McDowell County

Approved by McDowell County Commissioners

Monday, September 10, 2007

Greenway Master Plan

McDowell Trails Association, Inc.

Greenway Master Plans Marion, NC

Revision #2, July 29, 2007 MTA President: Bill Hendley

1476 Roby Conley Road, Marion, North Carolina 28752 Phone: 828-724-4036 Email:

bh667@wnconline.net

Executive Summary As McDowell County NC continues to grow and develop, the needs of the county’s citizens

and visitors also expand and change. Recreation is an essential and integral part of our future development. The full greenway and trail system envisioned by the McDowell Trails Association (MTA) runs along the Catawba River from the Catawba Falls to Lake James, and follows the North shore of Lake James to connect with the Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail as well as trails in Burke County. The greenway trail will also connect to Old Fort, downtown Marion, the McDowell County Visitor Center, the YMCA and the Senior Center in Marion. The first leg of this extensive network is already underway, with a highly visible and accessible segment planned for 1.2 miles along the South side of the river behind the Wal-Mart Shopping Center and would include the area called the “Little Round Hill” on which historic members of the McDowell and Carson families are buried. The MTA is also partnering with the City of Marion to establish a Greenway on the abandoned Norfolk Southern rail bed known as the “Pea Vine,” which runs from State Street for approximately 1.5 miles southwest in the direction of the McDowell Technical Community College. The MTA is working with the NC Dept of Transportation and the Parks and Recreational Division of the NC Natural Resources Division to establish biking lanes and trails on both NC221 south to the South Carolina border and west on Old US 70 toward Asheville. Finally, the MTA is partnering with other organizations to establish a “blueway” paddling trail from upstream on the Catawba River down to the Black Bear access boat ramp on the shore of Lake James, tying into the 82 mile-long Upper Catawba River Paddle Trail that follows the river through a chain of lakes into South Carolina. This network of walking, biking, and paddling trails will provide recreational opportunities and safe, alternative transportation corridors while strengthening and building pride in the community.

Before the greenway process could be started, a management entity had to be created and ready to accept and administer funds. A local group of concerned citizens founded the MTA as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in January 2006. Management and officers function on a volunteer basis reporting to a Board of Directors. The organization now has over 350 subscribing members from the local area and held a successful first Annual Meeting in May, 2007.

Multiple funding opportunities are available for public greenways. Examples of grants at the federal and state levels include the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Program; Clean Water Trust Fund; Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance; and the Rural Community Assistance Program. The private and corporate sectors also have grants available for greenway development.

Benefits of a greenway include protecting and minimizing disturbance to the county’s natural, cultural and historic resources. By preserving these assets we have the opportunity to celebrate the history and character of McDowell County. A greenway would protect stream banks from erosion and flooding. The proposed greenway is designed to reach the entire community with a positive effect on lifestyle, health and economic development. Tangible and intangible rewards of a greenway include improved physical and mental well-being of residents and general quality of life, which would transfer to both work and home environments. New businesses, residents and visitors would be attracted to McDowell County and the beautiful greenway that would tie together the Catawba River, Lake James, and the towns of Old Fort and Marion.

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Table of Contents

PART 1. INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 4 PART 2. DEFINITION OF GREENWAYS ............................................................................................................. 5 PART 3. BENEFITS OF GREENWAYS .................................................................................................................. 5 PART 4. VISION, GOALS & OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................... 6 PART 5. DESCRIPTION OF PLAN ......................................................................................................................... 6 PART 6. FUNDING SOURCES, LAND ACQUISITION STRATEGIES, ASSISTANCE .................................. 8 PART 7. RESPONSIBILITIES AND ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................. 10 PART 8. EXAMPLES OF OTHER GREENWAYS .............................................................................................. 10 APPENDICES – BOARD OF DIRECTORS, FUNDING TO DATE, MAPS & LETTERS OF SUPPORT

The Catawba Falls in McDowell County

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Part 1. Introduction The purpose of the McDowell Trails Association is to identify and prioritize opportunities for

establishing hiking, biking, and paddling trails that can lead residents and visitors to interact with the area’s natural resources. The MTA also pursues funding from state, federal and other grant sources to protect these resources for utilization as parks, greenways, open spaces, historical sites and recreational facilities. The MTA strongly believes, and research has shown, that greenway trails encourage healthier lifestyle choices, increase physical activity and help reduce the risks of environmental damage to stream banks and sensitive ecosystems.

McDowell County citizens were surveyed on their support of greenways by the McDowell Co Health Department in a Community Health Assessment in 2004. Out of the 521 persons surveyed, 448 (86%) said they think it is important to create trails and 416 (80%) said they support government funding for trails. Perhaps most importantly, 290 (56%) see the lack of a greenway as a problem that the community needs to address.

The MTA proposes the development of a Greenway Master Plan as part of the McDowell County Comprehensive Recreation Plan. This Greenway Master Plan ties in with the walking trail goals of the communities of Marion and Old Fort. A greenway trail system through McDowell County would run along the Catawba River from the Catawba Falls to Lake James. This proposed trail can be linked with other trails such as:

• the national historic Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail; • the Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) of North Carolina; • the Burke County Bike trail/greenway plan, which discussed linking to the proposed

McDowell County trail (there is a distance of approximately 10 miles between the two); • the Kitsuma Indian Trail near Old Fort; and • the Rutherford Trace Trail in Old Fort. • The proposed greenway will also connect with both the Marion and Old Fort historic train

depots.

The MTA also is strongly committed to forming safe bicycle lanes on major highways as the opportunities present themselves. The first planned project targets a partnership with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Division of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to rally support for including a bicycle lane in the anticipated widening of Highway 221 from Marion to the South Carolina boarder. The MTA has also offered to partner with McDowell County Government and the Parks and Recreational Division of the NC Natural Resources Division to gain public access to the abandoned Old US 70 Highway up the Asheville Mountain for establishing a mountain bicycle trail westward toward Asheville.

McDowell County also provides ample opportunities for canoeing, rafting and kayaking. The only stretch of the Catawba River not controlled by hydroelectric dams runs from the headwaters of the river, located in the Southwest corner of the county, north and east down a series of beautiful waterfalls, past Old Fort and Marion and flowing into the west end of Lake James. The stretch of river between Pleasant Gardens (just west of Marion), flowing behind the Wal-Mart and Lowe’s Shopping Center to the lake provides thirteen miles of beautiful wild river that is ideal for paddling. The MTA is partnering with the Parks and Recreation Division of the North Carolina Natural Resources Division to establish a “blueway” paddling trail with safe, public access in/out of the river for rafts, canoes, and kayaks from Pleasant Gardens to Black Bear on the northern shore of Lake James, extending the current Upper Catawba River Paddle Trail even further upstream.

The MTA strongly believes in the benefits of trails and greenways and their positive contribution to the local economy. Studies show that where bicycle and pedestrian tourism is fostered and promoted, and investments are made in bicycle and pedestrian facilities, the economic impact may be even greater. A thriving tourist industry, in turn, can attract and revitalize businesses, create jobs, and increase public revenue. In 2003, tourism dollars spent in McDowell County exceeded $32 million and supported 380 jobs with a total payroll of $5.7 million. Also in 2003, tourism dollars contributed more than $3 million in state and local taxes, saving each county resident $70 in taxes. (N.C. Department of Commerce)

Rivers, trails, and greenway corridors are traditionally recognized for their environmental protection, recreation values, and aesthetic appearance. These corridors also have the potential to

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create jobs, expand local businesses, attract new or relocating businesses, increase local tax revenues, decrease local government expenditures, and promote a vibrant local community.

Public health may be improved by providing opportunities for physical activity. The estimated annual cost of obesity and overweight in the US is approximately $117 billion. The potential savings, if all inactive American adults became physically active, could be $76.6 billion per year.

Trails and greenways reach the WHOLE COMMUNITY. Organized sports favor the athletically gifted individuals and families with sufficient financial means. Fitness centers cater to individuals who have high self-determination and fitness ability, and recreational programs favor children and youth. Trails, however, offer a diversity of opportunities for individuals ranging from the gifted athlete to those who are looking for an aesthetically pleasing place to take an after-dinner walk or a family outing to spend time together. Handicap-accessible walking trails provide recreation opportunities for individuals who may not be able to negotiate more challenging terrain, but who wish to experience more outdoor activities. Part 2. Definition of Greenways

Greenways are linear open spaces that are managed for conservation, recreation, and/or alternative transportation uses. Greenways often follow natural features such as ridgelines or river valleys; cultural features such as canals, utility corridors, abandoned rail lines, roadways; or wherever a break appears in the land pattern. Although each greenway is unique, most greenways are networks of natural open space corridors that connect neighborhoods, parks, and schools to areas of natural, cultural, recreational, scenic and historic significance. These passageways link people and places to nature for the enjoyment and enhancement of the community. These areas typically protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, reduce flood hazards, and maintain or improve water quality or quantity. Greenways also provide K-12 and public educational programs and may include recreational trails for walking, jogging, and/or bicycling where such use will not jeopardize the ecology. Part 3. Benefits of Greenways

Connecting greenways with businesses, neighborhoods, parks, and services by linking them through trails, bike paths, and sidewalks unites a community. Providing resources and an appealing environment helps develop this sense of unity by getting people out of their cars to walk along streets, parks and creeks. Greenways can create new or increase the existing tourism base, provide intrinsic value, encourage businesses to relocate to the area, and reduce public cost from floods, erosion, and other natural hazards.

The focus in McDowell County is to conserve, preserve, and restore the natural resources of the Upper Catawba River community. It will serve as a means to connect this community with other parts of the state and provide a place of scenic interest in a rapidly developing area. OTHER BENEFITS • Local Resident Recreation Opportunities: Greenways provide accessibility to local historical and

cultural landmarks as well as natural resources such as the Catawba River and riverside ecologies. Trails provide safe locations for youth and adult activities such as running, biking, walking, and paddling.

• Economic Development: Quality of life in a community is an increasingly important factor for retaining and attracting corporations and businesses. Greenways, rivers and trails can be important contributors to the quality of life. Corporations bring jobs to a community and help support local businesses and community services.

• Water Quality and Flood Management: Greenways and corridors along rivers maintain water quality in streams by reducing stream bank erosion and avoiding potentially costly damage and hazards in times of flooding.

• Tourism: Greenways, rivers and trails attract visitors to a community while supporting local businesses such as lodging, food establishments, and recreation-oriented services. Greenways may also help improve the overall appeal of a community to visitors, thus increasing tourism. The Travel Industry Association (TIA) and the Smithsonian Magazine cite that 81% of American

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travelers include historical or cultural activities in their travels. Also, according to TIA statistics, studies show that 100 million Americans are now classified as “geotourists.” Geotourism is defined as “tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of the place being visited, its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well being of its residents.”

• Historical and Cultural Resources: A greenway between the historic McDowell and Carson Houses, running past the “Little Round Hill” cemetery, incorporates landmarks of the rich, early history of McDowell County, from the indigenous tribes to the early prominent settlers and present day residents.

Part 4. Vision, Goals & Objectives

The vision for the Greenway is to create and enhance public areas along the Upper Catawba River that will preserve the natural wildlife and habitat, provide a beautiful public space for the people of McDowell County and visitors, and provide an area for environmental, educational, and recreational interests. A Greenway with developed bicycle and pedestrian paths will allow connectivity with downtown Marion and the Senior Center/YMCA park, Black Bear boat access on Lake James, the Over Mountain Victory Trail, the Mountains to the Sea Trail, the old Kitsuma Indian Trail and the Old Fort section of the Rutherford Trace.

This Greenway Master Plan focuses on protecting, preserving, and restoring McDowell County’s valuable resources, and addresses voluntary public acquisition of land and funding alternatives to implement the vision. The plan should address the connectivity routes within the county and alternative transportation. An important portion of the plan should serve as a guideline for the implementation of a path that will connect the heart of downtown Marion to the Greenway trail along the Catawba River.

The development of a Greenway Master Plan is a dynamic process. It begins with data gathering and stakeholder input. The biggest challenge of a Greenway project, by far, is acquiring strips of land no less than fifty feet wide on one or both sides of the Upper Catawba River – from the Catawba Falls to the west end of Lake James. Acquiring the land outright through trusts, donations, or purchases, or by obtaining voluntary easement agreements with property owners on one or both sides of the river will take many years. In order to gather support and involvement from the Community for greenways in the county, a plan must be developed that the citizens will support.

Acquisition may be by purchase, lease, gifts, voluntary conservation easements, or public access easements. Donations of land to public agencies have tax benefits for the donor. Funds will be managed by a non-profit organization, such as the McDowell Trails Association, which is a 501(c)(3) organization consisting of a volunteer staff and officers reporting to a board of directors. Part 5. Description of Plan

The proposed Greenway plan follows the Catawba River, beginning at the Catawba Falls southeast of Old Fort. The Rutherford Trace parallels a large portion of the trail, providing historic and educational opportunities and uses of the Greenway. Following the river into Old Fort, a connector trail will take users to the Old Fort Train Depot and Mountain Gateway Museum. Adventurous hikers can continue further into Old Fort and pick up the Kitsuma Indian Trail at the Old Fort Park.

Continuing down the river past Old Fort, the next landmark is the County-owned Catawba River Park on Old Greenlee Road in Pleasant Gardens (PG). From this point, another connector would provide access to the Historic Carson House on Buck Creek, not far from the Catawba River. Another connector from the McDowell County Catawba River Park could continue up the hill along Old Greenlee Rd to the Visitor Center. At the Visitor Center, the connector will continue to the McDowell Senior Center and YMCA facilities, then into downtown Marion along the new, improved Sugar Hill Rd. Further downstream from the McDowell County Catawba River Park, the proposed trail could include the historic McDowell House. Along the river between the Carson House and the McDowell House lies the Carson and McDowell family burial site, which is locally known as the “Little Round Hill.”

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View of the “Little Round Hill” between the Historic Carson House and McDowell House along the Catawba River.

Crossing the road under Highway 221, another walking/biking trail would connect the main Greenway to Historic Downtown Marion. This corridor will continue back through downtown, to the Visitor Center.

After the river travels under the Highway 221/226, the next historical site is the Black Bear area of Lake James. The Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail is close to the proposed greenway and access to it is possible during the development process. The Mountains to the Sea Trail intersects a portion of the OMNHVT close by. A canoe route called the “Upper Catawba River Paddle Trail” begins at Black Bear Access and travels down the Catawba River through Lake James, Lake Roadhiss, and Lake Hickory in Catawba County. McDowell Trails Association is partnering with McDowell County to develop a greenway master plan in the Lake James area that would connect the Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail located at Crescent Resources’ 1780 development to McDowell County’s Black Bear Access Area. This 9-12 mile greenway would provide connectivity to a trail system in the new 2,915 acre Lake James State Park and Burke County’s proposed greenway. The McDowell Trails Association’s long-range goal is to develop a greenway plan that will connect to the Buncombe and Burke County greenways.

A summary of the landmarks along the proposed Greenway include: 1. Catawba Falls 2. Town of Old Fort, the Mountain Gateway Museum, the Old Fort Train Depot 3. Pleasant Gardens River Park 4. McDowell and Carson family gravesites and the Little Round Hill 5. Carson House and McDowell House 6. Commercial businesses and restaurants – the Wal-Mart Shopping Center 7. Historic Downtown Marion and the Marion Train Depot 8. McDowell Co Visitor Center, YMCA & Senior Center 9. Camping & picnicking along the river 10. Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail, Mountains-to-the-Sea Trail, Upper Catawba River

Trail (a canoe route through Lake James, Lake Rhodhiss, and Lake Hickory)

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Canoe launch on the Catawba River along the greenway in Morganton, Burke County

The proposed Greenway will include picnic areas, parking and restroom facilities. The type of

materials used for the Greenway, trail width and other specific details of construction will be determined in further revisions of the Master Greenway Plan. These details are dependent on funds available and the environmental conditions of each section.

The McDowell County Greenway includes significant historical sites. Preservation of our historical landmarks is essential for the future. Each time a resident or visitor enjoys a trail they will be reminded of our history and the importance of preserving these sites. Continued interest will assist in perpetuating funding sources for future greenway corridors and maintenance of completed sections.

Part 6. Funding Sources, Land Acquisition Strategies, Assistance Funding will include a variety of sources from state and federal grants to personal contributions. The non-profit MTA will be responsible for researching grant opportunities and completing grant applications. As a non-profit organization, the management entity will also sponsor "community fund-raisers," accept private donations and research other funding opportunities. This group will also prepare requests to property owners regarding easements and/or donations. Construction and maintenance of the trail will be conducted in partnership between MTA, but will include assistance and support by the County, the City of Marion, the Town of Old Fort, and local volunteers and community organizations. Potential Greenway Funding Sources Include:

• The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) The primary source of federal funding for greenways is through the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). There are many sections of the Act that support the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation corridors.

• State Water Management Funds. Funds established to protect or improve water quality could apply to a greenways/trails project if a strong link exists between the development of a greenway and the adjacent/nearby water quality. An example is the Clean Water Trust Fund. Possible uses of these funds include: purchase critical strips of land along rivers and streams for protection which could then also be used for greenways; develop educational materials, displays; or for storm water management.

• Greenway Trust Fund. Another strategy is the creation of a trust fund for land acquisition and facility development that is administered by a private greenway management group, or by a local greenway commission. A trust fund can aid in the acquisition of large parcels of high-priority properties that may be lost if not acquired by private sector initiative. Money may be contributed to the trust fund from a variety of sources, including the municipal and county general funds, private grants, and gifts.

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• Local Private-Sector Funding. Local industries and private businesses may agree to provide support for greenway development through one or more of the following methods:

1. Donation of cash to a specific greenway segment 2. Donations of services by large corporations to reduce the cost of greenway

implementation, including equipment and labor to construct and install elements of a specific greenway.

3. Reductions in the cost of materials purchased from local businesses that support greenway implementation and can supply essential products for facility development. One example of a successful endeavor of this type is the Swift Creek Recycled Greenway in Cary, NC. A total of $40,000 in donated construction materials and labor made this trail an award winning demonstration project.

• Adopt-A-Trail Program. These are typically small grant programs that fund new construction, repair or renovation, maps, trail brochures, facilities (bike racks, picnic areas, birding equipment).

• Community Development Block Grants. Through its State CDBG Program, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides States with annual direct grants, which they in turn award to smaller communities and rural areas for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, and/or improving community facilities and services.

• Greenway Sponsors. A sponsorship program for greenway amenities allows for smaller donations to be received from both individuals and businesses. The program must be well planned and organized, with design standards and associated costs established for each amenity. Project elements that may be funded can include mile markers, call boxes, benches, trash receptacles, entry signage, and picnic areas.

• Estate Donations. Wills, estates and trusts may be also dedicated to the appropriate agency for use in developing and/or operating the greenway system.

• “Buy-a-Foot” Programs. “Buy-a-Foot” programs have been successful in raising funds and awareness for trail and greenway projects within North Carolina. Under local initiatives, citizens are encouraged to purchase one linear foot of the greenway by donating the cost of construction. An excellent example of a successful endeavor is the High Point Greenway “Buy-a-Foot” campaign, in which linear greenway “feet” were sold at a cost of $25/foot. Those who donated were given a greenway T-shirt and a certificate. This project provided over $5,000 in funds.

• Wetlands Reserve Program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides direct payments to private landowners who agree to place sensitive wetlands under permanent easements. This program can be used to fund the protection of open spaces and greenways within riparian corridors.

• Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention (Small Watersheds) Grants. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides funding to state and local agencies or nonprofit organizations authorized to carry out, maintain and operate watershed improvements involving less than 250,000 acres. The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to eligible projects to improve watershed protection, flood prevention, sedimentation control, public water-based fish and wildlife enhancements, and recreation planning.

• Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program. The USDA provides small grants of up to $10,000 to communities for the purchase of trees to plant along city streets and for greenways and parks.

• Small Business Tree-Planting Program. The Small Business Administration provides small grants of up to $10,000 to purchase trees for planting along streets and within parks or greenways. Grants are used to develop contracts with local businesses for the plantings.

• National Recreational Trails Program. These grants are available to government and nonprofit agencies, for amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, for the building of a trail or piece of a trail.

• Design Arts Program. The National Endowment for the Arts provides grants to states and local agencies, individuals and nonprofit organizations for projects that incorporate urban

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design, historic preservation, planning, architecture, landscape architecture and other community improvement activities, including greenway development.

• Grants through Private Foundations and Corporations. Many communities have solicited greenway funding from a variety of private foundations, local and national corporations, and other conservation minded benefactors.

Part 7. Responsibilities and Administration

The assignment of specific responsibilities and duties and the administrative roles of the County and City governments and the non-profit McDowell County Trails Association are under discussion and development at this time. Part 8. Examples of other Greenways

North Carolina is blessed with abundant natural resources, cultural and historical treasures, and closely knit communities that appreciate the value and uniqueness of these gifts. Many cities, towns, and rural areas are protecting their natural and cultural assets by creating greenways. Below is a brief description of selected projects in North Carolina:

The Catawba River Greenway Park The Greenway in Morganton NC offers a total of 4.25 miles of paved, fully accessible walking trails. Along the trail there are picnic shelters and open tables, ADA compliant rest rooms (open year round), playgrounds, fishing piers, canoe launches, multilevel observation decks and pedestrian bridges, which cross the river and tributaries. The Catawba River Greenway and Catawba Meadows are part of the Upper Catawba River Paddle Trail, which extends from Black Bear Access on Lake James to Lake

Right: Morganton Greenway in Burke County

Lookout Shoals Access on Lake Lookout Shoals. The 82-mile river trail has 24 boating access points and four portages along the route. The National Park Service formally certified the Greenway as part of the Overmountain National Historic Victory Trail. The Park Service placed historical markers along the Greenway walking trail commemorating the historic King’s Mountain March. Broad River Greenway The Broad River Greenway near Boiling Springs, NC (Cleveland County) gives residents and visitors access to 1500 acres of open space and natural areas along the Broad River. While enjoying the trails, hikers, bicyclists, and students can tour an 1850's cabin, which is manned by volunteers who reveal the way of life of the former occupants. The Greenway provides free recreational opportunities for everyone regardless of age, income, or social status. Visitors are encouraged to walk, run, bicycle, or horse back ride along these trails to view the natural sights and sounds of their own community. Fletcher, NC The Town of Fletcher completed a community-based visionary and strategic planning process in 1999, which identified the development of greenways as a priority for meeting several needs:

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• Provide recreational facilities which serve the community at large, as well as meeting the needs of individual businesses in terms of enhancing their wellness programs and increasing their ability to recruit and retain employees and managers;

• Repair and preserve riparian corridors and wetlands to improve water quality, filter storm water run-off, and provide flood control;

• Tie into regional transportation and greenway plans, including developing a master plan for the County which is being developed by the Apple Country Greenways Commission;

• Create educational opportunities which raise public awareness of environmental quality issues, plant and animal species, and land management; and

• Provide alternative transportation corridors connecting residential, industrial, and commercial areas, particularly linking Fletcher Community Park and the adjoining downtown development area to neighborhoods and industries.

The first section of the Fletcher Greenway Master Plan connects Fletcher Community Recreation Park to the Blue Ridge Metals property and the confluence of Cane Creek and Hooper's Creek. The "backbone" corridors of the Greenways Plan -- as well as connecting to the “Heart of Fletcher” Business District currently are under development, as well as creating an expanded loop to the existing trail. Greenville, NC The Greenville greenway system design is centered on a set of primary greenways along creeks and rivers. Connectors for bicycle and pedestrian traffic are then added to link the primary corridors to each other, to shopping, business, residential, education, and recreation destinations. Jacksonville, NC Jacksonville, NC is using trails and greenways to encourage the utilization and conservation of green spaces to enhance the quality of life for their community. They are providing safe linear networks for pedestrians, bicycle linkages between recreation sites, residential areas, employment centers, schools and other urban activity centers. Winston-Salem and Forsyth County, NC By 2015, the population of Forsyth County is projected to increase by 59,000 and the county is planning to meet the recreation, conservation and alternative transportation needs of existing and future residents in order to sustain and enhance the community's quality of life in the long-term. The vision includes the creation of a system of parks, open spaces and natural areas linked together by greenways. This system will connect neighborhoods to nearby parks, shopping, schools and other neighborhoods, forming part of a multi-modal transportation network. The plan proposes to include all major rivers and creeks with identified flood zones as Greenway Corridors. Minimum 40-foot easements will also be acquired as development occurs along all these creeks.

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Executive Committee - 2007 Bill Hendley President Don Markum Vice President Jane Townsend Secretary David Rickets Treasurer Mary Smith Grant Writing Committee Chair, McDowell Health Department Frank Dean Right-of-Way Committee Chair Carol Price

Board of Directors - 2007

Chuck Aldridge Shirley Arrowood Steve Bailey Gail Bailey Steve Bachmeyer Stan Braswell McDowell County Parks & Recreation Dept Bunnie Burgin Mark Burton MD Vickie Burton Misty Guinn, Corpening YMCA Scott Hagaman Rev. Rita Hollifield Steve Jones Mae Lackey Billy Martin Linda Mystic Andrea Webb David Wooten

Special Thanks To All Who Contributed To The Greenway Initiative

The Boyd and Van Phillips Families John and Sandy Rabb McDowell Chamber of Commerce McDowell County The City of Marion Mr. & Mrs. Charles Burgin Marion Rotary Club Mr. & Mrs. Robert E. Taylor McGill & Associates Larry Greene Surveying Rutherford-Polk-McDowell District Health Department Health Promotions– Eat Smart, Move More NC McDowell Tourism Development Authority Foothills Nature Conservancy Western North Carolina Alliance

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Maps of the Proposed Greenway Plan that will span McDowell County and Connect with Buncombe and Burke Counties Map Page Number T1- 1780 Development Connector………………………………………….…..…14 T2- Black Bear County Park Connector…………………………………….….....15 T3- Yancey Road Bridge Connector………………………………………….…...16 T4- Phillips-Rabb Greenway Connector……………………………….……..…..17 T5- Carson House to Davidson Fort Connector…………………………..……..18 T6- Davidson Fort to the Catawba Falls Campground Connector ……..….….19 T6-1- Catawba Falls Connector………………………………………………..…..…20 T6-2- Allison Ridge To Catawba Falls Connector…………………………..…...….21 T6-3- Old US-70, Old Fort to Ridgecrest Connector……………………….….…...22 T7- The Historic Downtown Marion Connector…..………………….…….…......23 T8-1- Pea Vine Rail Road Connector………………….…….………….…….……..24 T8-2- Mount Ida – Pea Vine Connector………………………………….……….…25 T8-3- Corpening YMCA/Senior Center Connector…………………….…….……..26 T8-4- East Junior High School Connector…………………………….….…….…...27

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There is an additional possibility the greenway can connect with a network of trails planned for the Black Bear Marina area before proceeding on to the Black Bear County Park.

T1 – 1780 Development Connector The T1 connects Crescent Resources 1780 Park. It is the most eastern section connects with the Burke County Loop Trail Mountain National Historic Victory Trail (Ndeveloped across the propertypoint for this connector trail to the Black overlay the Over Mountain National Historicpossible, it will most likely follow development and the Black Bear County Park.

Development to the Black Bear County of the trail within McDowell County as it

in Burke County. Since the Over ational Park Service) has already been

of the 1780 development, it will be an ideal starting Bear County Park. Where possible, it can

Victory Trail route and where this is not the Lake James Road running between the 1780

Provisions for Crescent Resources to assist in providing right-of-way for this greenway across its properties between the 1780 development and the Black Bear County Park were received through the Duke Power relicensing proceedings.

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T2- Black Bear County Park Connector The T2 connects the Black Bear County Park connector with the Yancey Road Bridge. This section is approximately 4.09 miles and most likely will follow the road from the park to the bridge.

Yancey R Black Bear County Park

oad Bridge

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T3- Yancey Road Bridge Connector

-

-

The T3 section connects the Yancey McDowell House. This section of greenway Catawba River. It is approximately 3.45 miles.

Road bridge greenway section with the is proposed to run along the bank of the

T4 – Phillips/Rabb Greenway Connector T4 Phase I: The Phillips/Rabb Catawba River greenway connector will run along the river connecting the historic Joseph P. McDowell House with the historic Carson House, homes of McDowell County’s founding fathers. The McDowell House may serve as the greenway trail entrance with parking and restroom facilities. This portion of the greenway will also feature the Little Round Hill Cemetery where greenway visitors will learn about the legendary McDowell and Carson family members who are buried there. Phase I of the Phillips/Rabb Greenway connector ends at US-70 highway. This part of the greenway is approximately 1.5 miles long. T 4 Phase II: This part of the greenway will cross US-70 highway and follow the river to the McDowell County Catawba River Park where it will bridge the river and continue to the Carson House. This part of the greenway is approximately 1.8 miles long.

The Carson House

The Joseph P. McDowell House

Greenway Site On The Catawba River

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T5- Carson House to Davison Fort Connector The Carson House/Davidson Fort Connector will travel from the Carson House to the McDowell County Catawba River Park and from there will follow the Catawba River upstream to the proposed Davidson Fort reconstruction area located just East of Old Fort. This section of greenway is approximately 10.06 miles. At the proposed Davidson Fort site the river has narrowed to about the size of a large creek.

McDowell Co. Catawba River Park

T6 – Davidson Fort to the Catawba Falls Campground This portion of the proposed greenwayreconstruction area and continue up stream to the CataPortions of this trail may follow along portions may follow along the highway. Tthe recreational ball fields and sport areas along the route.

T 6-1 – Catawba Falls Connector This part of the greenway connects tCatawba Falls. It runs along the historical route to the falls. It is approximately 1.21 miles. In addition to the spectacular beauty of the falls, there is also the remains of the old dam that was once used to generate electric power.

would begin at the Davidson Fort wba Falls Campground.

the edge of the Catawba River while other here is the possibility it can connect with

The Sports Complex along the Catawba River on Catawba

River Road.

he Catawba Falls Campground with the

Catawba Falls Campground

Allison Ridge

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T6-1 – Catawba Falls Connector T6-1 greenway section connects the Catawba Falls Campground with the Catawba Falls. It runs along the historical route to the falls. It is approximately 1.21 miles. In addition to the spectacular beauty of the falls, there are also the remains of the old dam that was once used to generate electric power.

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llison Ridge

Catawba Falls Campground

A

T 6-2 Allison Ridge to Catawba Falls Connector This part of the greenway connects the Catawba Falls Campground with the Catawba Falls by a trail that will run along the crest of Allison Ridge. Since this trail begins with a relatively steep hike up the face of the mountain from the Catawba River Campground to the crest of Allison Ridge, it will be limited primarily to hikers, joggers and possible non-motorized mountain bicycles. The view from Allison Ridge is breath taking. This scenic trail winds its way down into the valley to the Catawba Falls and is approximately 1.59 miles long.

llison Ridge

Catawba Falls Campground

A

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Old US 70 Montreat in Buncombe

T6-3- Old Hwy US-70 Old Fort to Ridgecrest Connector The T6-3 connects Old Fort with Ridgecrest in Buncombe County via the old abandoned US-70 mountain highway. It will be approximately 7.86 miles. There is the possibility the mountain portion can begin at the Forest Service’s Old Fort picnic ground, in the event a need arises to bypass property owners at the foot of the mountain road. This trail will be used primarily for non-motorized mountain and road bicycles. The portion of trail from Old Fort to the picnic ground will most likely follow along the highway and will be multiuse. In Montreat the trail will connect with a Buncombe County greenway plan for a trail from Montreat to Asheville and a trail from Montreat to Mt. Mitchell.

Point Lookout

Forest Service Old Fort Picnic

Old US 70 To Montreat

US Forest Service Picnic Area, In Old Fort

T 7 – The Historic Downtown Marion CThis walkway will connect the McDowell HoIt will be approximately 2.25 miles and will moalong the highway.

Downtown Marion “Where Main Street Meets The Mountains”

onnector

use to the Historic Down Town Marion. st likely be a sidewalk and bicycle lane

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T 8-1 Pea Vine Railroad Connector This greenway connects the historic downtown Marion business area with the 3.5

n Rail roadbed. The initial portion to be developed 1 mile long beginning at State Street and running

lels an active rail line making further

an be constructed between the abandoned rail bed be further developed to connect with the

ge.

mile abandoned Norfolk Southerwill probably be approximately southeast toward Rutherfordton. After the 1-mile point, the railway bed paraldevelopment of a greenway difficult. Hopefully in the future, a barrier cand the active track so the greenway can McDowell Technical Community Colle

State Street

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T 8-2 – Mount Ida – Pea Vine Connector This connector is to provide a greenway link from the Pea Vine Greenway to the top of Mount Ida. It will be approximately .68 of a mile long.

T 8-3 – Corpening YMCA/McDowell Senior Center Connector This connector will join the downtown Marion business section with the Corpening YMCA and the McDowell County Senior Center. It will be approximately 1.2 miles long.

McDowell County Senior Center

Corpening YMCA

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T 8-4 East Junior High School Connector

The T 8-4 section will connect the downtown Marion business section with the East Junior High School. It will be approximately .07 miles long.

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