News Summary
Greenville is experiencing significant economic development due to the Swamp Rabbit Trail, an extensive 28-mile pathway attracting 750,000 annual users and boosting the local economy by over $7 million. This surge in popularity has led to increased property values and the emergence of new businesses, particularly in Travelers Rest. With ambitious plans for further expansion and development, community leaders are investing in projects that promise to enhance connectivity and urban planning in the area, ensuring the trail’s continued positive impact on the local lifestyle and economy.
Greenville is witnessing remarkable growth thanks to the Swamp Rabbit Trail, an extensive 28-mile pathway that stretches from Travelers Rest in the north to southern Greenville County. This trail has become an economic powerhouse, annually boosting the local economy by over $7 million according to the Development District Association of Appalachia.
The trail has attracted approximately 750,000 users each year, with about 26% of weekend visitors coming from outside South Carolina, as indicated by Upstate Alliance. The popularity of the trail has substantially affected the surrounding area, driving property values upward and enabling local businesses to thrive.
Specific areas, such as Travelers Rest, have witnessed a surge in new establishments. The introduction of ambitious businesses like a beekeeping supply store, a new bookstore, boutiques, and an upscale wine shop reflects the growing economic landscape linked to the trail. Mixed-use developments are also emerging, such as the Bolden Street District, which is set to include residential and commercial spaces along 90 acres over a 10-year period. This expansion is indicative of the trail’s ongoing influence on local urban planning and community development.
The Swamp Rabbit Trail, which has received acclaim by ranking first on Fodor’s travel guide for best urban trails, can trace its origins back to 1887 when it was first established as part of the Carolina, Knoxville and Western Railroad. The trail derives its name from its uneven track that would cause train cars to “hop,” a reference to the swamp rabbits that once inhabited the area near Furman University. After ceasing operations in 1997 and a community restoration effort in 2005, the trail opened officially in 2009.
Today, the trail encompasses three key lines in Greenville: the original Orange line running from Greenville to Travelers Rest, the Green line connecting to Verdea at the southern end, and the Blue line leading to Cleveland Park. These pathways offer access to various popular sites, including the Reedy River, Furman University, Unity Park, Falls Park, and Lake Conestee Nature Park.
Looking ahead, Greenville city and county leaders have ambitious plans for further extending the trail to enhance connectivity with surrounding communities and neighborhoods. A trail extension through the North Main neighborhood is presently in the planning stages, along with additional projects that will extend the trail to Fountain Inn and establish a connection between Travelers Rest High School and the George I. Theisen Family YMCA.
Furthermore, community leaders are proposing the development of a loop trail next to the Greenville Downtown Airport, which will feature amenities like a skatepark, pump track, and bicycle playground. This initiative reflects an investment of approximately $9 million in development costs for the trail in 2023.
To support these ambitious plans, the city has successfully secured a $20.3 million federal infrastructure grant, which will facilitate various projects aimed at uniting neighborhoods and includes the redevelopment of a Superfund site. Upcoming projects feature a pedestrian bridge over Verdae Boulevard, another bridge at Cleveland Park, and a potential 1-mile trail extension behind the Greenville Zoo.
The Greenville City Council has been actively reviewing ongoing projects to enhance the trail system during their annual retreat, highlighting the commitment of local officials to fostering growth and accessibility through the Swamp Rabbit Trail. As plans for expansion continue to unfold, they promise to further solidify the trail’s position as a significant asset to the local economy and lifestyle.
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Additional Resources
- GVLtoday: Greenville Trail Upgrades
- Wikipedia: Greenville, South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: 90-Acre Community Hub in Greenville
- Google Search: Swamp Rabbit Trail
- Greenville Journal: Updating Trail Projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Recreational Trail
