Benefits of Linear Parks

Trails foster community pride, involvement and identity.
Trails help build partnerships between: landowners; different levels of gov’t.; business’; residents’ associations; service groups, (e.g. Ogopogo Rotary Club assisting with construction of Lochview Trail north of Knox Mtn.)
Trails knit neighbourhoods and existing facilities together, i.e., schools, parks, churches, commercial areas, natural areas.

“Securing quality of life is what preservation and community design is all about.” Donovan Rypkema

Trails protect water, air and noise quality.
Trails provide wildlife corridors and contribute to biological diversity.
Green spaces serve as important buffers between residential development and sensitive ecosystems.
Trails provide alternative transportation routes.
Trails provide opportunities for stewardship and education.
Linear Parks provide the opportunity to preserve vegetation which in turn, moderates temperatures and filters out pollutants.

Trails provide the opportunity to understand and appreciate our heritage, (Aboriginal History, St. Andrew’s Church, the Surtees Farm, the Bellevue Hotel, the water diversion to Jack Smith Lake.)

Trails have a no net or positive impact on property values.
Trails provide a new way to experience existing assets.
Proximity to a trail is a selling feature – home buyers are prepared to pay more to be close to such an amenity.
Trails help to lower stress and health care costs by encouraging physical activity.
Trails provide opportunities to generate tourist related revenue. “Tourism is big business. Public recreation is part of tourism.”
Greenways can increase the purchase of recreation related equipment and services.
Trails reduce the expenditures associated with flooding and other natural hazards, i.e., fire protection.