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Home , Overmountain Men

CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION

History Jimmy Carter signed an amendment to the National The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Trails Systems Act that established the Overmountain traces the route traveled by patriot militia in 1780 Victory National Historic Trail (OVNHT). The National to Kings Mountain to battle the loyalist militia. Over Park Service (NPS) oversees the OVNHT, which 2,000 Overmountain men journeyed on horseback now includes a Commemorative Motor Route that for two weeks to from the mountains traces the historical Route of the Patriot Militia as of , Virginia, , and South closely as possible and brings travelers to historical Carolina to join Colonel Edward Lacey to fight locations along the trail. The OVTA continues their Major and the Loyalist Army. The tradition today with an annual march that follows the Patriot victory at the was, same timeline and route on which the overmountain according to Thomas Jefferson, “the turn of the tides” men would have traveled and rested. Learn more in the Revolutionary War and would not have been about the OVTA and their annual march on the possible without the Overmountain men. following sites: http://www.ovta.org/ During their journey, the Overmountain men camped www.ovta.org/2014march at Alexander’s Ford on the Green River on October 5, 1780. They are met at the ford on this day by Colonel The National Park Service stated in the 2011 Edward Lacey of South Carolina who informs them Long-Range Interpretive Plan for the OVNHT of the location of Ferguson’s army. Around 1,400 that “as more local governments seek community men reached the camp at Alexander’s Ford, but only support and funding to preserve greenspace and 700 of the most prepared soldiers continued on the create networks of multi-use trails, additional non- march. After leaving Alexander’s Ford, the troops motorized segments will be developed.” The travelled south across the North Carolina - South Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory National Carolina line into Spartanburg County. In search of Historic Trail Master Plan is a plan to develop Ferguson’s army, the Overmountain men, passed the non-motorized route of the OVNHT through though Spartanburg County and gathered with northeastern Spartanburg County. This plan is the other Confederate soldiers at Cowpens in first step to implementing the 6 mile OVNHT corridor County, South Carolina on October 6th. [Source: and fulfilling the NPS mission “to extend the benefits OVNHT Comprehensive Master Plan] of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the The Overmountain Victory Trail Association world” in Spartanburg County. (OVTA) formed in 1975 with a group of citizens and descendants of the Overmountain men reenacting the 330 mile historical march. In 1980, President

15 Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Map 16 Chapter 1. Introduction, continued

Overview access to the approximate, and sometimes, exact The Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory route traveled by the Overmountain men over National Historic Trail Master Plan provides a long- 230 years ago. In addition, the trail will provide term vision and implementation strategy for the transportation options, serve as a linear park, support development of the Spartanburg County segment economic growth, and link cultural and historical of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail resources. The OVNHT planning effort illustrates (OVNHT). The proposed trail corridor will take that Spartanburg County and the City of Chesnee many years to complete and require a cooperative share the understanding of historical significance effort between citizens, organizations, the City of that the OVHNT has to the region and with the other Chesnee, Spartanburg County, and landowners. participating municipalities in South Carolina, North Once developed, these trails will provide users Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.

Green River Road at Cowpens National Battlefield 17 The Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory and Commemorative Motor Route of the OVNHT. National Historic Trail Master Plan has been According to the 1982 Comprehensive Master carefully crafted by a volunteer steering committee. Plan for the OVNHT, “A certified protected segment This committee consists of representatives from must fall within the one mile planning corridor the Spartanburg Area Transportation Study, City encompassing the official historic route.” of Chesnee, Carolina Foothills Artisan Center, The non-motorized route will serve as a linear National Park Service, Overmountain Victory historical park consisting of undeveloped or lightly Trail Association, South Carolina Department of developed land, usually containing trails that follow Transportation, Spartanburg Area Conservancy, the route of the Overmountain men and connects Upstate Forever, Limestone College, and several the historical sites along that journey. Greenway other local organizations. The steering committee trails, also referred to as greenways or trails, support participated in the public input process and provided multiple uses which can include walking, hiking, guidance and vision for the final Spartanburg County jogging, cycling, horseback riding, and, in some OVNHT Master Plan maps and report. cases, canoeing and kayaking (blueways).

The Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory Greenways can exist in both natural and man- National Historic Trail Master Plan report serves as made settings. Natural greenway settings may a guide for the development process of the OVNHT include areas along streams, rivers, and wooded route through Spartanburg County. In addition, the areas. Man-made greenway settings include utility report provides information on the benefits of trails, easements, railroad corridors, and road rights- the existing conditions of the area’s geography, of-way. Most greenways provide recreational, population, and economy, and a detailed summary environmental, social, and health-based benefits of the proposed trail network. Recommended for the communities in which they are located. actions for adopting the plan, establishing the priority Well-conceived greenways connect people to segments, planning specific trails, building those destinations, such as parks, schools, libraries, trails, and funding the development of the OVNHT in commercial areas, and cultural and historical sites, Spartanburg County are also provided. as with the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. The uniqueness of the OVNHT as a greenway What is a non-motorized trail? is that instead of just linking cultural sites together, it Before providing more specific information, let’s take is itself an historical and cultural site. a step back and answer a very important question: What is a non-motorized trail? The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail’s non-motorized trail is a greenway trail that parallel’s the Historical Route

18 CHAPTER 2. GREENWAY BENEFITS

Overview U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Any good investment provides a beneficial return. Highway Administration, and the Bicycle and Trails provide a great return on the investment Pedestrian Information Center indicates that when required if properly planned, built, and maintained. bicycle, pedestrian, and other trail-type facilities are The benefits of trails are multifaceted and the subject available, people will use those facilities. Their study of numerous studies and reports. The following indicates that the number of trips taken by residents overview of the many benefits provided by trails is from their homes to nearby destinations using divided into four categories: non-vehicular modes of transportation increased • Connecting Communities by 25% between 2001 and 2010. During this • Health Benefits same time period, funding for the development of • Economic Impact bicycle, pedestrian, and other trail-type facilities has • Environmental Benefits increased. The provision of dedicated bicycle and pedestrian facilities, like trails, provides alternative Connecting Communities choices in transportation. The primary function of transportation facilities, be it urban streets, rural roads, or interstate highways, is to connect one place to another. Trails serve Facilities for all to use and enjoy the same purpose. Well planned trails provide Where most transportation facilities are exclusively useful connections between homes, schools, designed for vehicles, trails are designed to be businesses, parks, and other nearby destinations. inclusive of most non-motorized modes of travel. The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Trails are designed to accommodate a broad range is categorized as a national historic trail by the of users, different age groups, skill levels, and Department of the Interior, so the focus is on engaging the public in the history of the area. However in addition to providing a historical education, trails can provide connection to local communities and municipalities.

Provide neighborhood connections Connections to trail facilities allow residents to choose the form of transportation they would like to use on a daily basis. The absence of such facilities dictates that all trips, no matter how short, are made via automobile. A recently completed study by the

19 ability levels. The trails designed to be part of the Builds regional partnerships Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail system Planning and developing a regional trail which will will be easy to access. Some trails will be located cross municipal, county, and state lines cannot be along local streams, creeks and rivers, while others accomplished without the dedication of a group of may be located within the rights-of-way of roads, but stakeholders. Each entity must make a conscious separated from roadway travel lanes for safety. Trails decision to become part of a larger group to are made to accommodate a variety of non-vehicular take the idea of the OVNHT and make it a reality. uses including walking, hiking, running, jogging, Spartanburg County and the City of Chesnee have cycling, and in some instances, horseback riding. For agreed to be active participants in this process. this reason, trails are designed to be wide enough to Lines of communication within and beyond support all potential uses. Trails are primarily built with Spartanburg County have been established and materials that provide stable and consistent surfaces will be strengthened over time as the planning and that meet the requirements of the Americans with implementation of segments of the Overmountain Disabilities Act. Trails are designed to minimize steep Victory National Historic Trail move forward. slopes to allow the trail to be utilized and experienced by people of all skill levels and abilities.

Connects communities to nature Much has been written recently about people’s need to interact with nature. Last Child in the Woods, by Richard Louv, explores the reduced connection between children, its effects on children, and how that connection can be made again. A recent article in Landscape Architecture Magazine shares that doctors in Japan have found that brief walks through wooded areas increase the body’s production of NK cells used to fight off virus-containing cells. Trails provide physical connections to nature in any environment, whether it is through a wooded floodplain within an urban context, or a conservation easement or nature preserve.

20 Health Benefits walking, cycling, running, canoeing or kayaking (on Many people understand that exercise is healthy and blueways), and horseback riding. By design, trails it is something that most people agree they need function as linear corridors, purposefully located to to do more often. However, many people lose sight create linkages between neighborhoods, providing of just how important exercising is and how it can direct access to a recreation resource. Trails can positively affect day to day life. Experts continue to help make the choice to exercise easier. draw links between exercise and its positive effects on our health. Parks and recreation facilities that Relieves stress and improves mental health offer a safe location for exercise, like trails, can Many studies have been conducted to measure the provide residents with easily accessible options for a benefits regular exercise offers our physical health. healthier lifestyle. Researchers also recognize the effects exercise can provide on mental health. A Duke University study The Mayo Clinic released an article detailing seven tracked subjects suffering from depression. The study benefits that regular exercise can provide to all results indicated that depression was successfully people, regardless of age, sex, or ability. Improving treated for 60% of test subjects who exercised just 30 your mood, fighting chronic disease, boosting energy minutes a day for three days a week without the use level, managing weight, and improving sleep are of medication. Interestingly enough, the study also among a few ways regular exercise can improve the found that depression was successfully treated for quality of daily life. the same percentage of test subjects who only used antidepressant medication. Many people are turning Encourages physical activity to trail activities as their main source of exercise and Trails can be constructed in a variety of environments. resulting mental health benefits. Traditional parks often require certain types of land for development, provide amenities that support a single activity, and can be much more costly Health care professionals have been slow to to develop. Furthermore, traditional parks tend encourage exercise as part of a treatment plan for to function as a destination point where physical anxiety, opting first for medication. Some within activity takes place. Often the users drive to the the research community are trying to change park, take sports equipment and refreshments with this. Two researchers (Jasper Smits of Southern them and plan to spend several hours enjoying the Methodist University and Michael Otto of Boston park. The adaptable nature of trails provides an University) have written a book for mental health advantage when compared to traditional parks. Trails professionals and are currently developing literature serve as convenient and accessible venues that for general physicians and the public, encouraging support a variety of recreational activities, such as the prescription of exercise. Such prescriptions

21 would include recommended amounts, or doses, of facilities that provide both an improved quality of life exercise. Helpful tips for beginning and continuing and positive long term economic impacts on nearby an exercise program will be included within each businesses, municipalities, and homeowners. prescription. The direct link between regular exercise and the reduction of anxiety are unknown. Major Increases property values questions linger as to which types of exercise work Trails are one of the most desired amenities that best, how much exercise is enough, and how exactly homeowners look for when purchasing a house. A exercise helps with anxiety. Theories of the exercise/ recent study by the National Association of Realtors anxiety relationships include the brain’s chemical shows that over 50% of Americans agree that homes response to activity; the affect exercise has on and businesses should be located within walking improving sleep, and the sense of accomplishment distance of stores and shops to reduce the use of given to participants of regular exercise. Despite the automobiles for every shopping trip. Armed with insufficient scientific data on the subject, many agree this information, many developers provide trails as that the benefits stretch beyond physical health. amenities within new home communities. One study in North Carolina indicated that a developer put a It is important to provide easily accessible parks premium on homes located near trails. Despite this and recreation facilities for residents to use for higher price, the homes nearest to the trails sold exercise and recreation. Upon the completion of the first. Homeowners are willing to pay more for homes Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory National located near trails. The convenience of living within Historic Trail Master Plan and the development of a short distance from trails provides added value to the trail, residents will have a multi-use facility that nearby properties. connects their neighborhood today with the history of their region and the United States. These facilities will extend the current recreational infrastructure in the county providing additional places for residents exercise.

Economic Impact The positive impacts trails have on communities are far-reaching. Economic data from communities where trails have been developed provide real world numbers on the direct and indirect positive economic impacts trails provide. These numbers help justify the expenditure of public dollars to develop recreational Trail at Cowpens National Battlefield

22 Attracts tourism Restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and other industries Many communities who have invested in their local that cater to the motoring public seek locations that and regional trail networks have found that these give them the best chance of attracting customers. networks of trails attract visitors. These visitors As the popularity and use of trails continues to grow, provide a much needed boost to local economies business owners have taken notice in a similar when trails are properly marketed. The communities fashion. Business owners in New Orleans located, along the KATY Trail, a 185 mile trail in Missouri, and in some cases moved, their businesses to be partnered together to market toward outdoor closer to the Lafitte Greenway. Business owners enthusiasts interested in two-to-four day excursions. along the Great Allegheny Passage Trail and the C&O This combined marketing effort allows local towns to Canal Trail have experienced increases in revenue benefit from marketing exposure they would not be since the completion of those trail networks. Several able to afford otherwise. owners report repeat customers from one year to the next, a trend that contributes to staying in business. Economic benefits associated with trails are not Bicycle shops, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, just limited to large regional trail networks. These restaurants, and other similar businesses have found benefits can also be experienced in small, rural success by locating near trails. towns. Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia are two small towns connected by the Virginia Creeper Trail. Green Way Cycle Rentals was established in fall A survey of trail users conducted as part of a study 2011 on the Avon/Catawba Creek Greenway, part of by the Virginia Department of Conservation in 2004 the Carolina Thread Trail network, in Gastonia NC. estimates that trail users pump $2.5 million into the Realizing its success, the business returned in 2012 local economy. Over half of those surveyed were not for the season renting bicycles, tricycles, tandems locals, but visitors who came to the area to ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail. This popular trail has provided southwest Virginia with jobs and income that would have otherwise been spent elsewhere.

Ability to attract new business and retain nearby businesses Businesses are located along highly traveled roadways to attract potential customers. A business located along a high volume highway increases the exposure that a business has to the traveling public. Increased exposure results in increased revenue. Downtown Chesnee

23 and trails for family enjoyment, and has re-opened Preserve natural and agricultural land uses every season since. Lulu on the Greenway opened Trails possess the unique ability to provide in 2011 along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway in transportation facilities and connections between Charlotte and serves lunch, brunch and dinner on a communities while protecting and preserving existing daily basis. land uses. Most roadways impact wide swaths of land, require extensive site disturbance, and invite Some government agencies have found it helpful development. Trails, by contrast, work within narrow to produce literature and guidelines to help local corridors, respond to existing land features, and help communities take full economic advantage of trails. preserve existing natural features and land uses. The Iowa Department of Transportation developed Conservation easements or fee-simple purchases a handbook entitled Implementing Trail-Based of land for trails helps ensure that protected natural Economic Development Programs. The handbook open space is preserved. These conservation efforts provides a list of guiding principles that helps may also protect rural and agrarian land uses through communities determine the types of businesses agricultural conservation easements which restrict that will be most likely frequented by trail users and development, but allow for agricultural operations to identify the best locations for those businesses. Case continue in perpetuity. studies from similar communities, lessons learned by communities located along existing trails, and a step- Improve water quality by-step, how-to guide for the development of a plan The protection and preservation of natural areas for capitalizing on trail recreation are also provided. along streams provides many important benefits. Riparian buffers, or protected, undeveloped, and Environmental Benefits forested lands along either side of streams, act Most folks understand the benefits that trails provide; as filters for runoff into streams. These buffers however, many do not realize the environmental have been shown to remove pollutants, such as benefits trails can provide. These benefits are very sediment, phosphorus, and nitrates from runoff. The important given the ever expanding development trees within riparian buffers help to shade existing of previously undeveloped lands. Spartanburg streams, keeping temperatures down and sustaining County’s population grew by 12% between 2000 native fish populations. The roots of vegetation and 2010 according to 2010 Census data. However, within riparian buffers help to stabilize soils within the development associated with any growth can floodplains, thereby reducing the risk of stream bank negatively impact our natural resources. Trails help erosion. preserve natural amenities, protect agricultural lands, improve water and air quality, and provide habitats for native wildlife.

24 The linear nature of trails mimics the natural alignment Provide wildlife habitats and wildlife corridors of streams and water courses. The similar nature of Natural, undeveloped lands provide habitats for the two provides added benefit in the protection of numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Trails help personal property within floodplains. The National to preserve these natural areas, protecting habitats Flood Insurance Program states that the average for birds, mammals, and plants. Trails also provide annual costs of losses, due to floods over the last 10 connectivity between fragmented natural areas within years within the U.S., equals $2.7 billion. The cost of urban environments. Signage can be added to trails damage to homes and structures can be dramatically to educate trail users on the types of local plants and reduced by protecting floodplains through the animals that benefit from the preservation of land on implementation of development restrictions and the which these facilities exist. acquisition of lands for trails.

Improve air quality Trails can help improve air pollution in two distinct ways. First, trails provide alternative transportation routes. An EPA study in 2006 revealed that pollution from automobiles causes over half of the carbon monoxide, over a third of the nitrogen oxides, and almost a quarter of the hydrocarbons in our atmosphere. When properly planned, trails can be used by cyclists and pedestrians to commute to and from work, visit a park, or run errands. The reduced use Property along OVNHT Motor Route of automobiles for such trips decreases the amount of pollution being delivered to the atmosphere.

The second way trails improve air quality is through the trees they preserve and protect. Trees can help reduce air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone particulates, and sulfur dioxide through gas intake in leaves. Tree surfaces can intercept pollution particulates in the air. Preserving trees along trails within urban areas can have a significant impact on reducing the amount of localized air pollution. Church along OVNHT Motor Route

25 Alexander’s Ford used by Overmountain men to cross the Green River CHAPTER 3. EXISTING CONDITIONS

Geography of the Study Area/ Land Cover undeveloped in order to naturally drain floodwater Spartanburg County is located in the northern section after heavy rains. There is little presence of known of South Carolina, just southeast of the Blue Ridge wetlands, although the County is currently undergoing Mountains in the plateau. It is bordered a mapping study to evaluate the exact extents. In on the east by Cherokee and Union Counties, the general, over one-third of all soils in the County pose south by Laurens County, the west by Greenville severe constraints to urban development, either for County, and the north by North Carolina (Polk foundations for buildings and/or use for septic tanks. and Rutherford Counties). Interstate 85 (running northeast-southwest) and Interstate 26 (running Spartanburg County has an abundant supply of northwest-southeast) divide the county into four both ground and surface water. Streams and lakes areas, with the City of Spartanburg located nearly account for over 95 percent of local water resources central. Most of the development within the County for industrial and domestic use. The major water has occurred along the I-85 corridor and within the bodies include South Pacolet River Reservoir, Lyman City of Spartanburg, the county seat. Lake, and Lake Craig, with surface water principally drawn from Lake Blalock and Lake Bowen (both Approximately 52 percent of all land in the County located in the northeastern section of the county). is forested, primarily found south and east of Ground water supplies make up the balance, serving Spartanburg, and in some areas along Lake Bowen as the primary source for rural housing and farms, and Lake Blalock. Relatively narrow floodplains, small to medium sized industries, and supplemental paralleling most of the County’s rivers, remain irrigation.

National Park System map of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail in South Carolina

27 The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail militiamen assembled in response to a threat from navigates through the northeastern corner of the British Major Ferguson in the American Revolution. county. This section of the county is generally rural in The men chased Ferguson and his army southward character – undisturbed forested lands, agricultural over a two-week period, gaining forces along the way farms, and low density single family neighborhoods and ending in a bloody confrontation at the Battle of comprise the majority of the landscape. The trail will Kings Mountain. The patriot victory proved to be a cross through Chesnee – a small city on the border turning point, derailing the British “southern strategy” of Spartanburg and Cherokee Counties. and leading to the final British defeat at Yorktown, Virginia. (Source: Spartanburg County Comprehensive Plan Agriculture was the focus of the economy – focusing 1998 – 2015) primarily on peach and fruit farming. Later, in the early 1800s, there was a slight shift towards industrial History development with the completion of grist and textile The County’s rich history begins at the Pacolet River mills, eventually leading to the growth of the textile Heritage Preserve, an area currently covering 278 industry. In 1859, the first railroad came to the county, acres that protects two Native American soapstone boosting the local economies. It was around this quarries. Early inhabitants came to this area to time that education institutions began to establish, obtain material from which they made bowls, pipes beginning with Wofford College in 1851, Converse in and other necessities (Source: SCDNR website). 1890, Spartanburg Methodist in 1911, and eventually European settlement came to the area around 1755, the University of South Carolina Upstate. when the Cherokee treaty ceded their lands to the The location of the City of Spartanburg at a railroad British.

The Spartanburg County area saw much fighting during the Revolutionary War and several decisive battles were fought in the adjacent lands, including the and the . According to the Spartanburg County Historical Association, more Revolutionary War battles were fought in the State of South Carolina than any other state and more in Spartanburg County than in any other county in the state. The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail commemorates one of the battles when more than 2,000 horse-mounted patriot Strawberry Hill U.S.A.

28 crossroads, then later with the development of the Population interstate highway system, allowed the community to According to the 2010 US Census Bureau, continue to grow both in land area and population Spartanburg County has a population of 284,307 size. Several small towns developed throughout people, averaging about 18,000 additional residents the county including: Campobello, Central Pacolet, per decade or 2,385 per year. Growth in the area is Chesnee, Cowpens, Duncan, Greer, Inman, focused in the center of the county (within the City Landrum, Lyman, Pacolet, Reidville, Wellford, and of Spartanburg) and along the I-85 corridor. 74.7% Woodruff. of residents label themselves as White and 20.9% Black or African American. Spartanburg County The Town of Chesnee, located along the proposed has a total of 123,025 housing units (2013), and a route, was historically an isolated and sparsely home ownership rate of 69.5%. 106,821 households populated area of South Carolina. Its background occupied the county as of 2010. begins with the Carolina Clinchfield and Ohio Railroad Company announcing that it would bring a railroad The planning area for this Master Plan includes eight line through the area. Then a businessman named churches, Chesnee Boy Scouts, Chesnee Shrine John Cleveland formed a land company, began to buy Club, and Chesnee Community Fire Station 2 that surrounding lands, and named the new community serve to the local citizens. There are also several after his great-grandmother. Chesnee was chartered in 1911 with early businesses including a cotton mill, a lumber mill, a hotel and a pharmacy. The historical route navigates through the northern portion of the town, as will be discussed in a later chapter.

Chesnee Shrine Club

Chesnee City Hall Chesnee Community Fire Station 2

29 festivals held in Chesnee every year including the Carolina Farm Festival and Antique Bikes on Main which are held simultaneously in July every year.

Economy The local Spartanburg County economy consists of three sectors – manufacturing, non-manufacturing, and farming. Since the Industrial Revolution, manufacturing has driven the local economy and established railroad transportation routes. Despite sustained losses in textiles and apparels over time, the number of manufacturing jobs has increased 17% over the last six years, adding about 6,400 Carolina Foothills Artisan Center, Downtown Chesnee jobs total (mostly in textiles). Growth of the non- Michelin Tire Company, Spartanburg County, Mary manufacturing sector has accounted for most new Black Memorial Hospital, and Cryovac (manufacturing jobs in Spartanburg County, adding 25,300 positions of plastic packaging material). Two manufacturing (mostly in trade and service). The county’s job plants within the planning area for the Spartanburg market is becoming increasingly service oriented, OVNHT are Chesnee Structural Fabrication Plant for as is the economy of South Carolina. The county’s Dave Steel Company and Ste-Lar Textiles, both of agricultural sector is also strong; farmlands account which are connected on the Non-motorized OVNHT for approximately 25% of the total land area. route (Map 4 in Chapter 4). However, farming in general is on a down trend due to the decrease in the number of farms and the land (Source: SC Industrial Directory for Spartanburg acreage categorized as farming. Peaches remain County) the area’s cash crop, followed by hay and apples. With direct access to interstate highways, rail and According to the US Census Bureau, the median both international and regional airports, the County income of Spartanburg County residents is $43,421, has projections to continue expanding in population just below the statewide average in South Carolina. size. The top employers and industries in the The percentage of individuals below poverty level is County today include the County School System, 17%, slightly below the statewide average. When Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, BMW taking a look at commuting to work, the mean Manufacturing Corporation, State of South Carolina, travel time was 22 minutes with the primary mode Springs Industries (dyeing and finishing textiles), of transportation being single occupancy vehicles Milliken and Company (research and development), (Source: US Census Bureau).

30 Development Trends events, fund-raisers, weddings, family reunions and Population projections for Spartanburg County many other events. A Christmas tree is lit in the park indicate continued growth, again with most each year along with a parade and other holiday concentrating in the City of Spartanburg and along celebrations downtown. the I-85 corridor. The area around the Overmountain Victory National Historic Route is primarily farmland The downtown area, mainly along West Cherokee which may slowly transition into pockets of low density Street, including the portion of roadway in front of single family residential. The city of Chesnee would Cada Park, contains existing sidewalks that could be likely continue a slight population growth, but its utilized for the OVNHT or connecting trails. There are distant proximity to a major city and/or transportation also several street right of ways within the planning route appears to limit its expansion today. area, mainly oriented north-south, that do not contain vehicular streets. Recognizing that trail surfaces will Existing Park Facilities and Trails vary based upon appropriateness to the surrounding The City of Chesnee maintains and operates one environment and the desires of land owners, it is park that is in proximity to the Spartanburg County advisable to consider enhancement of facilities that OVNHT planning area. Cada Park is located on are in place when prioritizing trail segments. Existing West Cherokee Street/ Highway 11 across from the sidewalks, cleared and undeveloped right-of-ways, City Hall in downtown Chesnee. The park contains and under utilized roadbeds or maintenance drives a gazebo, several picnic areas, flowering trees, and are potential opportunities to develop trail segments large open lawn space. Cada Park is home to festival with minimal improvements and reduced costs.

Cada Park, Chesnee Cada Park, Chesnee

31 Carolina Farm Festival, Chesnee

Antique Bikes on Main, Chesnee

32 CHAPTER 4. PROPOSED TRAIL NETWORK

Planning Process Historic Route unless it is connecting to downtown A steering committee consisting of county Chesnee and improving the community’s walkabilty. stakeholders and residents was formed to assist The committee agreed to host three community in the development of the Spartanburg County engagement sessions and began exploring meeting Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master locations and dates. The final completion date was Plan. Representatives from the Spartanburg Area scheduled for the end of September 2014, so that the Transportation Study (SPATS), Chesnee City plan could be unveiled during the October 5th OVTA Council, Spartanburg County Council, Spartanburg march through Chesnee. County Parks & Recreation, Spartanburg Area Conservancy, Carolina Foothills Artisan Center, April 2014 National Park Service (NPS), Overmountain Victory A tour of Cowpens National Battlefield and City of Trail Association, and local citizens were appointed Chesnee took place for the steering committee and to the steering committee. To provide regional insight the consultants to better understand the history of to the steering committee, representatives from the the Overmountain men and their journey to Kings Overmountain Victory Trail Committee of Cherokee Mountain. The group toured Cowpens National County, Cowpens National Battlefield, Upstate Battlefield and walked the built portions of the Forever, Partners for Active Living – Spartanburg, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail within Palmetto Conservation Foundation, South Carolina the park. Department of Transportation, and Limestone College were included. The steering committee and consultants for the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master Plan followed the planning process summarized below.

March 2014 A project kick-off meeting was conducted to begin the planning process and to establish the relationships between the consultants, SPATS, and the NPS. The steering committee and consultants discussed the trail planning process, the scope of the Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master Plan, and reviewed the project schedule. The NPS emphasized that the trail must remain in the planning corridor, ½ mile on either side of the Steering Committee touring Cowpens National Battlefield

33 The steering committee traveled the Commemorative trail. Public involvement is critical to any successful Motor Route of the OVNHT from Cowpens National public planning process and efforts were taken Battlefield to the Cherokee-Spartanburg County to include as much public input on the OVNHT as line, where the Spartanburg County OVNHT would possible. The community engagement session was begin, and continued on to the Polk County, North formatted as an informal open house; participants Carolina line, where the Spartanburg section would were shown the overall map of the OVNHT and end. Several members of the steering committee images of built portions of the non-motorized trail. also drove north into Polk County and hiked the They were asked to provide input regarding their Alexander’s Ford Trail, a certified portion of the current trail use, identify where they lived within the OVNHT where 1,600 men camped in 1780, prior to planning area, and to share ideas about where the crossing the Green River. future trail should be built.

The 1 mile wide planning corridor for the Spartanburg June 2014 County OVNHT was mapped using GIS and the The input gathered through the public open house property owners in the area were identified. A was complied, analyzed, and shared with the steering postcard advertising the public open house in May committee. The results served as the basis for locating was sent to each property owner for a total of 805 potential trail routes throughout the OVNHT planning postcards. area. Two main trail options were developed, one on the north side of the historical route and another on May 2014 the south side, along with several alternate routes A public open house was held at the Carolina Foothills and connections. These routes were presented to Artisan Center in downtown Chesnee to gather input the steering committee and were on display for a from the community on the placement of the future second public open house, both held at the Liberty-

Public open house at Carolina Foothills Artisan Center Public open house at LCF Water District office

34 Chesnee-Fingerville (LCF)Water District office. September 2014

July 2014 A third public open house was held at the Carolina Farm Festival/Antique Bikes on Main event in Chesnee at the end of July. Property owners in the planning area were mailed postcards again to invite them to come to the meeting and provide their input on the Spartanburg County OVNHT. The event marketed the trail to the local public and festival attendees and sparked many discussions on where Presentation to Chesnee City Council the trail should be and the trail preferences of the local citizens. The Master Plan was presented to the Chesnee City Council on September 8, 2014. The council voted unanimously to approve the plan as presented. The consultant created the draft master plan report, summarizing the entire planning process, and submitted the document for review and comment from the steering committee. The committee met at the Chesnee City Hall to review the documents on September 22, 2014. They approved the map and the plan with minor revisions that have been incorporated into this document.

Public open house at Carolina Farm Festival

August 2014 The comments from the public open houses led to the selection of the northern route, along with some refinements and revisions to this route. The resulting Master Plan identifies a 7.92 mile trail route with 1.35 miles of alternate routes and connections. Steering Committee meeting at Chesnee City Hall

35 Spartanburg County Map 1 Overmountain Victory National Segment A: 0.93 miles (4,914 feet) Historic Trail Master Plan Segment A is the first segment of the OVNHT in The final Spartanburg County OVNHT route through South Carolina as the Overmountain men were northeastern Spartanburg County and the City of travelling south towards Kings Mountain. This Chesnee totals 7.92 miles of trails and 1.35 miles portion of trail begins at a proposed informational of alternate routes and connections. The trail Kiosk and potential parking area at the state line types include 0.61 miles of the trail along existing and starts going southeast along Parris Bridge sidewalks, 2.90 miles along existing rights-of-ways, Road, also known as State Road 58 South. The and 4.41 on proposed easements. trail turns right down Arrowwood Branch Road, turning left past the first property on this road. In The orange lines on the Spartanburg County this segment the Non-motorized OVNHT would Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail utilize existing road right-of-way. Master Plan map represent the final plan for the Segment B: 0.81 miles (4,301 feet) OVNHT route through Spartanburg County. The Segment B shows the trail leaving the road right- mapped routes represent the intended location of of-way and utilizing proposed easements along the the non-motorized trail, but do not represent the back of private property to allow the trail to travel actual location of trails. Final trail locations will be through more natural terrain and through wooded determined as each OVNHT segment is designed areas, eventually connecting to Parris Bridge in more detail by Spartanburg County and the City Road. of Chesnee and as specific property owners are contacted. Map 2 Segment C: 0.62 miles (3,290 feet) Trail Segments Segment C utilizes the right-of-way along Parris The Spartanburg OVNHT Master Plan Map has Bridge Road, connecting to Brooklyn Independent been broken into six segments. The locations of Baptist Church. The trail then turns left onto Harris these segments along the trail can be seen on the Road, continuing to utilize existing right-of-ways. following page. Each of the segment maps are on Segment D: 0.93 miles (4926 feet) the pages following the Segment Map. The trail Segment D turns right off of Harris Road and segments are labeled with letters A through P and runs along the backside of rural properties, their lengths are as follows: utilizing proposed easements. The trail crosses a powerline easement and continues to cross fields and wooded areas.

36 Map 3 and heads towards the City of Chesnee along Segment E: 1.30 miles (6,871 feet) Montgomery Drive to the intersection with W Segment E meanders through natural areas, Oconee Street and crossing the street. crosses Bill Latimore Road just north of the Map 5 Chesnee Community Fire Department, Gaffney Segment J: 0.56 miles (2,936 feet) Chapel United Methodist Church, and the Liberty- Segment J continues the trail traveling south along Chesnee-Fingerville Water District. This segment existing unimproved public right-of-ways that connects the trail to Arrowwood Baptist Church and parallels North Carolina Avenue and N Alabama ends across from the Chesnee Telephone facility Avenue, allowing the accessibility of a more urban on Old Island Ford Road at a proposed Kiosk and trail while being removed from a vehicular path. potential parking areal This portion of the trail ends at W Cherokee Street/ Segment F: 0.44 miles (2,309 feet) SC-11. Segment F goes northeast along Old Island Ford Segment K: 0.16 miles (857 feet) Road, crosses a powerline easement, and turns Segment K utilizes existing sidewalk along the right onto Henderson Road. This portion of the trail northeast side of W Cherokee Street to continue utilizes existing right-of-ways. the trail towards the railroad tracks. Segment L: 0.05 miles (250 feet) Map 4 Segment L connects each side of the railroad tracks Segment G: 0.70 miles (3,715 feet) along W Cherokee Street utilizing existing right-of- Segment G turns left off of Henderson Road and ways, but does not currently provide sidewalk. wraps around the back of the Lockland Place Segment M: 0.44 miles (2,336 feet) subdivision, connecting residents to the OVNHT Segment M picks up the trail on the east side trail. The trail utilizes proposed easements to turn of the railroad tracks on the north side of W south and connect to the Chesnee Shrine Club. Cherokee Street, utilizing existing sidewalks. Segment H: 0.66 miles (3,502 feet) This portion of trail connects Cada Park, where Segment H continues east along the north side of an informational Kiosk is proposed, Chesnee the Chesnee Shrine Club, past the Duke Energy City Hall, and the businesses, restaurants, and facility, and crosses Horseshoe Circle. The trail community establishments in downtown Chesnee. then connects Dave Steel Company’s Chesnee This segment ends at the Spartanburg-Cherokee Structural Fabrication Plant and Ste-Lar Textiles County line where another Kiosk is proposed. along the south side of their properties, ending at Montgomery Drive. Segment I: 0.31 miles (1,631 feet) Segment I turns south from the Ste-Lar property

37 Map 6 Segment N: 0.51 miles (2,668 feet) Segment N is a portion of trail that may be part of the original path travelled by the Overmountain men in 1780 that still remains; further study will be needed to determine the historical accuracy of this trail. This portion of trail runs northwest to southeast, connecting Arrowwood Branch Road and SC Highway 11. Segment O: 0.50 miles (2,626 feet) Friendly Chapel Baptist Church - Segment N Segment O and P are trail connections between the proposed trail alignment and a potential historical portion of the original OVNHT. This segment of trail leaves the main OVNHT Non-motorized trail and travels south utilizing easements along the edge of properties, turns left on to Arrowwood Branch Road at Friendly Chapel Baptist Church. Segment P: 0.34 mile (1,818 feet) Segment P connects the southeastern end of the possible historical trail to the proposed OVNHT Non- Arrowwood Branch Road entering SC - Segment A motorized route north via proposed easements.

Downtown Chesnee Sidewalk - Segment M

38

CHAPTER 5. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION The completion of the Spartanburg County Master Plan Adoption Checklist Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master • Incorporate revisions and additions to the master Plan by the Steering Committee signifies the plan upon completion of Steering Committee beginning of the implementation process of this review and comment of draft master plan. trail in Spartanburg County. The process of trail • Provide final draft master plan to SPATS and development can be difficult at times and requires a NPS for review and comment. strong commitment to continuing the process through • Provide the final Spartanburg County OVNHT to completion. The following goals detailed within this Master Plan to SPATS, NPS, City of Chesnee, section simplify the trail development process and Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce and other provide a step by step approach for transforming a entities. planned route into a built trail. • Develop amendments to floodplain, land use, zoning, and open space regulations, as needed. Adopt Master Plan Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory National Build Public Support Historic Trail Master Plan map has been reviewed The Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory and approved by the Chesnee City Council. The National Historic Trail Master Plan is a product of Master Plan map and this document have been the residents of Spartanburg County and the City of reviewed and approved by the Steering Committee, Chesnee. This plan was developed by a dedicated and the Spartanburg Area Transportation Study group of county residents who served on the Steering (SPATS) and the National Park Service (NPS) have Committee and technical advisory team. The location adopted the master plan. By adopting the final of the OVNHT in Spartanburg County was based master plan, the city, county, and NPS underscore primarily on feedback received from county residents their support for the development of trail segments through the master plan process, but within the within Spartanburg County. Each municipal entity designated historic route. This master plan should is encouraged to revisit existing zoning and land be championed forward by county residents. The development ordinances to make revisions and second step of the trail development process involves additions to those ordinances to create trail supporting continued public involvement and support for the initiatives. Floodplain development restrictions and OVNHT in Spartanburg County and City of Chesnee. regulations, land development regulations, zoning ordinance requirements, and open space dedication It is the recommendation of this master plan that requirements should be revised or created for the Spartanburg County create an Overmountain Victory protection of the county’s environmental resources National Historic Trail Commission or form a chapter and development of trails. of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA). This commission or chapter will provide input on all

45 greenway issues, provide feedback on greenway It is important that the OVNHT Commission communicate related planning and acquisition decisions, build with other county agencies, boards, and commissions, support for greenway implementation, and help in particular the Spartanburg Area Transportation Study coordinate the construction and maintenance of (SPATS), Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce (CVB), trails. It is recommended that the commission provide Spartanburg County Parks Department, Spartanburg municipal officials with an annual report detailing County Public Works, and the Spartanburg County trail development efforts and progress. This group Planning and Development Commission. Coordination may host special events on completed segments of between these agencies, boards, and commissions trails to showcase ongoing implementation efforts will ensure planning efforts are not duplicated, and engage county residents regarding future trail and that county, state, and federal funds are being development plans. utilized as efficiently and effectively as possible.

This commission should be comprised of county Partnerships with recreation providers and organizations residents, government officials, regional entities, involved with land preservation can be beneficial in local utility providers, and state transportation the development of trails. Both groups share common agencies. County residents, appointed by the goals with trail supporters. Relationships with such county’s municipal entities, should represent the organizations enable municipal entities to offset trail land county and the City of Chesnee. This will ensure that acquisition, development, and maintenance costs by each segment of the trail, whether inside or outside pooling available funds. Expertise offered by recreation city lines is represented on the advisory commission. and conservation partners can provide valuable insight Representation from regional planning and tourism for trail construction, trailhead development, and land or organizations will provide a broader perspective easement acquisition. and share Spartanburg County’s plans beyond the county boundaries. Representatives from local utility Checklist providers like Duke Energy and Liberty-Chesnee- • Create the Overmountain Victory National Fingerville Water District will help reduce conflicts Historic Trail Commission or form a chapter of the between trails and utilities during trail planning and Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA) construction. Representation from roadway and rail • Appoint resident representatives to advisory transportation agencies can inform the commission of commission current and future transportation development plans, • Identify municipal, regional, state, and utility renovate or construct appropriate infrastructure for representatives for advisory commission trail facilities, and assist in eliminating trail conflicts • Develop method for communication between within rights-of-way. county agencies, boards and commissions • Develop partnerships for trail development

46 Plan and Develop Priority Trail land and/or easements for trail development along Segments all trail segments, but most importantly along priority It is unrealistic to expect Spartanburg County to segments. OVNHT corridors where land is currently develop the 7.92 miles of OVNHT within a short period publicly owned, under conservation easement, or of time. A phased implementation plan including the within trail friendly easements should be considered steps of land acquisition, design, construction, and priority segments. The trail sections are labeled on maintenance of trails is necessary. Initial greenway the maps in Chapter 4. development efforts should focus on the priority greenway segments. Through the public process, Functional Connection the local citizens and the Steering Committee The most popular, well-used, and effective trails link expressed interest in developing the portions of two or more destinations and have distinct termination trail in and connecting to downtown Chesnee. The points. Priority trail segments in Spartanburg following criteria have been developed to assist in County must provide connections between multiple identifying the potential priority trail segments within destinations (cultural facilities, parks, schools, Spartanburg County and the City of Chesnee. colleges, neighborhoods, commercial areas, etc.). Responses from the community engagement Public Support sessions and draft master plan review forums It is important that the residents of Spartanburg denote the destinations within Spartanburg County County embrace the initial OVNHT facilities. Input that are along the OVNHT corridor. Trail sections received from county residents through the draft that provide access to the most prominent and/or master plan review forums and written comments multiple destinations should be considered priority should be utilized. Trail segments which garnered a trail segments. high response through the public involvement process should be included on the initial trail prioritization list. Population Served Input from the OVNHT Commission or OVTA chapter Trails benefit communities as recreation resources (once established) will also be valuable in identifying and transportation amenities. These benefits increase priority trail segments which county residents will exponentially when trails are located within populated support. areas. The connections created by trails in populated and easily accessible areas provide Spartanburg Availability of Land/Right-of-Way County residents with alternatives for commuting to A crucial step in the trail development process is the work, attending events, running errands, exercising, acquisition of land for trail construction. The ownership or visiting friends. OVNHT segments located within and availability of lands along the OVNHT segments populated areas should be considered priority must be identified. It is important to begin to acquire segments. Visibility and exposure of the trail in

47 densely populated areas may lead to increased without first identifying the appropriate resources momentum for development of future sections. to fund the project. Potential funding sources for Spartanburg County’s OVNHT route should be identified. SCDOT should be contacted and funding Partnership Potential allocated for planned trails along state roads and Trails developed through partnerships positively highways during new construction and existing benefit two or more parties and allow each to extend roadway improvement projects. Partnerships their funds by sharing the costs of the development. between two or more entities may be necessary or The state, National Park Service (NPS), Spartanburg preferred for trail development. Priority segments County, local municipalities, non-profit organizations, of the OVNHT in Spartanburg County should have local businesses, and individual land owners are all available funding for the development, completion, potential partners in the development of the OVNHT. and maintenance of the project. Partnerships can include shared construction costs, land or labor swaps, or other financial considerations. Checklist OVNHT segments within Spartanburg County that • Determine which OVNHT route segments are may be developed through partnerships should be along or within property under public or non-profit considered priority segments. ownership • Identify the trail segment(s) located within more Funding Availability heavily populated areas No trail project can be developed and completed • Identify the trail segment(s) that connect the

48 most prominent destinations per input gathered funds. The second federal funding method provides through the master planning process local or county agencies direct funding for trail • Identify and develop partnerships with development. Congressional earmarks have been organizations who share the vision of and interest used in the past to fund certain trail projects, but in development of the OVNHT in Spartanburg recent scrutiny of this practice may limit or cease County such funding. • Determine the availability for funding the OVNHT in Spartanburg County State Funding Options: Most state funding available to counties within Identify Funding and Financing South Carolina for trail development are managed The Steering Committee, Spartanburg County, and through SCDOT and the South Carolina Parks, the City of Chesnee must begin to identify funding Recreation, and Tourism Department. Most state sources for land acquisition, design, construction, appropriated funding is limited to specific types of and maintenance of the OVNHT. Many government projects and requires matching funds of varying entities are unable to fully fund the development of percentages of the grant request. Spartanburg every mile of trail within a network using in-house County will need to carefully review all state grant funds. It is recommended that Spartanburg County programs and plan appropriately for providing develop a multi-tiered approach for funding trail matching funds when required. development using a variety of financing options. The following summarizes several trail funding Local Funding Options: opportunities. Traditionally local governments, like Spartanburg County and the municipalities located within the Public Funding county, have utilized three sources for funding trail There are several options available to assist development. Spartanburg County in funding the development of • Discretionary annual spending, typically referred the OVNHT using public funding. to as a “General Fund”, refers to spending that must be agreed upon on an annual basis. Trail Federal Funding Options: development funds would need to be appropriated Federal funding programs for trail development within the county’s or city’s annual budget to a are typically provided through two methods. The specific department’s annual operating budget and first federal funding method involves federal would range in value annually. appropriations of funds to specific state agencies. • Dedicated funding of trail development would These state agencies are charged with distributing, require Spartanburg County or City of Chesnee managing, and overseeing the expenditure of the to identify permanent funding sources specifically

49 for trail development or for capital improvements, businesses and citizens to provide private funding which could include trail development. for the construction of trail facilities. Adopt-a-trail • Debt financing refers to the government agency programs can be used to help maintain trails through borrowing funds for the development of trail facilities volunteer labor. through loans or bonds. Such funding sources The most effective method for funding the OVNHT require repayment of funds over a specified period and other local trails within Spartanburg County will of time. involve a combination of public and private funding sources. The sources used to fund trail development in Spartanburg County will be tied to the county’s Checklist budgetary resources, taxing capacity, political will, • Identify federal funding opportunities for trail and voter preference. Spartanburg County and development and determine which sources to the City of Chesnee have shown an interest and pursue. dedication to trail development with their support • Identify state funding opportunities for trail of the Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory development and determine which sources to National Historic Trail Master Plan. pursue. • Identify local funding opportunities for trail Private Funding development and determine which sources to Trail development in Spartanburg County may be pursue. funded by private sources that support the OVNHT, • Identify private funding opportunities for trail understand the benefits of trails, understand the development and determine which sources to need for additional transportation and recreation pursue. facilities, and promote the historical education the • Develop programs to encourage private local OVNHT provides. Private funding sources may funding for trail development. include individual donors, non-profit organizations, • Allocate funds for matching grants which foundations, philanthropic organizations, and Spartanburg County plans to pursue for trail businesses. It is recommended that Spartanburg development. County and the county’s OVNHT Commission or OVTA chapter (once established) develop additional Evaluate Land Acquisition fund-raising programs. Some examples include: Options Funds gathered through donations of personalized The acquisition of land for trail development bricks to be displayed at greenway trailheads or is an important and necessary step of the trail within prominent trail plazas can fund portions of development process. Land acquisition provides trail construction. “Buy a Foot” programs allow local the land resources necessary for development of

50 trails, protects sensitive environmental and natural rivers, streams, and creeks. These regulations resources, and preserves historic and cultural have been developed to protect water quality, treasures. Spartanburg County should utilize a limit development activity within close proximity to variety of land acquisition methods for the protection streams, and preserve habitats along water courses. and preservation of land for trail development. River, stream, and creek regulations often require buffers of varying widths to be located on either Purchase side of a water course. Uses within the buffers are Spartanburg County may choose to acquire land by often restricted to passive recreation, public boating fee-simple purchase. Such acquisitions are common and utility uses, and in some cases, preservation, for government entities and ensure control over the conservation, or agriculture. Other zoning and level of development and protection of the land. Land development regulations that have proven helpful that could serve a dual purpose by accommodating in the acquisition of land include setbacks along both trail development and other public facilities or streams, floodplain development restrictions, and services would be ideal. This scenario justifies the required dedication of open space. purchase of the land by using public funds more effectively. Organizations, such as land trusts, can Developer Contributions assist government entities in the purchase of land for Government entities have the option to require, less than market value by offering tax deductions to request, and/or incentivize developers to contribute the selling landowner. land, build trail facilities, or both as part of their development project. Most government entities Donations create a GIS database of the final adopted OVNHT Landowners may wish to donate their property trail corridor and other adopted trail routes for to a local government or land trust. Donations of reference. Future developments located along land may occur if the landowner has no more use segments of the adopted trail corridor would be for the property, no heirs are present to receive the asked or required to incorporate these into their land, or tax and estate deductions are sought by the design plans. A review of the incorporation of the trail landowner. Landowners may prefer to donate an segments into design plans should be conducted easement on the property. Such easements allow during the development plan review process. Most for certain agreed upon uses of the property, but the developers are open to accommodating regional landowner retains ownership of the property. trails within their developments for two reasons: most people view trails as a wonderful community amenity Zoning and Development Regulations and most developers can place a premium on lots Government entities across the United States have or housing units located within close proximity to the developed restrictions and regulations along major trail.

51 Checklist determine the desired use or uses for the trail. The • Identify land for fee-simple purchase that may trail width and trail tread material will be determined house multiple county or municipal facilities. by the desired use(s), existing site conditions, cost • Discuss property and/or easement donations of construction, and required level of maintenance. with local landowners along the OVNHT. Trails within floodplains or those located in heavy • Develop regulations for the protection of natural use areas may need to be paved with asphalt resources and allowance for passive recreation or concrete. Both surfaces are more costly to uses along rivers, streams, and creeks. construct, but will reduce maintenance costs after • Work with developers to incorporate trails in flooding and under heavy foot traffic. Boardwalks developments along the adopted OVNHT in may be necessary within environmentally sensitive Spartanburg County. areas to reduce the impact of the trail. Natural surface, mulch, or stone trails may be best suited Design, Construct, and Maintain Trails for historically significant sites where site impacts As Spartanburg County, City of Chesnee, and their should be minimized. Public input received during partners select a segment(s) of the OVNHT and the Spartanburg County OVNHT Master Plan acquire necessary land and/or easements for the process revealed that county residents preferred to trail, the design and construction of the trail can use trails for walking, hiking, and cycling. They also begin. The County and its trail partners will need to preferred natural surfaces for the trails rather than

Gravel accessible portion of OVNHT Trail at Alexander’s Ford, Polk County, NC

52 asphalt or concrete. Appendix III of this document Spartanburg County should also include emergency contains the Trail Marking Guidelines set forth by service personnel and representatives from local the National Park Service for the OVNHT. The costs police and sheriff departments during the trail planning to develop and maintain trails will vary depending on process. These personnel will assist in developing trail tread material, existing site conditions, culverts, safe trails that utilize principles of Crime Prevention bridges, and additional safety measures. Budget Through Environmental Design (CPTED). These estimates for trail construction may be developed principles allow designers, governmental officials, during the design phase of a trail, using recent and other personnel to develop safe facilities that figures from similar projects to estimate construction are inviting and reduce perceived criminal activity. costs. The actual costs of trail development may not Designing open visible spaces along trails improves be known until competitive bids for trail construction visibility and encourages natural surveillance. Clear are opened. and accessible entrances to the trail, like trailheads, provide access control by defining spaces and Trail tread materials vary in construction and creating designated points of entry or exit. Proper maintenance costs. Typically, trail tread materials with maintenance and community programs held along higher construction costs, like asphalt and concrete, trails show that the trail is cared for, creating a sense have lower maintenance costs. The topography of a site, of ownership. Regular patrols along trails provide the presence of floodplains, required creek crossings, a safe trail environment. Signage, kiosks, trail and the amount of existing vegetation are typical existing brochures, and informational programs can reinforce site conditions that may affect trail development costs. tips on staying safe and enjoying the trail.

Trail planning should include those maintaining Checklist and securing the trail. It is financially irresponsible • Determine the preferred use or uses for the trail. to build a trail that is impossible or too costly to • Design trail segments to accommodate preferred maintain. During the initial phase of trail design, use(s), respond to existing site conditions, match Spartanburg County must identify the entity(ies), i.e. budget constraints, and create an enjoyable trail park maintenance staff, volunteers, OVTA Chapter, environment. that will be responsible for the trail maintenance. • Include maintenance and security entities in the Interaction during the design process will allow planning of the trail. the county to be mindful of both construction and • Develop a maintenance and operations plan for maintenance costs. trail upkeep.

53 OVNHT Trail at Alexander’s Ford, Polk County, NC

54 CHAPTER 6. CONCLUSION

The Spartanburg County Overmountain Victory is complete, it is the responsibility of the citizens National Historic Trail Master Plan represents a of Spartanburg County, the City of Chesnee, and citizen led collaborative planning process for the the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail provision of a non-motorized trail within a half mile committee/ future OVTA Chapter to transform this of the historic route traveled by the Overmountain plan from lines on a map to trails on the ground. The men through northeastern Spartanburg County. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail will The Spartanburg County portion of the OVNHT is provide important connections through northeastern an important piece of the 330-mile historic trail that Spartanburg County and link residents to the history will eventually connect Abingdon, Virginia to Kings of their region and this country. Mountain. Now that the master planning process

Biker and hand-cyclist at Cowpens National Battlefield

55