NC Commerce Visits Glen Alpine and Drexel
The Burke River Trail is more than a trail — it’s a catalyst for community revitalization. As part of our ongoing work to help Burke County’s Trail Towns prepare for the economic opportunities that come with outdoor recreation, Executive Director Beth Heile invited Phil Boggan, ARC Community Economic Development Planner with the NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center, to visit Glen Alpine and Drexel for on-the-ground conversations about downtown development. The Rural Planning program supports local governments with strategic planning, technical assistance, and training to help rural communities grow while maintaining their unique character — a perfect fit for the vision of the Burke River Trail corridor.
Beth first connected with Phil during the Rural Community Capacity (RC2) training she completed with Rhodhiss Town Manager Rick Justice. That training emphasized the importance of leadership, partnerships, and readiness — the same elements now fueling progress in Glen Alpine, Drexel, Rutherford College, and beyond. Building on that momentum, Phil toured Glen Alpine with Alderman Reid Scott and Town Administrator Crystal, walking the emerging park and downtown blocks, discussing pedestrian connectivity, future trail access, and strategies for supporting small businesses as the Burke River Trail brings new visitors into town.
The visit continued in Drexel with Town Manager Bill Carroll, where discussions centered on downtown assets, redevelopment opportunities, and the role of the future Burke River Trail in shaping Drexel’s identity as a welcoming stop along the regional trail corridor. These town-by-town visits help align local goals with statewide resources — ensuring communities have the tools, planning frameworks, and partnerships they need to prepare for investment and long-term economic vitality.
BRTA is grateful for the support and collaboration of the NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center. With each visit, workshop, and conversation, our nine Trail Towns grow stronger — proving again that trails connect more than places. They connect people, communities, and opportunities for rural prosperity.
