Forsyth County Opens Phase Four of Big Creek Greenway

Forsyth County Parks and Recreation opened Phase 4 of the Big Creek Greenway on December 11, extending the multi use trail by approximately 2.8 miles. The new section begins at the Bethelview Road trailhead, follows Big Creek northward, runs parallel to Kelly Mill Road, and terminates at Johnson Road. With this addition the county’s Greenway network now totals roughly 9.6 miles.

County parks officials highlighted a temporary narrowed segment near the Bethelview Road bridge widening project. The trail, normally 12 feet wide in that area, will narrow to about 8 feet through the construction zone until the bridge work is complete. Officials advised trail users to exercise caution in the narrowed zone and to be mindful of mixed trail traffic. Updated access points and seasonal trail hours were released with the opening, and the county provided a map, a list of trailheads, hours, and safety notes online at https://www.forsythco.com/News/newest-phase-of-forsyth-countys-big-creek-greenway-now-open2.

The extension carries immediate public health implications for Forsyth County residents. Longer contiguous trail mileage supports walking, cycling, and outdoor recreation, offering low cost opportunities for physical activity and stress relief. For neighborhoods along Bethelview Road, Kelly Mill Road, and Johnson Road the new segment improves connectivity to green space and to other Greenway sections. Planners say Phase 5 is planned to continue the Greenway to Sawnee Mountain Preserve, which would further link recreational resources across the county.

The opening also underscores broader issues of infrastructure coordination and equity. The narrowed segment illustrates how transportation projects and parks projects intersect, requiring coordinated scheduling and clear safety signage to protect trail users. Advocates for active transportation and public health note that continued investment in trail maintenance, lighting, and accessible connections to transit and neighborhoods will determine whether all residents can benefit equally from the Greenway expansion.

Residents seeking route details, hours, and safety guidance can find the county’s posted map and updates at the Parks and Recreation news page. As the county advances toward Phase 5, community input and equitable access will remain central to realizing the health and mobility benefits of an expanded Greenway.