Ribbon Cutting Marks Expansion of Semmes Senior Center Walking & Fitness Trail

Posted on: Nov 5th, 2025 | Announcements Press Releases Featured News

Photo L-R: Michael Petty-DDG, Nicole Warren-Mobile County Facilities Department, Evan Geerts-DDG, Semmes Councilor Tony Ebright, Center Co-director Linda Davis, Commissioners Merceria Ludgood and Connie Hudson, Center Co-director Bob Hankins, Semmes Councilors Helen Joyce and Sharon Murrill, Joe Collums-Paladin, Kaitlynn Carter-Mobile County Grants Department, and Joseph Payne-J. Payne Organization

MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. — Mobile County and City of Semmes officials gathered Wednesday morning to celebrate the completion of the Semmes Senior Center Walking & Fitness Trail expansion, which adds new outdoor recreation features, including a large fitness equipment station, shuffleboard, and pickleball courts.

The project, led by Mobile County District 2 Commissioner Connie Hudson, also extends the trail to about one mile of paved, ADA-accessible paths winding through the wooded area behind the center.

The Semmes Senior Center Walking & Fitness Trail is open to the public with no age restrictions.

Hudson said the project continues Mobile County’s investment in accessible, outdoor recreation. “This facility has become a community hub for wellness and social connection,” she said. “By expanding outdoor options, we’re helping residents stay active and engaged close to home.”

The Semmes Senior Center, operated by the City of Semmes in partnership with the Mobile County Commission, serves as a regional day-use facility for adults ages 62 and older. The 6,000-square-foot center offers more than 30 weekly programs and averages about 1,000 member visits each month.

Since its opening in 2013, Semmes Senior Center has been a focal point of civic and social life in west Mobile County, offering programs that promote health, learning, and recreation.

City of Semmes Mayor Pro tempore and Councilor Helen Joyce thanked the Mobile County Commission, especially Hudson, and said: “This trail shows what’s possible when the City of Semmes and Mobile County work together. The partnership has brought real improvements that our residents can use and enjoy every day.”

Semmes Senior Center Co-director Linda Davis also expressed gratitude to the County Commission and Hudson. “This is a wonderful gift for everyone who comes here; a place to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate life together, and share in the friendships that make this center so special.”

Mobile County acquired the Blackwell-Batson Estate in 2011 and transformed it through a series of upgrades, adding new facilities, additional acreage, and the first phase of the walking and fitness trail.

The County funded development of the center and trail through a combination of federal grants, Mobile County District 2 and General Funds, and local sponsorships and donations. The trail’s first phase opened in 2023 with 0.75 miles of paths, 10 ADA-accessible exercise stations, seating, and landscaping.

For more information, visit cityofsemmesal.gov/community/senior-center or call 251-649-2010.

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