Earlier this month, after hearing High Point citizens’ concerns regarding a proposed rerouting of the section of the popular greenway that runs through the campus of High Point University, the university “acknowledged the importance of this section of the greenway to its enthusiastic users” – and now the school has withdrawn its earlier proposal to re-route the greenway.
High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson issued a public statement this week praising the decision.
“HPU is truly High Point’s University,” Jefferson said, “and their remarkable collaboration to work out a viable compromise proves this point now more than ever. Thankfully, we have a path forward that will continue to support the University’s impressive growth while maintaining access to the greenway for High Point’s residents and visitors. In times like this, I’m reminded about the bright future that lies ahead for our beloved city.”
A statement this week from the city noted, as part of High Point University’s commitment to safety and accessibility, both the school and the city are working to determine how best to support improvements, including the following:
- Enhanced security
- Improved student connectivity and accessibility
- Future building considerations in rights of ways that have already been abandoned – allowing the University to go through the statutory and legal processes to develop these spaces effectively
High Point University President Nido Qubein said this solution is a win-win.
He stated, “As soon as we heard the citizen concerns about the greenway’s re-routing, we began discussions with the city to find a reasonable compromise: Keep the greenway open – including the section on campus owned by High Point University – and find ways to enhance security and growth in our community’s nationally successful university. Thankfully, everyone wins now. To God be the glory.”
The statement from the city notes that the City of High Point “recognizes the importance of transparency and appreciates the University’s continued partnership to advance shared goals for a vibrant community.”
