Chatham County’s efforts to improve the Haw River Trail experience

Pittsboro, NC – Chatham County is working with Triangle J Council of Governments and Alta Planning + Design to conduct a feasibility study for the Haw River Trail. This study will identify opportunities for the development of land-based trails along the Haw River from the Alamance County border to Jordan Lake. It will also identify opportunities for further development of the paddle trail along the Haw River in Chatham County.

The study is guided by a Steering Committee made up of representatives from local governments, nonprofits, the business community, and outdoor interest groups. The study will draw on public and stakeholder input, analysis of existing conditions along the corridor, and recommendations from past planning efforts. The study will also analyze the potential economic benefits to Chatham County of constructing the trail, based on studies of similar trails.

GET INVOLVED
There will be numerous opportunities throughout the study for input from the public, including:
     • Tabling events at various spring functions around the county.
     • Interactive public web map
     • Public comment forms (available at project tabling events)
     • Draft report for review (Note: the report is currently in development. Check here for the draft report later in 2023)

STAY UP-TO-DATE
Stay tuned to this webpage for updates and the latest information on the Haw River Trail feasibility study. If you have any questions or suggestions feel free to reach out to the Trails and Open Space Planner, Ben Rippe at ben.rippe@chathamcountync.gov or 919-545-8553.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
For more information about the Haw River Trail, including existing sections of hiking and paddle trails, and trails in North Carolina:
     • Haw River Trail in Alamance County
     • Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area
     • Haw River Assembly
     • 2023: North Carolina’s “Year of the Trail”