CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. -- After six years in the making the Island Greenway in Carolina Beach is officially open.

• The 1.2-mile nature trail stretches from Mike Chappell Park down to Alabama Avenue.
• The trail is for walking and biking, motorized vehicles are prohibited.
• Town officials said the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the greenway will be in April.

The 1.2-mile nature trail stretches from Mike Chappell Park down to Alabama Avenue. The trail is for walking and biking, motorized vehicles are prohibited.

Some locals say it's a good alternative to exercising on the busy streets.

"Carolina Beach has a place to go that has outdoor activities that are safe," said Leslie Poitu, a local. "A lot of people do like to ride their bikes, it's not that safe. You've got Dowe Road where people are going 55, not really safe."

Homeowners who live near the trail were originally upset about the 6-foot military style fence that was supposed to go between the trail and property owned by Sunny Point, but town officials diverted to a more attractive barrier.

Now, some bikers say they just wish the ride was longer.

"I'm hoping that our county commissioners and elected officials, local here on the island, will push for the bike trail to be extended all the way to the ferry," said Kenneth McEntire. 

Town officials said the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the greenway will be in April.