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Preliminary Durham–Roxboro Rail Trail findings show strong public support; plan to continue through 2025
Summary
A preliminary plan for an 18-mile Durham-to-Roxboro rail trail drew strong public support in early engagement: 71% of 2,713 respondents strongly supported the trail. Planners will proceed to plan development, a second engagement round, and a final report by October 2025; staff noted funding is roughly 80% federal and 20% local/grant match.
Consultants and county staff presented preliminary findings for the Durham-to-Roxboro Rail Trail on April 7, reporting widespread public support and outlining next steps.
Eric Woolridge, director of planning and business development at Destination by Design, summarized results from the project’s first engagement round (2,713 respondents): 71% reported strong support, 10% support, and 15% strong opposition. The presentation highlighted preferred amenities (public restrooms, trailheads, rest areas with benches/shade, directional signage) and four high-priority destination types to connect to (other trails/greenways, parks, main streets/downtowns and neighborhoods). Woolridge described five geographical planning sections that will shape subsequent design work: Downtown Durham, Braggtown, Two Rivers, Bahama and Rougemont.
Ellen Beckmann, Durham County transportation director, said the planning team expects funding to be approximately 80% federal with a 20% local/grant match. The Board directed staff to broaden the project’s public-engagement email list to include City of Durham PACs, Peoples Alliance and Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People.
Next steps listed in the presentation are: continued plan development, a second round of public engagement, and presentation of a final plan to the Board by October 2025.
