To the Editor:

I was very happy to read the article, “Greenway use rising in Jackson County” in The Smoky Mountain News last week. The article stated that recent use of the greenway doubled and had increased five-fold since last fall. Congratulations to all who brought this project to fruition in spite of unforeseen challenges. With the Tuckasegee River running through the heart of Jackson County, the riverside greenway and other recreational amenities are good for both residents and visitors. 

Founded in 2007, Cullowhee Revitalization Endeavor (CuRvE) is a community organization whose mission is to help revitalization the historic center of Cullowhee. Our focus area begins at the Cullowhee dam and flows downstream to Locust Creek, just below the new footbridge. Right now, much of the area is torn up with construction of a new bridge on Old Cullowhee Road. CuRvE has been actively working with DOT to ensure that the bridge will become a centerpiece of the historic town. 

Significantly, a grant from Blue Ridge Natural Heritage Partners in 2012 allowed CuRvE to commission an economic impact study to measure the effect that improved river access would have on our county. Completed by Asheville-based Syneva Economics, a family river park beside the new bridge would bring $1.2 million in new spending dollars to Jackson County every year. That money would support 16 jobs and generate $145,000 in annual tax revenues. 

Surely, such investments in county services are a good thing for citizens and the growing use of the greenway supports that idea.

Anna Fariello

Cullowhee