Alta worked closely in collaboration with the City of High Point, NC, to bring visionary planning to life—securing funding, designing multimodal transportation projects, and integrating sustainable infrastructure.

Winning $21M to Improve Transportation Access

A key milestone in Alta’s partnership with High Point was securing a $21 million RAISE grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation in 2021. This funding supports the Elm Street Complete Street and Heritage Greenway project, an initiative that will enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure while connecting underserved communities to critical destinations like:

  • Wake Forest Baptist Health–High Point Medical Center
  • High Point Public Library
  • The High Point Greenway
  • Commercial and recreation destinations, including Truist Stadium

By redesigning Elm Street and expanding the greenway network, this project will improve transportation equity, promote active mobility, and spur economic development—especially for lower-income communities of color in southwest High Point.

Alta played a key role in the RAISE grant application, leading:

  • Grant writing and submission
  • Cost estimates and benefit-cost analysis
  • Coordination between city staff, management, and NCDOT

This was High Point’s first-ever RAISE grant submission, and Alta’s expertise helped make it a success.

Reimagining Elm Street & the Heritage Greenway

Now in the 30% Design Plan phase, Alta is developing two alternative greenway alignments (depending on railroad acquisition) and reimagining Elm Street as a safer, greener, more pedestrian-friendly corridor. The design will integrate:

  • Expanded sidewalks and green spaces
  • Safer pedestrian crossings
  • Dedicated bike infrastructure
  • Improved connectivity between downtown High Point, the Amtrak Station, and key destinations

By creating an inviting, multimodal corridor, this project will encourage active transportation, support local businesses, and make High Point a more livable city.

Tackling Flooding & Revitalizing West Green Drive

West Green Drive, once a hub of furniture manufacturing, has suffered from economic decline, flooding, and environmental degradation. Recognizing its potential, Alta conducted a feasibility study to introduce green stormwater infrastructure (GSI)—which would:

  • Reduce flooding by integrating stormwater control measures
  • Improve water quality in Richland Creek, which feeds into a key regional drinking water reservoir
  • Revitalize the corridor by transforming it into a green business incubator district

Alta also secured an NCDEQ LASII grant, marking the first successful funding for this project and laying the groundwork for long-term improvements in water management and urban renewal.

A Lasting Impact

From securing funding to designing transformative infrastructure, Alta’s work in High Point is creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and connected community. By integrating multimodal transportation, green infrastructure, and equitable access, these projects will shape the city’s future—one where people of all backgrounds can move freely, safely, and sustainably.