Anne Springs Close Greenway Opens Two New Bridges, Strengthening Trail Access and Conservation Efforts
The Anne Springs Close GreenwaySM today announced the official opening of two newly constructed pedestrian bridges, marking the completion of a critical infrastructure project that enhances both access and environmental stewardship on its 2,100-acre property.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held this morning to celebrate the milestone, with remarks from Greenway leadership and community partners in attendance.
The $1.77 million project replaces two key crossings that had become unusable in recent years: the former Steele Street vehicular bridge, which collapsed in January 2024, and a swinging footbridge near the prairie at the Adventure Road Entrance. These new steel-truss pedestrian bridges are engineered for longevity, designed to sit above the 100-year floodplain and minimize environmental disruption.
“Today’s opening marks more than just the completion of a construction project—it represents our ongoing commitment to balancing sustainable access with land conservation,” said John Gordon, President & CEO of the Leroy Springs & Company. “These bridges restore vital trail connections for hikers, bikers and equestrians, while protecting the integrity of Steele Creek and the surrounding ecosystem.”
With the new bridges in place, over 200 acres of trails previously impacted by detours and closures are once again accessible. The improvements are expected to significantly enhance visitor experience across multiple trail systems, particularly at the heavily trafficked Adventure Road and Blue Star entrances. In 2024 alone, more than 100,000 visitors entered the Greenway through these gateways.
The project was funded through a combination of endowment support and generous contributions from individuals, corporate sponsors and individual donors.
“These bridges are an investment in the future of this property and the people who cherish it,” said Gordon. “As our region continues to grow, we’re proud to provide safe, sustainable ways for the public to connect with nature.”
To learn more about the Anne Springs Close Greenway and its mission, visit www.ascgreenway.org.
About Anne Springs Close Greenway
Nestled amid beautiful lakes and hardwood forests, the Anne Springs Close Greenway℠ is a natural preserve more than twice the size of Central Park. Minutes south of Charlotte in Fort Mill, SC, its 2,100 acres serve as a natural buffer from urban development and provide a wide-open space for countless activities – from hiking, biking and horseback riding to picnics, kayaking and more. The land has ties to the Catawba Indians and the Civil War and has been permanently preserved for public use. The children of Anne Springs Close donated the land in honor of her lifelong commitment to recreation and the environment to provide a natural landscape for the community to enjoy. The Greenway℠ contains native plants and animals, historic buildings, a 40-mile network of trails, Greenway Gateway welcome center and facilities for weddings and other special events. As a non-profit organization, it depends on memberships, program fees, as well as private donations to support annual operations. The Greenway is owned and operated by Leroy Springs & Company Inc., a 501(c)3 organization that receives no government funding for its ongoing operations and programs.
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