 A linear open space established along a natural corridor, such as a river, stream, ridgeline, rail-trail, canal, or other route for conservation and recreation purposes. Greenways connect parks, nature preserves, cultural facilities, and historic sites with residential areas.
Greenways, as vegetated linear parks, provide tree cover, wildlife habitat, and riparian buffers to protect streams. The environmental benefits include reduced stormwater runoff, flood reduction, water quality protection, and preservation of biological diversity. The trails within the greenways provide access between neighborhoods and destination points, opportunity to travel without an automobile, outdoor education classrooms, and close-to-home paths for walking, jogging, bicycling, and roller blading. Tree cover and use of bicycles instead of cars provide for better air quality , fewer hard surfaced parking lots, and reduced energy costs.
Greenway benefits improve the quality of life in a community and translate ultimately into economic viability. Businesses want to locate in communities their employees will like. Wellness and fitness promotion reduce corporate health costs. Outdoor recreation facilities draw tourists and tourists spend money. |
