City of Baytown employees recently volunteered to paint the wall panels along the Goose Creek Trail, near the new Animal Services and Adoption Center, as part of United Way’s annual Day of Caring. Goose Creek Trail is almost six miles long and travels along Goose Creek, from the Bayland Island Marina to Baker Road.
Employees worked in two-hour shifts, using their time to prime each panel and eventually adding some much-needed, vibrant color to the trail.
Kourtney Bonzo, Community Engagement Specialist, said, “The City of Baytown was happy to provide five projects for the Day of Caring. As a steering committee member, it was so exciting to have City staff participate in creating this beautiful color block mural along Goose Creek Trail. It’s not every day that City staff get to come together around such a unique addition to the trail system.”
In addition to this project, employees also cleared out a bird pond, planted fresh flowers, weatherized wooden structures at the Nature Center, and helped care for animals looking for forever homes at the new Animal Services and Adoption Center.
One employee said, “It was nice to get out of the office and give back to the community. I’m thankful to have these opportunities to do something others will appreciate.”
Gabriella Cuff, with the City Clerk’s office, said, “As a Baytown native, I took a lot of pride in helping on this beautification project for all to enjoy. My family and I ride this bike trail and I am not only excited to show my children what I have the opportunity to do at work, but also show them what a little bit of time, patience and heart to serve can create.”
Another employee added, “I’m not skillful with a paintbrush, but it wasn’t about the ability to paint. It was about a chance to give back to the community, to have fun with my co-workers, and to make Baytown a better place.”
Glenda Bruce, Vital Statistics Specialist, said, "Enjoyed working with a group that has a purpose to bring joy and beauty to Baytown."
David Alamia, Emergency Management Coordinator, said, “For those of us in government, many projects take a great deal of time to see progress, but this project made immediate improvements. This provided us with an instant sense of pride. Everyone left with the feeling that we were making a difference for the better of Baytown.”
Rachel Philo, Talent Management Specialist, said, "As City employees, sometimes we forget or don't always get to see the impacts of what we do each day for our community. So being able to participate in beautifying the Goose Creek Trail was such an amazing experience. As a team, we were able to take an unattractive concrete wall and turn it into a fabulous work of art. It was so rewarding."
Goose Creek Trail offers a great experience for everyone whether it’s for a fitness walk, a family outing or just simply to get out for some fresh air. It is just one of several trails in Baytown, but it is the longest one, edging out the San Jacinto Trail. There are multiple points along Goose Creek Trail to stop in order to take a break or use the provided restrooms. You can also park at multiple points along the route. To map out this trail and others, visit https://baytown.org/865/Trails.
There are also many volunteer options for everyone in the community. To find an opportunity that fits your schedule and interests, visit https://baytownengage.com/serve.