By Crystal Murray, Gloster Community Liaison and Office Administrator
If you call Gloster, Mississippi home, then you’ve no doubt noticed some activity next to the National Guard Armory building on North Captain Gloster Drive. Currently, the town is in the process of installing a brand-new community walking track thanks to a donation from Drax.
In rural communities like Gloster, access to recreational spaces can be limited. Often, the nearest gym or park is miles away, making it difficult for residents to engage in physical activities or maintain a healthy lifestyle. As Drax’s Gloster Community Liaison, I am proud to be a part of the team that worked with town leaders to make the dream of a community walking track a reality.
A Generous Donation
The installation of the walking track was made possible thanks to the Drax Community Fund. $130,000 was earmarked for this project. The funds were donated to the Town of Gloster; that’s when Mayor Jerry Norwood set out to find the perfect construction crew to undertake this project. As a Gloster native, I can attest to the desire for a safe, accessible, and well-maintained space for exercise.
Construction began in late 2024 and we’re excited about a formal groundbreaking in the coming months. While the donation was instrumental in getting the project off the ground, the community and town support we’ve received has brought the walking track to life. It’s been great to see the dollars for the track go to local businesses; a special thanks goes out to Owen Holland and Sons.
Enhancing Health and Wellness
The new walking track offers many benefits to the community. It provides a safe, well-lit space for outdoor exercise, which is particularly important in rural areas where sidewalks and public parks may not be easily accessible. Regular walking is a proven way to improve cardiovascular health, manage weight, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The walking track also encourages social interaction and is a great place for parents to get some exercise while keeping an eye on their children as they play.
Looking Ahead
The donation of the walking track is more than just a place to exercise – it’s a source of community pride. More than that, it’s another way Drax is investing in its connection to the community. We have been hard at work determining the best way to support the communities where we operate. Here in Gloster, we have our Community Advisory Panel where we meet to discuss the community’s needs and how we can help meet them.
You can learn more about what we’re doing here in Gloster and the surrounding communities by visiting www.drax.com/gloster.
