Portion of Long Leaf Trace named after Hattiesburg mayor

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - A portion of the Long Leaf Trace is now named after Mayor Johnny DuPree.

Long Leaf Trail officials dedicated the east part of the trail from Highway 49 to Main Street to Mayor DuPree.

Officials said Mayor DuPree has worked since the early 90's to expand the trace to unify the community.

DuPree said his goal is to make sure there are different parts of the city connecting to the trace. "Our goal has always been to make sure that we have some recreational facilities. "

He added, "Have something that deals with healthy living within a one mile radius for every resident that lives within the city of Hattiesburg.

As of today DuPree helped the city raise $650,000 with the traces' expansion. Officials said they plan to expand the trail even more.