Preparation Work for Mountain Goat Trail Underway

Construction of the Mountain Goat Trail between St. Andrews and Monteagle could begin soon. Ben Farmer of Farmer Associates, Tuscumbia, AL and Pikeville, TN has been retained by the City of Monteagle, sponsor of the project, to begin the design work on the trail. Trail Officials expect design plans to be completed in August.  Construction bidding is planned for December, 2010 with actual construction work on the trail to start as early as February, 2011.

According to Ben Farmer, he and his associates have been busy finishing up right of way acquisitions.  Local citizens have been generous and are cooperating to provide easements needed to build the trail.  Surveying crews are marking the right of ways for the design and construction crews.

Farmer said that he has been researching the history of the Mountain Goat Railroad.  This involves use of old photos and stories as well as conversations with local residents who remember the railroad and how it operated. Farmer said that John Greeter has been especially helpful in relating his memories of the old Mountain Goat Railroad.

Farmer wants to ensure that the trail will be unique and built in a way that will preserve the memory of the railroad.

The trail received a boost recently when the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced that the matching funds needed to complete the project were being cut from 20% to 10 per cent.  This will result in the amount of money needed to match the grant being reduced by about $75,000.  However, trail officials have pointed out that despite some generous donations, approximately $50,000 is still needed by September of this year in order for construction to begin and the full amount of the TDOT grant to be realized.

It is projected that the trail will be a major economic boost for the Cumberland Plateau.  “Rails to Trails” has been a popular idea all over the United States for many years and the dollars spent by hikers can mean a major boost to the local economies.  The Mountain Goat Trail has a colorful history as it was the main source of transportation to the top of the mountain for many years.  Coupled with the University of the South and the South Cumberland State Park, this trail is sure to draw hikers and tourist who want to enjoy the unique beauty of the plateau.

Persons interested in helping make the trail a reality should become Members of the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance, and/or make contributions to the trail.  For more information call 931-924-3424 or go on line at :  www.mountaingoattrail.org. Contributions can be mailed to: MGTA PO Box  968 Monteagle, TN 37356