THE RURBAN FRINGE

The Economic Impact of Community Pathways

Posted on | January 30, 2009 | No Comments

Pathways are a vital component of a well-built and responsive community.  Not only do pathways and trail systems encourage alternate means of transportation, they also provide green space and can link neighbouring communities and businesses, contributing to economic stimulation of these areas.

By encouraging local governments to create thoughtful, well-planned pathways systems, residents and visitors will be attracted to deliberate areas, fostering community pride, generating local business exposure and providing financial opportunities for neighbouring enterprises. 

Signage is key to a successful system.  All pathways must be clearly marked and signage made visible in strategic community locations to encourage use.  In this way, a pathways system – as a local economic stream – is created.

While this strategy won’t work in isolation, community leaders and land planners should view users as “customers” and pathways as the vehicle to attract individuals to areas to encourage economic vitality throughout the community.

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Category: Community Development
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