The Town of Fort Mill is excited to establish the foundation for a master plan of future trail networks within the Town.
The goal of this Trail Master Plan is to identify existing and potential trails and find ways to connect them to transportation corridors, parks, schools, and other places of interest within Fort Mill. Ultimately, the plan will help establish Fort Mill as a trail-friendly community.
The Town is now seeking community input on a future trail network as the next step in the process. This is an opportunity for all community members to weigh in on changes to existing trails and suggest possible additions to the trail system. Community members can provide feedback by taking an online survey at https://publicinput.com/fortmilltrailplan. The survey will be open for public comment through Nov. 30, 2022.
“Trail systems offer outdoor experiences and health benefits to people of all ages and abilities. We are honored to have experienced, proven and creative partners to work with on this project. This vision will enhance the quality of life our community embodies,” said Fort Mill Mayor Guynn Savage.
To assist in the plan process, the Town recently hired engineering consulting firm McAdams to conduct research and gather public input as they create a long-range Trail Master Plan. Through their research, the consultant will first examine existing trails and identify whether they can be enhanced, while also identifying locations for future trails. The plan will include options for how the Town can make the vision a reality.
“Studies like this serve as a blueprint to advancing the vision of an interconnected regional trail network. A thoughtful plan that is supported by the residents legitimizes the initiative and places the community in a competitive position to garner resources for implementation,” said Bret Baronak with the Carolina Thread Trail and a member of the Trail Master Plan steering committee.
Joe Romenick, with the Fort Mill School District and also a committee member, said the plan offers several unique benefits to the school district and community.
“The preservation of the Carolina Thread Trail offers our students educational opportunities including nature studies, field trips and outdoor activities. By persevering natural trails, the district and the community benefit from the undeveloped areas and green spaces,” Romenick said. “This plan ensures these areas will remain for the future.”
John Gordon, with the Anne Springs Close Greenway, agreed on the importance of the plan.
“The (Greenway) is excited about the opportunity to be involved with the Town Master Plan for trails and will be willing to help in any way appropriate. Connectivity is something we will all benefit from in our community,” Gordon said.
A public workshop is also tentatively planned for early 2023.
For more information, please visit the Town of Fort Mill’s website at www.fortmillsc.gov/TrailMasterPlan.