Headwaters Economics , an independent , nonprofit research group that has conducted extensive assessment of the value of trails to communities , summarizes :
Trails can measurably improve a community ’ s quality of life by providing opportunities for social connection , and safe places for recreation and commuting . Trails are an amenity that keeps existing residents and attracts new people ; an asset that contributes to community identity . When residents use trails frequently , they become an integral part of community life .
As economies shift toward a hybrid workplace environment , with more people increasingly working from home and commuting by car less frequently , trails are increasing in importance . Trails attract emerging generations of workers who value accessible outdoor spaces and where they do not have to rely solely on cars . Leveraging the trend toward safer , more walkable , and bikeable cities , BERT can position our communities to follow the examples of prosperous cities worldwide that are investing in sustainable , multimodal transportation infrastructure . The benefits are tangible as evidenced by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials ( AASHTO ) which estimates that 17 jobs are created for every $ 1 million invested in trails .
SAFETY
For years , Florida has had the unenviable distinction of being at or near the top of the list of states with the highest rates of bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries resulting from traffic collisions . In Lee County alone there were 33 deaths from 344 crashes involving vehicles and pedestrians in 2022 , the highest in 5 years . One of the important strategies for addressing bicyclist and pedestrian safety is by providing safe , well designed trail facilities . For its Active Transportation Plan completed in January 2022 , FDOT District One conducted a survey of residents in the region which includes Lee and Collier counties . Trails were identified by 96 % of residents in the survey as the type of bicycle and pedestrian facility where they feel most comfortable .
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