GREENER: Connect with money through jobs, tourism + economic development
The economic benefits of greenway development are well-documented by several studies completed along developed systems. A 2002 survey by the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Home Builders rates trails as the second most important community amenity out of a list of 18 choices. In addition, greenway systems attract businesses seeking places with a high quality of life. Greenways spur job growth in construction, maintenance, tourism-related opportunities, and local businesses.
Tourism and recreation-related revenues from trails and greenways include: recreation rentals and sales (bicycles, kayaks, canoes, campsites), recreation services (shuttle buses and tours), tours to places of historic and cultural interest, restaurants, breweries and lodging. Rails to Trails: Economic Benefits of Trails and Greenways
KINDER: Connect with Community + Cultural Heritage + Access
Greenways connect people with places via trails and pathways, providing a higher quality of life, healthier environment and more livable communities. Expanding existing and establishing new recreation and transportation greenways connects people to each other and our cultural and natural heritage. Corridors linking areas of farmland and open space help to preserve the rural landscape and way of life. Rails to Trails: Trails and Greenways for Livable Communities
Greenways provide free access for all citizens and visitors to use greenways and trails. A connected greenways and trails system will provide quick and affordable opportunities for recreation, physical activities and connecting to nature and wellbeing. Greenways provide a social justice element that other methods of land preservation do not.
Please look for our “The Connector” Column in the print version of the Black Mountain News the second week of each month.
Monthly Connect Buncombe Themes
JANUARY: What is a Greenway?
FEBRUARY-KINDER: Connect with Community + Cultural Heritage + Access
MARCH-GREENER: Connect with Money through Jobs, Tourism + Economic
Development
March, the month of green, will be our official launch month for Connect
Buncombe.
APRIL- SMARTER: Connect with Transportation Independence + Sustainability
MAY-SAFER: Connect with Safer Transportation + Improved Traffic
JUNE-HEALTHIER: Connect with Health + Recreation
JULY- CONNECT BUNCOMBE: Making Greenways Happen