News

Trail coalition reaches deal to buy Saluda Grade rail line

By Lightning Reports, Published: August 8, 2024

The Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy is officially under contract to purchase a 31-mile rail corridor for a proposed rail trail running from Upstate South Carolina to Western North Carolina, the nonprofit announced.

The conservancy entered into a contract with Norfolk Southern to purchase the Saluda Grade rail line and corridor and now has one year to complete due diligence and secure remaining funds needed for the purchase.

The planned Saluda Grade Trail will travel through Inman, Campobello, Landrum, Tryon, Saluda, and Zirconia, passing through vibrant small towns, rolling countryside and spectacular mountain scenery. The trail will be open for walking, running, biking, birding, and other forms of outdoor recreation.

The trail is spearheaded by a coalition of three nonprofits that formed the Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy: Conserving Carolina; PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well.; and Upstate Forever.

“Working with the talented professionals at Norfolk Southern and with the equally talented and committed teams at Conserving Carolina, PAL, and Upstate Forever has been incredible," said Glenn Hilliard, founder and chair of the Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy. "Without each and every one of these leaders this agreement would not have been possible. Please reach out and show your appreciation and support to these partners who will continue to work together to assure that the Saluda Grade Trail provides an incredible and iconic resource for the people of North and South Carolina.”

Kieran Roe, the executive director of Conserving Carolina, said: “We see this trail as a huge asset for our local communities—a place where kids can play safely, where it’s easy to get outside and exercise, where people of all abilities can enjoy the outdoors. It’s an amenity that will strengthen local businesses so they can offer more opportunities for the people who live here.”

Upstate Forever executive director Aldon Knight, says, “The pandemic taught us that we need more natural spaces for recreation and refuge. The Saluda Grade Trail will provide just that, encouraging safe outdoor recreation and stronger connections to nature, improving quality of life for residents. It’s a visionary project with a return that will far exceed any initial investment.”

Laura Ringo, the executive director of PAL, says, "The Saluda Grade Trail offers a unique chance to boost public health by providing safe, accessible spaces for physical activity. Regular use for walking, running, and biking can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, spending time in nature reduces stress, enhances mental well-being, and fosters community. This scenic trail will inspire active lifestyles, promoting wellness and a higher quality of life for all."

Cliff Garner, of Norfolk Southern AVP Real Estate & Facility Services, says, “At Norfolk Southern, we’re committed to helping the communities our rail network touches thrive. We appreciate the partnership from Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy and we look forward to seeing the conservancy’s plans come to fruition.”