiasts alike will be able to return throughout the year to explore diverse routes and experiences safely.”
“The Flint Creek Exploratory Paddle Area reflects the best of our mission at Alabama Scenic River Trail—connecting people to our beautiful waterways,” added ASRT Executive Director Andrew Szymanski. “With 20 recommended routes, wildlife education, and real-time safety information built into the digital platform, we’re making outdoor recreation more welcoming than ever.”
“This is a win for both our communities and our economy,” said State Senator Arthur Orr, Senate District 3. “We’re talking about an estimated 3,500 users per year at project maturity, new jobs, and significant health cost savings which is exactly the type of project we need to support growth in North Alabama.”
Project Highlights:
- Five Enhanced Launch Sites – 2901 Point Mallard Cir SE, Decatur, AL 35601, US at the Bill Sims Bike Trailhead Pavilion, next to the new pickleball courts
- Digital Platform & Kiosks – Maps, safety content, wildlife information, and offline capabilities accessible on phones and at trailheads
- Economic Impact – 3,500 annual users by Year 3–4; ~$500,000/year in health cost savings; new jobs and increased tourism
The press event featured remarks from Jared Carter, Andrew Szymanski, and Senator Arthur Orr, as well as a visual unveiling of the project map and kiosk/app mockups.
Media Contact:
- Jared Carter – North Alabama Trails & Recreation – [email protected]
About North Alabama Trails & Recreation (NATR)
NATR leads efforts to enhance and expand outdoor recreation opportunities across North Alabama, focusing on accessibility, safety, and community impact. For more information visit natrails.org.
About Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT)
The Alabama Scenic River Trail serves as the state’s official paddling resource, collaborating with communities to promote recreation, economic vitality and stewardship of Alabama’s waterways. For more information visit alabamascenicrivertrail.com
