A group of local citizens is trying to make sure the walking trail at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) is here for future generations to enjoy.

The group is urging GSW President Kendall Blanchard, Ph.D., and the Board of Regents to preserve the walking trail, even if they decide to expand the physicality of the institution.

The group will meet with Blanchard at 12:15 p.m. Friday at his office where they will present him a petition of 334 signatures in support of the preservation of the walking trail.

The group will meet today at the home of Nancy Spice from 6:30 -7:15 p.m.. before they meet with Blanchard Friday. Those who are interested in attending today’s meeting should call 928-9092.

The group is trying to preserve about a total of 10 acres of trees on the GSW campus. Spice claims that the walking trail is the last remaining significant area of green space within the city limits.

Spice and her husband moved to Americus from Florida about two years ago, and the walking trail and its trees are the first things she noticed about the GSW campus, she explained.

Spice said she got to believe that the natural space is attractive to perspective students, just like it is to her and many others. She pointed out that many trees were chopped down a few years ago to establish the soccer field that is adjacent to the walking trail.

“We (citizens) can’t tolerate being without the walking trail, especially during the brutal summer months,” said Spice. She said she and her husband walk around the trail at least every other day.