|
What is a Rail-Trail / Greenway |
| Rail-trails are the way to hike miles of peaceful, tree-lined, auto-free pathways from town to town. They're also the way to bicycle historic routes connecting schools, shopping and parks. Additionally, they provide a way to get safe exercise, see wildlife habitats, meet friends in the community, and see a part of history intact. A rail-trail is a recreational, non-motorized transportation path (also known as a greenway) which has been converted from an abandoned railroad corridor for public use. More than 11,000 miles of rail-trails are open already throughout all 50 states. Commuters pedal to work in Milwaukee and Seattle, while farmers in Iowa rent campsites to trail users. Home listings in Indianapolis frequently advertise proximity to the Monon Trail. Rail-trails offer more than recreational opportunities for bicyclists, rollerbladers and hikers. The corridors can revive entire neighborhoods almost overnight. Trail conversion can spur rehabilitation of homes adjacent to the former railways . Places long forgotten where the tracks were pulled up can suddenly find themselves enjoying a rejuvenated community spirit and even becoming a destination for tourists. |
|
|
