Title
Vote to approve a contract with Weston & Sampson for the Deep River State Trail (DRST) Feasibility Study in Chatham County for $150,000
Abstract
Introduction & Background: Chatham County would like to award Weston & Sampson a contract to complete the Deep River State Trail feasibility Study for Chatham County.
In July of 2025 Chatham County was awarded a $75,000 grant to fund a feasibility study for development of a land trail along the Deep River from Carbonton to Moncure as part of the DRST. Weston & Sampson was selected from a pool of qualified candidates to lead the study. The contract has been approved, and we are ready to move forward with the study.
Discussion & Analysis: This grant will fund the hiring of consultants to conduct a feasibility study to identify a potential land trail corridor for the DRST in Chatham County. This 25-mile segment of trail along the southern border of Chatham County represents the southeasternmost section and terminus of the planned state trail that totals approximately 125 miles. This study will explore a viable corridor location between Carbonton and the confluence of the Deep and Haw rivers in Moncure, where the Cape Fear River begins. County staff, local partners and stakeholder and the public will participate in this planning process.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This planning project will advance the goals of providing recreational opportunities and access to open space, providing equitable access to high-quality community options for all, fostering a healthy community.
Budgetary Impact: This project is funded in part by the Great Trails State Grant Program awarded in 2025. The terms of the grant include a 1:1 match by the county. A budget amendment for this project was approved on March 24th, 2026. The agenda item # is 26-0103.
Grant Award Amount: $75,000
Local Government Match: $75,000
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to approve a contract with Weston & Sampson for the Deep River State Trail (DRST) Feasibility Study in Chatham County for $150,000.