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Friends group outlines Fonta Flora State Trail plans, citing economic and health benefits
Summary
Friends of the Fonta Flora State Trail presented plans to connect trail segments through McDowell County, highlighted recent events and local participation, and asked for continued county support.
Representatives of the Friends of the Fonta Flora State Trail updated the McDowell County Board of Commissioners on July 14 about ongoing trail planning, local events and the trail—s expected economic and health benefits.
Jessica Siegman, interim executive director of the Friends group, described the Fonta Flora State Trail as a planned 100-mile route that will link Burke, McDowell and Buncombe counties and serve recreation and commuter uses. She highlighted the Trails and Trains Festival and a local 5K/community fun run that drew 58 participants from ages 6 to 71, saying the events attracted out-of-county and out-of-state visitors.
Siegman said the organization—s priorities in McDowell include completing the Old Fort/Fonta Flora complex, advancing Phase 3 of the McDowell greenway and continuing work at Black Bear County Park. She emphasized safety, road crossings and trailhead planning and asked for ongoing local-government, landowner and agency partnerships.
Commissioners expressed support for the trail effort and noted the county—s history with the trail festival; the board encouraged continued coordination with county planners and public safety staff as segments are developed.
Ending note: Friends group leaders said they would continue public outreach and provide materials and maps to the county as planning advances; no committee action was required.
