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The event was also a way to thank Heaton Construction, which donated its time to build the overlook, saving the city approximately $10,000, Parks and Recreation Director Chris Wicker said.
Nearly $8,500 in grant funds from the N.C. Trails Program and the N.C. Department of Transportation Enhancement Program helped pay for the materials, Wicker said.
The overlook offers a view of the structurally sound remains of the bulkhead, which was built during the 1890s as part of the power canal. The power canal was used to generate electrical power into the 1950s when it was replaced by the dam less than half a mile upstream.
Mayor Drewery Beale opened the ceremony saying, “No matter what's happening, it's still a beautiful day.”
Beale thanked the Heatons for their contribution to the project. “It demonstrates their concern for the community.”
Hugh Bazemore and Jim Frazier of the Roanoke Canal Museum both thanked the Heatons for their time. “It was more than just nice,” Frazier said, “It was commitment, dedication and sacrifice.”
Mike Green, chairman of the Canal Commission, also thanked the company. “The Heatons are giving back to the community,” he said. “It's a wonderful addition to the Canal Trail.”
Plaques with a photo of the overlook were given to the Heatons.
“We didn't expect this,” Paul Heaton said, adding when the company first began the project the area was so heavily wooded it was hard to see the bulkhead. “We're happy we could do it for the city.”
Heaton said following the ceremony the company saw the project as a challenge. “We wanted to give back. It's kind of our philosophy.”
Wicker said inmate labor from the state prison as well as parks and recreation personnel were also used to help the clear the area. “This is one of the most historic and most scenic locations on the Canal Trail,” he said. “It's not only good for the city. It draws people from around the country.”
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