Life Before The Lake – Early History of Davidson
- Life Before the Lake
The Emerald Necklace: One of Lake Norman’s Most Remarkable Greenways
Since we first featured the Emerald Necklace, many LKNConnect readers have asked for more information about this remarkable greenway. With interest continuing to grow, we’re pleased to share this special episode once again.
In this episode of Active Life Around the Lake, Matt Chapman visits with Troy Fitzsimmons, Director of Cornelius Parks & Recreation, to explore the vision behind the Emerald Necklace—a community project more than a decade in the making. When complete, this impressive network of greenways and multi-use trails will create a 13-mile loop connecting neighborhoods, parks, downtown Cornelius, and recreational destinations throughout the town.
Whether you’re seeing this episode for the first time or watching it again, you’ll discover why so many Lake Norman residents have embraced the Emerald Necklace as one of the area’s premier destinations for walking, running, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. Join Matt and Troy as they explore one of Cornelius’ greatest community treasures.
Currently, all but three segments of the network have been completed. Those three segments, which total about two miles, will complete the Emerald Necklace, providing total connectivity to the system of trails.
The Emerald Necklace features both greenways that wind through the area’s natural landscape, featuring access to plant and wildlife, as well as multi-use paths that run alongside major roadways, including a yet-to-built path along Catawba Avenue in downtown.
Learn more at https://cornelius.org/park/parks_facilities___fields/emerald_necklace.php
If you’re ready to stop talking about getting active and actually do something about it, Active Life Around the Lake is where it starts. Our mission is simple: inspire more people to get outside, get moving, and discover the incredible parks, greenways, trails, waterways, and outdoor experiences that make Lake Norman such a special place to live. Focused on real movement, practical fitness, and everyday adventure, this series highlights the people, places, and opportunities that encourage a stronger, healthier, and more active lifestyle. Whether you’re getting back into a routine, looking for a new place to explore, or simply searching for inspiration, each episode delivers ideas you can put into action. It’s not about perfection—it’s about taking that first step outside.
