Until a few weeks ago, Veterans Memorial Park looked much like a ghost town most mornings.

“We almost never saw very many people here,” said Margie Weaver, who oversees the Dawson County Senior Center at the park. “Now the park’s alive again.”

The park’s renaissance came with the completion of a multi-use, lighted, .8 mile trail that is open to both foot traffic and bicycles.

The trail also features five fitness stations that offer stretching, strength and balance exercises.

“They sometimes get here and are walking as early as 6 a.m.,” Weaver said.

The county has placed an emphasis on revitalizing the park and are continuing to look for ways to improve the facilities.

“Many of us grew up playing ball or other organized sports at the park throughout our entire childhood,” said Dawson County Manager Kevin Tanner. “We want to preserve the park and enhance it for citizens of all ages.”

A ribbon cutting and trail grand opening ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Friday to showcase the trail and several of the revitalization projects at the park.

“We’re excited about the heavy usage the trail’s already received,” Tanner said. “I would encourage everyone to come out and take advantage of this fine, new facility.”

The park is located at 186 Recreation Road, off Hwy. 9 North. Attendees for the ribbon cutting are asked to meet at the large pavilion.