The Importance of Trails and Greenways

Trails and greenways are often seen narrowly when it comes to their benefits. People tend to focus on the recreational or environmental aspects of trails and greenways, failing to see the big picture -the total package of benefits that a trail or greenway can provide to communities, including public health, economic and transportation benefits, an even the effect on community pride and identity.

Today for millions of Americans, trails are a link to the outdoors, providing opportunities for recreation, exercise and transportation. Many are realizing the benefits from having trails and greenways close to home. The following is an overview of the range of benefits that result from having these amenities woven into the fabric of communities across America.

Health and Wellness

The CDC reports that 25% of Americans are inactive and increasing physical activity is vital for health. The Community Preventive Services Task Force recommends parks, trails, and greenways to boost activity, but these require community engagement to enhance awareness, programs, and access. Proximity to recreational facilities increases physical activity.

Recreation

Community trails and greenways offer accessible recreation close to home, enhancing living spaces by preserving open areas. They promote outdoor activities and non-motorized transport, catering to diverse populations with limited access to nature due to financial or transportation barriers. Trails provide affordable exercise and recreation locally.

Environmental Benefits

Greenways protect habitats and provide corridors for people and wildlife while serving as natural buffers against pollution runoff and improving water quality. They enhance air quality by preserving plants that produce oxygen and filter pollutants. Acting as buffers between built and natural environments, greenways enhance public access to open space and serve as environmental classrooms. Trails offer safe transportation options, reducing air pollution, and help preserve culturally and historically significant areas.

Transportation Benefits

Trails and greenways serve as recreational spaces and non-motorized transportation routes for pedestrians and cyclists. One-fourth of trips are one mile or less, yet three-fourths of these short trips are made by car. For school trips under a mile, only 31% are walked, and 2% are biked within two miles. Trails connect neighborhoods to shopping and entertainment, offering alternative commuting options.

Economics and Property Appreciation

Trails are increasingly common in residential areas, with development plans for homes often including footpaths to improve recreation and property values. Real estate agents view urban trails as amenities that attract buyers and facilitate property sales. They enhance lifestyles and are often part of the sales package. The economic impact of trails can be direct, such as support for trailside businesses, or indirect, like businesses choosing to relocate to communities with trails. Many U.S. communities have seen economic revitalization linked to trails and greenways. Properties near trails can attract buyers and sell more easily, with studies showing that proximity to trails can increase home values by 1-6.5% in various cities.

Safe and Livable Communities

Trails enhance community livability by offering recreational, health, transport, and environmental benefits, improving overall quality of life. Studies show trails do not increase crime; in fact, crime rates on suburban trails are lower. Community leaders have noted trails foster identity and pride, connecting people to historic and cultural resources. Regular use of trails increases safety, encourages social interaction, and promotes a sense of place. Neighborhoods that enable safe walking and biking are typically more desirable.