If you were unable to attend the City of Sanford’s public forum on the greenway extension, you’re in luck. We've recapped the highlights.
City staff held the public forum on Monday, Jan. 28, 2013, at the Lee County Library on Hawkins Avenue (5pm).
[See a map of the existing greenway here.]
Here is the information that was presented to attendees:
Benefits
Besides the recreational benefit, the extension’s proximity to the hospital, medical facilities, and the Nautilus, this an opportunity to promote healthy lifestyles.
The extension will get the greenway to the intersection of Carthage Street and Fields Drive which opens access to moderate income families that may not have other modes of transportation and opportunities for safe exercise.
There were already several organizations using the greenway for numerous walking and running events and the extension would allow for even more sanctioned events.
Cost
The preliminary budget estimate of the greenway extension is expected to be around $512,000.
Costs for the project include easement acquisition, greenway development, therapeutic outdoor exercise equipment, amenities such as benches and trash cans, and construction management.
Once constructed the City of Sanford would maintain the facility in much the same manner as the Endor Iron Trail to the north of Kiwanis Family Park.
Fine Details
Greenway would extend from the southern terminus of the trail in Kiwanis Family Park to Central Carolina Hospital.
The proposed extension is approximately 3110 linear feet, which would make the total greenway more than 3 miles.
Applications for PARTF Funding were due January 31, 2012.
The City should be notified of award sometime in late spring or mid summer. An agreement would be made in early August.
The project will require three years to complete.
Public Response
Attendees offered City staff several ideas that may be incorporated into the final design, such as adding lighting for early morning or late evening use, installing emergency phones, and coordinating a pet policy with Lee County’s Parks & Recreation Department.
For more information about the greenway project, contact David Montgomery at david.montgomery@sanfordnc.net.