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Economic Factors <br /> Over the past ten years, responsibility for providing many services has become more <br /> decentralized. State, county and city governments are increasingly responsible for funding <br /> programs previously supported at the federal level, with the exception of ISTEA moneys <br /> provided in 1993. These added responsibilities have put a strain on already limited funding <br /> sources, such that priorities must be established. Describing the economic, social, and <br /> environmental aspects of trails is a useful strategy useful to show the wide ranging benefits that a <br /> comprehensive trail system can have. A strategy for quantifying these benefits is presented in, <br /> "Economic Impacts of Protecting Rivers, Trails, and Greenway Corridors"prepared in 1989 by <br /> the Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance and National Park System. The following ideas <br /> are suggested as points in support of trails to be used in setting priorities: <br /> Economic Benefits: <br /> * Millions of dollars are generated in recreational equipment sales <br /> each year <br /> * Trails are considered a capitol improvement that can be paid for <br /> through assessments on development. <br /> * Non-motorized transportation reduces pollution, congestion, and <br /> produces health benefits. <br /> * Trail amenities make the city more attractive and livable for <br /> business and residents. <br /> * Proximity to trails can positively affect property values. <br /> * Trails encourage regionalism by providing links between cities <br /> and links between neighborhoods. <br /> * Health betterment opportunities produce a healthier work force. <br /> * Trails offer opportunities for year round promotional activities <br /> such as fun runs. <br /> Social Benefits: <br /> * Trails encourage physical fitness. <br /> * Nature trails provide mental/spiritual connection with nature. <br /> * Trails offer a variety of recreational uses: jogging, biking, <br /> walking, cross country skiing, and water related uses. <br /> * Trails develop community linkage, and build neighborhood <br /> identity. <br /> * Provision of trails link to other amenities, making public lands <br /> more available. <br /> * Trails provide accessible recreation. <br /> * Trails ensure safer(traffic) routes. <br /> * Interpretive trails link schools to waterways, which are natural <br /> classrooms. <br /> * Parks and trails offer wholesome, family building activities for <br /> kids. <br /> W:\PLANNING\TRAILS\COMP96.DOC 30 <br />