Greenways can serve as natural floodplains. Get the latest updates on COVID-19 in Connecticut at ct.gov/coronavirus. The trail is composed of rail-trail and canal towpath sections and a small number of connectors that utilize shared roads. health benefits of parks is the second in a planned series that began with the 2003 publication of an overview report, The Benefits of Parks: Why America Needs More Parks and Open Space. Residents are able to move freely along trail corridors without paying increasingly high gas prices and sitting in ever-growing automobile traffic. The County partners with municipalities to construct greenways. Social Benefits. A complete trail network, as part of the local transportation system, will offer effective transportation alternatives by connecting homes, workplaces, schools, parks, downtown, and cultural attractions. (2004). and supporting ecological services. Pittsburgh, PA: Mayor Tom Murphy credits trail construction for contributing significantly to a dramatic downtown revitalization. The Economic Impact of Greenways and Multi-Use Trails - A review of literature prepared as part of the Naugatuck River Greenway Economic impact Study, August 2015. 88-106.3 Siderelis, C. and Moore, R. (1995). Similarly, a greenway can serve as a hands-on environmental classroom for people of all ages to experience natural landscapes, furthering environmental awareness. Economic Impacts of Protecting Rivers, Trails and Greenways Corridors, National Park Service, Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, 4th edition, 1995. Trails and greenways help make communities more attractive and friendly places to live. Region 2000 Greenways and Blueways Plan B-2 Benefits of Greenways and Blueways B-3 Water Resources and Air Quality may exist in Region 2000 to link land corridors to river corridors, provid-ing great educational and recreational opportunities, and better access to these natural resources. Last but not least, regional connectivity through alternative transportation could be achieved once adjacent trail networks are completed and combined. The Outer Banks, NC: Bicycling is estimated to have an annual economic impact of $60 million and 1,407 jobs supported from the 40,800 visitors for whom bicycling was an important reason for choosing to vacation in the area. Find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you at ct.gov/covidvaccine. Greenways have become very popular on old disused railway lines. Leadville , CO: In the months following the opening of the Mineral Belt Trail, the city reported a 19 percent increase in sales tax revenues. (2005) Building Stronger: State and Local Mitigation Planning. Surgeon General estimates that 60% of American adults are not regularly active and another 25% are not active at all. Greenways often follow natural land or water features, and link nature reserves, parks, cultural features and historic sites with each other and with populated areas. A greenway is defined as an urban trailway with some sort of inherent, defined, or named utility beyond recreation. Newsweek Magazine. Greenways and trails can also inspire renewed civic pride and provide a fresh focus for commu-nity activities. It is important to keep in mind, however, that greenway efforts rarely fit neatly into one category. The sprawling nature of many land development patterns often leaves residents and visitors with no choice but to drive, even for short trips. It could be because it is not supported, or that JavaScript is intentionally disabled. Most greenways contain trails, which enhance existing recreational opportunities, provide routes for alternative transportation, and improve the overall quality of life in an area. Trails and greenways create opportunities in construction and maintenance, recreation rentals (such as bicycles, kayaks, and canoes), recreation services (such as shuttle buses and guided tours), historic preservation, restaurants and lodging. Increased property values and tourism and recreation-related spending on items such as bicycles, in-line skates and lodging are just a few of the ways trails and greenways positively impact community economies. Oakland, CA: A three-mile greenbelt around Lake Merritt, near the city center, was found to add $41 million to surrounding property values. The Erie Canalway Trail Experience - report on economic impacts. (2002). The degree to which a particular type of benefit is realized depends largely upon the nature of the greenway and trail system being implemented. But there are other advantages to having a national trail on your doorstep. Why start with the health benefits of … They are generally traffic-free routes. More than 65 such community trails, totaling 700 miles statewide, currently exist. BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES The Greenways and Trails Advisory Council envisions that by realizing the actions included in this document, Tennessee will reap the following opportunities and benefits. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the implementation of floodplain ordinances is estimated to prevent $1.1 billion in flood damages annually. Pittsburgh faced with … Trails and greenways provide countless opportunities for economic renewal and growth. (2006). Compiled by Rory Robinson, National Park Service – Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance – June, 2010 rory_robinson@nps.gov, 330-657-2951 Expenditures by Residents – Spending by local residents on greenway related activities supports recreation oriented businesses and employment as well as other businesses which are patronized by greenway and trail users. Federal Emergency Management Agency. In identifying a solution, the CDC determined that by creating and improving places in our communities to be physically active, there could be a 25 percent increase in the percentage of people who exercise at least three times a week (10). 3 In communities across the country, people do not have access to trails, parks, or other recreation areas close to their homes. 3. Trautman: Greenways offer people direct, immediate benefits that enhance their quality of life. A 2013 study provided by the Maryland Office of Tourism Development to the East Coast Greenway Alliance provides data on trial economics. There are a multitude of environmental benefits from trails, greenways, and open spaces that help to protect the essential functions performed by natural ecosystems. Greenways are formed directly and indirectly for people benefits and uses. In keeping with our values, we provide a competitive benefits package that promotes health and well-being, financial security, and peace of mind. BENEFITS OF TRAILS AND GREENWAYS WHAT ARE TRAILS AND GREENWAYS? Benefits of greenways: Make communities more accessible and livable by securing open space. Greenways have been shown to increase adjacent property values by providing an important amenity to residential and commercial developments. The committee to develop Sugar Creek Greenway proposes to establish a comprehensive greenway along Sugar Creek that connects people and neighborhoods in a cultural, historical, social, environmental, educational, and recreational manner. DEEP COVID-19 Response. Both trails and greenways help communities build pride by ensuring that their neighborhoods are good places to live, so that children can safely walk or bike to a park, school, or to a neighbor’s home. CT Trail Census - The CT Greenways Council is proud to sponsor our state's first multi-use trail user study and volunteer data collection program. National Association of Realtors and National Association of Home Builders. (2002). Findings from the Trust for Public Land’s Economic Benefits of Parks and Open Space, and the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Economic Benefits of Trails and Greenways (listed below) illustrate how this value is realized in property value across the country. The interpretation of important historic and Greenways, as vegetated buffers protect natural habitats, improve water quality and reduce the impacts of flooding in floodplain areas. Bikeways to Prosperity: Assessing the Economic Impact of Bicycle Facilities. Benefits of Greenways Improving our quality of life and the well being of our region Greenways encourage active lifestyles and connect people to their rivers, parks and communities. (2006) Health and Wellness Benefits. The Benefits of Pennsylvania Greenways Report will be used as a foundation for future communi- cation and outreach efforts focusing on educating the general public regarding the benefits that are and will continue to be provided by Pennsylvania greenways. protect important habitat and provide corridors for people and wildlife. Benefits of Greenways: A Pennsylvania Study. Trails, greenways, and open space can serve as connections to local heritage by preserving historic places and by providing access to them. The Great Allegheny Passage: Economic Impact Study (Phase III: 2007-2008) - compares the differences in business operations and sales revenues during 2007-2008. Trails and greenways provide what many Americans seek —  close to- home recreational areas, community meeting places, historic preservation, educational experiences, natural landscapes and beautification. Guide to Community Preventive Services. The U.S. Trails and greenways reduce air pollution by two significant means: first, they provide enjoyable and safe alternatives to the automobile, which reduces the burning of fossil fuels; second, they protect large areas of plants that create oxygen and filter air pollutants such as ozone, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and airborne particles of heavy metal. Being aware of the historical and cultural context when naming parks and trails and designing features will further enhance the overall trail- and park-user experience. American Planning Association. Assessing the Economic and Livability Value of Multi-Use Trails: A Case Study into the Tammany Trace Rail Trail in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. A 2005 Newsweek Magazine feature, Designing Heart-Healthy Communities, cites the goals of such programs (italics added): “The goals range from updating restaurant menus to restoring mass transit, but the most visible efforts focus on making the built environment more conducive to walking and cycling.” (12) Clearly, the connection between health and trails is becoming common knowledge. Greenways protect and link fragmented habitat and provide opportunities for protecting plant and animal species. They can give people a sense of place and an understanding of the enormity of past events, such as Native American trails and vast battlefields. (1996). I first detail the environmental and urban histories of greenways in America, and then discuss the ecological, economic and social benefits the greenways … The Benefits of Pennsylvania Greenways Report will be used as a foundation for future communication and outreach efforts focusing on educating the general public regarding the benefits that are, and will continue to be provided by Pennsylvania greenways. Trails and greenways provide a variety of benefits that ultimately affect the sustainability of a region’s economic, environmental, and social health. Outdoor Recreation Benefits of Rails-Trails. Destination Accessibility - Increase in accessibility to schools and parks. Another important point is that greenways could have non economic benefits such as increased exercise, happiness, socialization, etc. NCDOT and ITRE. 2016 CT.gov | Connecticut's Official State Website, Trails and Greenways Support Economic Development, Create Greenways and Trails; Build a Better Life, Get the latest updates on COVID-19 in Connecticut at, Find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you at, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Economic Impact of Greenways and Multi-Use Trails, Economic Impact of Bicycling and Walking in Vermont, Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, Opechee Trail (WOW) Economic Impact Analysis, compendium of white paper studies and reports, The Great Allegheny Passage: Economic Impact Study, "Trail Towns" on Great Allegheny Passage Benefit from visitor spending. A growing movement Many New York communities are already enjoying the economic and other benefits of greenways and community trails. The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy puts it simply: “Individuals must choose to exercise, but communities can make that choice easier.”. Trails and greenways Greenways deliver obvious benefits, a place to walk and cycle away from traffic, a place to push a buggy and let small children run and play, a safe commuting route to school and work, the value of healthy exercise. (Danzer, 2006). Trails and greenways provide a safe, inexpensive avenue for regular exercise for people living in rural, urban and suburban areas. Future topics in the series include the economic and environmental benefits of parks. Each community and region has its own unique history, its own features and destinations, and its own landscapes. Greenways protect and link fragmented habitat and provide opportunities for protecting plant and animal species. Economic Impact of Bicycling and Walking in Vermont - by the Vermont Agency of Transportation, July, 2012. Rails to Trails. natural spaces provide therapy for conditions such as Attention Deficit Disorder and improve cognitive function and work performance. By restoring developed floodplains to their natural state, many riverside communities are preventing potential flood damage. (2002). The Benefits of Greenways Text from Greenways Inc. (www.greenways.com), used with permission. There are a multitude of environmental benefits from trails, greenways, and open spaces that help to protect the essential functions performed by natural ecosystems. Connect and link people to adjacent neighborhoods, landmarks and activities and we could decide that these non economic benefits are worth the cost. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Virginia Department of Conservation. Many public agencies are teaming up with foundations, universities, and private companies to launch a new kind of health campaign that focuses on improving people’s options instead of reforming their behavior. Designing Heart-Healthy Communities. This is significant considering that for people who are inactive, even small increases in physical activity can bring measurable health benefits (11). The ecological benefits of greenways can help communities mitigate costs associated with the control of water and air pollution and flood management. A Greenway Classification system: Defining the Function and Character of Greenways in Urban Areas. Greenways are corridors of land recognized for their ability to connect people and places together. Salem, OR: land adjacent to a greenbelt was found to be worth about $1,200 and acre more than land only 1000 feet away. They also help improve air and water quality. Greenway trails can be paved or unpaved, and can be designed to accommodate a variety of trail users, including bicyclists, walkers, hikers, joggers, skaters, horseback riders, and those confined to wheelchairs. Trails and greenways positively impact individuals and improve communities by providing not only recreation and transportation opportunities, but also by influencing economic and community development. Economic Impacts of the Erie Canal Trail - this is a well-done report that shows compelling evidence that these projects rejuvenate small towns. The Virginia Creeper Trail: An Assessment of User Demographics, Preferences, and Economics. With free, accessible places to exercise , they can live healthy lifestyles. Benefits of Greenways Greenways provide many community benefits including recreation, alternative transportation, improved water quality, habitat conservation, and flood control. Greenways are trails built to be used exclusively by cyclists, pedestrians and other non motorised transport. A 2004 … The Benefits of Greenways Trails and greenways provide a variety of benefits that ultimately affect the sustainability of a region’s economic, environmental, and social health. 1. Rails to Trails Conservancy 1. Residential properties will realize a greater gain in value the closer they are located to trails and greenspace. Finally, trails and greenways are hands-on environmental classrooms. Dedicated trail and greenway corridors can also play a valuable role in preserving linear space for future infrastructure needs. Swan, L. (1991). (2005). Physical Activity and Health: A Report of the Surgeon General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1996. According to a 2002 survey of recent homebuyers by the National Association of Home Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders, trails ranked as the second most important community amenity out of a list of 18 choices (2). They provide a sense of place and an understanding of past events by drawing greater public attention to historic and cultural locations and events. Trails and greenways benefit individuals and improve communities by providing not only recreation and transportation opportunities, but also by improving economic and community development opportunities. These benefits include: Numerous studies have made the positive link between trails and their benefits abundantly clear. (10/3/2005). How Cities Use Parks for Economic Development. Trails and greenways impact our economy through tourism, events, urban redevelopment, community improvement, property values, health care costs, jobs and investment, and general consumer spending. Front Royal, VA: A developer who donated a 50-foot-wide, seven-mile-long easement along a popular trail sold all 50 parcels bordering the trail in only four months. Consumer’s Survey on Smart Choices for Home Buyers. Open space land is owned and managed in the public interest for: Protection of good water quality. "Trail Towns" on Great Allegheny Passage Benefit from visitor spending - details of visitor trips, spending, and wages. Such signs could also include tips on how to improve water quality. With no traffic, the routes are generally safer and can be enjoyed by most members of society. Journal of Leisure Research, 27, pp. By recognizing, honoring, and connecting these features, the combined results serve to enhance cultural awareness and community identity, potentially attracting tourism. Some of the many trails and grreenways benefits include: making communities better places to live by preserving and creating open spaces; These natural areas serve as a filter for refuse and other run-offs which help protect waterways from some pollution. Tourism and recreation-related revenues from trails and greenways come in several forms. Provide a recreational facility for walking, running, and biking. Rail-trails along historic rail corridors provide a glance at the importance of this mode of transportation. 344-359. The amounts in either direction are probably very small, so the economic effect of greenways is probably close to zero. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, flooding causes over $1 billion in property damages every year. There are … Open spaces have disappeared at an alarming rate to make room for new development. The approval rate was particularly high on November 4, 2003, when 64 of 77 state and local ballot measures were successful -- a success rate of 83 percent. There are many examples, both nationally and locally, that affirm the positive connection between greenspace and property values (1). By protecting land along rivers and streams, greenways prevent soil erosion and filter pollution caused by agricultural and road runoff. DEEP is continuing to carry out its mission and provide services while keeping both the public and our workforce safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Impacts of Rail-Trails, A Study of Users and Nearby Property Owners from Three Trails, National Park Service, Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, 1992. Economic (and other) Benefits of Trails, Greenways and Open Space Compiled by Rory Robinson, National Park Service - Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance – May, 2007 Expenditures by Residents - S p e nd igb y l oc ars tw v u oriented businesses and employment as well as other businesses which are patronized by greenway and trail users. by Stuart Macdonald, Trail Consultant, American Trails Greenways are corridors of protected open space managed for conservation and recreation purposes. Trails and Tourism. Create an alternative transportation option. Trails often provide access to historic sites such as battlegrounds, bridges, buildings, and canals that otherwise would be difficult to access or interpret. Greenways improve water quality by creating a natural buffer zone that protects streams, rivers and lakes, preventing soil erosion and filtering pollution caused by agricultural and road runoff. Greenways protect important habitat and provide corridors for people and wildlife. Overall, 99 measures in 23 states have been approved by voters, creating $1.8 billion in new conservation-related funding. Contents Many people realize exercise is important for maintaining good health in all stages of life; however many do not regularly exercise. Trails and greenways draw the public to historic sites. © As an educational tool, trail signage can be designed to inform trail-users about water quality issues particular to each watershed. Dayton, OH: Five percent of the selling price of homes near the Cox Arboretum and park was attributable to the proximity of that openspace. Some of the many trails and greenways benefits include: View a summary Power Point presentation prepared by the Greenways Council President, Bruce Donald for the ASLA CT Conference in Hartford, 2016. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This compilation of facts and opinions is meant to synthesize much of the dispersed information available on greenways and trails— with particular focus in the Carolinas. In addition, greenways, trails and parks provide safe places for kids to play, which is vital in brain development in young children. Despite a weak economy, American voters have shown overwhelming support for conservation-related ballot measures in 2003. The ecological benefits of Greenway conservation stem from the fact that Greenways (commonly adjacent to waterways) create a natural buffer for rivers and streams from the residential and commercial use of surrounding properties. making communities better places to live by preserving and creating open spaces; encouraging physical fitness and healthy lifestyles; creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation and non-motorized transportation; preserving culturally and historically valuable areas. Many historic structures along canal towpaths, such as taverns and locks, have been preserved. retaining business. For the most part, the rationale underlying the proposition that trails and greenways may positively influence property values differs from that associated with parks. Other trails preserve transportation corridors. Prepared on behalf of the Pennsylvania Greenways Partnership Commission. Physical Activity and Health: A Report of the Surgeon General. A region’s trail network will contribute to the overall health of residents by offering people attractive, safe, accessible places to bike, walk, hike, jog, skate, and possibly places to enjoy water-based trails. Seattle, WA: Homes bordering the 12-mile Burke-Gilman trail sold for 6 percent more than other houses of comparable size. People of all ages can see for themselves the precious and intriguing natural world from which they often feel so far removed. The protection of open spaces associated with trail and greenway development often also protects natural floodplains along rivers and streams. Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, Opechee Trail (WOW) Economic Impact Analysis, January 2012. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Physical inactivity causes numerous physical and mental health problems, is responsible for an estimated 200,000 deaths per year, and contributes to the obesity epidemic” (9). By restoring developed floodplains to their natural state and protecting them as greenways, many riverside communities are preventing potential flood damages and related costs (13). Trails enhance the marketability of the locale (town, city, resort destination). Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Dallas, TX: The 20-mile Mineral Wells to Weatherford Trail attracts 300,000 people annually and generates local revenues of $2 million. Allegheny Passage, PA: The direct economic impact of the trail exceeded $14 million a year, encouraging the development of several new businesses and a rise in property values in the first trailhead town. Residents are able to circulate through urban areas in a safe, efficient, and fun way: walking or biking. Many canal paths, preserved for their historic importance as a transportation route before the advent of railroads, are now used by thousands of people each year for bicycling, running, hiking and strolling. These benefits include: Creating Value and Generating Economic Activity

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