Title
Vote to adopt the Haw River Trail Feasibility Study and its findings and recommendations.
Abstract
Introduction & Background:
In 2022, the Triangle J Council of Governments received an Economic Development Assistance grant on behalf of Chatham and Alamance counties to fund a Haw River Trail Corridor Feasibility Study and Economic Impact Analysis. In October of 2022, Alta Design and Planning of Durham was hired to conduct the study. The Haw River Trail Study for Chatham County is the result of these efforts.
As the study highlights, numerous past planning efforts in Chatham County have included development of the Haw River Trail as a priority for Chatham residents and some progress had been made towards the trail.
As the population of our county grows, so does the demand for opportunities for outdoor recreation. Ample studies have shown the strong economic, health and social benefits trails can provide to communities. This study provides a solid foundation for the Haw River State Trail to become a valuable asset to Chatham County.
Discussion & Analysis:
Drawing on input from county and local residents and project stakeholders, the study builds on past efforts and provides a road map to further developing the Haw River State Trail in Chatham County. It examines the existing conditions on the ground and identifies guiding principles and strategies, key partnerships and recommends projects over near, mid, and long-term timeframes. An economic impact analysis draws on data from Alamance County and similar existing trails and provides a strong justification for supporting the recommendations laid out in the study. Finally, the study provides resources related to design, operations and maintenance, and funding opportunities to ensure that the planning, development, and ongoing maintenance of the trail is well implemented and sustainable over the long term.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan:
This plan directly addresses goal six from the Comp...
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