News

Transylvania tourism agency commits $100,000 to Ecusta Trail

By Lightning Reports, Published: March 4, 2020

Leaders of Transylvania County's tourism agency voted last week to set aside $100,000 for development of the Ecusta Trail, signaling a substantial commitment to the proposed 20-mile greenway.

The Transylvania County Tourism Board of Directors had previously pledged support of the rail-to-trail project  in June of 2015, emphasizing the benefit that the trail would have on the community. At their annual retreat last week board members committed the money. The $100,000 appropriation marks the largest financial commitment to any single project in the organization’s history.

After nearly a decade of conversation and behind the scenes efforts by many in Henderson and Transylvania counties, momentum has picked up surrounding the development of the trail. TCT’s announcement follows on the heels of the $6.4 million purchase money grant to Conserving Carolina from the North Carolina Department of Transportation in August 2019.

"Transylvania County Tourism has a role to play in our community that goes deeper than just marketing and promotion," TCT Chair Layton Parker said in a news release. "Our board is committed to being part of the long-term success of tourism in Transylvania County and sees the importance and opportunity of the Ecusta Trail. It will become an integral element for the health of our community, outdoor recreation and sustainability of tourism that sets our county apart as a destination for both residents and visitors to enjoy."

Henderson County Tourism Development Authority voted several years ago to set aside part of the hotel tax to support construction of the trail.