Greenways: A win-win for everyone
I was happy to see the East Coast Greenway featured in The Times-Union (Jacksonville newspaper). Contrary to feedback from some of your readers, greenways and trails accommodate more than just bicyclists.They welcome walkers, runners, in-line skaters, hand cyclers, horseback riders and baby carriages. In addition, when it comes to typical trail users, variety is the standard. I have seen everything from spandex to cargo shorts and tricycles to skateboards. I know one man whose wife is confined to a wheelchair and they are regular greenway riders via a custom bicycle-built-for-two.
When it comes to cyclists alone, the following economic returns are documented:
- They contribute $133 billion to the U.S. economy annually.
- They support nearly 1.1 million jobs across the country.
- They generate $17.7 billion in annual federal and state tax revenue.
- They produce $6.2 billion in bicycling gear sales and services.
- They create $46.9 billion in bicycling trip-related expenditures.
Regarding real estate values, in 2003, Marion County, Ind., was studied and trails were credited for increasing property values by $140 million. A new trail corridor in Austin, Texas raised land values and generated $13.64 million in new property tax revenues. In 2006, the Dallas Morning News reported a 25 percent premium on land abutting the Katy Trail.
In Florida, the Pinellas Trail draws 1.1 million users per year and it propelled downtown Dunedin from a 30 percent vacancy rate to a waiting list for business properties. The West Orange Trail created a similar revival in downtown Winter Garden, adding about 650,000 people. Further north, the Cross Florida Greenway attracts over 2 million users annually.
Corporate America increasingly supports recreational trails. Greenways and trails provide construction jobs and increased economic growth. They offer recreational opportunities, alternative transportation and increased property value.
Most importantly, greenways and trails provide positive experiences and health benefits for generations of users.
STEVEN DAVIS,
Landscape Architect, Fruit Cove