The Saluda Grade Rail Trail is a proposed rail trail conversion connecting five communities along the historic Saluda Grade rail line across Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina. As trail development advances, adjacent communities face critical questions about how to prepare for increased visitation, connect trail users to downtowns, and ensure local economies capture the value this investment creates.
TIS Impact Services led the research, engagement, and economic development strategy for the corridor, evaluating how communities along the trail can move from physical infrastructure to lasting economic benefit.
Connecting trail investment to community value
Corridor Planning, Economic Development Strategy, and Community Engagement
Economic Development Plan Infographic
Public Engagement Infographic
Trailhead Typology Infographic
​Our Approach:
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Led all research, discovery, and community engagement activities across the corridor
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Conducted corridor-wide site analysis of visitor access, parking, and infrastructure readiness
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Engaged local governments, businesses, and community stakeholders through surveys and small group roundtables
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Evaluated trail access locations, arrival zones, and town interface areas
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Developed economic development concepts supporting local business participation and community character
Impact:
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Over 1,000 community survey responses and 70 participants in small group roundtables
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Established a corridor-wide framework connecting five communities along the trail
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Identified visitor arrival zones and trail-to-town connections as the primary mechanism for economic capture
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Developed parking and access strategies treating infrastructure as economic development, not just traffic management
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Produced an economic development strategy with growth management, e-bike policy, and connectivity recommendations
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Delivered findings to mayors, city managers, and community stakeholders across the corridor