The Partnership of Northeast Florida Clubs of Rotary International, representing 10 local Rotary Clubs, raised $250,000 for Groundwork Jacksonville to help fund a portion of the Emerald Trail Riverside Link.

Recently, representatives from the 10 participating clubs presented a ceremonial $100,000 check to Kay Ehas, CEO of Groundwork Jacksonville, representing the final installment of the Rotary partnership’s $250,000 commitment.

The Rotary Clubs’ Partnership kicked off the Emerald Trail campaign in September 2022 and presented the first $50,000 installment to Groundwork Jacksonville in December of that year. An additional $100,000 was contributed in 2024.

The 2.3-mile Riverside Link will be the third Emerald Trail segment to be built and is currently in design with construction to begin in late 2026. The Riverside Link will connect RAM to McCoys Creek and the North Riverside neighborhood. It also will connect the Emerald Trail to the Southbank Riverwalk and San Marco, via the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) shared use path across the Fuller Warren Bridge.

The Rotary Clubs’ Partnership is the presenting sponsor of a half-mile spur of the Riverside Link from the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) to Memorial Park, which was dedicated by the Rotary Club on Christmas Day 1924 to honor those who gave their lives to protect American freedom.

In addition to its connection to Memorial Park, the Rotary Clubs’ Partnership came together to support the Riverside Link because the Emerald Trail aligns with each Rotary focus area: Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution; Disease Prevention and Treatment; Water and Sanitation; Maternal and Child Health; Basic Education and Literacy; Economic and Community Development; and Protecting the Environment.