LEIGHTON — It’s said “good things come to those who wait.”

Well, for the Singing River Trail and Town of Leighton, the wait is over and it will be a great thing to come.

Trail and town officials were supposed to hold a major groundbreaking celebration in June to mark the beginning of a downtown revitalization project made possible by a $1 million Transportation Alternatives Program grant.

However, a torrential downpour put the celebration – run in conjunction with Sledgefest – on hold.

Fast forward to Friday and the groundbreaking celebration of the Downtown Corridor Project.

The project will reimagine part of downtown Leighton to help drive economic activity and tourism.

“This downtown trail segment is more than a local improvement; it’s a vital future connector in the larger vision of the Singing River Trail,” said Misti Potter, the Singing River Trail executive director. “By linking Leighton’s neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and town center, this project strengthens both local community life and the 200-plus- mile trail system we’re building across North Alabama.

“Congratulations to Mayor (Derick) Silcox and the entire Leighton community for creating safer access, renewed activity downtown, and a meaningful connection between Leighton’s past, present, and the future.”

Now, the delayed celebration is expected to provide an exciting afternoon full of announcements and will culminate with Leighton’s annual Christmas parade.