Photos by Brian O’Shea, Plateau Daily News
Phase One Cashiers Greenway Ramble, a one-mile stretch beginning and ending at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, is now open.
A map of Phase One of the Cashiers Greenway Ramble.
The new Thomas Taulbee Memorial Entrance is named in honor of the Chamber’s late executive director. Local businesses were involved in the design, landscaping, and construction of the Ramble.
This initial section previews the full 5-mile network, showing the transformative potential the initiative has for improving our quality of life, preserving natural beauty and offering opportunities for meaningful connection.
Pictured below is a look at Phase One of the Cashiers Greenway Ramble.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on July 24 at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce to officially commemorate the opening.
The ribbon cutting ceremony for the official opening of the Cashiers Greenway Ramble at the Thomas Taulbee Memorial entrance. Submitted photo
Jackson County, the Chamber of Commerce, and Vision Cashiers joined together to create Walk Cashiers – Bringing Us Together, a transformative initiative dedicated to creating a 5-mile network of pathways, sidewalks, boardwalks and public spaces in Cashiers. The centerpiece of this project, the Cashiers Greenway Ramble, will connect residents and visitors to the heart of our community, promoting a more walkable and vibrant environment.
The one-mile stretch of trail begins and ends at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce.
According to a 2019 study by the Urban Land Institute, walkability and connectivity are crucial for preserving Cashiers’ unique character and charm. This initiative will address our village’s growth, ensuring that the essence of Cashiers is maintained.
The Thomas Taulbee Memorial Entrance is named in honor of the Chamber’s late executive director.
“Cashiers is growing, and change is inevitable,” said Ashton Harris, President of the Chamber of Commerce Board. “Walk Cashiers is exactly what we need to preserve and protect what we love about being here – trails and sidewalks will allow people to walk everywhere, parks will provide natural areas. It will also support our small businesses.”
Signage marking the path for the Cashiers Greenway Ramble placed throughout the trail.
In addition to pathways, Walk Cashiers aims to create small parks and gathering spaces where residents and visitors can meet and connect, building a more cohesive community and preserving the natural beauty of the area. All pathways will feature WI-FI connectivity and down lighting ensuring a ‘Smart’ and safe experience.
An aerial view of one section of the Cashiers Greenway Ramble.
Art nodes will punctuate the Ramble with original sculptures on loan from area artists, made possible through a partnership of The Bascom and Vision Cashiers. A new piece installed at the entrance by artist MG Morrow will be in place for 2 years and is for sale. The Oconee Bell Chapter of the North Carolina Native Plant Society is responsible for the native plantings that will be installed throughout.
To learn more about Walk Cashiers, click HERE.
Phase One of the Greenway is complete and open to the public.
Some sections of the Greenway run alongside US 107.
The trail circles the Crossroads, but gives hikers a quiet reprieve from the busy intersection.