> Home Page > Residents > Parks > Park Projects > Bellevue Creek Greenway > Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Numerous studies have demonstrated that trails will either increase or have no affect on property values.
In one of the most positive case studies real estate records has shown a 20% increase in property values. (Nichols, S and Crompton J, 2005)
Another case study revealed that on average, property values dropped $4.20 (in 1978 dollars) with each additional foot of distance from the greenway. (Correll, Lillydahl and Singell, 1978)
Surveys of realtors selling properties along Ontario’s Bruce Trail, on the Niagara Escarpment, revealed that 80.5% felt that proximity to the trail would either make the home easier to sell or would have no net effect. (Schutt 1997)
Natural areas have the most substantial positive impact on the prices nearby properties followed by golf courses, specialty parks, and urban parks. (Lutzenhiser and Netusil 2001)

Once the trail is developed the City’s Parks Division will follow a regular maintenance schedule. Trash receptacles will be located at strategic locations along the linear park.

A study of 372 trails by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, concluded that trails do not increase crime. On suburban trails, crime was below the neighbourhood average and virtually non-existent. (Tracy, T. and Morris, H. 1998)
Trail users displace trail abusers. Criminal activity is common in undeveloped, neglected and uncared for properties. Once a trail is developed the presence of lawful trail users provide eyes-on-the-trail that convince criminals to go elsewhere.
The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy studied 82 suburban trails covering more than 1,100 miles. Only 3% of the trails reported any incident of trespassing on adjacent property over a 2 year study period. (Tracy, T. and Morris, H. 1998)

Trail construction will follow the standard of care expected for municipal trails. The Bellevue Creek Linear Park may have up to 3 major road crossings: all will be clearly marked with crosswalks, and if deemed necessary, with pedestrian activated flashing lights. Trail surfacing will be of a consistent grade, and signs identifying potential hazards will be posted.

Some landowners may experience a loss of privacy, however indigenous vegetation will be retained where possible and supplemental vegetative screening will be installed where warranted.