The Johnny Cash Trail opened for public use with a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 4, 2014. This section of the vast Folsom trail system is unique because it traverses over Folsom State Prison property. Cash's signature song, "Folsom Prison Blues," created worldwide name recognition for the city, and thus it seemed only natural that the trail meandering past the prison would be named in honor of The Man in Black.
"His connection and our family's connection will go on in a most beautiful way with the City of Folsom," said Rosanne Cash in her trail dedication comments, "Now this beauty and this connection to nature that he loved so much are going to be here forever."
The Johnny Cash Trail will also include public art installments themed around and honoring the life and legacy of the musician. The eight pieces that comprise the collection were the result of a national call for entries, juried by a 12-member Art Selection Panel including Cindy Cash, and approved by the Folsom City Council. The principal artist team is Sacramento-based Romo Studios, LLC, commissioned to create seven art installations. To enhance the Art Experience, all of the installations include smart phone apps and audio designed by Romo Studios, LLC and Tonic Group Design Studio of New York. This technology will bring each piece to life as it incorporates Cash's music, historical documentary information, and interactive elements. The second artist team is the Fine Art Studio of Rotblatt Amrany, from Illinios, who will be commissioned to create one art installation. RRM Design Group of San Luis Obispo was selected to design a 2-acre art park and to integrate the public art pieces into the trail landscaping.
In early 2015, Folsom Parks & Recreation will launch an innovative fund-raising campaign for the Art Experience. The goal is to complete the art project in less than five years.
There has been extensive national and international media coverage of this project, including mention in Rolling Stone magazine.
Press:
Rolling Stone Magazine
Tasteofcountry.com
News 10
Daily Mail UK