Save the date for two Saluda Grade Trail public meetings in October

The best version of the Saluda Grade Trail is one that includes your input! We want to know your hopes and dreams for the trail. We also want to know your concerns so we can understand and address potential problems.

You are invited to your choice of two public meetings—in Inman, SC on Oct. 17 or Columbus, NC on Oct. 19.

These meetings will be held drop-in style, so come on your schedule—no need to stay the entire time. You can circulate through various stations, where you’ll have opportunities to learn about the trail and give input on your vision, goals, and concerns.

When and Where

SC Public Meeting

Tuesday, Oct. 17
5:30-7:30 PM (drop-in)

Inman Library
50 Mill Street
Inman, SC 29349

NC Public Meeting

Thursday, Oct. 19
5:30-7:30 PM (drop-in)

Polk County High School
1681 NC-108
Columbus, NC 28722

Please RSVP so that we can plan this event and communicate with you about any changes or updates. Your RSVP info will only be used to communicate with you about these meetings.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP

Background on the Saluda Grade Trail

The Saluda Grade Trail is a proposed 31-mile rail trail that would follow the route of the historic Saluda Grade rail line. Along the way, it would run through Campobello, Inman, Landrum, Tryon, Saluda, and Zirconia. It would be a linear park where people of all ages can walk, run, bike, and play. The trail would be accessible to people of all abilities. In addition to recreation, it would improve transportation options, so people can get around safely without driving. The Saluda Grade Trail is being spearheaded by a coalition of nonprofits in NC and SC — Conserving Carolina; PAL: Play, Advocate, Live Well; and Upstate Forever.

We see potential for the Saluda Grade as both a destination rail trail and a treasured asset for local communities. We believe that the trail could grow our local economies, expand opportunities for outdoor recreation, and improve people’s health. Now we want to know what you think.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRAIL

What to expect

Share Your Vision

At the public meetings, we’d love to learn more about your vision for the trail. For example:

• In ten years who will be using the trail and how will they be using it?
• In ten years, how has the trail changed your community?
• How has the development of the trail helped to preserve rural character?

Study and Upcoming Survey

The proposed Saluda Grade Trail is still in very early stages and there are still a lot of questions to explore. The Saluda Grade Trail coalition has engaged the firm Traffic Planning and Design, Inc. to conduct an economic impact and feasibility study, which began this summer. As part of this study, we are seeking public input about the proposed trail.

After the public meetings, there will also be an online survey. To make sure you get the survey and future updates about the trail, sign up for the Saluda Grade Trail email list (if you are not already.)

SIGN UP FOR EMAIL UPDATES HERE

Join Us on Oct. 17 or 19

We hope to see you at the public meetings! Please RSVP to let us know you are coming.

RSVP HERE