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There has been much talk about the “Saluda Grade,” or the Norfolk Southern Line that runs between Spartanburg and Hendersonville.

The group that purchased the railroad line desires to convert it into a walking, hiking, and biking trail. This group has the full support of the local government, and its team of professionals is telling you what great benefits it will bring you and the community.

There is another side to this story, and both the pros and cons should be heard so the general public can make their own decision on whether this is the best idea.

Each town would need to provide accommodations and public facilities for visitors from out of town or out of state.

Once ownership has been transferred, state and donated funds and the sale of all tracks and ties will finance most of the removal and reconstruction of railroad beds, walking surfaces, signals, crosswalks, and bridges.

Open trails will require public utilities, including first aid, fire, and EMS access, at intervals. Potentially, police surveillance cameras and electrical charging stations for public and maintenance use will also be required. Full-time maintenance staff and cleanup crew will be needed for trail repair, brush clearing, and trash pickup.

After completion, the yearly expenses for maintaining the trail and its facilities will require additional support funds from independent donors, state and federal taxes, and special grants to support the operations and maintenance of the 15.5 miles of trail in S.C. With no revenue coming back to pay for all these services, the taxpayers may be paying for it.

Google “Cost per mile for Rail to Trail” and “American-Rails.com.”

Who benefits the most? The shops and mini-marts? Hikers will only buy what they can carry, like drinks or snack foods, as they tackle the open trail and the Saluda Grade. 

I suggest we “Save the Rails for Trains.”

A potential group focused on saving the existing line could find an independent railroad company to make the necessary repairs and restore the existing line to full service. The railroad company would be responsible for all costs associated with repairs to washouts and bridges and maintaining the rails’ “right of way.” The railroad company could provide a train service similar to Bryson City, N.C.

In this scenario, who would benefit the most? The public of all ages could ride and enjoy whatever the towns offer in terms of eating, shopping, and entertainment. Stops could include Pearson Falls, Melrose Jct., and Climbers Park. Many visitors could enjoy hiking trails and views of the mountains by rail.

Trains would have a lesser financial impact on the state and federal tax programs and the communities along their path. 

To voice your opinion on the matter, please contact your city, county, and state reps in N.C. and S.C.

 

Leo Lopshire

Campobello