Saluda Grade Rail Trail closer to reality in Spartanburg Co.
31-Mile Trail Promises Transformation and Development
In a major step towards expanding recreational infrastructure and promoting outdoor lifestyle in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, the Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy recently announced that it is under contract to purchase a formerly used railway line for conversion into a trail.
The Saluda Grade Rail Trail
The highly anticipated Saluda Grade Rail Trail will be a rail-to-trail conversion stretching over a whopping 31 miles. The proposed trail will navigate through various towns, starting from Inman in Spartanburg County and passing the likes of Campobello and Landrum, before its terminus in Saluda, North Carolina.
The Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy, the organization behind the project, is a collaboration of Play. Live. Advocate. Live Well. (PAL), Conserving Carolina, and Upstate Forever.
Purchase Agreement and Further Plans
Laura Ringo, Executive Director of PAL, demonstrated optimism about the recently signed purchase and sale agreement with Norfolk Southern, the current owner of the right of way. She specified, “We now have 12 months to complete a due diligence process in order to fully purchase the lot.Redacted This is a significant step in propelling this project forward. Within the next year, we hope to take possession of the line, followed by initiating the design and contemplating on the first phase of construction.”
A Once-in-a-lifetime Opportunity
This project is recognized as a significant development, not only in South Carolina but also extending to North Carolina. Billy Dunlap, the Chief Tourism Development Officer with OneSpartanburg, stated, “This is a truly remarkable project. It is not often that a 31-mile trail system comes about. While there are other trail systems, the remarkable length of the Saluda Grade Rail Trail sets it apart.”
OneSpartanburg highlights the trail’s potential to transform many lives and be a catalyst of change. “It has the potential to inspire retail development, invite hospitality businesses such as restaurants, breweries, and bars“, Dunlap added. “It will establish itself as a true destination, attracting visitors not just for the day, but for the entire weekend to explore the trail from start to finish. This trail promises to have a tremendous impact on the area.”
Engineering and Economic Impact Study
An engineering and economic impact study spanning over a year was recently conducted, the results of which were shared with the public at a meeting held at the Gramling United Methodist Church near Inman.
This entire venture promises an exciting future for outdoor enthusiasts, fitness buffs, and local communities alike, aiming to significantly contribute to the economic development, tourism, and overall quality of life in the region.
