When the city of Selma unveiled the Riverfront Park walking trail Thursday evening, one could see the anticipation and the smiles of satisfaction at what the city had done.

Sure the effort has been a little over 20 years in the making, but to see the dream become a tactile example of what Selma has to offer, is a promising example of what Selma can become.

We agree with what Selma Mayor George Evans said about the city having a lot of needs. The Riverfront trail, Evans said, is only “one piece” of the whole picture, and it’s a piece that is vital to the city flourishing.

The crowds of people — young, old, black and white, coming together for one purpose and one cause — proved to be the extent of what the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. hoped for in his 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.

The Riverfront walking trail is another jewel for the community. The trail, as well as the park that will include attractions such as an amphitheatre, historical and education signage and a playground, is something that residents can look forward to, appreciate and be proud of.

The park is something Selma can call its very own.

The Riverfront Park was a collaborative effort of so many entities within the community — public figures and those who stand in the background, people who were tired of the negative labels tagged with residing in Selma.

Thursday’s positive support proved once again residents are ready for change and are embracing it.

We can only hope the park will be a staple for the community and continue to represent what the city of Selma is all about in generations to come.