Regional Commission Success Stories: Rockmart Church Street Silver Comet Trailhead
Georgia’s 12 regional commissions are public agencies created and established by the Georgia Planning Act (O.C.G.A. 50-8-32) to assist local governments on a regional basis and to develop, promote, and assist in establishing coordinated and comprehensive planning in the state. The Department of Community Affairs contracts annually with the Regional Commissions to primarily foster effective local and regional planning and implementation of those plans. Our Regional Commissions “Success Story” series highlights these regions by sharing their incredible achievements. You can view all of the communities on our Story Map.
The Silver Comet Trail joining Cobb, Paulding, and Polk Counties to the Chief Ladiga Trail at the Alabama line is a catalyst for Rockmart in Polk County. Named for the historic Rock Market, the city seeks to provide a historic and beautiful landing site for trail users as well as for residents and neighbors.
The Church Street Trailhead, listed in Rockmart’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan goals and in its community work program, was completed in 2020 with GA DNR Recreational Trails funding and assistance from the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission.
The Church Street trailhead, parking, signage, and paved connector to trail at Seaborn Jones Park provide visitors with an entryway to the heart of downtown Rockmart. There, one will find its welcoming plaza, historic buildings, restaurants, and informational signage.
Seaborn Jones Park and Rockmart Plaza provide a gathering spot for community relief efforts, events and festivals, and recreation. COVID-19 showed the true value of parks, trails, and open space accessed by safe and convenient trailheads. Rockmart anticipates this trailhead will serve many more visitors and residents alike in the coming years.
