Longleaf Trace board approves restroom security upgrades, discusses additional safety measures

Whitney Argenbright • July 2, 2026

HATTIESBURG — The Pearl & Leaf Rivers Rails-to-Trails Recreational District Board approved restroom security upgrades and discussed additional safety measures Thursday following a public hearing on recent safety concerns along the Longleaf Trace.

Dale Lucas stands at the front of a meeting room holding documents while presenting evidence of vandalism during a Longleaf Trace board meeting. Attendees are seated in the foreground, and security camera images are displayed on a projection screen. — Dale Lucas, president of the Pearl & Leaf Rivers Rails-to-Trails Recreational District Board, presents photo and video evidence of vandalism during the public hearing portion of the board’s meeting July 2 at the Longleaf Trace Gateway in Hattiesburg. The board later approved restroom security upgrades and discussed additional safety measures along the Longleaf Trace. (JC Roberts)

The board approved about $12,600 for electronic locking systems to be installed at the trail’s restroom buildings. Each restroom will receive the same system except the Gateway facility, which already has a Wi-Fi-connected locking system. Board members said the electronic locks will automatically open and close the restrooms on a schedule while allowing anyone inside to exit safely after the doors lock. Installation is expected to begin within the next two weeks.

Board members also agreed to operate the restrooms on a schedule that generally follows the trail’s existing sunrise-to-sunset hours, with facilities opening about 30 minutes before sunrise and closing about 30 minutes after sunset. Members said the schedule can be adjusted seasonally as daylight hours change.

Much of the meeting focused on addressing vandalism and improving security along the 44-mile recreational trail. Board members discussed working more closely with local law enforcement agencies to identify recurring issues and develop additional safety measures. They also considered future improvements, including expanding security camera coverage, adding internet connectivity at trail facilities to allow remote monitoring and seeking sponsorships to help offset technology costs. No formal action was taken on those proposals.

Map of the 44-mile Longleaf Trace showing the trail route from Hattiesburg to Prentiss, including trailheads, restrooms, parking areas and other amenities. — This map from the Longleaf Trace website shows the 44-mile recreational trail, trailheads and amenities between Hattiesburg and Prentiss. (Longleaf Trace)

Board members also agreed to continue working with Friends of the Trace, a volunteer organization that members said will research alternative drinking fountain options following the removal of the trail’s drinking fountains because of repeated vandalism. The group also will assist with fundraising and future improvement projects.

The discussions followed recent changes announced by the Longleaf Trace, including the removal of all drinking fountains because of vandalism and unsanitary conditions and the implementation of daily restroom opening and closing schedules. Under the trail’s longstanding rules, the Longleaf Trace is open from sunrise to sunset except where otherwise posted.