Ned Barrett’s Journey to Enhance Spartanburg Trails

Categories: Events/What's HappeningFitnessNatureNews

Joggers on a picturesque running trail in Spartanburg during autumn

News Summary

Ned Barrett, a former trails development director at Spartanburg PAL, transitions to a part-time role focused on fostering relationships to improve pedestrian access in Spartanburg. His dedication to the Daniel Morgan Trail Network and community-building efforts through running clubs has made a significant impact in promoting an active lifestyle. Barrett’s journey from teaching to nonprofit planning showcases his passion for athletics and community service, leaving a legacy that encourages residents to engage with the outdoors as he settles into his new role.

Chilly Thursdays and Running Trails: Ned Barrett’s New Part-Time Adventure

It was one of those chilly Thursday nights in Spartanburg, where the temperature dipped to about 39°F while the winds danced in from the southwest at a light speed of 5 to 10 mph. But that didn’t deter a lively group from gathering at Willy Taco after their spirited run with the Willy Way Run Club. As the crowd settled in, one man stood out with his signature shaggy beard and wonderfully mismatched socks. *Yes, it’s Ned Barrett!* What a cozy scene!

A Shift in Focus

Ned Barrett, a beloved figure in Spartanburg, has recently transitioned from a full-time gig as the trails development director at Spartanburg PAL to a part-time role. His new mission? Fostering relationships to enhance pedestrian access across the city. Barrett spent over a decade working hard on the 24-mile Daniel Morgan Trail Network, with even more expansion in the pipeline. His dedication has truly made a difference in encouraging folks to get out and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Community Builder Extraordinaire

Anyone familiar with Barrett knows him not just as a runner and coach, but as a warm-hearted “yes” man. He has a natural talent for making everyone feel welcome, and it’s evident that relationship-building is the core of his work. Since joining Spartanburg PAL in 2010 as part of a grant program to combat childhood obesity, he has transitioned his focus towards planning trails that benefit the community. In the process, he’s developed invaluable connections that will surely endure beyond his time there.

From Teacher to Trailblazer

Barrett’s journey is truly inspiring! Growing up in Huntington, W.Va., he was immersed in a family devoted to athletics and community service. With a grandfather who famously raced against *Jesse Owens*, how could he not be influenced to lead an active life? Barrett walked or biked everywhere throughout his childhood, instilling a love for the outdoors that would shape his future.

His academic path took him to Colgate University, where he majored in English and developed a passion for literature—especially *The Scarlet Letter*. After honing his teaching skills, he took on various roles across the country, teaching English and history, while coaching cross-country on the side. But in 2006, he made a significant shift by stepping away from teaching to embrace nonprofit land use planning, eventually making his way to PAL in 2014.

Running: More Than Just a Sport

For Barrett, running has always been more than just exercise; it’s an exciting adventure, a form of competition, and an irreplaceable way to connect with his community. He launched the Rockers Run Club in 2016, which has blossomed into a robust group of avid runners who gather every week to pursue their love for the sport together. He completed his first ultramarathon around 2010 and has participated in numerous races, using his running prowess as a vehicle to raise funds for important causes, including efforts for the *Michael J. Fox Foundation*.

The Streets of Spartanburg

Barrett didn’t stop there; he committed himself to a unique challenge: running every street in Spartanburg! Covering an astounding 327 miles of the city streets, this journey has enabled him to make even more connections with the local community, building relationships one step at a time. His dedication to improving pedestrian access and creating beautiful trails is genuinely leaving a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

A Legacy of Impact

As Barrett settles into his new role at Spartanburg PAL, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy that reflects his passion for community, health, and the great outdoors. The trails he worked so hard to develop will continue to serve Spartanburg for generations, promoting a more active lifestyle for residents. With sunny skies and warmer weather to come, the running spirit that Barrett has nurtured is only set to flourish further under his guiding influence!