Building a Nation Connected by Trail
Cowboy Recreation and Nature Trail in Nebraska | Photo by Eric Foster
At Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, we believe trails have the power to transform communities and create joyful, vibrant public spaces that are equitable and inclusive. We are committed to a future for our country where trails connect everyone, everywhere. This is why we are focused on developing models and leading the movement in ways that will bring connected trail systems to every neighborhood, advocating for the public funding and policy changes we need to accelerate trail network development, and engaging those who are new to trails in ways that create a welcoming and inclusive community nationwide.
VIEW STRATEGIC PLAN VIEW EQUITY STATEMENT
HOW WE DELIVER
WE ADVOCATE …
On Capitol Hill, and to state legislatures and local governments, for transformative investments and policies that support safe trail, walking and bicycling networks for people of every age and ability. In FY 2020, $850 million in federal funds were dedicated to trails and active transportation via Transportation Alternatives and the Recreational Trails Program, and we supported partners in efforts to secure new trail funding in 10 states.
WE MOBILIZE …
Trail supporters and the public to advocate in their own communities for safe walking and biking infrastructure. More than 33,000 federal and state advocacy actions were taken from RTC members and supporters in FY 2020.
WE PARTNER …
With nationally respected organizations; federal, state and local agencies; public leaders; and trail advocates to build trails and educate Americans on their value. In FY 2020, we engaged hundreds of partners on advocacy initiatives aimed at innovating trail policies and furthering the TrailNation™ project portfolio and the Great American Rail-Trail™, which collectively span 21 states and cover nearly 10,900 miles of trails.
WE HELP SECURE FUNDING …
To develop regional trail networks that create and connect healthy, thriving communities and raise the quality of life for Americans. Our collaborations helped raise millions of dollars in public and private funds for trail projects in FY 2020.
WE CREATE RESOURCES …
In the form of trail planning, capacity-building grants, technical support and best practices for rural, suburban and urban communities seeking to build trails, connect trail systems and create joyful, vibrant public spaces that are equitable and inclusive. Since 2008, we’ve awarded more than $2 million in grants to 187 trail organizations in 32 states and Washington, D.C.
WE PROTECT TRAILS …
Continuing to lead a 30-years-plus effort to shape the legal framework around rail-trails and defend them in the courts. Since 1983, we’ve been involved in 60+ legal cases that have had an impact on the local, state and national levels for trails and trail development.
WE SPEAK OUT …
About the transformative power of trails, encouraging their use and generating demand. In FY 2020, we connected more than 10.5 million people to trails via TrailLink.com™, and engaged our 1-million-strong grassroots community of trail supporters nationwide.
IMPACT REPORT FY 2020 SECTIONS
President's Message • Building a Nation Connected by Trail • Creating Safe Outdoor Space for Everyone • Connecting America’s Trail Networks • Advancing a Great American Icon • TrailLink • Advocating for Trails • Supporting Our Nation’s Trail Experts • Protecting Trails in Our Courts • Celebrating Our Trail Champions • Elevating and Expanding the Movement • Finances • Team RTC
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