Whitehall Township will hold its first Stroll Down the Parkway Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The idea came from Commissioner Phillips Armstrong, who has received support for the event from the administration and Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr.

Armstrong's goal is to get people outdoors to enjoy the beauty the township has to offer. The retired Whitehall High School teacher said the day will give area residents an opportunity to visit places they may have never visited before, such as the township parkway, Ironton Rail-Trail and sites such as the Hokendauqua Park & Playground.

Addressing the board of commissioners at Monday's workshop meeting, Armstrong said Stroll Down the Parkway participants will be shuttled by bus for free from the Schadt Avenue Park & Playground parking lot. Armstrong, who drives charter buses on weekends, will be behind the wheel of the special bus. Participants will return by bus to Schadt Avenue from the Hokendauqua Park & Playground.

Keeping in mind the many church and religious services, the first bus run will occur at 11 a.m. and every hour thereafter, the last one occurring at 3:30 p.m.

Rite Aid will offer free blood screening and have personnel present to administer flu shots.

"Rite Aid has made a commitment," Armstrong told The Press.

Fellowship Community is expected to have a large presence at the Stroll Down the Park event, Armstrong said. The Whitehall Township Fire Department will have a food and beverage trailer set up. Fire police will direct traffic flow, ensuring pedestrian safety.

The Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce has been contacted about possibly participating.

Others expected to be part of the special day will be the Whitehall Historical Preservation Society and the township's garden club.

Armstrong said some details still are being finalized as the event draws near.

"It's all systems go," Armstrong said.

He said the mission is to give Lehigh Valley residents the opportunity to enjoy what the township has to offer in its parks, trails and playgrounds.