Meaningful connections are starting to take place between families, friends, and neighbors along the Ecusta Trail. Greetings and salutations spark conversations between pedestrians as they enjoy recent work on the trail. The recent mild winter allowed many individuals to use the trail safely. Many users came from the small neighborhoods dotting the trail.

Take the example of Tim and Debbie, who recently moved here from Arizona. The two moved to Western North Carolina for work and live 2 miles from the trail. They came to the trail to safely ride their bikes. They jokingly mention that “it’s time to get in shape again.” These enthusiastic trail users are excited about riding to a local coffee shop or the upcoming market in Laurel Park.

Other social and recreational connections involve an organized group of runners. The Hendersonville Run Club meets at Trailside Brewing (on the Ecusta Trail) on Thursdays at 6 p.m.. The group also meets on Tuesdays at Guidon Brewing and uses the Oklawaha Greenway. Walkers and runners can safely meet and enjoy the outdoors with a walk, or a 3-mile or 5-mile run. Meaningful conversations and impromptu shenanigans typically happen after the run. Some socialites join the group for fellowship after the run.

After the October groundbreaking, many individuals have safely enjoyed sections of the trail that were not under construction. Mild winters have always been a joy for outdoor enthusiasts; however, the spring thaw has given way to drier days for construction to begin. You may have seen photos of the recent grading and drainage work. Concrete forms and culverts are slowly replacing the old rustic wooden beams that held the brunt of the load of rail cars. Temporary warning signs are posted to keep appropriate boundaries between heavy equipment and onlookers. Please remain respectful during this time and heed warning signs. The first phase of the Ecusta Trial is underway and should be finished by year’s end.