The Town of Williamston is planning several recreation related projects that include multi-use trails in the Mineral Spring Park area. Williamton has applied for grant funds to construct a multi-use trail for bikers and walkers from Mineral Spring Park north to the historic depot, soccer field, and existing town owned property.
Willilamston Mayor Mack Durham said he hopes there is enough public interest and support to show the project is wanted in the area. He also said that it would be the first of a series of trails/walkways that could eventually connect to Pelzer, West Pelzer and the Saluda River.
Anderson County has applied to construct an ADA accessible kayak launch at the existing Timmerman Landing in Pelzer as part of their Blueway project on the Saluda River.
The County is promoting the Saluda River corridor to outdoor enthusiasts interested in kayaking, canoeing and even tubing. The first ADA accessible launch in the state was constructed at the Dolly Cooper Park in Powdersville.
Officials are inviting the public to a meeting Thursday, July 11 at 6 p.m. at the Williamston Municipal Center to hear information on both projects.
Each of the projects have equal opportunity for funding and are scored based on extensive criteria as set forth by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, officials said.
The Town of Williamston’s Greenway presentation will begin at 6 pm and will be followed by an allotment of 15 minutes for public comment. Anderson County’s Blueway presentation will begin at 6:30 pm with an allotment of 15 minutes for public comment immediately following.
Funding for the RTP Program is provided through the federal Recreational Trails Program, which is administered through the Federal Highway Administration. Funds for this program are derived from federal gas taxes paid on the non-highway recreational fuel used in off-highway vehicles. This grant program requires a 20% local match and can be used to fund trail improvements or new construction.
For more information please contact Blake Sanders at rsanders@swasc.com or Matt Schell at mschell@andersoncountysc.org.
