Notice of Finding of No Significant Impact and Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

July 1, 2026

Spartanburg County
9039 Fairforest Road
Spartanburg, SC 29301
864-595-5309

These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by Spartanburg County, South Carolina.

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or about July 17, 2026 Spartanburg County will submit a request to HUD for the release of the Economic Development Initiative, Community Project Funding funds under Consolidated Appropriations Act of the Housing and Community Development Act, as amended, to undertake a project known as Saluda Grade Trail for the purpose of increasing access to recreational opportunities. The proposed project includes the development of the Saluda Grade Trail, which will run 31.5 miles from Inman, SC to Zirconia, NC. The trail will convert the rail line into a multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists. Communities along the Saluda Grade Trail have a high need for safe and secure recreational facilities that can connect communities. This project will utilize land that is currently unused and convert it to a high value purpose. The trail will be open to residents to walk, cycle, hike, and will be usable by people using wheelchairs, strollers, and other forms of recreation and athletic activities.

Estimated Grant Funds: $6,000,000.00
Grant Number: B-24-CP-SC-2017
Estimated Total Project Cost: $6,000,000.00

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

Spartanburg County has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at Spartanburg County, 9039 Fairforest Road, Spartanburg, SC 29301 and may be examined or copied weekdays 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. Additional information can also be requested by contacting Ms. Kerry Easler, Community Development Department at keasler@spartanburgcounty.gov or 864-595-5309.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Spartanburg County, 9039 Fairforest Road, Spartanburg, SC 29301 or by contacting Ms. Kerry Easler at keasler@spartanburgcounty.gov. All comments received by July 16, 2026, will be considered by Spartanburg County prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.  Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

Spartanburg County certifies to HUD that Kevin Stiens in their capacity as Deputy County Administrator consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows Spartanburg County to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and Spartanburg County’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Spartanburg County; (b) Spartanburg County has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality.  Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD – Columbia Field Office at CPDRROFCSC@hud.gov

Potential objectors should contact HUD via email to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Kevin D. Stiens
Deputy County Administrator