Southern Gateway – Petersburg
Overview
The southern terminus of the trail marks the end of the journey for some, but for many, crossing the Appomattox River is only the beginning of the next adventure. Downtown Petersburg and the East Coast Greenway to the south, the Appomattox River Trail to the east and west and 43 miles of the Fall Line to the north all point to a journey that continues well beyond the reach of the trail. The Southern Gateway becomes a microcosm of the entire Fall Line experience. Virginia State University (VSU), historic Petersburg, and crossing the Appomattox River all weave together to announce the overflowing culture, history, and natural beauty of the trail ahead.
Vision Elements
The Fall Line serves as a Main Street Trail through this entire character area. Key elements of this typology here include:
- Access points near Virginia State University campus
- Public art and interpretive exhibits that celebrate Black history at VSU and the history of indigenous peoples
- Signature gateway and experiential elements at Patton Park, including improved river and fishing access, bicycle repair and parking, play spaces, and upgraded restrooms
- Connections to Old Towne Petersburg and local landmarks