area known as the Ridgecrest Connector, a nearly mile-long segment that will be designated as part of the Fonta Flora State Trail. “That trail embraces a model of being out in rural areas and then into small towns,” describes Trotman. We’re seeking grant money right now to pay for the engineering. That will connect from our existing bike and ped network, which is the East-West spine through downtown, taking it to the east town limits. That will be a critical connection, both for Fonta Flora and for the residents who live in that area.” Harrold highlights that this project is part of a larger regional effort, noting, “This goes through three or four counties and a lot of municipalities along the way. A lot of work has been done in Burke County around Lake James, and it’s starting to head west now. Old Fort is starting to pick up some trails, and of course, Black Mountain, as well. I think it’s important to talk about it on a regional level because you’re able to get more done when you’ve got more people involved.” Black Mountain is also working on plans to develop 50 acres which were recently donated to the town. “About half of it has to be kept as open space, park space, passive recreation types of things,” Trotman expands, noting that the rest, while not deedrestricted, has some challenges with accessibility from interstates, railroads, and floodplains. A feasibility study is underway in partnership with Equinox Environmental, to identify community needs. This will be followed by a master planning process. “We do have a good idea that those 24 acres will be leveraged both for the community and for tourism. Things like hiking, mountain biking, those are relatively low cost to develop, but bring a lot of people and bring a lot of benefits,” she says, emphasizing that this plan will enable residents and tourists to enjoy an extensive system of trails within the town limits, rather than needing to venture outside Black Mountain for such activities. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE AND WORKFORCE INITIATIVES The upcoming opening of the North Carolina Glass 42 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx