It appears you've provided information about the Ecusta Trail project and related events in September 2023. Here's a summary of the key points:
1. **Ecusta Trail Overview**: The Ecusta Trail is a planned 19-mile linear park running from downtown Hendersonville to the outskirts of Brevard, near the old Ecusta paper mill site. It will be a paved trail, with varying widths in urban and rural areas, designed to cater to people of all ages and be ADA-compliant.
2. **Railbanking Concept**: The Ecusta Trail is being developed using the concept of "railbanking," which allows unused rail lines to have interim uses while preserving the rail corridor for potential future rail service. There are already 34 rail-trails in North Carolina, covering 128 miles.
3. **Support and Collaboration**: Various organizations and entities, including Friends of Ecusta Trail (FOET), Conserving Carolina, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, local governments, and more, have collaborated to obtain grants and support the trail's development.
4. **Construction Timeline**: Construction is set to begin on the first six miles of the trail, from Hendersonville to Horse Show, in October of the current year, with an expected completion date in late summer 2024. Further phases of construction are planned for spring 2024.
5. **Trail Network**: The Ecusta Trail is part of a larger trail network that will connect to other trails and areas, including the Estatoe Trail, Oklawaha Greenway, Hellbender, and Saluda Grade Trail, offering connections to various facilities, schools, and communities.
6. **Funding for Amenities**: While grants are expected to cover the construction costs, additional funding is needed for amenities such as bathrooms and benches to enhance the trail experience and contribute to regional health and the local economy.
7. **Volunteer Opportunities**: FOET is actively seeking volunteers for various roles, including maintenance, trail ambassadors, website development, publicity, grant writing, and fundraising for amenities.
8. **Henderson County Rail-Trail Advisory Committee**: This committee discussed the bidding process, delays in bridge delivery, and maintenance agreements for the Ecusta Trail. They plan to reconvene in October.
9. **Brevard Ecusta Trail Advisory Board**: This board discussed funding and administration of grants for trail construction, with a focus on the Transylvania side of the trail. They will meet again on September 27.
10. **Rhythm & Brews Concert Series**: This series, held from May to September, features live music, local craft beverages, and community gatherings. Proceeds from adult beverage sales benefit the Friends of Downtown Hendersonville, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the town's character.
11. **Upcoming Events**: There are several events in September related to the Ecusta Trail, including the Rhythm & Brews Concert Series and advisory board meetings.
12. **Contact Information**: Contact details for Friends of the Ecusta Trail are provided for those interested in getting involved or making donations.
This summary provides an overview of the Ecusta Trail project and related events in September 2023.
No comments:
Post a Comment