Where locomotives and boxcars once rumbled through Jackson, Mississippi, residents and visitors will soon be able to walk or cycle through the city’s historic downtown.

Entergy Mississippi is providing $250,000 in funding for the latest phase of the Museum Trail, a multi-use greenway. The trail provides access to recreation areas, local culture and history, public art, nature, and transportation alternatives.

The grant comes from the Entergy Environmental Initiatives Fund, which is funded by company shareholders. They have invested more than $43.8 million since the fund launched in 2001. The fund helps to reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and restore wetlands and forests in communities Entergy serves. The greenway expansion received a planning grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The Capitol Green Connector will add 2.5 miles to the trail. It will reach from the state fairgrounds near I-55 through the downtown district near restaurants, Two Mississippi Museums, the Mississippi Museum of Art, the Old Capitol Museum, Jackson Planetarium, and the historic GM&O Railroad Depot.

“We have multiple Entergy facilities located near the Museum Trail, so we have enjoyed watching it grow,” said Haley Fisackerly, Entergy Mississippi president and CEO. “This new phase will boost walkability, sustainability and economic advancement in the heart of our capital city. Through our Environmental Initiatives Fund, we aim to make lasting impacts on the communities we serve.”

The existing trail stretches three miles from LeFleur Museum District and park southward to the Mississippi Farmer’s Market at the fairgrounds. It features murals and other art installations and provides safe access under I-55 on foot or bicycle. The new segment will turn west and help connect East and West Jackson neighborhoods.