Getting Started:

The Vision
Trails and greenways start with a vision, whether it involves converting an abandoned rail corridor into a trail, creating a greenway around a city or putting the pieces together for a river trail. Getting started means creating a vision and promoting it to your community.

You will want to collect basic information about the corridor, river or greenway, such as scenic vistas, transportation connections, business districts, historical structures and other attractions. Also note the historical and community significance of the greenway. Here is a checklist to help you get started.

Community-Based Support
Trails and greenways are community-based projects, because every project needs community support to be a success. Once you have created your vision, shop it around to groups that may be interested in the project, such as land trusts, bicycle and pedestrian advocacy groups, bird watching groups and equestrians. Emphasize the broad benefits of trails and greenways and the specific benefits to your community. Also talk to your local parks department and/or town planner. These individuals will be able to help you with design and funding, as well as other issues to make this a community priority.

At this point, your vision is growing beyond just you and will become the community's vision. Be open to suggestions and be willing to compromise. Your project may need an official friends group. "Friends" groups are the allies, the cheerleaders and the undaunted pursuers of the project.