After three assaults in eight years along a 41-mile bike path/walkway that runs from Hattiesburg to Prentiss, operators are increasing security.

The board of directors of the Pearl and Leaf Rivers Rails To Trails Recreational District has voted to add surveillance cameras at key points and hiring a part-time, plainclothes security officer.

Officials say 10 security cameras should be in place by the weekend.

Officials say the security officer will initially patrol The Trace between Interstate 59 and the Southern Miss Gateway and could be used in other areas as needed.