The newest class of Leadership Macon, which is a program of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on December 18 to welcome construction of the Leadership Macon 2017 Fitness Circuit at Amerson River Park. The Circuit will introduce eight pieces of gym-quality fitness equipment from Greenfields Outdoor Fitness, which can serve up to 23 people at once, along the park’s walking trail.

“Leadership Macon is a signature program of the Chamber that, each year, brings together a diverse group of leaders from the across the community to not only learn more about Macon-Bibb County, but to develop a project that can benefit the area. I am delighted that this year’s class has chosen a project that reinforces what a wonderful place Macon is to live, work and play,” said Mike Dyer, Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.

Spencer Hawkins, Leadership Macon Class of 2017 Project Manager, explained why the Fitness Circuit was chosen: "Our class wanted to find a unique project to address community issues we learned about during our time together. Two of the aspects that resonated with us were the need to raise the level of wellness in our community, and the financial roadblocks that can keep people from working toward their wellness goals."

The Fitness Circuit will also enhance the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail and Amerson River Park. Leadership Macon worked alongside the local public and private organizations, especially NewTown Macon and Macon-Bibb County, which have already invested in the area.

"The Ocmulgee Heritage Trail is already the region’s most-used recreation amenity, and the new Fitness Circuit is a wonderful improvement. NewTown is grateful to Leadership Macon for moving the Trail forward,” said Josh Rogers, NewTown Macon President and CEO.

When construction is completed later this spring, the Leadership Macon 2017 Fitness Circuit at Amerson River Park will be a one-of-a-kind outdoor amenity in Macon, capable of serving a diverse range of users, including children, adults and even those with physical limitations.

“The Fitness Circuit will soon provide our entire Macon-Bibb community and Middle Georgia region with yet another good reason to come and enjoy the growing number of recreational opportunities available at Amerson River Park,” said Rabbi Larry Schlesinger, Macon-Bibb County Commissioner for District 2.