Deep River State Trail Master Plan

NC Division of Parks and Recreation

Deep River

INTRODUCTION

The vision for the Deep River State Trail encompasses both a blueway and terrestrial trail roughly paralleling the Deep. This state trail will connect communities and natural areas with three primary purposes: conservation, recreation, and tourism.

For this report, blueway refers to a navigable waterway that contains the capacity to enable a kayak, canoe, or other type of craft to progress through the water regardless of the presence of rapids or other objects that may impede travel. Maps, results, and recommendations related to the blueway will be indicated by “B”. For example, maps and other information about the blueway portion of the state trail in Segment 1, would be labelled Segment 1B. In the context of this report, “trail” is a linear corridor on land that is protected from vehicular traffic and provides public access for nonmotorized recreation or transportation. Information specific to the land-based trail will be labelled as “T”. For example, Segment 1T.

The Deep River State Trail will protect and conserve the riparian habitats and wildlife. It will serve as a safe harbor for multiple forms of recreation, such as walking, hiking, biking, and paddling. The trail will connect towns and communities through new pathways that link participants to the history and culture of the area.

The Deep River became a state trail in 2007 through legislation in the General Assembly. The legislation states: The General Assembly authorizes the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to add Deep River State Trail to the State Parks System as provided in G.S. 11344.14(b). The Department may acquire and manage lands and easements for this purpose, and shall promote, encourage, and facilitate the establishment of connecting trail segments by other federal, State, local, and private landowners. On segments of the Deep River State Trail that cross property controlled by agencies or owners other than the Division of Parks and Recreation, the laws, rules, and policies of those agencies or owners shall govern the use of the property.

STEERING COMMITTEE

City of Randleman Greg Patton, Planning Director

Town of Franklinville Mac Whatley, Town Commissioner

Town of Ramseur Vicki Caudle, Mayor

City of Asheboro Trevor Nuttall, Planning Director

At Large Perry Conner

Randolph County Mary Joan Pugh, Trails Coordinator

City of High Point Lee Tillery, Recreation Director

Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority Gregory Flory, Executive Director

Chatham County Tracy Burnett, Recreation Director

Moore County Debra Ensminger

Lee County Joseph Keel, Parks and Recreation Director

Triangle J COG Karyl Fuller, Planner

Triangle J COG Joseph Hoffheimer, Planner

NC State Trails Smith Raynor, State Trails Planner

Deep River Park Association, Lee County Chad Spivey

Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority Joy Sparks

Piedmont Land Conservancy/Piedmont Legacy Trails Palmer McIntyre

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

PREVIOUS PLANNING

Textile Trail Greenway Master Plan: The town of Franklinville planned a Textile Trail Greenway along the Deep River on the abandoned railway corridor from US 64 to Cedar Falls. This plan gives an excellent history of the area. The plan is included in Appendix 3.

Deep River Trail Plan: In 2010, the Jamestown Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and Town Council created the Deep River Trail Plan. This Plan provides assessments and recommendations for the local blueway and greenway from City Lake Park to the Oakdale Mill dam, and the regional blueway and greenway from Oakdale Mill dam to the Southwest Guilford County Park. The plan is included in Appendix 4.

Deep River State Trail Master Plan: In 2013, North Carolina State Parks began researching and mapping sections of the Deep River. Although extensive mapping was completed, the plan never progressed beyond a collection of maps.

Deep River Trail Conceptual Plan: In 2015, the Randolph County Tourism Development Authority formed the Deep River Trail Task Force to coordinate planning, design, construction, and management in Randolph County. The resulting conceptual plan outlines the goals, opportunities, and constraints. This Plan is included in Appendix 5.

NCDOT Great Trails State Plan: While planning for the Deep River State Trail was occurring, the NC Department of Transportation embarked on an ambitious goal to develop a plan for multiuse paths throughout the state. The goals of the NCDOT plan included:

• Connect all counties and key destinations throughout the state to a growing network of strategic greenways.

• Foster connections between urban and rural areas in all 100 counties

• Provide transportation options between where people live, work, and play for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities

• Create opportunities for conservation, recreation, education, physical health, environmental health, tourism, and economic prosperity

• Identify resources needed to plan, design, construct and connect the system

• Facilitate multi-jurisdictional partnerships to support, develop, manage, and maintain the system

After meeting in each of NCDOT’s 14 divisions with stakeholders and the general public, they have published a plan that identifies a proposed network of trails that would:

• Connect all 100 counties throughout the state

• Create lasting investments in rural and urban areas

• Provide opportunities for healthy, safe transportation

• Provide infrastructure to support North Carolina’s $28 billion outdoor recreation industry

• Improve health, safety, mobility, recreation, environment, and economic development benefitting North Carolinians for generations.

The plan recommends that NCDOT consider the Great Trails State corridors during project development process and constructed as incidental projects. This could include constructing sidepath in conjunction with a road construction/widening project or including bike/ped access during bridge replacement projects. This plan can be found at www.ncdot.gov/divisions/bike-ped/greattrails-state.

Although this is a significant plan for trails across the state, it is especially important to the Deep River State Trail, since the Deep River corridor was selected as one of the Great Trails State spine routes in the report.

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

LOCATION

The proposed corridor will extend along the Deep River within Guilford, Randolph, Moore, Chatham, and Lee Counties.

Guilford County was formed in 1771 and is the third-most populous county in North Carolina. The county was the site of early industrial development and the host for one of the earliest cotton mills in the state. Guilford County towns on the Deep River State Trail include High Point and Jamestown.

Randolph County was formed in 1779 from Guilford County and is named for Peyton Randolph, the first president of the Continental Congress. The abundance of textile mills powered by waterwheels is partially due to the Quaker influence within the county. Using water power was the Quakers solution to not using slave labor. The county is in the center of North Carolina and contains the Uwharrie Mountains and Caraway Mountains. Randolph County towns along the Deep River State Trail include Randleman, Franklinville, Ramseur, and Asheboro.

Moore County was formed in 1785 and was named after Alfred Moore, an officer in the American Revolutionary War and associate justice of the Supreme Court. The early economy of the county was dependent on agriculture and lumber, which led to a large expanse of railroads through the area. House in the Horseshoe, a state historic site, is on the Deep River.

Chatham County was formed in 1771 and named for William Pitt, the first Earl of Chatham, who served the British Prime Minister and opposed harsh colonial policies. The Deep River Coal Field contained the only economic bituminous coal deposits in the State, and the communities of Carbonton and Cumnock developed with the coal mining industry. The production of livestock was also a large basis of the economy.

Lee County was formed in 1907 and named for General Robert E Lee. The area has historically been one of the leading brick manufacturing areas in the United States. Cotton and Tobacco are the leading crops, and the county has the state’s most concentrated reserves of oil and natural gas.

BRANDING

The Division of Parks and Recreation, in conjunction with the steering committee, developed a design for blazes to be used on designated segments of the Deep River State Trail. The design serves to remind trail users of the rich history of the Deep River in the 19th century mill economy. Blazes will only be used on designated segments of the Deep River State Trail. Information on the designation process and best practices for blazing can be found in the appendices.

COMPLETE THE TRAIL PROGRAM

During this planning effort, the Complete the Trails Program (CTP) was created with historic legislation passed in 2022. The CTP provides funding for state trails in North Carolina. This funding is distributed by the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation to a non-profit partner for each trail. To be a recognized Partner, the organization must have a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and an accepted 5 Year Plan for using the allocated funds and further developing the state trail. Some of the funding is earmarked for increasing the organizational capacity of each Partner.

The Partner for the Deep River State Trail is the Piedmont Land Conservancy. PLC joined with Mary Joan Pugh, the Randolph County Trails and Natural Heritage Coordinator and primary champion of the Deep River State Trail, to increase their effectiveness and productivity. This team planned and conducted most of the follow-up meetings with various stakeholders along the river. Their insight and efforts have informed many of the recommendations found within this plan. The 5 Year Plan for the DRST, for the Complete the Trail Program, is found in Appendix 7.

RESULTS

There has been widespread public interest in the Deep River since its’ authorization as a state trail in 2007. While earlier planning efforts have focused on specific segments of the river, this plan takes a comprehensive view of the entire state trail corridor from Guilford County to the confluence with the Haw River to form the Cape Fear River. One of the unique characteristics of this state trail is that it is both a land-based trail and a blueway, or paddle trail. Throughout the results, trail segments that are denoted with a “B” refer to the blueway portion of the state trail. Those denoted with a “T” refer to the land-based trail. Currently, constructed segments of the land-based trail in Randolph County are open to both hikers and bicyclists. However, uses on future segments of the trail will be determined by the land manager of the specific segment.

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Division staff met with stakeholders and volunteers to discuss the concept of the state trail; learn about current plans and existing trail that could be incorporated into the Deep River State Trail; and listen to suggestions, concerns, and questions. These initial meetings occurred virtually due to the COVID protocols at the time.

Public information sessions and surveys were conducted online, due to continuing COVID concerns. These information sessions and surveys were also translated into Spanish since many of the current trail users in Randolph County are Hispanic. There were 70 responses to the survey and 261 people viewed the online information session.

Stakeholders and those responding to the public survey indicated support for the Deep River State Trail (DRST). Most respondents indicated that they would like to use the DRST as a blueway, although there was a sizable minority who plan to hike on the trail. Respondents were evenly split on valuing the state trail as a vehicle for connecting people with nature and to bring economic vitality to the region. The survey showed us that people want to connect the trail with historic Endor Iron Furnace and extend the trail to Mermaid Point, the local name for the confluence with the Haw River. The need for safe portages around all the dams on the Deep; easy water access, with parking; and safety signage on the river were emphasized. The survey and results can be found in Appendix I.

NC Division of Parks and Recreation

SEGMENT 1B

Description:

Guilford County and Randleman Reservoir

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Permission from and coordination with the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority is essential to any development in this segment. A portage around Randleman Dam and any needed land acquisition will be necessary to connect this segment to the rest of the trail.

Projected Timeframe: mid-term

Opportunities:

Public support Local planning Private support

Funding Staff resources • Marinas/boat ramps

Land acquisition • Large landholdings

Public land • Land conservancy support

Challenges:

Local Opposition Lack of local planning • Required portage

Funding • Staff resources

Land Acquisition Large landholdings

Public Land Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed accesses: Southwest Park (Mile 104), Randleman Lake Marina (Mile 96)

Planned accesses: City Lake Park (Mile 112), Groometown Rd Bridge (Mile 105)

Needed accesses: Portage at Randleman Lake dam

Constructed length

Planned length: 14 miles

Section sponsor(s)

Planning Stakeholders: Guilford County, High Point, Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority, Randolph County, Randolph County Trails Advisory Council, and City of Randleman

Next Steps:

• Use technical assistance grant to complete a planning study for the blueway from Deep River Rd and Penny Rd to City Lake Marina

• Plan and construct blueway from Deep River Rd and Penny Rd to City Lake Marina

• Plan and construct portage at Randleman Lake dam

SEGMENT 1T

Description:

Guilford County and Randleman Reservoir

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Permission from and coordination with the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority is essential to any development in this segment. There needs to be some investigation into whether trails are permitted within Army Corps of Engineers’ buffer areas. If trails are permitted, then detailed planning and alignment will be needed.

Projected Timeframe: long-term

Opportunities:

Funding • Stream/river corridors • Land conservancy support

Land acquisition Floodplain/wetlands Private support

Public land Staff resources Sidewalk/bicycle network

• Local planning • Large landholdings

Challenges:

Local opposition • Needs detailed alignment Topography

Funding • Major roadway crossing Lack of local planning

Land acquisition Coordinating easements Floodplains/wetlands

Stream/river crossings Urbanized corridor Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed trails: Approximate planned length: 14+ miles

Segment sponsor(s):

Planning Stakeholders: Guilford County, High Point, Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority, Randolph County, Randolph County Trails Advisory Council, and City of Randleman

Next Steps

:

• Work with the PTRWA to secure trail access on border of their land.

• Complete construction of Bicentennial Greenway at Piedmont Environmental Education Center to City Lake via a pedestrian bridge across City Lake

• Work with land managers to designate segments of High Point Greenway, Bicentennial Greenway, Deep River Trail, and trail at Piedmont Environmental Center

• Work with PTRWA and the US Army Corps of Engineers to assess the potential for trail on the border of their property

NC Division of Parks and Recreation 2022

SEGMENT 2B

Description: Randolph County

Planning Strategies:

Coordinate with the newly authorized NC Textile Museum for an additional access/trailhead.

Projected Timeframe: short-term

Opportunities:

• Public support • Local planning Private support

• Funding • Staff resources Marinas/boat ramps

• Land acquisition Large landholdings

Public land • Land conservancy support

Challenges:

Local Opposition Lack of local planning • Required portage

Funding Staff resources

Land Acquisition Large landholdings

Public Land Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed accesses: Franklinville wildlife boat ramp

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Planned accesses: Randleman Park (Mile 91), Worthville Dam/Worthville Rd (Mile 89), NC Textile Museum, Franklinville Park (Mile 81), Ramseur Park (Mile 78), Brooklyn Bridge, Coleridge Dam (Mile 70), Bennett Road (Mile 62)

Needed accesses: Need safe portages around 6 dams, including the Upper Dam in Franklinville

Constructed length

Planned length: 33 miles

Section sponsor(s) Randleman, Ramseur, Franklinville, Randolph County

Planning Stakeholders: Randleman, Ramseur, Franklinville, Randolph County

Next Steps:

• Construct portage at Leonard Park

• Construct accesses at Worthville, Central Falls, and below the Randleman Dam

• Plan and construct portages around 6 dams, including needed land acquisition and safety signage

• Investigate feasibility of including Buffalo Ford and Waddell’s Ferry as access locations

NC Division of Parks and Recreation 2022

SEGMENT 2T

Description: Randolph County

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

The Randolph County Trail Advisory Council has created momentum and opportunity for trail development within the county. They should continue with their ambitious planning and development, utilizing funds from the Complete the Trails Fund and other sources.

Projected Timeframe: short-term

Opportunities:

• Funding • Stream/river corridors • Land conservancy support

• Land acquisition Floodplain/wetlands Private support

Public land • Staff resources Sidewalk/bicycle network

• Local planning Large landholdings

Challenges:

Local opposition Needs detailed alignment Topography

Funding Major roadway crossing Lack of local planning

Land acquisition Coordinating easements Floodplains/wetlands

• Stream/river crossings Urbanized corridor Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed trails: 4.3 miles

Approximate planned length: 33+ miles

Segment sponsor(s): Randleman, Ramseur, Franklinville, Randolph County

Planning Stakeholders: Randleman, Ramseur, Franklinville, Randolph County

Next Steps:

• Construct trail from Franklinville to Sapona

• Construct trail from Sapona to the NC Textile Museum in Cedar Falls

• Complete conceptual plan for trail through the Randolph Co. landfill to Cedar Falls (3 miles)

• Complete preliminary engineering for bridges over Bush Creek, Harlan Creek, Cox Creek, Gabriel’s Creek and Haskett Creek.

• Construct bridges over 5 creeks

• Extend Randleman trail upstream to the Randleman Dam

• Land acquisition to facilitate connections at Cedar Falls and Central Falls (County landfill property)

• Extend Ramseur Rail Trail segment into downtown and establish a trailhead at the Old Depot on Brooklyn Avenue

• Feasibility study for side trail along WOW Road from Worthville to Central Falls

• Develop trailhead on Andrew Hunter Rd in Franklinville

• Investigate the feasibility of connecting Buffalo Ford and Waddell’s Ferry with the trail

SEGMENT 3B

Description: Moore County

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Develop a trail council and/or hire a countywide trail coordinator to drive the development of the DRST in Moore County. The Randolph County Trail Advisory Council has created momentum to develop the DRST in Randolph County. Ideally, they could mentor similar groups in the other counties along the DRST. Detailed planning and land acquisition are required for trail development.

Projected Timeframe: long-term

Opportunities:

Public support Local planning Private support

Funding Staff resources Marinas/boat ramps

Land acquisition Large landholdings

Public land • Land conservancy support

Challenges:

Local Opposition • Lack of local planning • Required portage

Funding Staff resources

Land Acquisition Large landholdings

Public Land • Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed accesses:

Planned accesses:

Needed accesses: N. Howard Mill Rd bridge (Mile 55) and Glendon Carthage Rd bridge (Pascal) (Mile 45)

Constructed length

Planned length: 31 miles

Section sponsor(s)

Planning Stakeholders: Moore County, Triangle J COG, and Three Rivers Land Trust

Next Steps:

• Construct access at Glendon-Carthage Rd bridge

• Do a planning study for access at N. Howard Mill Rd bridge

• Plan and construct portage around High Falls dam, including needed land acquisition and safety signage

SEGMENT 3T

Description: Moore County

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Develop a trail council and/or hire a countywide trail coordinator to drive the development of the DRST in Moore County. The Randolph County Trail Advisory Council has created momentum to develop the DRST in Randolph County. Ideally, they could mentor similar groups in the other counties along the DRST. Detailed planning and land acquisition are required for trail development.

Projected Timeframe: long-term

Opportunities:

Funding Stream/river corridors • Land conservancy support

Land acquisition Floodplain/wetlands Private support

Public land Staff resources Sidewalk/bicycle network

Local planning Large landholdings

Challenges:

Local opposition Needs detailed alignment Topography

Funding Major roadway crossing Lack of local planning

Land acquisition Coordinating easements Floodplains/wetlands

Stream/river crossings Urbanized corridor Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed trails:

Approximate planned length: 31+ miles

Segment sponsor(s):

Planning Stakeholders: Moore County, Triangle J COG, and Three Rivers Land Trust

Next Steps:

• Work with stakeholders to develop a planning corridor for trail across Moore County

NC Division of Parks and Recreation

SEGMENT 4B

Description: Lee and Chatham Counties

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

Coordinate with NCDOT as they develop accesses at 421 and 15/501 and NC State Parks as they develop an access on park property in Chatham County. Encourage land managers to apply for state trail designation for existing accesses.

Projected Timeframe: short-term

Opportunities:

• Public support Local planning Private support

• Funding Staff resources Marinas/boat ramps

Land acquisition • Large landholdings

Public land • Land conservancy support

Challenges:

Local Opposition Lack of local planning Required portage

Funding Staff resources

Land Acquisition Large landholdings

Public Land Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed accesses: Carbonton Access (Mile 43), McIver Landing (Mile 37), Deep River Park (Mile 30), White Pines Preserve (Rocky River into the Deep) (Mile 21), Avent Ferry wildlife boat ramp

Planned accesses: 421 Bridge (Mile 33), 15/501 Bridge (Mile 25), Justice Tract (Mile 18)

Needed accesses: Endor Iron Furnace and Mermaid Point

Constructed length

Planned length: 27 miles

Section sponsor(s): Deep River Association and Lee County Parks and Recreation

Planning Stakeholders: Lee County, Chatham County, Triangle Land Conservancy, NC State Parks, NC Historic Sites

Next Steps:

• NC State Parks and NC WRC coordinate planning, funding, and construction of accesses at 421 and 15/501. Encourage designation of existing accesses

• NC State Parks and NC Wildlife Resources Commission coordinate planning, funding, and construction of accesses at 421 and 15/501

• NC State Parks construct access at Justice Tract

NC Division of Parks and Recreation

• Plan and construct access at Endor Iron Furnace

• Plan and construct portage around Lockville Dam, including needed land acquisition and safety signage

• Undertake feasibility study to extend blueway beyond Moncure to Mermaid Point, including needed accesses and portages

• Pave access ramp at Carbonton

SEGMENT 4T

Description: Moore County

Planning Strategies:

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

While detailed planning and land acquisition are necessary for trail development in this segment, these counties should also coordinate with NCDOT and their Great Trails State Plan to encourage trail development in conjunction with planned road projects.

Projected Timeframe: long-term

Opportunities:

Funding Stream/river corridors • Land conservancy support

Land acquisition Floodplain/wetlands • Private support

• Public land Staff resources Sidewalk/bicycle network Local planning • Large landholdings

Challenges:

Local opposition Needs detailed alignment Topography

Funding • Major roadway crossing • Lack of local planning

• Land acquisition Coordinating easements Floodplains/wetlands

• Stream/river crossings Urbanized corridor • Long term management

Segment Details:

Constructed trails: Approximate planned length: 27+ miles

Segment sponsor(s):

Planning Stakeholders: Lee County, Chatham County, Triangle Land Conservancy, NC State Parks

Next Steps:

• Undertake feasibility study for trail between Carbonton (Mile 28) to Moncure (Mile 3)

NC Division of Parks and Recreation

DEEP RIVER STATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN

CONCLUSION

1. The Deep River State Trail provides significant natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational value.

2. There is widespread support for the Deep River State Trail among stakeholders and the public.

3. The new partnership model initiated by the Complete the Trails Program can be transformational for the Deep River State Trail and other state trails.

• Need to continue funding, including capacity funding for each Partner

4. Randolph County leads in developing the DRST in the county and is already reaping the economic, health, recreation, and environmental benefits.

• Other counties along the DRST would benefit from creating a DRST Task Force to focus on developing the DRST within their county.

• Partnering with NC Wildlife Resources Commission has proven to be valuable in developing blueway accesses.

NEXT STEPS

1. NC State Parks and Piedmont Land Conservancy should continue to strengthen their partnership in developing the Deep River State Trail and using the funds allocated in the Complete the Trails Program.

2. Each county along the Deep River should become familiar with NCDOT’s Great Trails State Plan and monitor all proposed road and bridge projects to ensure that the DRST is accommodated whenever and wherever possible.

3. NC State Parks should work with NCDOT to install safety signage on bridges that span the Deep River. This signage should warn of upcoming dams/required portages and identify the roadway by name. The signage should also contain the DRST blaze design. A possible design for this signage is included in Appendix 6.

4. Continue to develop and strengthen the partnership with Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority to investigate adding additional accesses and trail on PTRWA property.

5. Piedmont Land Conservancy and State Parks should continue to encourage and support the Deep River State Trail Steering Committee.

6. State Parks and the Great Trails State Coalition should support ongoing funding for the Complete the Trails Program including recurring capacity funds for Partners and additional funding for trail development.

NC Division of Parks and Recreation 2022

Appendix 1: Deep River State Trail Public Input Survey

Q1. What do you feel is the most important reason to develop a state trail? Q2. Have you ever heard of the Deep River State Trail before? Q3. Have you ever used the Deep River State Trail?

Q5. How would you most like to use the Deep River State Trail? Q6. What destinations would you like to see connected with the Deep River State Trail?

Q7. What amenities do you need in a trailhead?

“Other” responses primarily consisted of requests for signage

Q8. Do you have any other comments related to the planning and development of the Deep River State Trail?

This is not an exhaustive list of all recommendations, but the most prevalent. All suggestions will be considered.

Appendix 2: Trail and Access Toolbox

STATE TRAILS IN NORTH CAROLINA

What is a State Trail?

A State Trail is a linear corridor on land or water, protected from vehicular traffic, providing public access for non-motorized recreation or transportation. All State Trails must be authorized by the General Assembly.

Where are the State Trails?

Currently, there are twelve State Trails in North Carolina:

■ Dan River State Trail meanders along the Virginia border for 90 miles in Stokes and Rockingham Counties.

■ Deep River State Trail from Jamestown to Moncure

■ East Coast Greenway State Trail is part of a planned greenway that will stretch from Maine to Florida. The spine route and coastal route in North Carolina will be about 800 miles long when complete.

■ Fonta Flora State Trail from Morganton to Asheville, circling Lake James on the way

■ French Broad River State Trail in Transylvania, Henderson, Buncombe and Madison Counties

■ Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail in Henderson, Rutherford, and Buncombe Counties

■ Mountains-to-Sea State Trail stretching from Clingman’s Dome to Jockey’s Ridge State Park

■ Northern Peaks State Trail will connect Boone to West Jefferson along a series of mountain peaks, including Elk Knob State Park and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area.

■ Overmountain Victory State Trail traces the route used by patriot militia in North Carolina during the Kings Mountain campaign of 1780.

■ Roanoke River State Trail is a paddle trail that extends from Weldon to the Albemarle Sound.

■ Wilderness Gateway State Trail connects Chimney Rock State Park and the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail to South Mountains State Park, Valdese and Hickory.

■ Yadkin River State Trail in Wilkes, Surry, Yadkin, Forsyth, Davidson, Rowan and Davie Counties

Not all sections of a state trail are open to bicycle or equestrian use. Please check with the land manager before you go.

These trails share legal status as components of the State Parks System. This distinguishes them from other regional and local trails and pathways. These trails offer opportunities for regional connectivity and public access to some of North Carolina’s most significant and scenic landscapes.

Who manages State Trails?

State Trails epitomize partnerships. While a State Park is operated and managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation, a State Trail is comprised of multiple connected sections and each section of the trail is sponsored by a state or federal agency, local government or private landowner.

Section sponsors build, maintain and manage their section of the trail. This includes location, design, surface, permitted uses and amenities. Section sponsors retain authority on lands under their jurisdiction. They are encouraged to showcase places of natural, scenic, historic and cultural significance; to feature the diversity of the natural communities and landscapes in the state; to consider the needs of both long and short distance hikers; and to employ recognized standards of sustainable trail design and construction. Often, and ideally, section sponsors are supported by dedicated volunteers.

The overall trail corridor planning and coordination are the responsibility of the Division of Parks and Recreation. The Division will provide guidance, coordination and assistance for the multiple section sponsors whose individual and diverse sections link together to form the State Trail. Working together on connecting sections of a State Trail is a way for communities to leverage their investments in trails to maximize the value for their citizens.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

BLAZING STATE TRAILS

Blazing is important in preventing users from getting lost and protecting the environment by keeping users on trail and thus minimizing environmental impact. However, blazing is different from the informational signage and maps found at trailheads. Instead, blazes are found along the length of a trail and serve as a confidence marker for trail users. This only applies to land-based trails. Marking paddle trails involves a completely different process.

Only designated segments of state trails may be blazed with the state trail blaze. The expectation is that newly designated segments of trail will be blazed using the official state trail blazes, available from State Parks. Currently designated segments of trail should replace the original blazes with the state trail blazes during regular maintenance. Occasionally inserting the new state trail blaze between existing blazes is another option. Newly added blazes should only be the official State Trail blazes that are supplied by NC State Parks. Please contact the State Trails planner for blazes.

Suggested equipment:

■ Blazes—obtain from NC State Parks

■ Claw hammer

■ Aluminum roofing nails

■ Bucket or carpenters belt to hold supplies

■ Loppers or small handsaw to clear vegetation

Process:

› Attach blaze in top third of the circle, so the state trail name is on top, by hammering nail in through the plastic about 1” into the tree. Leave approx. 1” of the nail exposed to allow for tree growth. If attaching the blaze to a post, hammer the nail flush with the post. Try to avoid the design in the middle of the blaze. Ideally blazes should be secured with two nails.

› On co-aligned trails (2 or more trails using the same corridor), the blazes for the different trails should be placed one above the other, in the same order, and on the same tree. The state trail blaze should be on top, unless sharing the corridor with a national trail (see figure 1). The state trail needs to be blazed for its entire length, even when co-located with other trails.

› Use arrows at intersections to indicate the direction the trail goes. When co-located trails separate, put the appropriate direction arrows directly beneath the individual blaze (see figure 2). Place a confirmation blaze shortly after the trail turns.

› Blaze large, healthy, dark-barked trees close to the righthand side of the trail. Do major blazing when the leaves are on the trees. Don’t blaze dead or downed trees.

› Place blazes at eye-level. Blaze equestrian trails slightly higher—6’-7’ high.

› Trim back vegetation so it doesn’t obscure the blaze.

› Look down the trail to find a tree, ideally on the right side of the trail, that will attract attention in all seasons.

› Depending on your direction of travel, the trail can look very different. Plan to blaze one direction at a time. By doing so, you can concentrate on the optimal interval and positioning of the blazes. Blaze the trail in both travel directions.

› Blazing generally works best for 2 person teams.

› Be sure the trail is blazed in both directions. Avoid placing blazes on both sides of the same tree. If it falls, you’ve lost two blazes.

› Install treated 4x4 posts where trees are not available or is preferred by the land manager. Hammer the nails flush on posts. Never blaze fences, walls, or structures on private property or highway signs.

Frequency:

› Balance the wilderness experience, route layout and how experienced the trail users are. Over-blazing creates sign pollution, while under-blazing leads to lost hikers and social trails.

› Backcountry trails should have a blaze every 5 minutes of hiking, about 6/mile in each direction. More frequent blazes are needed in hardto-follow sections and at trail intersections. Only one blaze/set of blazes should be visible at any one time, except at intersections.

› Front country trails should be blazed so that the next blaze is visible--but only the next blaze.

› Blaze around trailheads clearly. Finding the beginning of the trail can be difficult for a person new to the area. Be sure that the blaze is included in the informational signage at the trailhead.

› Make sure blazes are clearly visible on both sides of road crossings or utility easements.

› Always think of the safety and informational needs of the user when blazing.

Maintenance:

› Do not simply keep replacing old blazes. Take a fresh objective look at the trail each year. Add or subtract blazes as the need arises. If you find that blazes are being removed, use decking screws to secure the blazes to the tree or post.

› Evaluate the trail blazes annually, making sure to replace missing or damaged blazes and trimming vegetation.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager

scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

DeepRiver State Trail trails nc gov

DeepRiver State Trail trails nc gov

STATE BLUEWAY TRAIL DESIGNATION INFORMATION

Although the rivers where State Blueway Trails already exist, the trail must contain safe, public accesses along the length. These accesses should be located at least every 15 miles. Every 5 miles is strongly preferred. Before an access can be considered part of the State Trail, the access manager must apply for official designation from the State Trails Planner. The information required on the application includes the following:

1. Parking details, including:

■ Surface

■ Number of available spaces:

■ Accessible space provided:

■ Trailer spaces available:

■ Directional signage on road:

■ Informational signage in parking area

2. Pathway to water details, including:

■ Width

■ Length

■ Surface

■ Height to any overhang

■ Trail markers

■ Crosses roadway or bridge

3. Water access details, which could include:

■ ADA accessible

■ Informational signage

■ Reflective signage visible from water

■ Infrastructure at water’s edge

■ Ramp to water

■ Canoe/kayak stands available

■ Boat trailer accommodation

4. Available amenities, which could include

■ Bathrooms

■ Garbage cans:

■ Picnic area:

■ Play area:

■ Lights in parking area:

■ Covered shelter:

■ Potable water:

■ Bathhouse:

■ On site staff

5. GPS Coordinates for each trail access (GIS shapefile preferred, if possible). A map, preferably on USGS topo, showing the location of the access, along with nearby roads and towns (electronic file, if possible).

6. Representative photographs of the water access, parking area and facilities (electronic file, if possible).

7. A copy of the applicant’s Safety/Search/Rescue Plan, or at a minimum, notification from the local law enforcement and/or emergency medical service stating their knowledge of the access within their jurisdiction.

8. Driving directions to the access, along with an address suitable for mapping programs.

Designation applications may be obtained from the State Trails Planner, Smith Raynor at smith.raynor@ncparks.gov. Once the application is completed and returned to the State Trails Planner, then it will be reviewed by the North Carolina Trails Committee. It is then sent to the Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources for final approval.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

TRAILS AS HABITATS

The news about the state of the natural world is grim. Over 8,500 species in North America are at risk of extinction. 95% of the United States has been logged, tilled, drained, grazed, paved or otherwise developed1. Climate change is upon us. Many people do not feel any connection to the natural world. Habitat fragmentation makes even large plant and animal populations small and isolated from each other, which increases the risk for local extinctions.

There is good news. Trails can provide vital biological corridors that enable species to move between habitats. Additionally, with thoughtful management, trails become vital habitats, especially in urban and suburban areas.

Once you have designed and constructed a sustainable trail, you can create quality habitat utilizing the following steps:

1. Remove invasive plant species. Invasive plants truly limit an ecosystem’s ability to function. If you need help determining which plants along the trail are invasive, go to http://nc-ipc.weebly.com/nc-invasive-plants.html. This is the website for the NC Invasive Plant Council and is an excellent resource. You will notice that some of the worst invasives are still being sold in nurseries.

2. Plant keystone species. Research has shown that a few genera of native plants undergird most local ecosystems. These species include native oaks, cherries, willows, goldenrods and asters. To get a specific list for your area, consult the National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder at https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder.

3. Plant for specialist pollinators. While the Monarch butterfly is probably the best known specialist pollinator, many bees, butterflies and other native insects pollinate only one plant, or plant group. North Carolina Cooperative Extension offers resources for planting for specialist pollinators at https://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/growingsmallfarms-pollinatorconservation/.

4. Plant more plants. Be generous with your plantings and be sure to consider increasing the diversity of your plants, along with the abundance. Think about vertical layers when planning your plantings.

5. Don’t use turfgrass to edge your trail. Use a native groundcover and reduce your maintenance—and make the edge habitat far more inviting for a host of species.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

Resources: Tallamy, Douglas. Nature’s Best Hope. Timber Press, Portland, OR, 2019

1 Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas Tallamy

STATE TRAILS AND PRIVATE LANDOWNERS

Before a state trail can cross private property, either NC State Parks or the segment sponsor must negotiate an easement or fee simple purchase of the trail corridor from a willing landowner. The landowner can donate the land or the easement and benefit from any applicable tax advantages.

A trail easement is a situation where the landowner makes their land available for a public trail without having to subdivide the land or lose ownership of the land. The easement goes with the land, so even if the landowner moves away, the trail will be permanently protected.

In either case, easement or purchase, NC State Parks only works with willing landowners.

1. A willing landowner lets State Parks know that they will consider selling land for a trail on their property.

2. If the landowner intends to sell the easement or fee simple, State Parks will arrange for an appraisal of the property. The appraiser will contact the landowner for permission to appraise the property in order to determine its fair market value. The State pays the cost of the appraisal.

Note: If the landowner intends to donate some or all the value of the fee or easement, and also intends to claim some tax donation, it is the landowners’ responsibility to obtain their own appraisal.

3. Once the appraisal is completed, the State Property Office will contact the landowner with an offer. The landowner can accept or reject this offer.

4. If the offer is accepted, the State Property Office will prepare an option agreement. This legal contract sets a date for the State to complete formalizing the sale or easement. The landowner must reserve the right for the easement to the State until the end date on the option agreement.

5. A formal survey of the proposed property is completed after the option agreement has been signed by the landowner. This survey identifies the exact property that will be conveyed for the trail. The State pays the cost of the appraisal and the survey.

6. North Carolina law requires that all conveyance of real estate to the State, whether fee or easement, must be approved by the Council of State. The State Property Office will handle this.

7. In the case of selling property, the State will arrange with a local attorney to draft the deed to the State, to obtain the necessary signatures from both the State and the landowner, to transfer any funds from the State to the landowner at closing, and to have documents recorded with the county’s Register of Deeds.

8. In the case of selling an easement (conveying an easement), the State will have an easement document drafted, which will outline any restrictions on the property. Generally, this includes logging and hunting on the actual property covered by the easement. All easements will permit public access to the trail on the property.

9. Once terms of the easement are final, the State will arrange with a local attorney to obtain the necessary signatures from both the State and the landowner, to transfer any funds from the State to the landowner, and to have documents recorded with the county’s Register of Deeds. The easement is permanent, and noted on the title to the land, so it will go with the land even if the land is sold. This will protect the trail for future generations.

10. If the landowner decides that a donation of property is preferable because of potential tax advantages or personal preference, State Parks will pay for the survey and closing costs, but not an appraisal.

*This process can take a year to complete.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

Required

1. Parking: preferably with a turnaround option to unload canoes/kayaks

2. Signage: ■ Informational kiosk in parking area ■ Directional signage from road ■ Directional signage from waterway 3. Launch site: ■ Firm and stable surface

■ Slope of 8% or less ■ Launch surface needs to be as close to water surface as possible ■ Water depth of at least 5”

■ Staging area to assemble gear, boats, and paddlers

■ Path from parking to staging area should be 6’ wide, gently sloped, and free of obstructions

Additional amenities: While not required, if provided all require regular maintenance and cleaning

Boat racks: especially helpful for paddlers to leave their boat to retrieve a car at another access site

DESIGNING ACCESSIBLE PADDLE ACCESSES

*From the Michigan Water Trails Manual

Universal design goes beyond the legal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act to create solutions that accommodate all—whether legally disabled or just looking for extra assistance for ease and comfort.

LAUNCH

■ A universally accessible canoe/kayak launch system that is connected to an accessible route, placed in a location that doesn’t conflict with a traditional boat launch, and is at least 25 feet long to allow paddlers dry access to the entire length of their vessel when preparing to enter/exit the vessel. These systems are commercially available.

■ Gangway and ramp slopes that are below 8.33%.

■ A means of transfer/boarding assistance, such as a boarding bench, that centers the paddler over the vessel.

■ Pull rails and rollers to assist moving the vessel into and out of the water on a surface that stabilizes the craft and doesn’t damage the bottom of the vessel.

■ For all launches, provide a good description (and photo) of the water’s edge exit/entry point so the paddler can decide if it is usable before approaching the water.

LAND-SIDE FACILITIES

■ Improved surface route, 6 to 12 feet wide with slopes no greater than 5%, from the parking lot to restrooms, potable water source, information kiosk, and launch.

■ Routes that have switchback turns need level landings at every change of direction, and the landing should be large enough for the individual to carry down and turn the vessel without stepping off the route surface.

■ Accessible restrooms with at least one universally accessible single-user unisex restroom.

■ Accessible potable water source that is approachable on all sides

■ Kiosk information provided in accessible formats and approachable via accessible surface surrounding kiosk.

■ Accessible parking space(s) located nearest to the accessible route to the launch.

Segments of the state trail blueway will be designated dependent on the number and condition of access sites within the segment. The designation application can be obtained from the State Trails Planner, Smith Raynor at smith.raynor@ncparks.gov. The designation application will be reviewed by the North Carolina Trails Committee and must be approved by the Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources before the segment is officially part of the state trail.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor

State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

1.

TOP TEN TIPS FOR SAFE PADDLING

Know Before You Go

■ Research the access locations and typical conditions of the blueway

■ Never paddle on a flooded river

■ Be aware of locations of required portages

■ Don’t trespass when you stop for lunch/breaks—use public accesses

2. Know Your Limits

■ Take a class to learn techniques and safety measures

■ Be very familiar with what your boat can safely do

■ Return to shore if you are not comfortable with the paddling conditions

■ Know how far and how long you can comfortably paddle and make sure that you have appropriately located access sites

3. Dress for Success

■ Always wear a life jacket and make sure it fits

■ Dress for immersion—ask your local paddle shop to recommend clothes for the conditions you anticipate. Avoid cotton.

■ Wear high visibility clothing—including reflective tape on your paddles

4. A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed

■ Never go on the water alone

■ Share the 4 W’s with a friend before leaving to paddle

› Who: everyone who is paddling with you

› Where: planned put-in and take-out

› When: estimated launch and return time

› What: what to do if you don’t check in as planned

5. Be Prepared

■ Bring water and snacks

■ Bring a change of clothes in a dry bag

■ Have a way to call for help—keep your cell phone in a waterproof case and be aware that there may not be reception

■ Bring a whistle and keep it handy

6. When in Doubt, Get Out and Scout

■ When downstream conditions are concerning, pull over and examine the situation

■ Recognize hazards

■ Never attempt to paddle over a dam

7. Weather Permitting

■ Check the weather forecast before you go—and consider it a best-case scenario

■ Be constantly mindful of changing weather

■ Get off the water well before a thunderstorm arrives

8. Man Overboard

■ Float with your feet facing downstream

■ Stay upstream of your boat

9.

Water and Alcohol Don’t Mix

■ Don’t drink and paddle

■ Be mindful of any medications that you take

10. Plan to Portage

■ Know how to transport your boat and gear on land around an obstruction in the river

■ Be familiar with the permanent portages on your route

■ Bring appropriate footwear

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

PLANNING PORTAGES

Portage: land-based detour around obstacles, usually dams, on the river

Portages offer paddlers a safe and sustainable way to bypass permanent obstacles on the blueway. These general guidelines offer a starting point for planning portages around dams and other obstacles along the blueway. However, the National Park Service and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission have more detailed information available. Segment sponsors who provide portages must ensure that they either manage the land upon which the portage is located or hold a permanent easement to the portage trail corridor.

Safety:

■ Upstream signage is vital to give paddlers time to maneuver to the portage

■ Take-outs and put-ins need to be more than 300’ away from dams, powerhouses, or spillways

■ An escape path downstream of the portage, in case paddlers miss the take-out

■ A vertical distance of 12” or less between the height of the boat and the shore

■ Access points located on calm stretches of water

Sustainability:

■ Need to follow sustainable trail design and construction to the fullest extent possible, while minimizing the length that paddlers are required to carry equipment

■ Path should be at least 3’ wide to accommodate carrying canoes/kayaks and gear

■ Overall grade of the path should not exceed 10% (accessible portages should not exceed 8.3% = 1:12)

■ No obstacles more than 2” in the path

■ Vertical clearance of at least 8’

■ 4’-8’ clearance on each side of the path

■ Trail surface needs to be firm and stable

Etiquette:

■ People carrying canoes/kayaks have the right-of-way on the path

■ Packs and canoes/kayaks should be stored to the sides of the put-ins and take-outs

■ When portaging, step off the trail if you are holding up others behind you

■ Pack it in and pack it out

■ Pick up any stray trash

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott

Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

SUSTAINABLE TRAIL DESIGN

Properly designing trails is both an art and a science. Sustainable trail design reduces environmental impact; increases visitor safety; and is more aesthetically pleasing. The goal is to keep water off the trail. In almost every instance, the sustainable trail needs follow the contours of the land.

NC State Parks strongly recommends that segment sponsors use a professional trail builder to lead the design and construction of trails. Technical assistance in trail design is available from the State Trails Program. Please see the website, https://trails.nc.gov/ for contact information.

The five essential elements of sustainable trails: (adapted from Trail Solutions)

1. Half Rule: The trail needs to move across the landscape so that the slope of the trail is less than half of the slope of the land on either side of the trail. Otherwise, water will run down the trail causing a myriad of issues including erosion and reduced user safety and experience. Surprisingly, this is most commonly an issue in gently sloping terrain.

Trail 15% Grade

Sideslope 20% Grade

Trail 8% Grade Sideslope 20% Grade

Water will flow down trail. This trail breaks the Half Rule.

2. Ten Percent Average Guideline: The average overall grade of the entire trail should be 10% or less to be sustainable. This applies to most soil types, minimizes erosion, allows design flexibility, and accommodates undulations.

Rise = 10’ Run = 100’

Water will sheet across trail. This trail meets the Half Rule. Grade 10%

3. Maximum Sustainable Trail Grade: While 10% is the maximum average trail grade, sections of trail can exceed 10% depending on a host of factors including soil type, sideslope, annual rainfall, grade reversals, type of users and the number of users. A trail professional is best equipped to help you decide the maximum grade of your trail.

Elev. 458’

Rise = 8’

Run = 100’

Elev. 450’

4. Grade Reversals: This is a location on a trail where the grade changes direction. If the trail is going uphill, there need to be points, about every 20’-50’ where the trail levels out and goes downhill gradually for 10’-50’. It is primarily a way to use gravity to ensure that water gets off the trail surface. It also is a reward for the user, allowing them to use different muscles and resting a little during an extended climb.

A grade reversal forces water to drain off the trail.

5. Outslope: The outer (downhill) edge of a trail should be sloped approximately 3-5% downhill. This is yet another construction technique that helps to keep water off the surface of a trail.

5% Outslope

Recommended Resources: Trail Solutions: IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack . International Mountain Bicycling Association, Boulder, CO, 2004. Equestrian Design Guidebook for Trails, Trailheads, and Campgrounds. USDA Forest Service, Missoula, MT, 2007 America Trails — www.americatrails.org

All images are from Trail Solutions: IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

BENEFITS OF TRAILS

Increased property values

■ Trails are the most desired community amenity that homeowners seek when buying a home.

– Robert Charles Lesser and Co, 2018

■ Homes closer to a regional trail/greenway are valued 5-9% more than similar homes that are farther away (ITRE 2018)

Promote healthy living

■ One study has shown that for every $1 spent on trail development, $3 are saved in healthcare costs (American Heart Association, 2011)

■ There is a direct and measurable correlation between how close (up to 2.5 miles) people live to biking and walking infrastructure and how much exercise they get. Those living within 1 mile of a trail get an average of 45 minutes/ week more exercise than they did before a trail was available.

(American Journal of Public Health, 2014)

Protect the environment

■ Vegetated trail corridors provide safe passage to wildlife traveling in increasingly urbanized environments

■ The vegetation protected within a trail corridor traps sediments and slows water in riparian habitats, which increases water quality

■ Trails help air quality both by reducing motor vehicle use and by maintaining trees which absorb pollutants

■ Provide habitat for native species

Provide recreational opportunities

■ Hiking and walking are consistently ranked as the #1 outdoor activity across age groups (Adventure Travel Trade Association, 2017)

Encourage economic development

■ Retail shops, restaurants, accommodations and other industries in local and regional economies can experience notable economic benefits when in proximity to a shared use path (ITRE, 2018)

■ The American Tobacco Trail (22+ mile trail in Triangle area) contributes $6.1M to the local economy annually; supports 78 jobs and generates $2.2M annually in labor income (ITRE, 2018)

■ Contribute to a community’s identity

■ The Town of Elkin is a prime example. Since promoting the MST, they have seen new trail-based businesses rejuvenate an economy that was formerly dependent on the textile industry

■ Provide alternative transportation opportunities

■ Reduces motor vehicle emissions and the amount of traffic on roads as commuters take advantage of alternative ways to get to work and school.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

HOW IS A STATE TRAIL CREATED?

A new state trail is authorized by the General Assembly—ideally after a feasibility analysis.

This analysis includes:

1. Statewide significant natural, cultural, scenic and recreation value

2. Enough potential length and beauty to attract varied and significant use from regions outside the local area.

3. Minimal and surmountable incompatible features such as roads, intrusive development or large water bodies.

If a potential State Trail meets these basic requirements, then the feasibility of inclusion as a State Trail is based on:

1. Local public support for the general concept of a public trail and the availability of trail volunteers

2. Presence of viable section sponsors committed to the design, construction, maintenance and management of the trail.

3. Environmental and economic sustainability of the trail route.

The law that creates a state trail may place some restrictions on the trail, such as specific counties where it must be located, but gives few other details on the trail location. To move beyond this concept, detailed planning is required.

NC State Parks plans the general corridor where the trail will be located. The planning process includes meeting with stakeholders, potential segment sponsors and holding public informational meetings. Usually, the planned corridor is 5-10 miles wide to permit for segment sponsors to take advantage of available land and advantageous topography.

Segment sponsors design and construct trail within the NC State Parks planned trail corridor. This should be done in coordination with NC State Parks to ensure that the segments will connect; sustainable standards are met so that the segment can be authorized as an official part of the state trail; and resources can be leveraged.

After the trail is constructed, the segment sponsor applies for state trail designation through NC State Parks. This process involves the approvals of the State Trails Planner, North Carolina Trails Committee and the Secretary of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Criteria for designation include public access, an emergency management plan, detailing available amenities and inspection by a regional trails specialist.

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

Smith

STATE TRAIL VOLUNTEERS

A State Trail moves from concept to reality through partnership. Since State Trails are units of the State Parks system, North Carolina State Parks plans the overall route of the State Trail. Various Segment Sponsors coordinate the construction, management and maintenance of the trails on the property that they manage. The true backbone of the effort to make a State Trail a reality are the volunteers. Volunteers construct and maintain segments of each of our State Trails in cooperation with the Segment Sponsor. This effort takes thousands of volunteers. So, each of the State Trails has an organization that is dedicated to supporting volunteer efforts. If you would like to volunteer—and we hope you do—please contact one of these organizations.

Deep River State Trail Randolph County Trails Advisory Council maryjoan.pugh@randolphcountync.gov (336) 963-2715

French Broad State Trail MountainTrue mountaintrue.org anna@mountaintrue.org (828) 258-8737

Fonta Flora State Trail

Friends of Fonta Flora State Trail friendsoffontaflora@gmail.com (828) 652-7121 x1333

Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail Conserving Carolina https://conservingcarolina.org/get-involved/volunteer-with-us/ peter@conservingcarolina.org (828) 697-5777

Mountains-to-Sea State Trail (MST) Friends of the MST https://mountainstoseatrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/ bbrown@mountainstoseatrail.org (919) 825-0297

Northern Peaks State Trail Blue Ridge Conservancy www.blueridgeconservancy.org info@blueridgeconservancy.org (828) 264-2511

Overmountain Victory State Trail Overmountain Victory Trail Association https://www.ovta.org/ tpvaughan@aol.com (423) 366-8639

Roanoke River State Trail Roanoke River Partners roanokeriverpartners.org contact@roanokeriverpartners.org (252) 792-3790

Wilderness Gateway State Trail Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina https://www.foothillsconservancy.org/volunteer (828) 437-9930

Yadkin River State Trail Yadkin Riverkeeper https://www.yadkinriverkeeper.org/volunteer info@yadkinriverkeeper.org (336) 722-4949

Please contact the state trails program if you have any questions about state trails.

Scott Crocker State Trails Program Manager scott.crocker@ncparks.gov

Smith Raynor State Trails Planner smith.raynor@ncparks.gov

Appendix 4:

Jamestown Deep River Plan

TTo o w w n n o o F F J J a a m m e e s stto o w w n n

D D e e e e p p R Riiv v e err TTr r a aiil l P Plla a n n

T T o o w w n n o off J J a a m m e e s stto o w w n n D D e e e e p p R Riiv v e err T Trra aiil l P Plla a n n

F FIIN N A A L L D D RA A F F T T J J u u n n e e 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 0

P Piie e d d m m o o n ntt T Trri i a a d d C C o o u u n n c ciil l o off G G o o v v e errn n m m e e n ntts s

Plan

The Jamestown Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee in cooperation with the Town Council and staff sponsored this plan. The Piedmont Triad Council of Governments (PTCOG) facilitated the planning & design process, assessed existing conditions along the proposed trail corridor and conducted interviews to determine the level of landowner interest and willingness to participate in implementation of the trail plan. PTCOG also provided design recommendations for local paddling trail access sites, local hiking trail access sites and alignments, and the conceptual alignment of a regional greenway trail. The Jamestown Town Council adopted the plan June 15, 2010.

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee:

Marla Kurzec Chairwoman

Fred Kelly Member

Tom Tervo Member

Linda Schumacher Member

Al Bartko Member

Will Ragsdale Member

Larry Lain Member

Lynn Tice Alternate - New

Town Staff:

Kathryn Q. Billings Town Manager

Matthew Johnson Town Planner

Town Council:

Keith L. Volz Mayor

Georgia N. Roney Mayor Pro Tem

Frank Gray Member

Will Ragsdale Member

R. Brock Thomas Member

PTCOG Project Staff:

Paul M. Kron Planning Director

Jesse Day Regional Planner

Malinda Ford GIS Planner

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

– Town of Jamestown Deep River Trail

–

TABLE 1 – WEST BANK Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results .... 17

TABLE 2 – EAST BANK Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results ..... 19

MAP 6 – Preliminary NCDOT Design Plans for the Jamestown By-Pass / Deep River Bridge (U-2412A) ................................................................................................ 20

MAP 8 – Oakdale Mill Portage and Trailhead Map ............................................... 25

MAP 9 - Regional Trail Recommendations Map..................................................... 29

MAP 10 – Land Parcels Adjacent the Regional Trail Corridor .............................. 31

TABLE 3 – Privately Owned (P) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail ................................................................................................................ 33

TABLE 4 – Water Authority Owned (WA) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail ............................................................................................. 37

TABLE 5 – City and County Owned (C) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail .......................................................................................................... 39

Section 1: Project Background

In July of 2008 the Town of Jamestown requested the Piedmont Triad Council of Governments (PTCOG) assistance in developing the Town of Jamestown Deep River Trail Plan. The plan was developed in cooperation with the Jamestown Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, the Town Council, Town staff, Guilford County staff, High Point staff, State Parks & Recreation staff, and multiple landowners along the Deep River Trail corridor. The plan has five sections providing assessments and recommendations for these primary project elements:

• Local Blueway (Paddling) Trail – provide recommendations for the location & design of put-in and take-out access sites for a local blueway (paddling) trail along the Deep River from City Lake Park to the Oakdale Mill dam;

• Local Greenway (Hiking) Trail – provide recommendations for the location & design of trailheads and the alignment of a local greenway (hiking) trail along the Deep River from City Lake Park to the Oakdale Mill dam; and

• Regional Greenway and Blueway Trail – provide recommendations for the conceptual alignment of a regional greenway trail along the Deep River corridor from Oakdale Mill dam south to the Southwest Guilford County Park.

The extent of the study area for the proposed local trail is from City Lake Park on the north side of West Main Street south along the Deep River to the Oakdale Mill dam. The regional trail study area is from the Oakdale Mill dam south along the Deep River to the Southwest Guilford County Park located along the northern reaches of Randleman Lake (see MAP 1 – Study Area below).

MAP 1 – Study Area

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Deep River Heritage Corridor Proposal – 1995

The Town of Franklinville began planning for a Deep River greenway trail in the late 1980s, by acquiring railroad right-of-way along the river from the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railway. The town currently has a mile of trail along the former railway that was designated in 2009. A plan for the designation and development of a regional Deep River Cultural Heritage Corridor was first proposed by Franklinville Mayor, Mac Whatley, in 1995 (see Appendix A - The Deep River Heritage Corridor Proposal or on line at http://216.162.2.100/).

Mayor Whatley drafted a bill for the North Carolina Legislature in 1999 calling for designation and funding of the Deep River Heritage Corridor. The draft bill was endorsed by Randolph County, Guilford County, the Randolph County Tourism Development Authority and the Town of Franklinville in 2000. The bill was passed by the NC State Senate in 2001, however, it was not passed by the NC House of Representatives.

In 2005 Mayor Whatley unsuccessfully applied for a Rural Center grant to involve the Towns of Franklinville, Ramseur, and Randleman in establishing a cultural heritage corridor along the Deep River. In 2005 Mayor Whatley also applied for and received a $50,000 state trails grant to establish a trail head at the former NC Wildlife Commission boat ramp, which the Town of Franklinville purchased from the State. These grant funds were also intended to refurbish two steel bridges offered by NCDOT. The Town of Ramseur recently received funding from the NC Clean Water management Trust Fund (CWMTF) to plan and build a greenway trail along a portion of the abandoned railroad right-or-way running adjacent to the Deep River.

Much research and groundwork has been done along the Deep River over the past two decades. Numerous communities would very much like to see the corridor’s rich cultural and natural heritage recognized and preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Urban Design Assistance Team – 1996

The Deep River Trail was a part of the Urban Design Assistance Team (UDAT) project in 1996. With a vision of expanding connections to the existing Bicentennial Trail and the Piedmont Environmental Center, Jamestown in Motion (JIM) carried the project forward in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The JIM committee worked to build the Deep River Trail from the Mendenhall Plantation to Oakdale Mill at Harvey Road. Major achievements of the JIM Committee included the construction of walking trails, a small footbridge, a canoe access site and a Native American Village in and around the Mendenhall Plantation at the northern part of the study area. A paved walking trail was including as part of the River Walk Development on the west side of the Deep River along Dillon Road as a result of the UDAT plan and the efforts of the JIM Committee. In addition, an 80-foot steel footbridge was constructed across the Deep River along the east side of Dillon Road to provide pedestrian and bicycle access from River Walk towards downtown Jamestown.

The JIM committee also worked with Guilford Technical Community College and interested citizens to help determine the alignment of the Deep River Trail. An engineer was hired to help determine the feasibility and cost of trail sections at the intersection of the North Carolina Railroad and other natural obstacles. Unfortunately, Deep River Trail planning stalled around 2002 or 2003, due to unsuccessful outreach to the Norfolk Southern Railroad Corporation regarding access under a North Carolina Railroad bridge, a failed attempt to get a pedestrian bridge over Main Street at City Lake Park and some landowner concerns about liability and other issues.

Renewed interest in the Deep River Trail sparked this current planning effort. The designation of the Deep River State Trail in 2007 by the North Carolina General Assembly is helping to galvanize a range of planning efforts in the counties along the Deep River. The Deep River State Trail planning and development will be coordinated by the State Parks System with local governments, land conservancies, non-profits, private landowners and recreation interests. The Deep River corridor offers tremendous potential for linking natural, cultural and recreational resources, generating economic development. Jamestown and High Point are uniquely positioned to highlight the importance of preserving the upper reaches of the Deep River. In addition, the development of Randleman Lake and Southwest Park a few miles downstream from Jamestown has helped generate additional interest in a blueway paddling trail and greenway land trail along the Deep River corridor.

Deep River State Park Trail Designation – 2007

The Deep River State Park Trail became an authorized unit of the North Carolina State Parks System in 2007. This designation enables the NC Division of Parks and Recreation to coordinate the planning, acquisition, development and maintenance of land- and water-based trails in partnership with federal, state, regional and local agencies, land conservancies, non-profits and landowners. The project will seek to protect the natural and cultural resources and enhance the recreational potential of the Deep River corridor in Guilford, Randolph, Chatham, Moore and Lee Counties.

The Deep River corridor links multiple conservation lands and a wide range of cultural and recreation resources providing excellent opportunities for tourism development in a five-county area. The river is also nationally significant for its biological resources including a globally rare species of fish (the Cape Fear Shiner) and mussel (the Atlantic Pigtoe). Along the river’s edge, scenic bluffs and rock outcrops alternate with areas of high quality floodplain forests. The low-density, rural landscape along much of the corridor provides valuable wildlife and riparian buffers. The Deep River corridor played a significant role in the historic development of the piedmont region of North Carolina. The corridor retains evidence of a 19th century mill economy, including a 19th century canal and lock system for navigation; the Endor Iron Furnace Historic Site, the Deep River Coal Field Historic Site and the House in the Horseshoe State Historic Site – an 18th century plantation.

Initial trail planning efforts focus on establishing a regional blueway paddle trail starting below the Randleman Lake Dam in the Town of Randleman, and running downstream to the confluence of the Deep River and Haw River below the Jordan Lake Dam near the Town of Moncure in Lee County. The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources currently manages nearly 1,000 acres of land along the Deep River while the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources manages another 400 acres, including the House in the Horseshoe State Historic Site & the Endor Iron Furnace Historic Site. In addition, the Triangle Land Conservancy owns and manages 583 acres along the Deep River, including the White Pines Nature Preserve and the La Grange Riparian Preserve. Several of these preserves and management areas may serve as public access sites and recreational facilities along the proposed paddle trail. The proposed Jamestown Regional Trail Plan links the High Point Environmental Center and City Lake Park in Jamestown, to the South-East Guilford County Park on Randleman Lake. A portage trail around the Randleman Lake dam would link this “above dam” section of the trail to the remainder of the Deep River State Park Trail (see MAP 2 – Proposed Deep River State Park Trail).

MAP 2 - Deep River State Park Trail Corridor

Implementation of the blueway paddling trail and greenway hiking trail from Jamestown to Randleman will provide a successful model for the future development of a regional blueway and greenway trail system linking Greensboro, Asheboro, the N.C. Zoological Park, Jordan Lake and eventually the Cape Fear River corridor to Raven Rock State Park and beyond. The NC Division of Parks and Recreation is bringing together local governments, nonprofit organizations, landowners and interested citizens to begin developing a comprehensive plan for the Deep River State Trail. Participation in the project will be voluntary, recognizing private property rights and interests. Funding sources for land acquisition will likely include the Parks and Recreation, Natural Heritage and Clean Water Management trust funds. Facilities on state parks system lands would qualify for support from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund portion dedicated to state parks’ capital projects. Additionally, some trail and access projects developed by local governments could qualify for funding through the trust fund’s local matching grants program.

Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Section 2: Local Blueway (Paddling) Trail

Put-In Sites

The PTCOG staff conducted field assessments and analyzed existing conditions data (i.e. ortho-photography, topography, hydrography, floodplains, vegetation; on-site and surrounding land uses, and land ownership) to identify three of the best potential put-in sites on three separate land parcels adjacent to West Main Street. Results of the existing conditions analysis and field assessments were used to generate conceptual designs for each site. The PTCOG staff interviewed landowners to determine their level of interest in and support for the project. The pros (+) and cons (-) of each site are summarized below for the preferred and alternate concepts.

Concept A – Preferred Put-In at City Lake Park

(+) Publically owned by the City of High Point; (+) High level of owner interest & willingness to participate in the project; (+) Abundant existing paved parking; (+) < 100 feet from parking area to river access; (+) < 8% bank slope & 2 foot bank height requires few steps (3-5); (+) The City of High Point is willing to cover materials and installation costs; (–) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Concept B – Alternate Put-In on Historic Jamestown / Ragsdale Brothers Parcels

(+)Historic Jamestown owns 2 parcels - high level of interest & willingness; (+)George Ragsdale owns 1 parcel - high level of interest & willingness; (+) Historic Jamestown is will provide access to proposed parking area; (+) George Ragsdale & City of High Point will allow parking area in ROW; ( ) 500 feet from parking area to river access; (–) 25% bank slope & 8 foot bank height requires multiple steps (15 – 25); (–) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown; (–) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Concept C – Alternate Put-In on Tucker Parcel

(+) A level area near Wade Street is available to accommodate parking; (+) Would be owned & operated by the Town of Jamestown; (–) Privately owned by Mr. Billy Tucker - low level of interest & willingness; (–) Owner wants a high selling price to recoup his investment ($150,000); ( ) A large majority of the parcel is located within the 100-year floodplain; (–) 300 feet from parking area to river access; (–) 25% bank slope & 8 foot bank height requires multiple steps (15 – 25); (–) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown.

Concept A – Preferred Blueway Put-in at City Lake Park

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Concept C - Alternate Put-In on Tucker Parcel

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

West Main Street

Take-Out Sites

PTCOG conducted field assessments and analyzed existing conditions data to identify and generate conceptual designs for four potential blueway take-out sites (see MAP 3 – Four Potential Take-Out Sites). Concept A and B are located on the south-west bank of the Deep River above the Oakdale Mill dam along Bales Chapel Road. Concept C is located on the south-west bank of the river below the dam at the intersection of Harvey Road and Bales Chapel Road. Concept D is located on the north-east side of the river above the dam at the end of Logan Court in Oakdale Mill Village. PTCOG interviewed the landowners to determine their level of interest in and support for the project. The pros (+) and cons (-) of each site are summarized below for the preferred and alternate take-out site concepts.

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Concept A – Preferred Take-Out on Torres Parcel along Bales Chapel Road

(+) High level of owner support for using High Point ROW for parking and trail; (+/–) Moderate level of support for using Torres parcel for parking area; (+/–) 900 feet from parking area to river access; (–) Requires new parking area which may conflict with owner’s goals; (–) 10% bank slope & 25 foot hill requires multiple steps (15 - 25); ( ) Requires design & installation of a 20 foot bridge over creek; (–) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown; (–) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Concept B – Alternate Take-Out on Allbright Parcel along Bales Chapel Road

(+) High level of support for using High Point ROW for parking area and trail; (+) Does not require 20 foot bridge over creek; (–) Unknown level of owner support for using Allbright parcel for parking; (–) Requires new parking area / may conflict with owner’s goals; (–) 1,000 feet from parking area to river access; ( ) 10% bank slope & 25 foot hill requires multiple steps (15 - 25); (–) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown; (–) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Concept C – Alternate Take-Out on Torres Parcel along Harvey Road

( ) Unknown level of owner support for using Torres parcel for parking area; (–) Requires 700 foot portage from river access around dam to parking area; (–) Requires new parking area with substantial cut and fill grading; (–) Flat bank but may require substantial boardwalk through wetlands area; (–) Requires design & installation of parking and boardwalk; ( ) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown; (–) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Concept D – Alternate Take-Out on Andy Parcel at the end of Logan Court

(+) Only 100 feet from river access to parking area; (–) Owner’s nephew is unsupportive of using Andy parcel for take-out; ( ) Low level of owner support for using Andy parcel for parking & take-out; (–) 8% bank slope and 10 foot rise may require 10-15 steps; (–) Requires new parking area; (–) Way to pay for cost of design, materials & installation is unknown; ( ) Would not be owned or operated by the Town of Jamestown.

Jamestown – Deep River Trail

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Section 3: Local Greenway (Hiking) Trail

In March 2009, PTCOG staff met with Town Manager, Catherine Billings and Town Planner, Matthew Johnson to build consensus around the preferred location and conceptual design of proposed blueway (paddling) trail put-in and take-out sites. Town staff also directed PTCOG to expand its initial scope of work to include providing recommendations for the location & design of trailheads and the general alignment of a local greenway (hiking) trail along the same segment of the Deep River, from City Lake Park to the Oakdale Mill dam.

Trailhead Sites

Town and PTCOG staff reviewed and discussed the various greenway trailhead options and concluded it would be logical and most cost-efficient to designate the preferred blueway access sites on the west bank of the river as preferred greenway trailhead sites also. Therefore, PTCOG began its field assessments and detailed existing conditions analysis on the west bank of the river.

Trail Alignment

The other key factor persuading Town and PTCOG staff to look more closely at the west bank is the City of High Point’s 100-foot wide sewer right-of-way (R.O.W.) running along the west bank of the river from City Lake Park to Harvey Road (see MAP 4 – Ortho-Photo - High Point Sewer R.O.W.). In April 2009, PTCOG and Town staff met with City of High Point staff to discuss use of High Point’s City Lake Park as a preferred trailhead and put-in, and use of the City’s sewer right-of-way as a greenway hiking trail. High Point City staff enthusiastically supported both ideas and encouraged Jamestown to pursue the concept. Over the next several weeks, PTCOG staff interviewed most of the landowners along the west bank of the river to collect information about the level of land owner interest in, and support for a hiking trail along the west bank of the Deep River. Affected landowners were asked specifically about the potential use of the City of High Point sewer right-of-way (R.O.W.) as a trail. Some landowners were also asked about the use of their properties for blueway and greenway access sites (see MAP 5 – Land Parcels Adjacent the Trail Corridor.) The following tables provide contact information and interview results of landowners on both the west and east banks of the river (see TABLE 1 – West Bank Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results, and TABLE 2 – East Bank Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results).

MAP 4 – Ortho-Photo - High Point Sewer R.O.W.

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

MAP 5 – Land Parcels Adjacent to the Trail Corridor

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

TABLE 1 – WEST BANK Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results

W1 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-038

W2 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-046

Torres Manuel & Barbara 1315 Bales Chapel Rd 9.65 $539,400 815 Larkwood Dr Greensboro NC 27410

Mr. Manny Torres expressed a moderate level of interest in the project. He has some reservations because of his plans for future development of a storage business on the site. He is open to the possibility of accommodating the preferred trail head into the design of his potential future business. PTCOG offered to provide landscape architectural design services for the proposed business.

Allbright Scott Benjamin & Patricia Doyle 1215 Bales Chapel Rd 5.75 $168,800 1215 Bales Chapel Rd Jamestown NC 27282 (Unknown)

W4 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-018 Poteat Esther M & Marie 1111 Bales Chapel Rd 11.02 $127,500 1209 Bales Chapel Rd Jamestown NC 27282 W5 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-017 Poteat Marie 925 Bales Chapel Rd 25.56 $117,800 1209 Bales Chapel Rd Jamestown NC 27282

W7 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-053 Poteat Marie 526-R1 Oakdale Rd 30.15 $135,800 1209 Bales Chapel Rd Jamestown NC 27282

W3 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-002 Poteat Marie 1209 Bales Chapel Rd 2.98 $182,900 1209 Bales Chapel Rd Jamestown NC 27282 Ms. Poteat expressed a high level of interest in hosting the project on her land if it is part of a bigger regional effort to preserve the Deep River (e.g. establish a greenway corridor (and trail) from the headwaters to South West Guilford Park on Randleman Lake). She is not interested in selling or donating an easement. However, she may be interested in the fee-simple sale of her land to be preserved as open space in perpetuity and for use as a regional greenway park. She should have the results of a recent property assessment in June 2009. Ms. Poteat also has a high interest in having as much of the sewer R.O.W. as possible planted to support wildlife habitat.

W6 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-054 Moore Steven Richard 925-R1 Bales Chapel Rd 2.85 $6,200 913 Roosevelt Dr Chapel Hill NC 27514

Mr. Steven Moore expressed a high level of interest in having his land preserved as a natural area, participating in the trail project and having some of the sewer R.O.W. reforested. He is willing to “go along with whatever Ms. Poteat agrees to”.

W8 15-94-7039-0-0938-00-042 Oakdale Cotton Mills 612- Near Oakdale Mill Rd 7.29 $256,900 710 Oakdale Rd Jamestown NC 27282

Mr. George Ragsdale is certain his Uncle, Mr.Gus Andy (the owner) has a high level of interest in participating in the greenway trail project on the west bank. He may be willing to donate or sell an easement. Mr. Ragsdale doubts that Mr. Andy is interested in hosting a trail along the east bank of the river. However, a trail easement will need to be accommodated in the bridge design for the proposed Jamestown By-Pass (see MAP 4 – Preliminary NCDOT Design Plans for the Jamestown By-Pass / Deep River Bridge (U-2412A).

Mr. Paul Watson manages the homeowners associations for the River Walk of Guilford County (W9 – 49 Single Family Homes) and the Crossings at River Walk (W11 - 44 Townhomes). Riverwalk residents have a moderate level of interest in deeding the existing asphalt trail located on the perimeter of their subdivision to the Town to own and maintain. Crossings residents have already deeded their neighborhood’s portion of the trail (Parcel W12) to the Town. Both ends of this trail connect to the existing sidewalk and pedestrian bridge along the east side of Dillon Road, and provide access to downtown Jamestown.

Map

ID Parcel Number Owner Street Address Acres Value Owner Address Owner City Owner State Owner ZIP Interview Results and Level of Owner Interest (Low / Moderate / High)

PTCOG was unable to reach the owners.

W13 15-94-7039-K-1004-00-300

TABLE 1 – WEST BANK Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results (Continued)

River Walk West Town Homes 100-Near Misty Waters Ln 4.24 $127,200 PO Box 49514 Greensboro NC 27419

W10 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-009 River Walk I LLC 3446-3456 Dillon Rd 4.92 $98,400 524 College Rd Unit 308B Greensboro NC 27410

W14 15-94-7039-K-1004-00-201 River Walk LLC 3511-R1 Dillon Rd 1.53 $45,900 PO Box 49514 Greensboro NC 27419

Residents of the River Walk West Town Homes (W13 – 47 condos) may be supportive of hosting a small portion of the trail project along the southern edge of their neighborhood’s common area if necessary. Riverwalk LLC (owned by Mr. Bob Waugh) owns parcels W10, W14 and W15. Mr. Waugh has a moderate level of interest in the trail project. However, portions of these 4 parcels are within the proposed alignment for the Jamestown By-Pass. Therefore, it is critical for NCDOT to include the proposed greenway trail alignment in the right-of-way purchase and design process for the proposed By-Pass project (TIP #U-2412).

W15 15-94-7039-K-1004-00-200 River Walk I LLC 3511 Dillon Rd 2.52 $75,600 PO Box 49514 Greensboro NC 27419

W16 18-00-0083-0-0003-00-003 A City of High Point 4309 Pump Station Rd 25.00 $1,173,700 PO Box 230 High Point NC 27261

The City of High Point Utilities and Parks & Recreation Department staffs have a high level of interest in the project and are willing to host the trail either east or west of the City’s existing pump station. At the northern tip of this triangular parcel, the preferred trail alignment passes under both an existing and a proposed North Carolina Railroad bridge. The west bank of the river is narrow and steep, requiring a timber boardwalk to accommodate foot traffic and maintain adequate vegetated buffer. In addition to a recreational trail easement, cooperation from the NCRR is needed to accommodate the trail in the design of its new bridge.

W17 00-00-0830-0-0010-00-04 Wrennovation, LLC 4035-4039 Pump Station Rd 15.81 $9,600 PO Box 667 Jamestown NC 27282 Mr. George Ragsdale is partial owner of these three parcels and has a high level of interest in hosting the trail on either the east or west side of the existing pond.

W19 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-001 Ragsdale Brothers LLC 601-B W Main St 2.66 $79,800 PO Box 667 Jamestown NC 27282

W21 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-006 Ragsdale Brothers LLC 501-599 W Main St 23.48 $457,900 PO Box 667 Jamestown NC 27282

W22 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-065 Greatest Generation Inc 501-Near W Main St 9.13 $273,900 4615 Randolph Church Rd Liberty NC 27298

W18 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-008 Historical Jamestown 301-A W Main St 3.31 $132,400 PO Box 27644 Raleigh NC 27611

Mr. Richard Bennett is President of Greatest Generation, LLC, which owns and operates the Shannon Gray Rehabilitation Center on this site. Mr. Bennett has a high level of interest in exploring the opportunity of linking his facility with the proposed trail to provide access for his clients to the historic Mendenhall Plantation, City Lake Park, downtown and others points of interest along the trail.

W20 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-003 Historical Jamestown 603 W Main St 4.71 $141,400 PO Box 512 Jamestown NC 27282

Mr. Billy Harris is the President of the Board of Directors of Historical Jamestown. The Board has a high level of interest in hosting the proposed trail on its properties and a trailhead and paddling put-in as necessary. A primitive put-in and narrow, natural surface trail currently exists on the site.

TABLE 2 – EAST BANK Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results

E1 15-94-7039-0-0938-00-001 Reid Thomas & Cynthia 4857 Harvey Rd 12.49 $91,400 4857 Harvey Rd Jamestown NC 27282 PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of this parcel.

North Point Family Limited Partnership 612 Oakdale Rd 68.89 $1,626,700 1316 Beach Ave Cape May NJ 82040 Mr. George Ragsdale believes the owner of these two parcels, Mr. Gus Andy (his uncle), has a low level of interest in hosting the trail on either property. E4 15-94-7039-0-0952-00-009

E2 15-94-7039-0-0951-00-001

North Point Family Limited Partnership 304 McClure Rd 19.48 $149,500 1316 Beach Ave Cape May NJ 82040

E3 15-94-7039-0-0952-00-031

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 514-R1 Oakdale Rd 12.21 $361,500 PO Box 25201 Raleigh NC 27611 PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of this parcel.

E5 15-94-7039-0-0952-00-070 Kress LLC 109 Ragsdale Rd 18.48 $2,792,700 PO Box 577

Jamestown NC 27282

PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of this parcel.

E6 15-94-7039-0-0952-00-083 Molly Froelich 107 Ragsdale Rd 2.03 $88,800 PO Box 757

Jamestown NC 27282

PTCOG was contacted by, and met with the new owner of this parcel, Molly Froelich. Ms. Froelich is very interested in providing a greenway hiking trail easement and a paddling trail access site on her property. She is also very interested in pursuing the preservation and rehabilitation of the historic grist mill and farm house on her site, for use as a bike and boat outfitter and coffee/gift/book shop. Ms. Froelich has also expressed an interest in meeting with Marie Poteat to discuss the possibility of purchasing her properties and providing a public easement for the proposed greenway trail.

E7 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-042 Wrennovation LLC 124-R1 Wade St 33.28 $160,700 PO Box 667 Jamestown NC 27282

E9 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-043

E10 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-044

Glover Bobby Ray & Jo Anne H Ballas 120 Wade St 0.76 $269,100 114 Woodmont Rd Jamestown NC 27282

Mr. George Ragsdale has a high level of interest in selling the forest parcel to Guilford County or another public entity to be preserved as open space and/or to host a public park and greenway trail on the east bank of the river. E8 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-024 Ford Simon David & Terri L 120-Near Wade St 1.16 $502,800 407 Wyndwood Dr Jamestown NC 27282 PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of these three parcels. All three parcels contain manufacturing uses that are located relatively close to the river leaving little room to accommodate a trail. These manufacturing operations generate a high level of noise, further reducing the appropriateness of these parcels for recreational purposes.

Henkel Allen C & Leann S 118 Wade St 1.00 $301,900 118 Wade St Jamestown NC 27282

E11 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-017 Stafford Sarah K 110 Wade St 2.64 $138,900 PO Box 2189 Jamestown NC 27282 PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of this parcel.

E12 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-036 Tucker Billy R 104 Wade St 1.86 $34,600 4110 Ironwood Circle Apt 204 Bradenton FL 34209

Mr. Billy Tucker has a high level of interest in selling this parcel of land for use as a Town park, trailhead and paddling put-in. Mr. Tucker has asked the Town to make him an offer.

E13 15-94-7039-0-1003-00-031 Jamestown Village Assoc LLC 502 W Main St 5.30 $2,052,400 598 Bonnyneck Dr Georgetown SC 29440 PTCOG did not attempt to contact the owners of this parcel.

Map ID Parcel Number Owner Street Address Acres Value Owner Address Owner City Owner State Owner ZIP

Interview Results and Level of Owner Interest (Low / Medium / High)

MAP 6 – Preliminary NCDOT Design Plans for the Jamestown By-Pass / Deep River Bridge (U-2412A)

Section 4: Local Trail Recommendations

Local Trail Recommendations Map

The recommended location of local trail access sites and alignments, and where photos were taken to highlight key design issues are shown in MAP 7 - Local Trail Recommendations Map).

Local Trail Action Steps

Preferred Local Blueway Trail Put-In Site at City Lake Park Share Concept A with High Point Parks and Recreation Department and City Public Services Department;

Seek and secure funding for design and construction of a Highly Developed (Level 4) Blueway Access Site (e.g. Town budget, CWMTF, Adopt-A-Trail, PARTF);

Design, construct and open access sites as funding allows.

Preferred Local Blueway Take-Out Site on Torres Parcel along Bales Chapel Road Share Concept A with property owners – Torres, Andy, and Allbright and City of High Point Public Services Department; Secure public trail and blueway access easement; Secure funding for design and construction of a Simple Minor (Level 2) Blueway Access Site with bridge and steps (e.g. Town budget, CWMTF, Adopt-A-Trail, PARTF);

Design, construct and open access sites as funding allows.

Preferred Local Greenway Alignment on the West Side of the Deep River Share the recommended greenway trail route with property owners – Torres, Allbright, Poteat, Moore, Oakdale Cotton Mills, Riverwalk, Crossings at Riverwalk, City of High Point Public Services Department, Wrennovations, Ragsdale Brothers, Greatest Generation, Historic Jamestown and NCRR; Seek and secure funding for design and construction of a 5- to 8-foot rock dust trail (e.g. Town budget, CWMTF, Adopt-A-Trail, PARTF);

Design, construct and open sections of the proposed trail as funding allows.

MAP 7 - Local Trail Recommendations Map

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

7. Sewer Easement near River Walk subdivision 8. Existing River Walk trail needing improvement 9. Location of potential paddling take-out from across the river looking West 10. Potential trailhead on Bales Chapel Road to access greenway and paddle access

Area above Oakdale Mill dam 12. Existing bridge below Oakdale Mill dam 13. Potential seasonal paddling put-in, shown here in Spring 14. Deep River south of Harvey Road bridge, shown here in Fall

Section 5: Regional Blueway & Greenway Trail

Background

In March 2009, Town staff directed PTCOG to expand its initial scope of work to provide recommendations for the location & design of regional blueway and greenway trailheads and the general alignment of a regional greenway (hiking) trail along the Deep River from the Oakdale Mill south to the newly constructed South-West Guilford Park located along the shores of Randleman Lake.

Regional Blueway Trail Recommendations

A portage trail around the Oakdale Mill dam would enable paddlers to navigate the Deep River from City Lake Park in Jamestown to South-West Guilford Park located on the northeast shore of Randleman Lake. The preferred trailhead with parking (see MAP 8 – Oakdale Mill Portage and Trailhead Map below) would also allow paddlers to start their trip above Harvey Road in winter & spring, and several hundred feet below Harvey Road in summer & fall, when water levels are low.

MAP

8

– Oakdale Mill Portage and Trailhead Map

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

T he water level between Oakdale Mill & Harvey Road is too low for easy paddling much of the year. Therefore, alternative paddling access sites may be considered where the river intersects with Harvey Road (at B-85), Kivett Drive, Riverdale Drive (at I-85), and Groometown Road. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) recently agreed to work cooperatively to create additional water access sites at bridges throughout the state when projects are listed in the NCDOT’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The agreement will allow the agencies to cooperate in the planning, permitting and right of way purchasing at bridge sites to create angling and boating access for the public.

Other key issues concerning development of a paddling trail along this stretch of the Deep River were identified in an interview with John Kime, Executive Director for the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority (PTRWA). Mr. Kime was asked about the possibility of establishing a blueway paddling trail along the Deep River and Randleman Lake, from the Oakdale Mill in Jamestown, to the SouthWest Guilford Park. Below is a summary of Mr. Kime’s answers:

What are the main challenges to establishing a Blueway Paddle Trail from Oakdale Mill in Jamestown to South-West Guilford Park?

• “PTRWA claims ownership of Randleman Lake and the portion of the Deep River inundated by the impoundment.”

• “The PTRWA Board has voted to disallow paddling on the Deep River because of the liability for potential injury from the existing shooting range.”

• “The PTRWA is unlikely to allow paddling on the river until the shooting range issue is resolved.”

• “There is no source of revenue for any use other than providing drinking water on Lake Randleman – so there is no fishing, paddling, portage around the dam, land trails, or any other recreation or flood control use allowed on or around the lake according to our permit.”

What are your recommendations for overcoming these challenges?

•

“The PTRWA Board needs to determine what types of recreation they want to allow on the lake and how it will be paid for. Right now we’re only in the water business. How would policing of recreational uses monitoring of key issues such as safety, hydrilla, zebra mussels, drinking water quality and liability be paid for? And who would pay for it?”

• “Guilford County could take the paddling liability from PTRWA and allow paddling on the Deep River, but paddling on the Lake to or from South-West Guilford Park would still not be allowed under our current permit.”

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

In response to Mr. Kime’s answers Roger Bardsley with Guilford County stated:

• “We [Guilford County] are looking forward to the South-West Guilford Park on Randleman Lake opening in the spring, and having lots of paddlers enjoy the experience. We like the idea of a paddling trail from Jamestown to SouthWest Guilford Park, but whether or not that happens is entirely up to the Water Authority. We recommend the County operate its paddle access for a year or two, and revisit the question after the Water Authority has established a revenue stream from the sale of treated water and is comfortable with our stewardship of the lake.”

Regional Greenway (Hiking) Trail Recommendations

PTCOG also asked Mr. Kime about the possibility of establishing a greenway hiking trail along the Deep River and Randleman Lake, from Oakdale Mill to the South-West Guilford Park. Below is a summary of Mr. Kime’s answers:

What are the main challenges to establishing a Greenway Hiking Trail from Oakdale Mill in Jamestown to South-West Guilford Park?

• “The original plan for the lake included 10,000-12,000 acres for both flood control and recreational uses. However, the locals were not interested in recreation, so our buffer area is permitted for mitigation only.”

• “The PTRWA Board is unwilling to revisit this issue because we can’t limit the discussion to just one issue. For instance, if we re-open the permitting process to talk about potential recreational (trail) uses within the buffer area or on the lake, we would have to open up the discussion to anything the public wants to talk about and our Board is not likely to be willing to do that.”

What are your recommendations for overcoming these challenges?

• “I recommend Roger Bardsley and Alex Ashton [i.e. Guilford County staff] buy land from Oakdale Mill south to the South-West Guilford County Park, outside of our existing 200-feet wide buffer area to create a land trail [on the county’s own property].”

The recommended alignment of the regional greenway trail, based on results of field assessments and existing conditions analysis (including existing High Point sewer easements & proposed trail alignments) continues to follow the High Point sewer easement along the west side of the Deep River from Oakdale Mill south to Groometown Road. The preferred trail route then crosses the Deep River via a dedicated pedestrian way over the Groometown Road bridge or a pedestrian bridge hanging from the bridge. The proposed trail then proceeds east along the south side of Groometown Road, and turns south along the northeast side of parcels P-93, P-92 & WA-91to the S-W Guilford Park trail system.

Regional Trail Recommendations Map

The recommended location of regional trail access sites and alignments, and where photos were taken to highlight key design issues are shown in MAP 9Regional Trail Recommendations Map).

Regional Trail Land Parcels Map and Tables

To determine the feasibility of the recommended regional trail alignment, landowners along both banks of the river will need to be interviewed to determine their level of interest in, and support for a paddling trail access site and/or greenway hiking trail along this section of the Deep River. The following map highlights the land parcels most affected by the proposed trail alignment (see MAP 10 – Land Parcels Adjacent the Regional Trail Corridor).

Land parcel and ownership information and a place for entering information about landowner interest in the proposed regional trail is provided in the following tables (TABLE 3 – Private (P) Land Owner Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail, TABLE 4 – Piedmont Triad Regional WATER AUTHORITY Owned (WA) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail, and TABLE 5 – City and County Owned (C) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail).

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail

Photos illustrating Access Sites, Key Trail Sections and Issues

1. Potential Parking Area and River Access Looking West at River Road and Business 85

2. Potential River Access Across Deep River Looking East at Kivett Drive

3. Potential River Access Looking East at Kivett Drive

4. Potential River Access Looking South at Entrance to High Point Police Firing Range on Riverdale Road

5. Potential Land Trail Access Looking North at Groometown Road on the West Side Randleman Lake

6. Groometown Road Bridge Over Randleman Lake Looking East

MAP 10 – Land Parcels Adjacent the Regional Trail Corridor

MAP 10 – Land Parcels Adjacent the Regional Trail Corridor (continued)

P-1 159470390093800042

OAKDALE COTTON MILLS 612-NEAR OAKDALE MILL RD 1.53 $91,300 710 OAKDALE RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-2 159470390093800015 REYNOLDS RITA S 5200 RIVER RD 1.33 $115,300 5200 RIVER ROAD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-4 159470390093800027

DURST HAROLD A AND CINDY D GRUBB 5208 RIVER RD 0.64 $64,800 5208 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-5 159470390093800014 MATHIS JERRINE B 5211 RIVER RD 2.15 $300,100 5211 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-7 159470390093800008 RAGSDALE BROTHERS LLC 5219-5229 RIVER RD 5.22 $64,000 P O BOX 667 JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-8 159470390093800007 GREESON ELIZABETH T 5235-5237 RIVER RD 12.12 $80,600 403 EDWARDS PLACE JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-9 159470390093800002

GREESON ELIZABETH T 5233 RIVER RD 1.61 $95,000 403 EDWARDS PLACE JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-10 159470390093800007 GREESON ELIZABETH T 5235-5237 RIVER RD 2.58 $80,600 403 EDWARDS PLACE JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-11 159470390093800006 SINK H DEAN & CAROLYN M 5251 RIVER RD 50.89 $361,100 5251 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282 P-12 159470410093900008 JACKSON WILLIAM T & MARION H 5266 RIVER RD 4.14 $163,800 5266 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-15 159470410093900012 LINEBERRY KERRY D & BILLIE C 5300 RIVER RD 0.95 $127,500 5300 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-16 159470410093900009 GRIFFIN DAVID H JR 5301-5305 RIVER RD 0.98 $21,500 5395 RIVER ROAD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-17 159168070088400007

CALEDONIA ENTERPRISES LLC 5315 RIVER RD 2.07 $115,900 PO BOX 20570 GREENSBORO NC 27420

CALEDONIA ENTERPRISES LLC 5315 RIVER RD 23.08 $115,900 PO BOX 20570 GREENSBORO NC 27420 P-18 159168070088400007

P-20 159168070088400005 GALLONI CARL A & JAN H 5330 RIVER RD 5.16 $43,600 5334 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282 P-21 159168070088400006 GALLONI CARL A & JAN H 5334 RIVER RD 5.82 $221,500 5334 RIVER RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-22 159168070088400011

CALEDONIA ENTERPRISES LLC 5351 RIVER RD 41.58 $595,300 PO BOX 20570 GREENSBORO NC 27420

CALEDONIA ENTERPRISES LLC 5351 RIVER RD 55.14 $595,300 PO BOX 20570 GREENSBORO NC 27420 P-23 159168070088400011

P-25 159168070088300006 UNGER LINDA H 4203 KIVETT DR 79.52 $195,000 4203 KIVETT DR JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-26 159168070087400006

CAMERON TERRI M HOLTON & MARTHA J HOLTON 4238 KIVETT DR 34.06 $14,200 4238 KIVETT DR JAMESTOWN NC 27282

Map Number Parcel Number

P-29 159168070087400006

CAMERON TERRI M HOLTON & MARTHA J HOLTON 4238 KIVETT DR 46.41 $14,200 4238 KIVETT DR JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-31 159470160088200001 CRUTCHFIELD W E & MAXINE 5452-5500 VICKREY CHAPEL RD 81.32 $79,600 5345 VICKREY CHAPEL RD GREENSBORO NC 27407 P-34 159470160087500008 WRENNOVATION LAND LLC 6001-R-1 HICKORY CREEK RD 56.86 $227,700 PO BOX 667 JAMESTOWN NC 27282 P-36 159470160087500003 TUR JOAN D 6068 HICKORY CREEK RD 50.69 $140,500 6068 HICKORY CREEK RD GREENSBORO NC 27407 P-39 159470160087600001 BELL LOIS SUITS & ANNIE M SHELLEY HEIRS 5626 GROOMETOWN RD 77.89 $12,300 1001 FOREST HILL DR GREENSBORO NC 27410

P-43 159470160081600019 HOLLAND J D & ESTHER M 5607 GROOMETOWN RD 29.59 $304,500 209 SEWARD AVE HIGH POINT NC 27265

P-44 159470160081500003 PRICE MARTA SMITH AND BRANDON E BRITT 6116 HICKORY CREEK RD 100.16 $23,400 4205 HOLLY GROVE COURT RANDLEMAN NC 27317

P-49 129168220081100003 CHILTON HERBERT ALLEN JR AND IRIS CHILTON WARD 6731 CHILTON RD 8.45 $128,400 3222 ROLLING RD HIGH POINT NC 27265 P-51 129168220081100002 MIDDLETON OTERIA L 6718 CHILTON RD 9.86 $170,800 6718 CHILTON RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-52 129168220081100002 MIDDLETON OTERIA L 6718 CHILTON RD 11.30 $170,800 6718 CHILTON RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-53 1291682200810S 005

TYNDALL LARRY LEE & BRENDA S TRUSTEES OF TYNDALL REVOC TRUS 6700 CHILTON RD 7.95 $16,500 910 GROVE CIRCLE THOMASVILLE NC 27360

P-54 1291682200810S 024 SHAW DONNA C 6191-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 0.46 $2,100 6180 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27287 P-55 1291682200810S 011 HOOVER NATHAN & BOBBIE 6201 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.07 $23,300 6203 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263 P-56 1291682200810S 009 HOOVER NATHAN & BOBBIE 6203 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.85 $52,000 6203 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263 P-57 129168220081100002 MIDDLETON OTERIA L 6718 CHILTON RD 0.54 $170,800 6718 CHILTON RD HIGH POINT NC 27263 P-58 1291682200810S

Map Number Parcel Number

P-70 129470160081500007

P-71 129470160081500011

SMITH STEPHEN L & VIRGINIA T 6184-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 5.97 $23,800 6184 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

SMITH STEPHEN L & VIRGINIA T 6184 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.28 $119,800 6184 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-72 129470160081500002 SHAW BOBBY L & DONNA C 6180 HICKORY CREEK RD 4.53 $100,000 6180 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-73 129470160081500010 SUITS MARIE MABE SMITH 6178 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.53 $34,300 6178 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-74 159470160081500017

SMITH-CHADWICK SYLVIA 6150-6170 HICKORY CREEK RD 6.03 $71,900 1703 CEDROW DR HIGH POINT NC 27260

P-75 129470160081500012 CHADWICK EDWARD T II & REBECCA 6181 HICKORY CREEK RD 3.22 $117,800 6181 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-76 129470160081500020 KENNEDY WILLIAM & STEPHANIE D 6171 HICKORY CREEK RD 3.01 $115,000 6171 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-77 129470160081500025 CHADWICK BENJAMIN K & CYNTHIA L 6169 HICKORY CREEK RD 5.03 $54,700 6165 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-78 129470160081500016

P-79 159470160081500001

P-81 159470160081500024

P-82 159470160081500004

P-83 159470160081500023

CHADWICK BENJAMIN K & CYNTHIA L 6165 HICKORY CREEK RD 6.29 $211,800 6165 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

SMITH-CHADWICK SYLVIA 6161 HICKORY CREEK RD 10.71 $106,100 1703 CEDROW DR HIGH POINT NC 27260

SMITH HAROLD E & PEGGY G 6145-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 10.92 $92,400 5205 OLD LAKE JEANETTE RD GREENSBORO NC 27455

SMITH HAROLD E & PEGGY G 6145 HICKORY CREEK RD 10.75 $159,300 5205 OLD LAKE JEANETTE RD GREENSBORO NC 27455

SMITH HAROLD E & PEGGY G 6145-R-1 HICKORY CREEK RD 10.66 $92,400 5205 OLD LAKE JEANETTE RD GREENSBORO NC 27455

CARROLL JAMES B & HELEN F 6131-6133 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.44 $36,700 9430 SUNSET STRIP FT LAUDERDALE FL 33322 P-85 159470160081600016

P-84 159470160081500013

CARROLL JAMES B & HELEN F 6127-6129 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.54 $36,300 9430 SUNSET STRIP FT LAUDERDALE FL 33322 P-86 159470160081500019

SMITH CHARLES E HEIRS C/O NANCY S SMITH 6116-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 0.12 $400 1764 JACKSON LAKE RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-87 159470160081600018 GARWOOD JOHN T 6121 HICKORY CREEK RD 2.27 $145,200 6121 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263 P-88 159470160081600021

P-89 159470160081600011

GARWOOD JOHN T 6115-6119 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.42 $34,700 6121 HICKORY CREEK RD HIGH POINT NC 27263

LEONARD MICHAEL & LISA 6113 HICKORY CREEK RD 2.47 $145,700 6113 HICKORY CREEK DR HIGH POINT NC 27263

P-90 159470160081600003 WINSLOW REBECCA D 6109 HICKORY CREEK RD 4.21 $171,300 6109 HICKORY CREEK ROAD HIGH POINT NC 27263

Map Number Parcel Number

P-92 159470160081600014

P-93 159470160081600008

P-94 159470390095100001

P-95 159470390095100038

P-96 159470390093800001

P-97 159470410093900041

P-98 159470410093900030

P-99 159470410093900030

P-100 159470410093900030

WINSLOW JASON T & CATHY S 6111 HICKORY CREEK RD 5.62 $229,400 6111 HICKORY CREEK ROAD HIGH POINT NC 27263

VEST EVERETTE L & MARIE C 6067 HICKORY CREEK RD 23.88 $367,400 2873 TUTTLE RD ARCHDALE NC 27263

NORTHPOINT FAMILY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP 612 OAKDALE RD 68.89 $1,626,7 00 1316 BEACH AVENUE CAPE MAY NJ 82040

TORRES MANUEL & BARBARA B 1315 BALES CHAPEL RD 9.52 $539,400 815 LARKWOOD DR GREENSBORO NC 27410

REID M THOMAS & CYNTHIA H 4857 HARVEY RD 12.58 $91,400 4857 HARVEY RD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

HARRIS INVESTMENT PROPERTIES LLC 5635-NEAR RIVERDALE DR 50.32 $18,409, 400 5015 HARVEY ROAD JAMESTOWN NC 27282

HARRIS ANDREW DARRELL & STELLA S 5001-R4 HARVEY RD 0.46 $9,600 PO BOX 1550 JAMESTOWN NC 27282

HARRIS ANDREW DARRELL & STELLA S 5001-R4 HARVEY RD 0.29 $9,600 PO BOX 1550 JAMESTOWN NC 27282

HARRIS ANDREW DARRELL & STELLA S 5001-R4 HARVEY RD 3.18 $9,600 PO BOX 1550 JAMESTOWN NC 27282

P-102 159470410093900002 5.83 $0

P-103 180004770000100010 INTERFACE JAMESTOWN LLC 4265 FURNITURE AV 5.21 $652,500 7777 GLADES RD STE 204 BOCA RATON FL 33434 P-104 180004770000100011

HENDRICKS FURNITURE GROUP INC 4271 FURNITURE AV 8.51 $585,900 PO BOX 3827 HICKORY NC 28603

P-105 180004770000100002 HENDRICKS FURNITURE GROUP INC 4274 FURNITURE AV 7.46 $445,200 PO BOX 3827 HICKORY NC 28603 P-106 159470410093900040 MARTIN MARIETTA MATERIALS INC 5725 RIVERDALE DR 110.90 $524,200 PO BOX 30013 RALEIGH NC 27622

P-107 159168070088300004

P-108 159168070088300010

HOWARD TOWA W & FLORA B GRISSO C/O MARTIN MARIETTA AGGREGATES ATTN EDNA MICHAEL 4153 KIVETT DR 36.68 $270,300 PO BOX 18565 GREENSBORO NC 27419

WESLEY & HELEN 4169

TABLE 4 – Water Authority Owned (WA) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail

Map Number Parcel Number

WA-3 159470390093800035

WA-6 159470390093800037

WA-13 159470390093800037

WA-14 159470410093900018

WA-19 159168070088400019

WA-24 159168070088400021

WA-27 159168070088400021

WA-28 159168070088300024

WA-30 159470160088200007

WA-32 159470160087500010

WA-35 159470160087500010

WA-37 159470160087500004

WA-38 159470160087600009

WA-40 159470160081500008

WA-41 159470160081500008

WA-42 159470160081500022

WA-45 159470160081500018

WA-46 129168220081100017

WA-47 129168220081100022

WA-48 129168220081100023

Owner

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5204-5206 RIVER RD 1.04 $4,400 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5234 RIVER RD 18.08 $99,100 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5234 RIVER RD 0.34 $99,100 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5300-REAR RIVER RD 2.52 $22,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5315-NEAR RIVER RD 4.35 $23,400 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5725-R1 RIVERDALE DR 47.27 $188,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5725-R1 RIVERDALE DR 1.96 $188,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 4238-NEAR KIVETT DR 15.15 $55,900 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5452-NEAR VICKREY CHAPEL RD 22.30 $109,200 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6013-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 9.81 $110,400 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6013-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 15.48 $110,400 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6068-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 4.83 $26,600 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1248-NEAR NC HIGHWAY 62 W 37.56 $299,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5708 GROOMETOWN RD 0.65 $152,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5708 GROOMETOWN RD 8.38 $152,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5607-NEAR GROOMETOWN RD 3.38 $22,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6116-REAR HICKORY CREEK RD 46.06 $183,500 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6194-R1 HICKORY CREEK RD 20.73 $71,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6718-R1 CHILTON RD 11.32 $79,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6731-NEAR CHILTON RD 45.45 $217,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

TABLE 4 – Water Authority Owned (WA) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail (Continued)

Map Number Parcel Number

WA-50 1291682200810S 023

WA-59 1291682200810S 004

WA-60 1291682200810S 016

WA-61 1291682200810S 016

WA-62 1291682200810S 023

WA-63 1291682000810N 007

WA-64 1291682200810S 021

WA-80 129470160081500014

WA-91 129168200080900006

WA-115 159470410093900029

WA-116 159470410093900019

WA-117 159168070088300026

WA-118 159168070088300001

WA-119 159168070088400021

WA-120 180004810000100001 A

WA-121 180004810000100001 A

WA-122 159470160087600009

WA-123 159470160081500008

WA-124 159470160081500008

WA-125 159470160081500015

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6718-R2 CHILTON RD 39.57 $210,900 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6219 HICKORY CREEK RD 2.16 $110,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6225-6227 HICKORY CREEK RD 0.42 $30,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6225-6227 HICKORY CREEK RD 1.89 $30,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6718-R2 CHILTON RD 0.08 $210,900 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6223 HICKORY CREEK RD 31.34 $53,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6203-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 7.76 $27,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6161-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 14.71 $57,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6125 HICKORY CREEK RD 148.94 $403,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5001-R3 HARVEY RD 8.81 $26,600 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5001-R2 HARVEY RD 5.95 $17,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 4173-NEAR KIVETT DR 8.84 $59,600 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 4175 KIVETT DR 1.22 $40,500 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5725-R1 RIVERDALE DR 0.24 $188,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 4164 KIVETT DR 45.27 $368,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 4164 KIVETT DR 31.78 $368,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1248-NEAR NC HIGHWAY 62 W 43.04 $299,000 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5708 GROOMETOWN RD 10.99 $152,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5708 GROOMETOWN RD 9.85 $152,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5709-NEAR GROOMETOWN RD 22.56 $87,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

TABLE 4 – Water Authority Owned (WA) Contact Information & Interview Results for Regional Trail (Continued)

Map Number Parcel Number Owner Street Address Acres

WA-126 159470180081400031

WA-127 159470160081500015

WA-128 129168220081100019

WA-129 129168220081100021

WA-130 129168220081100012

WA-131 129168220081100018

Address Owner City Owner State Owner ZIP Interview Results and Level of Owner Interest (Low / Moderate / High)

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1140-NEAR NC HIGHWAY 62 W 50.62 $171,700 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 5709-NEAR GROOMETOWN RD 0.29 $87,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1052-R1 NC HIGHWAY 62 W 20.64 $67,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1032-NEAR NC HIGHWAY 62 W 13.53 $48,300 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 1032-R1 NC HIGHWAY 62 W 5.11 $11,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY 6232-R1 LAKE FRONT RD 20.67 $73,800 2216 W MEADOWVIEW RD, WILMINGTON BLDG STE 217 GREENSBORO NC 27407

C-33 159470160087500002

CITY OF HIGH POINT 6001-NEAR HICKORY CREEK RD 36.73 $122,600 PO BOX 230 HIGH POINT NC 27261

C-65 1291682200810S 006 GUILFORD COUNTY 6191 HICKORY CREEK RD 17.54 $229,600 PO BOX 3427 GREENSBORO NC 27402 C-101 159470410093900038 TOWN OF JAMESTOWN 5005 HARVEY RD 4.39 $400,900 301 EAST MAIN STREET JAMESTOWN NC 27282

CITY OF HIGH POINT 5899-REAR RIVERDALE DR 2.07 $45,000 PO BOX 230 HIGH POINT NC 27261 C-114 180004810000100002 CITY OF HIGH POINT 5898 RIVERDALE DR 100.60 $1,781,2 00 PO BOX 230 HIGH POINT NC 27261

C-113 180004810000100004

Appendix A – 1995 Deep River Heritage Corridor Proposal

Overview

The Deep River Heritage Corridor will be a special type of state park located in a region of over half a million acres located within eight counties in central North Carolina. When designated by act of the North Carolina General Assembly the Corridor will preserve and interpret for present and future generations the unique and significant cultural heritage value of the Deep River watershed region. The cities, towns, villages and almost one million residents of the region share a cultural identity, shaped by a common past. The geography and natural environment of the Deep River watershed, its patterns of settlement and economic development, its religious and cultural traditions, unify these communities on a level deeper than the political boundari es that separate them. While some parts of Piedmont North Carolina possess a strong and growing commercial and industrial base, the only significant assets found in other small communities are historic sites, natural areas or cultural features which they lack the time, effort and expertise to identify and capitalize upon. Management tools such as historic properties commissions and watershed authorities are often difficult to create and maintain, and the necessary ordinances can be controversial and hard to enforce. Yet without such tools the very assets providing the cultural foundations and character of these communities are at risk. Cooperative planning, inter-local agreements and joint ventures among individuals, groups, cultural features which they lack the time, effort and expertise to identify and capitalize upon. Management tools such as historic properties commission.

Mission Statement

The mission of this project is to assist the communities, organizations, and individuals along the corridor in combining sustainable development programs with responsible conservation plans that both utilize and protect the natural and heritage resources of the river for economic growth and cultural diversity.

Heritage Corridor Boundaries

The headwaters of Deep River spring from a variety of sources near the City of Kernersville in Forsyth County; the Piedmont Triad International Airport and the nearby Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in Guilford County, and the southern portion of Alamance County. From these points the river flows more than 185 miles through a treasure chest of natural and heritage resources in the heart of North Carolina to "Mermaid’s Point," where the Deep River and Haw River merge to form the Cape Fear River. The corridor includes portions of the

eight central piedmont counties of Forsyth, Guilford, Randolph, Chatham, Alamance, Montgomery, Moore and Lee.

Heritage Themes

For many, the mention of the antebellum south conjures images of vast plantations with Tara-style mansions and genteel slave masters sipping juleps on white-columned verandas. Virtually unknown is the reality of the "Other Side" of the South which "hid" in plain sight in central North Carolina. Here was a southern culture of small farms and "factory girls"… Quakers and "Lincolnites"… political assassination and guerrilla warfare… and runaway slaves escaping to freedom up the Underground Railroad. The complex heritage of the Deep River corridor can be best understood through the following five major themes:

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

A Heritage of Manufacturing

Since the eighteenth century the Deep River has powered the development of the central piedmont of North Carolina. Though other streams may appear more environmentally pristine or scenic, Deep River for hundreds of years has been manipulated for society's benefit. As much as any watercourse in the state, it has been a "working river," powering grist and oil mills, lumber and saw mills, iron works and powder mills, wool carding and fulling mills and cotton gins, together with factories for the spinning and weaving and knitting of textiles and the production of all types of wood products. The "New South" reformed the Old South by pulling people away from the agricultural life of small farms into the "public work" of cotton textile mills. From bale of cotton to bolt of cloth, from spinning frame to sewing machine, the Southern Side of the Industrial Revolution happened in small factories like the ones lining the banks of Deep River in central North Carolina. Beginning in the 1830s the Deep River was the moving force that created this pioneer southern industry. Thriving cotton mill villages grew along the river in Cedar Falls (1836), Franklinville (1838), Ramseur (1850), Randleman (1848), Worthville (1880), Central Falls (1881) and Coleridge (1882). Many of the mill buildings and mill village structures still stand in these villages.

The needs of cotton mills for wooden bobbins, sticks and shuttles created a new market after the Civil War for the region’s timber resources. The state’s important furniture industry is the direct outgrowth of its forest riches, and the city of High Point near the top of the corridor is the nation’ furniture headquarters. The High Point area is home to showrooms and the Furniture Discovery Center which showcase the heritage, impact and future of the furniture industry, but other furniture-related sites can be found throughout the corridor.

A Heritage of Faith

The history of the region is the history of a broad and active spectrum of religious faith and practice. From Guilford College in Guilford and Snow Camp in Alamance through southern Randolph County, the area was thickly settled in the18th century by members of the Society of Friends, or "Quakers". Some of their "Meetings" in the corridor have been in continuous existence for more than 200 years.

Jamestown

Quakers were the moral and ideological underpinning not only for the abolitionist sentiments of the region, but for its emphasis on industrial development, agricultural improvement, public education and publishing. During the eighteenth century the region was home to a wide variety of the German sectarians so common in Pennsylvania. The Lutheran communities of Randolph and Guilford, and the Moravians of Forsyth, are the last survivors of this rich tradition. The village of Old Salem, in Winston-Salem, provides an in-depth look at the lifestyles and heritage of the Moravians, a religious minority which exercised a powerful influence. Widely acknowledged as one of the country's finest living history museums, Old Salem is a significant adjunct site to the Corridor.

Bishop Francis Asbury and a host of other "circuit riding" missionaries brought Methodism to the region in the 1790s. And some of the earliest and most important sites relating to the history of Southern Baptists can be found within the corridor. Sandy Creek Baptist Church near Liberty has been called the "Mother Church" of both the Southern Baptist and Primitive Baptist religious denominations. Both credit their origins to Elder Shubal Stearns and his "Separatist Baptist" community, established at the Sandy Creek site in 1755. Elder Stearns, who died in 1771, is buried in the adjacent graveyard. Efforts are currently underway to restore the early-19th century log church and document the history of the site.

A Heritage of Conflict

Because of its Quaker heritage the northern half of the corridor was home to a strong anti-slavery sentiment which caused it to become one of birthplaces of the Underground Railroad movement. Levi Coffin, frequently referred to as the "President" of the underground railroad was a Guilford County native. Coffin and his extended family organized the rescue and smuggling of numerous escaped slaves out of the area prior to his own move to Indiana and Ohio. Homes in Jamestown and Franklinville that were built by members of the Coffin family still stand, and written accounts of their abolitionist activities exist. One of the Corridor’s projects will research and document its UGRR connections, together with post-war activities of the Freedman’s Bureau.

Despite its heritage of Quaker pacifism, the region has had its share of bloodshed and battlefields. As early as the 1771 the region saw the War of the Regulation, a taxpayer revolt against the colonial government, which swept the Guilford, Randolph and Alamance county areas. During the Revolutionary War, the area was powder keg of factionalism, seething with guerrilla warfare, political assassination and scorched-earth tactics. The "House in the Horseshoe" State Historic Site showcases this element of the history of the region, just as the Guilford Battleground National Historic Park illustrates the more official side of the war.

During the Civil War the area was notable for its pro-Union activities. Opposition to the policies of the state and Confederate government was so strong a force in Randolph County during the war that local government teetered on the brink of collapse. By 1864 the "outliers," draft-dodgers, northern spies and other disruptive elements had become so powerful that the county was virtually placed under martial law, with state and Confederate troops providing basic law enforcement and protection for the textile factories. After the war the Republican Party gained control of local politics, a distinction that has been maintained in the county to the present day.

Despite the unsettled politics of the region, many companies of troops were recruited from each county along the corridor. The textile mills of Randolph and Alamance were vital to the war effort, providing the cotton undergarments required by state troops to wear their wool uniforms both winter and summer. The mines of Randolph and Chatham counties provided iron ore to the war effort, and the mines of Cumnock and Gulf produced the coal necessary to steam blockade-runners out of Wilmington. At the close of the war real devastation had come no closer than Sherman’s destruction of Fayetteville, but the surrender found elements of Johnston’s army camped all across the central portion of the corridor, awaiting what would have been the final encounter between North and South.

A Heritage of Handicrafts

The Deep River region is one of the last places in North Carolina’s Central Piedmont where traditional arts and crafts maintain a tenuous existence. Guilford, Randolph and Moore counties have long been recognized by collectors for their beautiful early handmade furniture. Other necessary domestic crafts such as spinning, weaving, dyeing, and blacksmithing did not survive the early 20th century, but the region’s potters have been recognized as a cultural asset for 80 years, and have become nationally known during the last quarter century. During the nineteenth century, potters could be found in every county of the region; they still have significant presences in Randolph, Moore, Montgomery, Chatham and Lee. Numerous "old time" and traditional musicians have been documented, and many families have preserved a musical heritage. The earliest documented banjo player in the state is Manley Reece of the Franklinville-Ramseur area, who migrated to the Galax, Virginia area in the 1850s and founded that nationally-significant musical culture. Daner Johnson of northeast Randolph founded a distinctive style of three-finger banjo picking. His student Charlie Poole, born in the Millboro vicinity to a family of textile workers, became the formative voice of southern string band music of the 1920s. Fiddler’s Contests have survived more than half a century in places such as Star and Seagrove.

A Heritage of Nature

The Deep River flows through a geography of incredible variety, from the rolling hills of the central Piedmont to the long-leaf pine forests of the Sandhills and Coastal Plain. The region is already one of the fastest-growing portions of North Carolina, and the pressure of economic and residential development threatens to urbanize much of its characteristic landscapes. Every part of the history of the region has had some relationship to its natural resources. From the beginning natives and pioneers benefited from the fertility of its soil. The power of the river’s falling water turned the shafts of mills and machines. Its gold and iron and coal were mined and refined. Its forest resources built its homes and houses of worship, and were the foundation of its furniture industry. The red clay of its banks attracted potters and brickmakers. But all the uses and abuses of human society have barely diminished its rich heritage of nature.

The development of the Deep River Heritage Corridor will provide a much needed catalyst to identify, preserve and sensitively develop natural resources of local, regional, state and national significance. Natural landmarks, environmentally- sensitive areas and rare or endangered plant species must be identified throughout the corridor, and institutions such as the Piedmont Land Conservancy and the North Carolina Zoo have already begun compiling such natural heritage resource inventories for a few counties. Prime agricultural lands must be identified and, where possible, protected from urban development for the lasting benefit of both farmers and consumers. Protective "green ways" along floodplains and steep slopes should be created and maintained using conservation easements to provide buffer zones that improve water quality, decrease soil erosion and slow run-off. Finally, new opportunities for outdoor recreation near urban and suburban areas can be accomplished through creation of a series of riverfront parks by participating communities to ensure not just to the conservation of natural areas but provide for their enjoyment.

Natural Resource Preservation

Designation of the Deep River Heritage Corridor will serve as a catalyst to protect and preserve natural resources of local, regional, state and national significance within this region. A natural heritage inventory was conducted by the Piedmont Land Conservancy to document sensitive wetlands and rare and endangered species in the corridor. The acquisition of conservation easements in the corridor will provide for the protection of these areas.

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail

In addition, green space and conservation areas created as a part of the Corridor would provide buffer zones that would help to effect improvements in water quality, decrease bank erosion and address river access issues. Finally, the planned development of a series of river front linear parks within the participating communities provides not only much needed conservation of natural areas, but also outdoor recreation opportunities near urban areas. The designation of the region as a heritage corridor allows for additional tax incentives and options which make the donation of easements and conservation trust more attractive to the surrounding land owners and facilitate the development of these projects.

Recreation Development

A "Rails to Trails Corridor" plan is currently underway which is developing a network of hiking/biking trails utilizing an existing abandoned rail bed which runs parallel to the river for approximately 50% of the corridor. It is expected that ultimately these trails will be linked to other existing trails throughout the Piedmont region.

The Deep River Canoe Trail is already underway and can only be enhanced by the creation of the Corridor. In conjunction with the development of linear park facilities and greenways, the Corridor will enhance the existing series of canoe/tube trails and add additional entry points along the corridor allowing for the linkage of historic and heritage sites by a water corridor.

The "Linear Park/Greenway/Conservation Areas" plan will join the historic/heritage sites through the development of a series of river front linear parks, conservation areas and recreation areas. Segments of this have already been developed adjacent to the river at the Franklinville Manufacturing site, at the river front recreation park in Randleman and in Jamestown. Many of the rural counties included in the Corridor are currently well below both the state and national minimums for recreation areas. This plan will directly address that issue.

Land Conservation

A major component of the Deep River Heritage Corridor project is the acquisition of undeveloped land adjacent to the river throughout the corridor through the use of land trusts and conservation trusts and in conjunction with the municipalities along the corridor. This land will be used for greenway trail development, conservation areas and "satellite" parks throughout the Corridor. A corridor conservation plan will be developed as a joint project with the Piedmont Land Conservancy and Yadkin/Pee Dee Lakes Region.

Jamestown

Initial Themes For Interpreting the Heritage Corridor

The following four initial heritage corridor themes will be interpreted through development of trail literature and signage:

Theme 1 - The Textile Trail

Description - A self-guided driving tour of the nineteenth-century mill villages along Deep River, through Guilford, Randolph and Chatham counties, combined with an actual greenway/ hiking trail linking Randleman to Ramseur largely following the right-of-way of the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railway.

Significance - Historians have called the Deep River factories "the cradle of the industrial revolution in North Carolina." The industrialization of textile production moved the pattern of work from the home, the fields and small shops to the factory. Gradually this forever changed the agricultural heritage of the South, and introduced new concepts of industrial work and urbanization. A dozen mills were organized in North Carolina during the 1820s and ‘30s; thirty-two were proposed during the 1840s, and eleven during the 1850s. Six factories were built by regional investors before the Civil War, with five of them in Randolph County alone. By the time of the Civil War, the South produced almost one quarter of all U.S. cotton and woolen textiles; but the spindles running in all of the southern cotton mills barely equaled those found in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Franklinville, founded in 1838 and incorporated in 1847, was the residential village of one of the first cotton textile mills in North Carolina, and state's first incorporated mill village. The two factories in Franklinville made it the economic heart of the county until the end of the nineteenth century, and provided the training ground for some of the most prominent industrialists of the post-war era. The Franklinsville Manufacturing Company factory building is one of the oldest textile mills in the number-one textile state in the country; only the 1836 Salem Manufacturing Company (now the Brookstown Inn) is older. Several 1880svintage villages in the region contain important collections of buildings, but nowhere can the entire history of the industry be traced better than in Franklinville. The Franklinsville factory and much of the surrounding community was listed as a National Register Historic District in 1985, and few early southern industrial villages are as well documented. There are more than two dozen antebellum buildings still standing in the Town, all having some connection to the mill. These are by far the oldest collection of textile industry structures in the state. Numerous related industries were also be found nearby, from grist mills to gold and iron mines, metal foundries and wood-working factories.

The significant historic and natural assets of the Franklinville area made it a logical focal point of the region in promoting the textile heritage of the entire state at a critical period. True appreciation and awareness of the historic effects of industrialization on Southern culture can only be gained among the authentic buildings and artifacts of that industrial heritage. Displays of isolated historic machinery can only provide a pale insight into the heat and noise and smell of a weave room or spinning room, and only a factory itself can demonstrate the intimate connection between the machines and the lineshafts and belting that transmitted power to them from steam engines and water wheels. This was recognized by the National Park Service and the American Textile History Museum when they both created working weave rooms in their restored Lowell, Massachusetts, museums. The Franklinsville Manufacturing Company mill could provide a similar setting here in North Carolina.

Assets - Jamestown and Freeman’s Mill in Guilford; Randleman, Naomi, Worthville, Central Falls, Cedar Falls, Franklinville, Ramseur, Coleridge in Randolph; High Falls in Chatham, the Cane Creek Factory at Snow Camp (this is on a branch of the Haw, not the Deep, but it was organized in the 1830s by local Quakers). In Franklinville, major portions of the antebellum upper mill survive, as do more than two dozen privately-owned structures in the historic district, including worker and supervisor residences, the superintendent’s home, and the 1851 Masonic Lodge. Antique machinery has remained in place in Franklinville; additional unique items have been collected, and surviving machinery, such as the 1897 steam engine, has been discovered in other private collections. The mill and village in Franklinville make up the best preserved and best documented antebellum industrial community in North Carolina. The antebellum mill in Ramseur also survives, as do structures from the later 19th-century in Jamestown, Randleman, Worthville, Central Falls, Cedar Falls, and Coleridge. The mill in High Falls and the original Randleman factory were destroyed by fire.

Documentation - Although the original records of many of the 19th-century factories have been preserved in manuscript collections at Duke, UNC-CH, and the state archives, the best collection of documentary materials on any North Carolina factory is Mac Whatley’s collection on the upper and lower mills of Franklinville. Unique manuscript materials include original antebellum record books, personal records of mill owners and workers, hundreds of hours of recorded interviews with workers, and over a thousand documentary photographs.

Potential Partners

The Museum of the New South in Charlotte is currently undergoing renovations which will include a small textile history gallery, and would be a potential partner.

The National Park Service’s Boott Mill Museum at Lowell, Massachusetts would be an excellent partner, especially in regard to its restored weave room and its unparalleled industrial education programs for school groups. The American Textile History Museum in Lowell would be a potential partner. The museum in fact is looking for a southern partner to carry more of the interpretative load for the history of the cotton textile industry, as the museum’s roots in Massachusetts and its primary collecting focus have been in documenting the woolen textile industry.

The remaining textile corporations in North Carolina appear to have little concern for the history of the industry. Northern textile museums were all started to memorialize the industry after it had already followed cheap labor to the South, and this may be what must happen in North Carolina. Although North Carolina has three state-supported tobacco museums, it has no comparable textile museum, and no evident interest in one. The only justification provided for this lapse is that such a project would be costly and uncomfortably large-scale. An outside observer’s explanation is that neither the state Museum of History nor the Historic Sites section has a thematic interpretative plan, and that both institutions are frequent victims of internal turf battles and legislative meddling.

Preservation NC utilizes a revolving loan fund to acquire and resell historic assets, and may be willing to help acquire and preserve historic industrial properties and their original machinery and equipment, in support of tourism development opportunities within the heritage corridor.

Potential Funding

Textile industry corporate foundations have been solicited for support, without success. Local Randolph County corporations have been more forthcoming, but do not have the assets necessary to make significant headway.

A $20,000 grant was obtained in 1998 from the discretionary funds of the Secretary of Cultural Resources, but despite the urgent recommendations of the historic preservation section, no substantial historic preservation funding has been available.

Theme 2 - The "Shadow South" Trail

Description - A self-guided regional driving tour of Quaker meetings, Abolitionist, anti-Confederacy and African-American heritage sites combined with a driving tour out of the region through Virginia and Kentucky to underground railroad sites in Ohio and Indiana.

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Significance - The region’s heritage of dissent is its most defining religious, political and cultural characteristic, yet it is also the least understood and most undervalued part of its identity. The isolated pockets of anti-slavery, antiConfederate, pro-industrial activism have been called "the Other South" by historians, but almost nothing has been done to educate modern residents of the region about the attitudes and actions of their ancestors. After the recent media flap over Randolph Community College’s ‘happy slave’ Confederate history class, UNC history professor George Tindall noted in an editorial in the Raleigh News and Observer that the irony lost on most Randolph County residents is that their counterparts of 1861 were overwhelmingly opposed to slavery and secession, and that the county was a hotbed of insurrection throughout the Civil War. Members of the Society of Friends were at the forefront of the intellectual and political opposition to the slave economy. Residents of the region ran escaped slaves up the ‘underground road’ to Indiana and Ohio, agitated for manumission and abolition, founded factories as an alternative to the slave economy, and were persecuted by the Confederate government for refusing to serve in the war. Though all of these things are known in the region, all of them have been minimized and undervalued, even though much of the region’s political isolation from mainstream North Carolina can be traced to those factors.

Assets - The region has more Friends meetings than the rest of North Carolina put together. Randolph County has the most; Guilford runs second; Alamance third; Chatham has one in High Falls. The Cane Creek Meeting at Snow Camp was the first Quaker meeting in the Piedmont. It is the mother of all the other meetings in Guilford and Randolph, and is the site of the Sword of Peace summer outdoor drama. New Garden Meeting at Guilford College is the next oldest institution. Guilford College, formerly New Garden Boarding School, is one of the finest institutions of Quaker higher-education in the nation. Sites connected with the abolitionist Wesleyan missionaries of the 1840s and 1850s should be documented, as should sites connected with the Colonization and Manumission society of the 1820s. The over-mountain trail used to smuggle escaped slaves to Quaker settlements in Ohio and Indiana is documented in the autobiography of Levi Coffin, even though it is overlooked by the National Park Service Underground Railroad project. The Quaker impetus behind industrial development should be emphasized.

Documentation - The Friends Historical Collection at the Guilford College Library is the depository for all southern Quaker records. It is understaffed and underfunded, and much of the collection is poorly catalogued. The Autobiography of Levi Coffin is the best source for early anti-slavery activism in the region. The records of the Wesleyan missionaries and the Manumission society have been published.

The supporting material for this theme is scattered and has infrequently been collected; the assembly of this narrative would be one of the primary historical contributions of the entire corridor.

Potential Partners

UNC history graduate schools

Quaker schools and historians

Quaker meetings African-American historians and researchers

The National Park Service UGRR project Indiana and Ohio Friends and UGRR institutions

Theme 3 - The Traditional Music and Crafts Trail

Description - A directory of performing arts venues and craft workshops will be developed to guide visitors to experience authentic regional traditions of music, pottery and other crafts.

Significance - The Deep River region is one of the last places in North Carolina’s Central Piedmont where traditional arts and crafts have maintained a tenuous existence. Numerous "old time" and traditional musicians have been documented, and many families have preserved a musical heritage. The earliest documented banjo player in the state is Manley Reece of the Franklinville-Ramseur area, who migrated to the Galax, Virginia area in the 1850s and founded that nationallysignificant musical culture. Daner Johnson of northeast Randolph founded a distinctive style of three-finger banjo picking. His student Charlie Poole, born in the Millboro vicinity to a family of textile workers, became the formative voice of southern string band music of the 1920s. Fiddler’s Contests have survived more than half a century in places such as Star and Seagrove. The region’s potters have been recognized as a cultural asset for 80 years, and have become nationally known during the last quarter century. During the nineteenth century, potters could be found in every county of the region; they still have significant presences in Randolph, Moore, Montgomery, Chatham and Lee. Local Quakers were active in the crafts of spinning, weaving, dyeing, cabinetmaking, and blacksmithing. Guilford, Randolph and Moore counties have long been recognized by collectors for their beautiful early handmade furniture.

Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Numerous important examples of local weaving have been preserved, but the continuous local tradition was lost in the early 20th century. (It is interesting that the same early interest in handicrafts that preserved the pottery tradition in the Piedmont preserved the hand-weaving tradition of the Appalachians). Charles Toney, a free black man, was an important antebellum chair maker. His work is recognized by its distinctive blue paint with yellow decoration.

Assets - There are significant local collections of furniture in Randolph County, including those of Bill Ivey, Ralph Newsome, Tommy Cranford and Calvin Hinshaw. The collection of Oren Capel in Montgomery County is important. Bill Ivey’s collection of southern long-rifles is the best in the United States. Mac Whatley’s collection of local weaving patterns, or "drafts," and other local textiles, is probably the broadest and most extensive in the region. There are many significant private pottery collections in addition to the Seagrove Pottery Center collection. The annual fiddler’s contests in Star and Seagrove are also important cultural assets of the area.

Documentation - Although a significant amount of research has been done on Piedmont arts and crafts, virtually none of it has ever been published. Although there are no more than a handfull of journal or magazine articles on the subject, the word-of-mouth knowledge available to collectors is extensive, but not widely available. It is interesting, given the current significance of the furniture industry to the regional economy, that almost nothing has been written about the important tradition of Guilford and Randolph County cabinetmaking. The career of the free black craftsman Charles Toney has never been documented. The regional pottery tradition has received the most scholarly attention, although the vast majority of important pieces are in private collections. It is ironic that the one large public collection, willed by Dot and Walter Auman of Seagrove, went outside the region to the Mint Museum in Charlotte. The archaeological history of the 1790-era Mt. Shepherd pottery has been published in the MESDA Journal, although numerous other potteries could and should be excavated and the results published. The Calvin Hinshaw collection of Quaker weaving drafts [now owned by Mac Whatley] should be published and the 200odd patterns for coverlets, bedspreads, towels and curtains reproduced. Other surviving examples should be examined and published. The region’s musical tradition has been documented by graduate students and enthusiasts for decades, but is largely unpublished. Scholarly collections of recordings exist, such as that at UNC-Chapel Hill, but little has been available for purchase. Bob Carlin, of Lexington, NC, has done extensive research on Piedmont musical traditions, some of which has been privately published.

Potential Partners

The Randolph Arts Guild

The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts

Old Salem

The Greensboro and High Point Historical Museums

The Furniture Discovery Center

The North Carolina Pottery Center

Potential Funding

N.C. Arts Council

National Endowment for the Arts

Theme 4 - The Farm and Forest Trail

Description - Self-guided automobile tour of the agricultural and natural heritage of the region.

Significance - The South has traditionally been rural and agricultural, and the Deep River region displays the agrarian heritage of Piedmont North Carolina from the slave-based cotton plantation economy of southern Chatham and Lee counties to the small "subsistence" farms of Randolph and Guilford. The revolutionary transition from agriculture to industry took place along the Deep, where the early Quaker factories demonstrated the economic value of industrial work to skeptical southerners. Agriculture is still a major economic force in the region, with small farms currently making another transition from larger-scale agribusiness to smaller specialty marketing. The creation of the North Carolina Zoological Park and Botanical Garden in the 1970s marked the beginning of the modern emphasis on environmental education, and the region today boasts numerous groups devoted to preserving endangered animal and plant populations. The most recent phenomenon has been a movement to protect valuable agricultural lands from urban sprawl development by creating agricultural preservation areas.

Assets - Farms, Farmer’s Markets, Dairies, Cheese Factories, Orchards, Pick-YourOwn operations, retail Nurseries, specialty gardens, public and private Botanical Gardens, Arboretums, State and National Forests, Outdoor Recreation and

Environmental Education centers, Rare Animal and Livestock Breeders, Inns and specialty Restaurants

Documentation - A comprehensive list of operations needs to be compiled.

Potential Partners

N.C. Zoo N.C. State N.C. Cooperative Extension 4-H Piedmont Land Conservancy, Inc.

Potential Funding Cooperative Extension

Developing the Heritage Corridor

A Heritage Area Planning Committee will be established to prepare a management plan for the Heritage Area. The Committee shall be a cooperative regional organization established to work with participating municipalities, businesses, organizations and residents to assemble a county and state-approved management plan for the heritage area assembled from the proposals submitted by each county and municipality therein. Creation of the plan shall be coordinated with the local planning, cultural and recreation activities of each governmental unit, and will be based on the mutual assent and participation of each governing body. The Heritage Area Management Plan will use the following conceptual framework:

A. Definitions of Essential Concepts - Heritage Resources are unique, fragile or locally significant elements of the natural or cultural environment Heritage Areas are collections of heritage assets which contribute to the distinctive identity or quality of life of a place Heritage Management involves recognizing, protecting, creatively promoting and developing heritage areas in order to stimulate orderly, sustainable economic growth.

B. The Goal of Heritage Management - Build vibrant and healthy communities for our citizens by stimulating the local economy, protecting the land, improving natural and human resources, and developing tourism.

C. Stages of Resource Management - Preserving the Corridor’s locally important natural and cultural resources will proceed in three stages:

1. Identify Assets (provides the ideological underpinning for the entire program) identify and map individual sites; assess quality and rank status of each in relation to the others;

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

outline "linkages"; the network of roads, trails, green spaces and waterways that connect sites in a coherent chain of history and culture; and cooperate with other agencies to extend knowledge base.

2. Educate the Corridor (to build appreciation & enlist local support) produce informational and educational literature; implement local heritage curriculum for school programs; and conduct adult education lectures and classes.

3. Protect Assets (to validate the experiences that shape the community) use all available governmental and private means to preserve assets; provide information to planners through the GIS system; recognize individual efforts & acknowledge local assistance; and provide incentives for protection of significant sites.

D. Heritage Management Policies

Improve the conditions of present-day communities by preserving and marketing their collective past through a shared overall vision; Preserve and improve the most unique or fragile elements of the rural environment to maintain cultural and biological diversity; Encourage public involvement with heritage issues by promoting understanding and awareness of local history & respect for the countryside; Instill community pride by promoting local accomplishments and inspiring residents to become active participants in developing sustainable businesses and industries;

Create a regional ‘themes’ to help market tourism target areas and support ventures which will draw visitors; Promote strategic, problem-driven, action-oriented planning with immediate and visible results to create momentum for long-term achievement; Stimulate investment and reward cooperation among business and professional organizations and individuals; and Strengthen the capacity of local governments and civic organizations for creative and flexible involvement with heritage issues.

E. Heritage Management Objectives

1. Actions to protect natural resources and the countryside: scientific research and documentation; implement measures for the protection of fauna, flora and landscape; develop information for the public and the partners involved; and advise towns and villages regarding urban planning and individuals regarding rural development.

2. Actions to improve and promote cultural heritage: identify and protect historic sites and resources study traditions, ways of life and vernacular craft skills organize and support village festivals, musicals and dramatic events

support initiatives undertaken by local individuals and organizations by:

a. Providing seed money: assisting partners through a program of grants and loans for planning and research, historic building acquisition and rehabilitation, and cultural and curatorial activities

b. Providing help: initiating an internship program to provide skilled student help in historical research, archives management, architecture, planning, preservation, and other disciplines; and c. Supporting & encouraging economic development. support agriculture through solutions best adapted to the region; promote quality craft production; support tourism development which respects history and the environment; revitalize local commerce and develop appropriate new enterprises; assist in planning and financing rural infrastructure improvements; and measure the project’s impact by tracking effects of economic activities undertaken through the project.

3. Actions to promote sustainable tourism: create an integrated regional marketing plan focused on tourism development as well as promotion; make information available through state and regional visitors centers; develop literature, websites and tours designed to promote corridor attractions; develop public awareness activities and hospitality training; and develop and promote open-air leisure activities.

Organization Development

The Deep River Heritage Corridor project was developed under the auspices of the Randolph Heritage Conservancy, a non-profit organization formed to acquire and protect historic and heritage sites along the Deep River. The Deep River Heritage Corridor, Inc (DRHC) may be formed as a separate 501(c)3 corporation to serve the communities along the Deep River. All affected communities in the corridor will be encouraged to participate in development of the plan to ensure sustainable, positive impact on each of the stakeholders. A steering committee will be formed to include the following members:

• A representative from each of the seven (7) counties along the river;

• A representative from each of the incorporated communities along the river;

• A representative from each of the tourism attractions along the river;

• A representative of the Piedmont Land Conservancy

• Representatives from tourism development agencies within the corridor;

• Representatives from the National Park Service; and

• Representatives from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

DRHC, Inc. will be the coordinating agency for all projects within the corridor to ensure that the overall concept of the corridor is maintained. In addition, the organization will oversee the operation of the Franklinville Manufacturing Company museum. While DRHC will oversee the overall concept of the project, the community development aspects and the preservation of the natural landscapes throughout the corridor will be handled under a different organization plan. To ensure that these aspects are developed in the most appropriate manner for each community, DRHC will facilitate the development of two coalition groups:

1. Deep River Communities Coalition - Initially, through a series of "visioning sessions", the steering committee is developing a clearly identified overall concept plan for the corridor. This overall concept plan will then become the basic framework that will be used for each community to identify their individual part of the overall "story" within the corridor and create their own development plans. DRHC will work with the coalition and the involved communities to facilitate the implementation of each community's redevelopment plan.

2. Natural Resources Conservation Coalition The Project is already working with the Piedmont Land Conservancy in identifying sensitive wetlands, endangered eco-systems and preservation environments within the corridor. DRHC will assist Piedmont Land Conservancy and the surrounding communities in coordinating efforts to identify and preserve those areas as greenways, linear parks and nature preserves. This will add to the integrity of the corridor experience, as well as provide opportunities for both land/water conservation and natural resource protection planning.

Strategic Planning Corridor Survey Project - The first step in the development of the Deep River National Heritage Corridor will be a comprehensive land survey and heritage/natural resources inventory that will allow for strategic plans to be developed for heritage site preservation, land acquisition and boundary delineation of the corridor

Corridor Master Plan Development - Using the information from the survey project, a comprehensive 10 year Development Master Plan will be created for the Deep River Heritage Corridor which will allow for sustainable growth of the corridor while maintaining the integrity of the cultural and heritage story on which the corridor is based.

Deep River Communities Development Master Plans - DRHC will work with communities along the corridor to assist in the development of strategic plans for overall community restoration and redevelopment. DRHC will also provide assistance in planning for funding for communities to implement their redevelopment master plans.

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

Heritage Corridor Designation Bill - The Committee will seek to have the following bill introduced and passed by the North Carolina General Assembly to designate the Deep River Heritage Corridor:

A BILL - To Establish the Deep River State Heritage Corridor and other purposes. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the General Assembly of North Carolina:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the ‘Deep River State Heritage Corridor Act of 2000.’

SECTION 2. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS.

The General Assembly finds that:

(1) Certain areas of North Carolina possess outstanding natural features, distinctive landscapes, historic events, cultural traditions, economic trends, social forces and other unique patterns of human activity which reveal a special character, identity and integrity of place and setting.

(2) Designation as heritage areas can improve the public welfare through combining historic and cultural preservation, education, and recreation with economic goals and improvements to successfully create a partnership among state, county and local governments and private citizens to protect and develop such areas of special character.

(3) The common goal of any such area is the planning and management of exemplary areas of natural and cultural resources to improve their recognition, protection, beneficial enjoyment and economic viability.

(4) While numerous local, regional and State agencies, businesses and private citizens have recognized the need to cooperatively plan to preserve and improve such resources, these efforts have not been fully realized.

(5) Existing State and Federal programs are insufficiently coordinated with local planning and regulatory authorities so as to combine resource preservation and conservation with economic development in a manner consistent with the protection and public use of the area.

(6) The State Government should assist local entities in preserving, interpreting and developing the special historic and cultural resources of heritage areas by—

(G) focusing attention on unique and nationally significant resources; (H) providing a stimulus for coordinating the preservation, protection, enhancement, enjoyment and utilization of said resources; (I) gathering, assessing, and disseminating information on the recreational, cultural, historic, natural, scenic, and economic opportunities available; and (J) improving the planning and coordination between all levels of government.

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

The General Assembly further finds that:

(1) The Deep River flows through the heart of the State of North Carolina from its headwaters in Guilford and Forsyth Counties, through Randolph, Chatham, Montgomery, Moore and Lee Counties, to its confluence with the Haw River at Mermaid Point to create the Cape Fear River. It comprises a thread of human history, commerce, industry and community running through a fabric of natural, scenic, and recreational resources of major significance to the State of North Carolina, the South as a region, and to the United States as a whole.

(2) The 250-year history of the Society of Friends along the Deep River valley has been a pivotal force in the development of the social, cultural and political environments of Piedmont North Carolina. The history of this region is largely a history of what has been called "the Other South:" the anti-Confederacy, antislavery, pro-Union, pro-industrial South which ran counter to the stereotypical Southern agrarian tradition.

(3) The unique history of the region as one of the birthplaces of the Underground Railroad; its tradition of anti-slavery activism; its active opposition to the Confederate government and the Civil War; together with its role in establishing some of the earliest textile manufacturing operations in the Southern United States, all offer an opportunity to establish and develop a nationally significant corridor representative of the state’s cultural heritage.

(4) The public interest would be served by preserving, protecting and enhancing these resources for the benefit of the people of North Carolina, and by the designation of a cohesive area of this special region as a state Heritage Corridor.

SECTION 3. PURPOSE.

It is the purpose of this Act to provide a management framework to assist the State of North Carolina, its units of local and regional government, and concerned citizens, in developing and implementing integrated cultural, historical, and natural resource management programs which will preserve, enhance, and interpret for the educational and inspirational benefit of present and future generations the unique and significant contributions to our common heritage of the historic properties, structures, environmental resources, and waterways within and surrounding the Deep River watershed in the State of North Carolina.

SECTION 4. DEFINITIONS.

As used in this Act:

(1) ADVISORY COUNCIL- The term "Advisory Council" shall mean the state heritage areas advisory council established herein.

(2) COMMISSION- The term ‘Commission’ shall mean the Heritage Area Planning Commission established herein, or any successor organization created or designated to implement the Management Plan.

(3) HERITAGE AREA- The interchangeable terms "Heritage Area" or "Heritage Corridor" shall mean a definable geographic area of settled public and private uses ranging in size from a portion of a single governmental unit to a regional area of special coherence, such area being distinguished by physical and cultural resources (natural and/or manmade, including waterways, structures or artifacts reflecting a historical period, architectural style or cultural themes) which can provide educational, inspirational, economic and recreational benefits for present and future generations. A heritage area may include traditional parks (pleasure grounds set apart for public recreation) and historic places or property on the national or state register of historic places, but the term heritage area shall not be deemed to mean an individual park or historic property as those terms are used in other provisions of law, which provisions shall continue to apply to the specific parks and historic properties within an area.

(4) PLAN- "Cultural Heritage Management Plan" or "plan" shall mean the fundamental document defining the goals and objectives for a heritage area, and shall outline the means to implement and manage it. The document may include, but is not limited to, a comprehensive statement in words, maps, illustrations, or other media, setting forth objectives, policies, and standards to guide public and private uses in the preservation, interpretation, development, and use of cultural, historic, natural, and architectural resources of a heritage area.

(5) STATE- The term ‘State’ means the State of North Carolina or any State agency, department, board, commission, including any public benefit corporation or public authority at least one of whose members is appointed by the governor.

SECTION 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEEP RIVER STATE HERITAGE CORRIDOR

(a) ESTABLISHMENT. There is hereby established in the State of North Carolina the Deep River Heritage Corridor (hereafter in the Act referred to as the ‘Corridor.’) (b) BOUNDARIES. The Corridor shall generally consist of that area in the State of North Carolina known as the Deep River watershed, including all or portions of the counties of Chatham, Forsyth, Guilford, Lee, Montgomery, Moore and Randolph, as specifically depicted on a map accompanying the Management Plan upon its approval by the Advisory Council. Boundary maps for the heritage area shall be kept on file in the office of the Secretary of Cultural Resources and in the office of the manager of each county included in the heritage area.

(c) ADMINISTRATION. The corridor shall be administered by the Planning Commission and its successors, in accordance with this Act.

SECTION 6. HERITAGE AREA PLANNING COMMISSION

(a) ESTABLISHMENT. A Heritage Area Planning Commission is hereby created to prepare or cause to be prepared a management plan for the Heritage Area designed herein.

(b) PURPOSE. The Commission shall be a cooperative regional organization established to work with participating municipalities, businesses, organizations and residents to assemble a county and state-approved management plan for the heritage area assembled from the proposals submitted by each county and municipality therein. Creation of the plan shall be coordinated with the local planning, cultural and recreation activities of each governmental unit, and shall be based upon the mutual assent and participation of each governing body.

(c) MEMBERSHIP. Said Commission shall have seventeen (17) members who shall reside within the Deep River watershed area. The governing body of each municipality, historical society, preservation commission or tourism board within the heritage area may forward the names of a recommended commission appointee to the chairman of the commissioners of the county in which it is incorporated. One voting member shall be appointed from among the names so forwarded by the chairman of the counties of Chatham, Forsyth, Guilford, Lee, Montgomery, Moore and Randolph. The remaining ten members shall be appointed as follows: two members shall be appointed by the temporary president of the Senate; two members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House; one member shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; one member shall be appointed by the Minority leader of the House; four members shall be appointed by the Governor, at least one of whom shall be the Mayor of a municipality within the heritage area. All persons responsible for appointing members of the commission shall be mindful of the importance of assuring adequate representation on the commission of the interests of various municipal entities, conservationists, business owners and operators, tourism promotions agencies, persons engaged in agricultural pursuits, minorities, educators and persons having an interest and experience with at least one of the four heritage goals of preservation, recreation, education and economic development. The Mayor, manager or other executive officer of any county or municipality within the heritage area may participate in commission meetings as non-voting members and shall receive notice of all commission meetings. The Secretary of Cultural Resources, the Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Commissioner of Agriculture shall be non-voting members of the Commission and may designate a representative. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.

(d) DUTIES. Appointments to the planning commission shall be filed with the Secretary of Cultural Resources, who shall convene the first meeting of the Commission following the filing of a majority of the appointments. At the initial meeting, the members of the planning commission shall elect officers, and may adopt bylaws. The members of the planning commission shall serve without compensation, except that members may be allowed their necessary and actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. The commission shall encourage attendance at such meetings of representatives from municipalities and other interested parties. Copies of the minutes of each

meeting with the date of the next scheduled meeting shall be made available upon request.

(e) CORPORATE POWERS. To carry out the foregoing purposes and responsibilities, the commission shall have the following powers:

(6) to accept gifts, grants, loans, or contributions from, and enter into contracts or other transactions with, the United States, the State or any subdivision of either of them, any municipality, any public or private corporation or any other legal entity, and to use any such gifts, grants, loans or contributions to implement the management plan;

(7) to enter into cooperative agreements with the entities located in whole or in part within the boundaries of the heritage corridor to advance their common goals of historic preservation, education, recreation and economic development;

(8) to designate and enter into agreements with public facilities and attractions throughout the heritage corridor to create a network thereof;

(9) to acquire by purchase, grant, lease, gift, or otherwise and to use, real property or rights or easements therein necessary for its corporate purposes subject to the local zoning, planning and historic preservation regulations as well as regional and local comprehensive land use plans, and to sell, convey, mortgage, lease, pledge, exchange or otherwise dispose of such property in any appropriate manner;

(10) to establish and administer a preservation revolving fund, including provision for grants and loans therefrom with funds for such purpose from any federal, state, municipal, and/or private sources for the preservation of historic properties in furtherance of the public interest in preservation;

(11) to contract with state agencies to provide for projects, services and programs which encourage appreciation of heritage area resources or for any planning, transportation, or other services necessary to carry out the management plan.

(12) to appoint officers, agents and employees, to prescribe their qualifications and fix their compensation, and to pay the same out of the funds of the Commission;

(13) to make contracts and leases, and to execute all instruments necessary or convenient with any person, firm, partnership or corporation, whether public or private;

(14) to prepare an annual report on the conduct of its activities which shall include a financial statement for that year and a work plan for the next year, and which may include a summary of the resources required to complete it; (15) to do all things necessary or convenient to carry out its purposes and exercise the powers given it by this Act.

(f) TERM. The planning commission shall remain in existence until the plan is approved and a successor body is created to implement it.

SECTION 7. HERITAGE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN

(a) PREPARATION OF PLAN—Within 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit a comprehensive management action plan to the Advisory Council for review and approval. The county commissions within the heritage area may identify a local official or local agency to be the agent for the local government in coordinating the preparation of its local management plan, and may appoint a local heritage area advisory committee representative of local civic, commercial, historic preservation, educational, recreational and conservation interests to advise the Commission and local government during preparation of the management plan. At least one public hearing on a draft management plan shall be held in each designated area, after which the local plan shall be submitted to the Commission for inclusion in the comprehensive management action plan. The local governing body of each county within the heritage area must review and approve the final management plan drafted by the Commission before it is submitted to the Advisory Council.

(a) DETAILS OF PLAN- The Plan shall— (2) set forth the boundaries in text and depicted on a map. Areas or zones within the park shall be identified for particular nature and intensity of use including those zones most appropriately devoted to public use and development by state or local government; and private use. Boundaries shall be located as deemed necessary or desirable for the purposes of resource protection, scenic integrity, and management and administration in furtherance of the purposes of this title and the estimated cost thereof;

(3) state the goals and objectives of the heritage area; (4) compile an inventory that includes any property in the Corridor that should be preserved, restored, managed, developed, maintained, or acquired because of its state or national significance (whether historic, cultural, natural or recreational), and recommend applicable advisory standards and criteria;

(5) establish, with the advice of the advisory council and officials from affected local communities, standards and criteria for preservation of resources within the heritage area. At least one public hearing shall be held to solicit comment on the proposed standards and criteria prior to their adoption;

(6) inventory the existing and potential recreational sites that now exist or could be developed along the corridor and surrounding areas; (7) identify the types of uses, both public and private, to be promoted, and describe a program to encourage and accommodate visitation to the heritage area;

(8) outline a plan for historic and educational interpretation programs; (9) evaluate ways to assist and support agricultural activity in the heritage corridor including the promotion of agricultural products through direct marketing, farmers markets and the development of agri-tourism;

(10) recommend policies for resource management that consider and detail application of appropriate land and water management techniques, including

the development of intergovernmental cooperative agreements to protect the historical, cultural, recreational, scenic and natural resources of the Corridor in a manner compatible with economic revitalization efforts; (11) make an economic assessment of the long and short term costs and benefits related to the establishment, operation and maintenance of the heritage area, including comprehensive estimate of the costs of implementing the management plan identified by source of funding and specifically delineating expected state, local, federal and private contributions;

(12) describe the organizational structure to be utilized for planning, development and management of the heritage area, including the responsibilities and interrelationships of local, regional and state agencies in the management process and a program to provide maximum feasible private participation in the implementation of the management plan. Such organizational structures may include but not be limited to utilization of existing private businesses or state and local agencies for administrative and finance purposes through contracts and letters of agreement; and (13) contain a program and schedule for implementation of the Plan by the Commission, detailing ways in which local, State, and Federal programs may best be coordinated to promote the purposes of this Act.

(

c) IMPLEMENTATION OF PLAN—After review and approval of the Plan by the Advisory Council, the Commission or its designated successor shall implement the Plan by taking appropriate steps throughout the Heritage Area, consistent with the goals of the Plan, to preserve and interpret its historic resources, develop its recreational resources, and support public and private efforts in economic revitalization. These steps may include:

(1) assisting State and local governmental entities, regional planning organizations, and nonprofit organizations throughout the Corridor in— (B) preserving and ensuring appropriate use of lands and structures; (C) establishing and maintaining visitor centers and other interpretive exhibits; (D) developing recreational programs and resources; (E) increasing public awareness of and appreciation for its historical and architectural resources and sites;

(F) restoring any historic property; (G) ensuring that clear, consistent signs identifying access points and sites of interest are established; and (8) encouraging by appropriate means enhanced economic and industrial development throughout the Corridor; and (9) encouraging local governments to adopt land use policies consistent with the management of the Corridor and the goals of the Plan; and (10) contracting with any person or organization to provide technical assistance in the protection, enhancement and interpretation of the resources identified in the Plan.

(d) GRANTS AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE-- To effect the purposes of this act, any county, city, town or other unit of local government may appropriate and pay

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

over to the Commission moneys to be expended by the Commission to carry out its functions.

1. As part of the implementation of the management plan, the Commission and eligible local governments may apply for any pertinent existing state grant and/or loan funds, and, to the extent allowable, shall be awarded priority points in state agency evaluations due to inclusion in the Heritage Area. The matching funds limitations outlined below shall not apply to any existing state grant program or financial assistance that may already be available or awarded to state-designated heritage areas.

2. Within the amounts available or appropriated therefore, the Commission may award a grant or grants to local governments or other appropriate entities identified as part of the heritage area for planning, design, acquisition, development and programming of heritage areas. Such planning grants to municipalities will be for the purpose of assisting localities to prepare management plans and may cover up to fifty percent of the cost of the plan. The state share must be matched by local funds or approved in-kind contributions.

3. Acquisition and development grants may be made by the Commission to local governments or to other entities as authorized following approval of a management plan for the heritage area where the grant will be used. Such grants shall be for the purpose of implementing the heritage area program in conformity with the approved management plan and may be used for project design, acquisition and development of real property and interests therein. No such acquisition or development grant shall exceed twenty-five percent of the total project cost for which it is awarded and furthermore, local contributions must equal or exceed such grants.

4. Program grants may also be made by the Commission to local governments or authorized entities to develop and present interpretive exhibits, materials or other appropriate products to further educational and recreational objectives of the heritage area program and to encourage urban revitalization of, and reinvestment in, heritage area resources. Program grants may cover up to twenty-five percent of the estimated project cost, and the state share must be matched by local funds or other non-state funds.

SECTION 8. NORTH CAROLINA STATE HERITAGE AREAS ADVISORY COUNCIL.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT. There is hereby created a North Carolina State Heritage Areas Advisory Council, which shall consist of five members or their designated representatives. The advisory council shall consist of the following members: the Lieutenant Governor, who shall coordinate the functions and activities of the Advisory Council, and serve as its chair; the Secretary of Cultural Resources, to advise and assist in matters regarding cultural folklife and historic preservation; the Commissioner of Agriculture, to advise on agricultural preservation and the identification and protection of rural resources; the Secretary of Commerce, to advise and assist regarding tourism, economic development, neighborhood

housing, community renewal and revitalization; the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources, to advise and assist regarding matters of conservation and wise use of natural resources.

(b) JURISDICTION, FUNCTIONS, AND POWERS. In addition to any other powers, functions and duties conferred upon it by this title, or other provisions of law, the advisory council shall:

(3) Meet at least twice each year to provide information and review the activities conducted pursuant to this act.

(4) Direct representatives of State Agencies with program responsibilities that affect aspects of the interpretation, preservation, development and use of heritage area resources to prepare a statement detailing actions in the areas of planning, development, use, assistance and regulation that can support and assist the establishment and management of state heritage areas.

(5) Review and approve draft heritage area management plans, and proposed changes or amendments to a previously approved management plan. Such approval shall be based upon the general consistency of the plan with the policy and goals of this act and in particular to its ability to protect resources and provide educational, recreational, preservation, economic and cultural benefits for the public at large. The Advisory Council shall tender in writing such approval within ninety days after receipt of the locally approved management plan or change or amendment thereto. Final approval by the Advisory Council of a management plan within three years of the date of designation is a condition of permanent designation as a heritage area.

(6) Review complaints made by local governments or other entities established to administer heritage areas, and make recommendations with respect thereto, regarding activities undertaken by state agencies that may adversely affect heritage area resources.

(7) Submit reports to the governor, not less than once a year, concerning progress toward implementing the heritage area, including recommendations for the future.

(8) Exercise and perform such other advisory functions, powers and duties related to the planning, development and management of the Heritage Area, as may be requested by the Commission.

(9) On an ongoing basis, to evaluate areas of the state in regard to their significance as potential locations for designation as heritage areas, to establish guidelines for evaluating eligibility, and to submit recommendations for designation to the legislature.

(c) DUTIES. The Advisory Council shall approve or disapprove a Plan submitted under this Act by the Commission not later than 90 days after receiving the Plan. The Advisory Council shall approve a Plan submitted if— (1) they find the Plan would adequately protect significant historical and cultural resources of the Corridor while providing adequate and appropriate outdoor recreational opportunities and economic activities within the Corridor;

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

(2) they determine that the Commission held public hearings and provided adequate opportunity for public and governmental involvement in the preparation of the Plan; and

(3) the Secretary receives adequate assurances from appropriate State officials that the recommended implementation program identified in the Plan will be initiated within a reasonable time after it is approved, and that such implementation program will ensure effective implementation of the State and local aspects of the Plan.

(d) APPROVAL OF PLAN. Approval of the management plan by the Advisory Council shall:

(1) Establish eligibility for the receipt of acquisition, development & programming assistance from the state within the defined heritage area boundaries;

(2) Require, for continuance in the program, appropriate action by participating local governments to protect and safeguard the defined resources in the heritage area.

(e ) DISAPPROVAL OF PLAN—If the Secretary disapproves a Plan submitted by the Commission, he shall advise the Commission in writing of the reasons therefore, and shall make recommendations for revisions in the Plan. The Commission shall, within 90 days of receipt of such notice of disapproval, revise and resubmit the Plan to the Secretary, who shall approve or disapprove a proposed revision within 60 days after the date it is resubmitted.

(f) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE—At the request of the Commission, and subject to the availability of funds appropriated specifically for the purpose, or made available on a reimbursement basis, the Secretary shall provide administrative, technical, financial, developmental, and operational assistance. Such assistance may include:

(1) general administrative support in planning, finance, personnel, procurement, property management, environmental and historical compliance, and land acquisition;

(2) personnel;

(3) office space and equipment;

(4) planning and design services for visitor use facilities, trails, interpretive exhibits, publications, signs, and natural resource management;

(5) development and construction assistance, including visitor use facilities, trails, river use and access facilities, scenic byways, signs, wayside facilities, and rehabilitation of historic structures; and

(6) operational functions, including interpretation and visitor services, maintenance, and natural resource management services conducted within the boundaries of the Corridor.

SECTION 9. DUTIES OF STATE AGENCIES

(a) Where there is an approved management plan in effect, any Agency of the State of North Carolina conducting or supporting activities directly affecting the Corridor shall—

of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

(1) consult with the Advisory Council & Commission concerning such activities; (2) cooperate with the Advisory Council and the Commission in carrying out their duties under the Plan and, to the maximum extent practicable, coordinate such activities; and (3) to the maximum extent practicable, conduct or support such activities in a manner which the Advisory Council and Commission determines will not have an adverse effect on the Heritage Area. (4) incorporate the heritage Area into the review of actions pursuant to the state environmental quality and historic preservation reviews.

Refenestrate the Factory

140 Windows… 3,000 panes of glass… In the 22 years since the Upper Mill in Franklinville closed, at least half of its ‘window lights’ have been put out, broken by vandals, cracked by heat, the frames and sash exposed to the weather and rotting. As part of its ongoing mill restoration program, the Friends of the Factory are raising funds to rebuild and restore every window and reglaze the black eyes of Randolph County’s oldest manufacturing facility.

You, your family, your employer, your club or civic group can help this happen by donating the funds necessary to restore, install and paint all or part of a factory window. Your tax-deductible gift can be given to honor or recognize the person of your choice, and larger gifts will receive a permanent memorial. Your gift will also entitle you to membership in the Friends of the Factory, and you will receive our quarterly newsletter containing local history, restoration news and a calendar of events.

• BUY A WINDOW - $500

• INSTALLATION AND PAINT - $500

• BUY A SASH - $250

• BUY ONE PANE OF GLASS - $ 20

The Friends of the Factory operate through the Randolph Heritage Conservancy, an organization exempt from Federal taxation under section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Friends of the Factory, Post Office Box 298, Franklinville, N.C. 27248.

Town of Jamestown – Deep River Trail Plan

An Industrial History Worth Saving

North Carolina’s pioneer cotton textile manufacturers laid the foundation for Southern industrial development.

The oldest textile mills in North Carolina still stand in the Piedmont.

The Franklinsville Manufacturing Company, founded in 1838, operated until 1978. Its Randolph County mill and village are recognized landmarks of industrial history. Despite its extraordinary significance, the nineteenth-century factory is in imminent danger of being lost.

Franklinville Manufacturing Co., 1913

Preservation of this mill would focus attention on the roots of North Carolina’s industrial development, while offering new points of view on its future.

With your tax-deductible support, restoration of the Franklinsville factory can start soon.

Become a Friend of the Factory and make an annual contribution. Call or write for information about funding specific capital projects. Print out this page by clicking on the print button of your browser's toolbar to join Friends of the Factory.

Friends of the Factory Membership Form

Your gift in the amount shown will support the purchase and renovation of the 1838 Franklinsville Manufacturing Company factory, the acquisition and creation of greenway trails along Deep River, and other projects of the Randolph Heritage Conservancy. Donations are tax deductible.

Franklinville Manufacturing Co., 1874

Appendix 5: Deep River State Trail Concept Plan

Acknowledgements

Randolph County Board of Commissioners

David Allen, Chairman

Darrell Frye, Vice Chairman

Stan Haywood

Randolph County Tourism Development Authority

David Caughron, Chairman

Mary Joan Pugh, Vice Chair

Gail Morgan, Board Member

Barbara Gallimore, Board Member

Rebecca Petty Moffitt, Board Member

Shawn Patel, Board Member

Deep River Trail Task Force

Perry Connor, Town of Franklinville

Jay Dale, County of Randolph

Jesse Day, Piedmont Triad Regional Council

Tom Jordan, Cedar Falls Community

Kerri Lindley, Town of Ramseur

Trevor Nuttall, City of Asheboro

Tammy O'Kelley, Executive Director

Greg Patton, City of Randleman

Jim Plant, At Large

Consulting Staff, Piedmont Triad Regional Council

Jesse Day, Regional Planning Director

Malinda Ford, GIS Manager

Joe Furstenberg, Regional Planner

Kenny Kidd Maxton McDowell

Ross Holt, Board Member

Luke Hollingsworth, Board Member

Marianne Rowe, Board Member

Tammy O’Kelley, Executive Director

Amber Renee Skeen, Clerk to the Board

Mary Joan Pugh, Task Force Chair

Smith Raynor, NC State Parks ‐  Regional Trails Specialist

Amber Renee Skeen, Clerk to the Task Force

Jim Rich, A3 Healthy Communities

April Thornton, Randolph Hospital Foundation

Mac Whatley, RC Historic Landmark Preservation Commission

Mac Whatley, RC Historic Landmark Preservation Commission

Elizabeth Jernigan, Assistant Planning Director

Kelly Larkins, Regional Planner II

Anna Leonard, Environmental Programs Coordinator

P ROJECT P URPOSE AND G OALS

The Deep River became a State Trail in 2007 through special legislation in the General Assembly The authorization did not provide funding to implement the trail, but did give priority for communities along the river who may want to access recreation trail grants to construct and maintain trail in the corridor. Soon after, the City of Randleman and the Town of Franklinville opened sections of trail along the Deep River. The Town of Ramseur also secured a Clean Water Management Trust Fund grant to complete a detailed alignment of the trail in the Town of Ramseur.

In 2015 a Deep River Trail Task Force was formed by the Randolph County Tourism Development Authority with local, regional, and state government representatives as well as recreation and trail advocates to continue coordinating efforts for planning, design, construction and management of the Deep River Trail in Randolph County. A task force report was completed in 2016 inventorying the status of trail development along the Deep River, while also providing recommendations on key plans, designs and other actions to move trail development forward. The completion of this Deep River Trail Conceptual Plan , provides alignment alternatives and recommendations for the proposed Deep River trail from Randleman to Ramseur. The recommendations are divided up into the following six sections, which also correspond to the map.

STUDY AREA SECTIONS AND DISTANCE

Figure 1

Deep River Trail Sections (2016 Task Force Report)

GOALS & IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

The Deep River Trail Task Force developed broad goals, barriers and opportunities for trail development in the spring of 2017.

Why is the Deep River Trail important for your community, the County and the region? It will…

Improve quality of life,

Expand recreation and economic opportunities,

Increase health and fitness,

Protect the environment,

Promote tourism, recreation and wellness,

Connect and preserve the identity of communities along the river,

Connect to nature and education,

Provide a “no cost” activity for young families,

Amenity to attract new citizens,

Preserve natural areas along the river from development, and

Teach citizens and visitors about the history of the river.

How can the barriers to and opportunities from trail development be addressed?

Barriers: Landowner opposition, funding, few existing trails, major creek crossings

Opportunities: Blueway trails and dam portages, economic benefits, tourism, health, fitness and recreation

Deep River Trail Vision

The Deep River Trail will connect communities all along the Deep River. The trail will be an anchor for recreation and tourism in Randolph County, connecting people with nature and the river. The trail will be easily accessible for the community at large and will connect to other local, regional & State trail networks. The Deep River Trail will be used as an alternate form of transportation and provide a place for visitors and citizens to exercise, recreate, and experience the outdoors on the Deep River.

Photo 1: Task Force Members Discuss the Trail with a Landowner

Barriers & Opportunities with Example Strategies

1. Explain the vision of the Deep River Trail to as many audiences as possible

o Gather community partners and deliver presentations.

o Work with landowners individually and discuss the vision of the trail.

2. Implement a County property tax benefit and explain State and federal tax incentives for trail easement dedication

o Dedicate funding for legal costs of easement acquisition.

3. Incorporate trail easement dedication through the subdivision process for adopted trails for Randolph County, Randleman, Asheboro, Franklinville and Ramseur

4. Develop public and private funding sources for trail and bridge design and construction

o Leverage grant opportunities from State (e.g. tourism or NCDOT) and private foundations.

5. Develop river access and trail in the middle section of the Deep River (e.g. Central Falls and the landfill property)

o Acquire easements now where trail alignment is known (e.g. along rail bed),

o Build trails on County landfill property, and

o Get further sections of trail completed to gain momentum and educate citizens on trail potential.

6.

Creek crossings

o Complete engineering studies to know the length and design constraints of bridges

o See how the Sandy Creek bridge crossing design study can be a model for other large crossings (e.g. Harlan’s Creek, Bush Creek, Gabriel’s Creek)

o Select crossing locations with least impact to floodplain and sensitive areas

7. Focus on river blueway and portage trails around dams

o Construct a boat launch in the Old Liberty Road Area and

o Connect the river to RCC, local campgrounds and churches.

8. Promote economic development and benefits (e.g. Virginia Creeper Trail)

o Low cost infrastructure,

o Take an economic “snapshot” prior to construction and monitor economic benefits (e.g. sales tax, room tax and trips) after the trail is complete, and

o Highlight studies of economic benefit related to trails development.

9. Advertise nature tourism

o Continue to market the trail to hikers, walkers and families and

o Promote through outfitter and restaurant partnerships and signage 10. Market health, exercise and passive recreation benefits of trail implementation

11. Expand the work of the Deep River Trail Task Force

o Conduct stewardship programs on the Deep River including stream and river clean ups,

o Conduct private fundraising campaign providing matching funds for private, local, state and federal grants, and

o Work with willing landowners to acquire trail easements.

12. Seek adoption of the Deep River Trail Conceptual plan by Randolph County, Randleman, Asheboro, Franklinville and Ramseur

Photo 2: Task Force Member Paddling Above Cox's Dam

B ACKGROUND AND H ISTORY

The Deep River Trail is envisioned to be a multi use trail and blueway alongside the Deep River and through communities once supported by the rail line, textile manufacturing, and the river. Though the steel rails, wooden cross ties and river barges were removed decades ago, it is easy to see where industry and commerce once thrived along the river. The trail will connect small towns and communities in new ways, allowing participants to reconnect to the remnants of history and culture along the abandoned rail line and mill villages that relied on the river for power. The trail will offer citizens a chance to get out of their cars and experience the outdoor luxuries of trees, shade, birdsongs, and views of the scenic Deep River. It will be a haven for walkers, cyclists, runners, paddlers and families away from the noise of vehicular traffic. The trail provides an important link in a developing multi county trail system. In 2007, legislation was passed authorizing the establishment of “The Deep River State Trail” as part of the state park system. The State Trail would encompass a network of conservation lands and recreation features including trails, water access, parks and other amenities stretching along the Deep River corridor from its headwaters in Guilford County through Randolph, Chatham, and Moore Counties down to the confluence with the Cape Fear River.

LIVABILITY AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS

A safe place for outdoor physical activity: Few rural communities have access to safe places to walk or bicycle. Rail trails provide opportunities to be active without interacting with motorized traffic. Because rail lines were once major transportation corridors, they connect communities to town and community centers.

A place to enjoy nature: Trails and greenways often provide wildlife habitat. The location of the rail trail along the Deep River will preserve its riparian buffer. The mature vegetation and wooded forests that make up the riparian corridor provides critical habitat for terrestrial and aquatic species, providing a unique wildlife viewing experience.

A place for recreation: The trail connection from Ramseur to Franklinville will offer varied walking, running and bicycling distance options for residents from each town. Twenty minutes of elevated heart rate per day can provide a tremendous benefit to human health and fitness. In addition to walking and bicycling, the trail will also access locations for picnicking, fishing, and will provide canoe/kayak sites designated as part of the State Park Deep River Trail.

Figure 2 ‐ Deep River State Park Trail

More transportation options, lower transportation costs, and cleaner environment: The trail will develop safe, reliable, and affordable transportation choices that reduce energy consumption, and improve air quality. The trail when fully implemented will connect communities to their schools giving children a safer route to walk or bicycle to and from school.

Valuable asset for communities and neighborhoods : The trail will be a unique asset to the communities and neighborhoods adjacent to the trail. There are several studies that indicate property values increase when adjacent to trails.

Economically viable/sustainable community development: Trails are an excellent way to increase community revitalization. Companies increasingly seek communities that provide amenities that enhance employees’ quality of life. Trails and greenways are one of the most sought after amenities. Longer trails offer a regional draw for tourism as well. And this trail will link up with a network of other trails and greenways and act as a cornerstone for regional economic competitiveness.

HISTORY

The Deep River is rich in historical importance for both the development of Randolph County and the North Carolina Piedmont region.

The earliest known humans to settle in the area were visited in 1701 by the English explorer John Lawson, who recorded his encounter in a book titled “A New Voyage to Carolina” published in 1709. As Lawson traveled through the Carolina backcountry for the colonial authorities, his small expedition came across a Native American tribe called the Keyauwee or Caraway.

In part due to the interest generated by Lawson and other explorers, the Province of North Carolina saw an increasing number of English, Scotch Irish, and German pioneers who began settling and establishing farms and mills in the area. This domestic peace was later shattered by the outbreak of war between the Colonies and Great Britain, with Randolph County and the Deep River providing a backdrop to several skirmishes between Patriots and Loyalists.

After the war, the strong flow of the Deep River provided resourceful citizens with the necessary energy to begin powering mills. These developments not only improved the lives of those who built and ran the factories, but it also helped bring Randolph County into the Industrial Revolution. Starting in 1836, factories began to appear in Cedar Falls, Randleman, Franklinville, and Ramseur making Randolph County one of three of the largest centers of manufacturing in the state by the outbreak of the Civil War. By the 1880’s, more factories sprung up in communities such as Worthville and Central Falls. In the early 20th century, the factories in these communities were served by a gasoline powered barge with the main purpose of shuttling raw cotton down river to be dyed.

( Source: https://randolphhistory.wordpress.com/?s=Deep+River )

Photo 3: Worthville Covered Bridge looking south toward factory. Photo courtesy of Mac Whatley.

P ROJECT A PPROACH

FIELD WORK

Field work was conducted by boat and by foot between January and April 2017. Cameras equipped with GPS systems were used to gather natural and cultural features along the study corridor. Areas along the river were investigated for trail constructability. Factors affecting constructability include wetlands, existing structures (homes, utilities, dams and businesses), stream outlets to the Deep River, roads, topography and landfill operations. Each part of the corridor has unique opportunities and challenges for design, construction, management and maintenance based upon the varying conditions of the corridor.

PLANNING CONTEXT

In addition to the efforts to construct trail in Randleman, Franklinville and Ramseur, other plans were reviewed to inform this Conceptual Plan. The following plans reference the Deep River Trail:

Deep River Trail Task Force Report (2016)



Trail inventory and action plan for the Deep River Trail Task force and partners, foundational document for this Conceptual Plan

Randolph County Strategic Plan (2016)



Example strategy for Well Being and Quality of Life: Coordinate with partners to market and brand the developing Deep River Trail

Piedmont Triad Trails Inventory (2011)



Identifies the Deep River State Trail and other proposed trails in Randolph County as part of a larger regional & State trail network.

Deep River Rail Trail Master Plan (2011)



Detailed alignment, cost estimates, surveys and other information on Section 6 (Town of Ramseur and Clean Water Management Trust Fund) of this Conceptual Plan.

Randolph County Growth Management Plan (2009)



Policy recommendations include supporting tourism and land development that preserves and protects water quality.

Other municipal planning and committee efforts have also helped to inform and educate citizens and government staff on the history, culture and ecological uniqueness of the Deep River corridor. Each grant application, committee meeting, public event has moved the trail development forward. This Conceptual Plan will build from the progress already made over the last decade to plan, design and implement trail sections.

O PPORTUNITIES AND C ONSTRAINTS

OPPORTUNITIES

River Access

A number of potential outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, canoeing/kayaking, and swimming could grow. There is limited advanced or technical water to attract expert paddlers, but the Deep River provides ample opportunities for beginner paddlers and groups. New swimming areas like the one planned at the old Worthville mill and dam will provide new public recreation opportunities on the Deep River.

Existing Trail

The natural surface multi use trail constructed by the City of Randleman and the Town of Franklinville offer trail experiences on either end of the conceptual plan study area. Franklinville’s section is on a former rail bed providing a very accessible pathway. The City of Randleman offers a mix of a wide and flat trail to more technical hiking trails sections. The City of Randleman and Town of Franklinville have both utilized Clean Water Management Trust Fund, Recreation Trails Program and additional funding sources to build trail sections.

North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo is not in the immediate vicinity of the study area, however the Zoo has been and continues to be a tourism draw for Randolph County. Partnerships in recreation marketing, branding and programming will be an ongoing opportunity for increasing recreation users on the Deep River Trail as it is implemented.

Publicly Owned Property

The County and Randolph Community College own a large part of the land in Section 3 of the study area from Central Falls to Cedar Falls. This middle section has no trail or publicly accessible points on the river, making it a prime opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of public recreational access on the Deep River. Other sections, including many in Franklinville and Ramseur have acquired trail easements or purchased property for trail development.

CONSTRAINTS

Hydro electric dams

There are six dams in the study area, two of which are actively generating electric power. The other four dams have either been breached slightly or the hydro electric equipment has not been maintained. More detail is provided below for each section in Feasibility Analysis & Preferred Trail Alignment

Photo 4: Randleman Deep River Trail Boy Scout Bridge Credit: City of Randleman

Wetlands

There are parts of Section 2 and 3 that have significant wetland challenges close to the Deep River. Either re routing or low impact boardwalk construction will be necessary to complete trail in these areas.

Large Creeks

There are several large creek tributaries of the Deep River that will provide challenges to trail implementation. Some of the largest creek crossings include Haskett’s, Gabriel, Sandy and Harlan’s Creek crossings require a 50 ft or longer bridge to cross. Alternative trail alignment options for crossing at these locations are suggested to either minimize environmental impact or construction costs.

Land Use

There are several mills and villages in study area. Three active mills; Prestige Fabricators (Central Falls) and Sapona Mill (just downstream of Cedar Falls) and Deep River Fabricators (Franklinville) continue to operate, but many others have been shuddered in the last few decades.

and Ramseur used to have an active rail line that supported the mills and additional industrial development along the corridor. It has been over 30 years since that rail line was removed, tracks and bridges included. In some streams the piers for the bridges remain, which following inspection may be used to support a pedestrian bridge.

Additionally, residential development, boat and truck repair businesses, civic organizations, active and inactive landfills, an RV Park and some additional small scale commercial development are located in the study area.

Deep River Trail

The section between Cedar Falls

Photo 5: Sandy Creek Crossing with US 64 Bridge Above Credit: Town of Franklinville

Photo 6: View of Cedar Falls Closed Mill from Bridge over Deep River

N ATURAL AND E NVIRONMENTAL F INDINGS

The Deep River is located in the Cape Fear River Basin, the largest river basin in North Carolina. Major drainages in the basin include the Haw River, Deep River, Northeast Cape Fear River and Black River.

NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE ACTION PLAN

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission Wildlife Action Plan addresses local, regional, and state wide concerns across key terrestrial and aquatic habitats and identified critical knowledge gaps and future data needs.

The Upper Cape Fear River Basin is included in this plan and documents aquatic resource conditions, aquatic species, threats to aquatic species, and basin specific recommendations. There are 35 species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) in the basin: two aquatic snails, two crayfish, 18 freshwater or anadromous fishes, and 13 mussels.

Access to the Deep River and historic spawning habitats in the upper Cape Fear River basin is currently blocked by Lockville Dam near the mouth of the Deep River. Fish passage around these obstructions is needed for migratory fish to reach historic spawning sites in the Deep River. Restoring migratory fish access to historic spawning and nursery habitats will help rebuild currently depressed populations to support healthy ecosystems and sustainable recreational and commercial fisheries

The Wildlife Action Plan recommends long term monitoring to assess species and ecosystem health over time. These efforts will inform species and habitat management decisions. The state plan supports well planned stream restoration, dam removal, and identifying conservation areas critical to aquatic ecosystem health.

IDENTIFIED RARE SPECIES

A query of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database indicates records for rare species within the proposed project boundary. The rare species listed in Table 1 have been documented within a one mile radius of the Deep River between Randleman and Ramseur. The proximity of these records suggest these NHP elements may potentially be present in the project area if a suitable habitat exists.

Table 1:

SECTION 1. RANDLEMAN TO WORTHVILLE

Section Distance: 3 Miles; Completed Trail: 1.5 miles; Funded Trail: 1.5 miles

Preferred Alignment: Southwest side or river right

Stream Crossings: 3 (Map ID 1 ‐ 25ft, 2 25ft, 3 25ft, estimated distance)

Summary: This section starts in the City of Randleman where 1.5 miles of existing trail begins at N. Main Street and the Deep River. The trail is on the southwest side of the Deep River. Funding has been secured for implementing 1.5 miles of trail to get to the closed Worthville Mill. As shown in the pictures below, there are topographic challenges to constructing the trail along this corridor, including rock outcroppings and streams. The trail will meander and narrow in some of these locations, but will eventually tie into the Worthville Mill and village area. The historic Worthville mill village will be connected via trail to the City of Randleman. Grants and land acquisition around the old Worthville mill and dam, will create a destination for trail users.

Key Improvements:

Continue to utilize Recreation Trails Program and Duke Energy foundation funding to acquire easements and implement trail development towards Worthville;  Seek grant funding to develop recreation improvements (e.g. swimming, boat access and picnicking) adjacent to the trail near Worthville dam; and  Continue to market the existing sections of trail and plan for pedestrian improvements along roadways that connect downtown Randleman to the Deep River.

Photo 7: Randleman Deep River Trail

Deep River Trail

Table 2 ‐  Section 1 Photos: Randleman to Worthville

P1 New trail surface behind industrial building

P2 Grading new trail surface in Randleman

P3 Views of the Deep River downstream from Randleman

P4 City Manager Nick Holcumb on rock outcropping

P5 Stream outlet into the Deep River

P6 Worthville Dam and swimming beach area

Photo Credit: Greg Patton

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SECTION 2. WORTHVILLE TO CENTRAL FALLS

Section Distance: 3 Miles; No Completed Trail

Preferred Alignment: Southwest side or river right

Stream Crossings: 3 (Map ID 4 30ft, 5 35ft, 6 75ft, estimated distance)

Summary: This section begins below the Worthville Mill and Dam. The City of Randleman has acquired approximately 157 acres immediately downstream from the old mill, with opportunities for recreation including swimming access and trail development. Going downstream, privately held land exists on both sides of the river to Central Falls. Land trail feasibility was primarily investigated on the southwest side of the river where Worthville and Central

middle of this section on river right includes a large wetland area, providing challenges to implementation. More groundwork following discussions with willing landowners will inform the trail routing through the wetlands area. The route for the trail is located along WOW Road, which should be improved to create a paved shoulder on both sides of the road for automobile, pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Key Steps:  Work with NCDOT, the Piedmont Triad RPO and Randolph County to prioritize paved shoulder improvements on WOW Road between Worthville and Central Falls in the State Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) or other transportation funding programs;  Work with willing landowners to acquire trail easements adjacent to the Deep River; and  Develop a public swimming beach and boat access below the Worthville Dam on publicly owned land.

Falls villages are located. The

Photo 8: Worthville Beach Area Looking Downstream Just Below the Mill

Deep River Trail

Table 3 ‐  Section 2 Photos: Worthville to Central Falls

P1 Worthville Beach area looking downstream

P2 First major stream outlet downstream from Worthville Dam

P3 View of private boat access

P4 Hasketts Creek outlet to the Deep River

P5 Hasketts Creek with WOW Rd. bridge in the background

P6 Old Liberty Road bridge over Deep River

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SECTION 3. CENTRAL FALLS TO CEDAR FALLS

Section Distance: 3 Miles; No Completed Trail

Preferred Alignment: Southwest side or river right; Alternate Alignment: Portions on the northeast side or river left.

Stream Crossings: 10 (Map ID 7 50ft, 8 25ft, 9 20ft, 10 17ft, 11 12ft, 12 35ft, 13 20ft, 14 45ft, 15 360ft, 16‐ 30ft)

Summary: This section of trail has one active dam, Cox’s dam. Just downstream of Central Falls towards Cedar Falls is publicly owned land owned by Randolph County or Randolph Community College. All of the publicly owned parcels are located on the southwest portion of the river. The majority of the land use on the publicly owned land is the former landfill, which serves as a transfer station. Another large part of the publicly owned land has been leased to Waste Management for an active landfill, but provides for a 300 foot buffer along the Deep River. As the corridor gets closer to Cedar Falls, topography and geology gets hillier, where bluffs along the river make it difficult to access the river from the land adjacent on the southwest side of the river. The northeast side of the river may provide better construction options, however there is active farming and all privately held land south of Cox’s dam on the northeast side or river left. An alternate route has been suggested on the northeast side of the river (river left).

Key Improvements:

Develop a public boat access and trailhead downstream from Old Liberty Road on land owned by the City of Asheboro near the Shriner’s Club;

Design and build trail on the old and new landfill property, connecting with the RCC campus, where a trailhead is proposed;

Explore purchase of Cedar Dam and island for park and water access;

Work with willing landowners to acquire trail easements; and

Investigate and determine feasibility of alternative trail routes to connect with Cedar Falls.

Photo 9: Deep River Near Cox's Dam

Deep River Trail

Table 4

Section 3 Photos: Central Falls to Cedar Falls

P1 Small wetlands area downstream from Central Falls P2 Rock outcropping downstream from Central Falls P3 Cox’s Dam

Rock outcropping adjacent to Deep River and new landfill property

P5 Field Work at Gabriel’s Creek P6 Proposed trailhead adjacent to RCC training facility

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SECTION 4. CEDAR FALLS TO FRANKLINVILLE

Section Distance: 2.75 Miles; No Completed Trail

Preferred Alignment: Northeast side or river left

Stream Crossings: 1 (Map ID 17 125ft)

Summary: This section of the Deep River has an abandoned rail line on the northeast side of the river. The rail line was abandoned and tracks removed over 30 years ago. The rail bed property has reverted back to private ownership in this section. The Cedar Falls village is where the rail line turned north and away from the Deep River. Sapona Mill is an active manufacturing facility just downstream from Cedar Falls on the northeast side of the river. Bush Creek is a major stream crossing likely requiring a detailed design and floodplain impact study, however this crossing is not currently publicly owned. The Franklinville Upper Mill Dam is still actively generating power. Not much of the Franklinville Lower Mill Dam remains as it is completely breached, with much of the infrastructure removed. Just downstream of where Andrew Hunter Road crosses the Deep River in Franklinville there is a pedestrian bridge that takes hikers across the Deep River to Faith Rock. A natural surface hiking trail approximately 3/4 mile long takes hikers to and along Faith Rock, a significant natural and cultural feature of the Deep River. A parking area for the Faith Rock trail is available adjacent to Andrew Hunter Road in the Town of Franklinville and another access is off of Faith Rock Road on the southwest side of the river.

Key Improvements: 

Work with NCDOT, the Piedmont Triad RPO and Randolph County to prioritize paved shoulder improvements on Cedar Falls Road from Loflin Pond Road to Mill House Lane, utilize Mill House Lane to connect with the abandoned rail line south and east of the active Sapona Manufacturing facility and 

Work with willing landowners to acquire trail easements along the abandoned rail bed.

Photo 10: Cedar Falls Road Near Sapona Mill

Table 5 ‐  Section 4 Photos: Cedar Falls to Franklinville

P1 Task force member Tom Jordan with childhood home in the background at Cedar Falls

P2 Old bridge structure at Cedar Falls

P3 View of Deep River at Cedar Falls

P4 Bush creek outlet to the Deep River

P5 Task force members talk with a landowner

P6 View of active Franklinville Upper Dam

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SECTION 5. FRANKLINVILLE TO RAMSEUR

Section Distance: 2 Miles; Completed Trail: 1 Mile, Funding Pending for 1 mile of trail

Trail Alignment: Northeast side or river left

Stream Crossings: 1 (Map ID 18 115ft)

Summary: This section begins at Riverside Park in Franklinville. Just downstream, much of the Franklinville Lower Mill Dam is completely breached with some dam material removed. The Town of Franklinville constructed one mile of trail along the old rail bed. The Town of Franklinville has funding to complete the trail from Sandy Creek to Riverside Park. The crossing of Sandy Creek to Ramseur has been an ongoing challenge to physically connect. The old rail crossing is over 200 feet and alternate crossings are likely 85 feet or more.

Key Improvements: 

Secure pending Recreational Trails Program grant to complete the Deep River Trail that will connect Sandy Creek to Riverside Park in Franklinville. 

Complete a proposed alignment, design and floodplain analysis of the Sandy Creek bridge in 2017 and 2018. Randolph County has provided funding for the design and additional funds to leverage grants for construction of the bridge. 

Continue to promote the existing trail and invite citizens and community leaders along

Deep River to walk the existing trail

the

Photo 11: Deep River Rail Trail Sign

Deep River Trail

Table 6 ‐  Section 5 Photos: Franklinville to Ramseur

P1 View of pedestrian bridge from Franklinville to Faith Rock (Credit:Town of Franklinville)

P2 Task force member and Franklinville Mayor Perry Conner on top of Faith Rock (Credit: Town of Franklinville)

P3 View of the Deep River from Riverside Park in Franklinville (Credit: PTRC)

P4 Deep River Trail at Rising Sun Way (Credit: PTRC)

P5 Deep River Trail Users (Credit: Dilys Bowman)

P6 Sandy Creek former railroad crossing (Credit: PTRC)

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SECTION 6. RAMSEUR

Section Distance: 1.25 Miles; Partially completed trail between Sandy Creek & Harlan’s Creek

Trail Alignment: Northeast side or river left

Stream Crossings: 1 (Map ID 19 – 195ft)

Summary: This 1.25 mile section of proposed trail had a detailed trail study completed in 2011. The recommended surface from the plan is crushed granite millings at a width of 10 feet. Between the trailhead at the old boat landing and Harlan’s Creek, easements for the trail have been acquired by the Town of Ramseur. Surfacing material has been placed between the old boat landing and Harlan’s Creek to increase accessibility.

There is one major stream crossing with rail trestle piers still in place, over Harlan’s Creek; the decking has been removed (see P3 photo). These piers appear to be in good enough condition to be reused, but will need to be analyzed by a structural engineer to determine if a pedestrian bridge could be constructed on them. The good condition of the rail bed should require less grading/grubbing and base material for trail construction than usual.

Key Improvements: 

Acquire the final easement for trail development along the old rail bed just downstream from Harlan’s Creek.  Secure funding for construction of the Harlan’s Creek bridge, a key connection for this section of trail  Improve trailhead parking and signage off US 64 to create better access to the existing trail  Re establish a Town committee to keep the existing trail cleared and maintained.

Photo 12: Old Rail Bed Near Harlan's Creek

Photos: Ramseur

P1 Old Boat Land Open Space near Sandy Creek

P2 Old rail bed in Ramseur

P3 Harlan’s Creek former rail crossing P4 Ramseur Dam

P5 Old railbed and sewer maintenance road P6 View of potential trailhead at Brooklyn Avenue

D

RIVER CONDITIONS AND PORTAGES

Randleman Park to Worthv ille Dam (2.4 miles)

Level of Difficulty: Class 1

Portage: Worthville Dam, river right/southwest side

Key Improvements: Signage, access ramps/steps and trail surfacing improvements.

Worthville Dam to Cox Dam (5.8 miles)

Level of Difficulty: Flat

Portage: Cox Dam, river right/southwest side

The blueway trail will require physical improvements and access easements from willing landowners where noted. These descriptions are intended to advise blueway trail improvements, not to guide paddlers along the Deep River.

Key Improvements: Signage, access ramps/steps, a bridge over Cox Creek, trail surfacing improvements and trail easement from private landowner.

Cox Dam to Cedar Falls/Loflin Pond Road (0.5 miles)

Level of Difficulty: Class I, II, III

Portage: Cedar Falls Dam and falls, river left/northeast side*

Key Improvements: Signage, access ramps/steps, trail surfacing improvements and trail easement from private landowner.

*Experienced paddlers may choose to float Cedar Falls below the dam, however a portage to Loflin Pond Road may be necessary for less experienced paddlers or in low water conditions.

Cedar Falls/Loflin Pond Road to Andrew Hunter Road (2 miles)

Level of Difficulty: Class I, II

Portage: Franklinville Upper Mill Dam, river left/northeast side**

Key Improvements: Signage, access ramps/steps, trails surfacing improvements and trail easement from private landowner.

**Portage will require a ¼ mile carry to get across Andrew Hunter Road Andrew Hunter Road to US 64/Sandy Creek (2.3 miles)

Level of Difficulty: Class II

Portage: Depending on the water level, the Franklinville Lower Mill Dam may require a portage river left/northeast side, however it can be floated in most conditions.

Key Improvements: Signage and boat access improvements at Franklinville Park pedestrian bridge needed. Trail access easements needed upstream from Andrew Hunter Road.

US 64/Sandy Creek to Brooklyn Bridge (1 mile)

Level of Difficulty: Flat or Class I

Portage: Ramseur Dam, river left/northeast side

Key Improvements: Signage, access ramps/steps, trails surfacing improvements. Alternate take out above Ramseur Dam on river right/southwest side at the Leonard Memorial Park.

R ECENT P ROGRESS & A CTION S TEPS

The following list shows recent strategic steps taken and actions steps for the next 12 18 months to assist in implementation of the Deep River Trail. The Deep River Trail Task force will be instrumental in assisting with implementing the action steps listed below.

1. LAND TRAIL

Randleman Construct Phase I Trail from Randleman Park to E. Naomi St. In progress.

Randleman Construct Phase II Trail from E. Naomi St. to Worthville Dam. Funded.

Randleman Acquire property down stream of Worthville Dam. Complete.

Central Falls to Cedar Falls Work with Randolph County Administration, Community College and Waste Management on trail along publicly owned property. Funding needed. Detailed trail alignment to be completed with master trail builder.

Central Falls to Cedar Falls  ‐ Explore purchase of Cedar Dam and island for park and water access. Present a proposal to the Piedmont Triad Water Authority for purchase.

Franklinville Acquire Faith Rock property and new trail to add to Riverside Park. Complete

Franklinville Construct segment connecting existing Deep River Rail Trail to Riverside Park. Funding requested

Franklinville Design and construct bridge over Sandy Creek. Construction project cost and ranking submitted to NCDOT by the Piedmont Triad RPO Engineering study and environmental assessment and estimated 10% of bridge construction funding secured

Ramseur Construct Rail Trail from Boat Landing to Harlan’s Creek. Complete.

Ramseur In partnership with State Parks, acquire parcel just downstream from Harlan’s Creek to complete easement and acquisition for trail development. In progress.

2. BLUEWAY

Improve small boat access at Worthville Dam and implement Central Falls small boat access. Design boat landings and complete environmental analysis for floodplain impact. 

Hold a historical barge and boat regatta between Worthville and Central Falls to highlight the former company ships that ran between mills. Present idea to Randolph Historical Society for input and partnership.

Cedar Falls/Loflin Pond Rd to Andrew Hunter Rd. Work on access location.

Andrew Hunter Rd to Franklinville Park. Work on access.

River clean ups on different sections of the river. Conduct spring and fall clean up events.

Implement portage improvements around dams. Seek grant funding for dam portage trail improvements and seek easements from willing landowners where required.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Continue Stormwater education programs in schools through Stormwater SMART. Partner with Stormwater SMART, a stormwater education program.

Continue river clean ups for different sections of the Deep River. Partner with Keep Randolph County Beautiful, Waste Management and other civic partners. 

Explore the establishment of a Deep Riverkeeper program to organize river clean ups, advocate for river health & rehabilitation. Establish public/private partnership with existing organizations.

4. MAINTENANCE



Continue to share best practices for maintenance between each town and participate in trail conferences to develop new techniques and innovations. Participate in Piedmont Legacy Trails annual conference and resolution of support. 

Conduct and share trail counts and surveys to understand how people are using the developing Deep River trail. Provide comment request forms at trailheads to allow feedback on trail improvements.



Provide information to trail users on how to report maintenance issues along trail sections. Establish mile markers or other location information, share and coordinate with Randolph County EMS and local law enforcement.

Appendix 6: Bridge Signage

Appendix 7: DRST Five Year Plan

Deep River State Trail Plan: 2022-2027

Piedmont Land Conservancy

Planned length: 125 miles each (land and water) Complete the Trail Funds: $860,828

Miles designated: 5 Funds Expended: Capacity Funds: $49,500

CAPACITY BUILDING FUNDS:

Describe how you plan to use your capacity building funds, including a list of deliverables:

Tasks:

• Trail Coordinator position - $20,000/ year

• Mapping - $2500/year

• Project Coordination - $2000/ year

Deliverables:

• Deep River State Trail Steering Committee established and functioning

• Trail Volunteer program established and functioning

• Priority trail projects completed

TRAIL DEVELOPMENT:

Describe projects with the potential of being started in the next 5 years. These projects can include planning, promotion, partnering with other organizations, trail construction, trail maintenance, land acquisition, and recruiting volunteers. For projects that affect the entire trail, like volunteer recruitment, repeat under each focus area. Please include a brief description of the project. Do not include specifics related to planned land acquisition.

Trail Segments:

Segment 1: Guilford County to Randleman (20 miles)

Planning - Blueway from Deep River Rd and Penny Rd to City Lake Marina. Have technical assistance grant to plan.

Construction – Complete extension of existing Bicentennial Greenway at Piedmont Environmental Center on Penny Road to City Lake Park via a pedestrian bridge across City Lake. (Summer 2022) (Mile 124)

Construction - Blueway from Deep River Rd and Penny Rd to City Lake marina.

Designation – Designate 1.2 mile section of the High Point Greenway between Deep River Road and Penny Road; 2.6 mile section of Bicentennial Greenway from Penny Road to Sunnyvale Rd and 2.3 mile Deep River Trail along City Lake. (Mile 124 – 125)

Designation – Designate the 3.9 miles of trails along City Lake at the Piedmont Environmental Center. (Mile 124)

Designation – PTRWA Boat Ramp (Mile 110)

Designation – Southwest Park - river access (Mile 119)

Partners

• Guilford County

• City of High Point

• Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority

• Randleman

• Randolph County

• Deep River State Trail Steering Committee

• Piedmont Land Conservancy

• Randolph County Trails Advisory Council

Volunteer Recruitment

Segment 2: Randleman to Moore County Line (34 miles)

Planning

• Randolph County Landfill Central Falls to Cedar Falls (3 miles). Involves conceptual plan with trail alignment.

• Preliminary engineering for five bridges – Bush, Harlan, Cox, Gabriel’s and Hasketts Creeks.

• Extend Randleman trail upstream to Randleman Dam. Involves locating the trail alignment and identifying property for acquisition of easements.

Acquisition

• Trailhead and short section at Sapona (Cedar Falls); connection at Sapona to railroad bed/Cedar Falls. Sapona willing to donate land or easements for all three.

• Cedar Falls to EMS Training Center. Need connection to County Landfill property from NC Textile Museum at Cedar Falls. Involves several tracts of land

• Central Falls Shrine Club – need two or three tracts for trailhead and connection to County Landfill land.

Trail construction

• Sandy Creek bridge to connect Franklinville Rail section (1.75 mi) to Ramseur Rail section (.75 mi). RTP funded

• Ramseur Rail Trail extension, acquisition, trailhead and portage – PARTF and NCL&WF. Involves .5 mile trail extension to downtown, trailhead at Old Depot/Columbia Mill and portage river right at Leonard Park.

• Randleman Phase III (1.5 mi) – RTP funded. Involves trailhead at Worthville in conjunction with River Access, 1.25 mile of new trail and .25 mile of renovated trail to connect to the existing trail at the rock outcrop.

• Worthville River Access – RTP (2021) and NC WRC funded

• Central Falls River Access – RTP funded (2022)

• Franklinville to Cedar Falls (Sapona Mill) (2 miles). Involves two trailheads, bridge over Bush Creek and 2 miles of trail on abandoned railroad bed.

• Sapona to NC Textile Museum (Cedar Falls) (.75 mile). Involves trailhead at NC Textile Museum, connection from Sapona Mill to abandoned railroad bed, .75 mile of trail, and river access site at NC Textile Museum.

• Cedar Falls to Central Falls (County Landfill). Involves first section of 3-mile trail based on Conceptual Plan.

• River access below the Randleman Dam. Involve creating trailhead near dam on river right and takeout access in Randleman.

Partners

• Randolph County

• Randleman

• Franklinville

• Ramseur

• PTRWA

• Piedmont Land Conservancy

• Randolph County Trails Advisory Council

• Deep River State Trail Steering Committee

Volunteer Recruitment

Segment 3: Moore County (30 miles)

Planning

• River access at Glendon-Carthage Road Bridge (Mile 55) – plan to rebuild the river access. Bridge was replaced and the river access lost. May involve acquisition.

• River access at S. Carbonton Bridge (Mile 49) near House in the Horseshoe owned by DNCR. Will involve acquisition. The takeout would be existing Carbonton Bridge Ramp Access (Mile 43) in Lee County

• River access at N. Howard Mill Rd Bridge (Mile 71). Will involve acquisition and perhaps Brownfield cleanup funds.

Acquisition

• Land for river access at S. Carbonton Bridge (Mile 49) adjoining the House in the Horseshoe.

• Land at Glendon Carthage Road Bridge (Mile 55). Involve working with landowner for the river access that was lost.

Trail Construction

• River access at S. Carbonton Bridge (Mile 49) near House in the Horseshoe

• River access at Glendon-Carthage Road Bridge (Mile 55)

Partners

• Moore County

• Three Rivers Land Trust

• Triangle J COG

• Deep River State Trail Steering Committee

Volunteer Recruitment – Needed when accesses are constructed.

Segment 4: Chatham and Lee Counties (29 miles)

Planning

• Conceptual Plan for Deep River Blueway Corridor for Chatham and Lee Counties. Involves coordinating the four existing and three funded river accesses with Chatham and Lee Counties, Deep River Park Association, Triangle Land Conservancy and State Parks.

• Endor Iron Furnace Park (Mile 28). Involves a plan to restore iron furnace and create trails and river access/camping along Deep River.

• Extend the river trail from Endor Iron Furnace (Mile 28) to Deep River Park/Camel Back Park (Mile 30). Involves working with Pilgrim’s Pride that owns 400+ acres along Deep River.

• Conceptual Plan for land trail from Carbonton (Mile 43) to Moncure/US 1 (Mile 18)

Trail Construction

• River access at US 421 (Mile 33) – NCWRC funded.

• River access at US 15/501 (Mile 25) – NCWRC funded.

• River access Jordan Lake (Justice) tract/US 1 (Mile 18) – State Parks plans to build

• Pave the river access ramp at Carbonton (Mile 43)

Partners

• Lee County

• Chatham County

• Triangle Land Conservancy

• NC State Parks, NC Historic Sites

• Deep River State Trail Steering Committee

Volunteer Coordination – Lee and Chatham Counties, Deep River Park Association and Triangle Land Conservancy

COMPLETE THE TRAIL (CTF) PROJECTS:

List in priority order, with estimated costs included. Please note those instances where you are planning to leverage other funds to complete a project. Do not limit the listed projects to your current CTF budget.

1. Franklinville to Sapona ($700,000);

2. Sapona to NC Textile Museum including water access ($300,000)

2023 Year of the Trail Celebrations Planned/Anticipated:

Ribbon cutting:

• Franklinville to Sapona;

• Ramseur trail extension, trailhead and portage;

• Worthville to Central Falls paddleway;

• Randleman Phase III Worthville to Randleman.

• River access at US 421

• River access at US 15/501

Trail Events:

• Paddle using four existing river accesses in Lee/Chatham Counties

• Hike along new 1.2 mile High Point Greenway segment at Hickswood/Penny Roads

Needed technical/other assistance needed from State Parks:

• Design for standard foot bridge