EXHIBIT 09: OLD FORT

Originally settled as an outpost for the early colonial expansion of the United States, Old Fort is known for its pre-Revolutionary War and railroad history, the scenic terrain of the surrounding Pisgah National Forest, and “back door” access to the Curtis Creek Recreation Area and an extensive existing and planned trail network. A small town with little more than 900 full-time residents, Old Fort is easily accessed from Interstate 40 and US Highway 70, just west of Marion and east of Asheville and Black Mountain. The downtown Old Fort Commercial Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011, and is bounded by Spring, Commerce, East and West Main Streets.