Residents push back on Big Branch Greenway Connector

Residents pushed back strongly Monday during a Greenway Committee meeting over survey results supporting the Big Branch Greenway Connector in North Raleigh, citing concerns about privacy, safety and environmental impact.

According to the Greenway Committee, a recent survey drew more than 1,600 responses, with 62.1% favoring the Creekside option and 34.5% supporting the Crabtree Heights route. While a majority backed the plan overall, the final alignment of Segment 1B remains undecided.

Many residents opposed Segment 1B, saying it would expose their backyards to foot traffic and increase safety issues.

“We already have a sidewalk and heavy traffic on Anderson Drive, so we retreat to the backyard,” said Lindsey Rains, who lives along the proposed route. “Four of my neighbors and I have had to call police to remove people from our property. We have no privacy on the front or sides — this takes it from all angles.”

James Anthony, another nearby resident, described the future of his home as a “fishbowl,” saying trail users would be able to see straight through it.

The Greenway Committee discussed privacy solutions such as permeable fencing and a wax myrtle hedge planted in front of it, but Rains said it would create only an “illusion of privacy.”

Another resident, Kat Moncol, said the safety risks were just as troubling as the potential loss of privacy.

“I am with the Crabtree Creek Hills subdivision, and my concern is putting the greenway in the front yard, where there are ten or more driveways. This is a safety issue. Many of the driveways include slopes. The cars will not be able to see people walking on the street,” Moncol said.

Similar concerns about trail proximity arose during the 2023 Mine Creek Realignment project, where residents of Ridgeloch Townhomes opposed plans to place the greenway within 40 to 70 feet of their homes, according to a CBS 17 report.

In addition to concerns about privacy and safety, residents have also raised questions about the trail’s potential environmental impact on the surrounding landscape.

Moncol said the greenway’s design will cause flooding in her yard and require cutting 10 to 20 mature trees.

According to the committee, there are plans to address flooding and erosion concerns. Streambank stabilization measures will be included in the Streamside Alignment, and the Greenway Maintenance Team will oversee the trail and streambank.

Others emphasized the importance of designing trails that serve both recreational and practical needs.

“Greenways are great, but if we want them to truly shape our city for the better, they need to function as more than just recreational paths,” Cameron Zamora, owner of the Bike Library, said in an email.

The City of Raleigh proposed the $6 million project to add a 3.5‑mile extension to its greenway system. It will connect Crabtree Creek Trail near Six Forks Road to Sandy Forks Road, improving access for cyclists and walkers in North Raleigh.

According to the Greenway Committee, design and planning are scheduled for spring 2026, with construction tentatively set to begin in spring 2027. The project aims to be completed by spring 2028.

The committee will meet Thursday to continue discussing the project.