Construction is set to begin on the Tannery North segment of Brevard’s Estatoe Trail, a new paved path that will connect the Mary C. Jenkins Community Center to Rosman Highway and eventually extend to Brevard High School. The trail is designed for non-motorized use, offering residents a route for walking, biking, and rolling through town while linking neighborhoods, schools, and community spaces.
The project also aims to honor local history by crossing the site of the former Brevard Tannery. This property once provided jobs for many area residents but is now a designated brownfield purchased by the City of Brevard. The site will be repurposed as part of this transportation corridor.
In addition to building the trail, city officials are seeking funding and advancing plans for restoring Norton Creek. This restoration effort is intended to improve water quality and help reduce flooding risks in nearby areas during storms.
Preconstruction work began in December 2025 with crews installing fencing around the construction zone and bringing in equipment. Because of past industrial activity at the site, trail designs have been adapted to address environmental conditions while reflecting neighborhood character. Tree removal along the planned route will start in late January, with debris collection scheduled before a state bat moratorium takes effect later in spring.
The City advises that “folks should not attempt to enter the property. It is not safe for public use/travel at this time.”
