Physical Health
Greenways and trails provide safe, appealing and inexpensive opportunities for regular physical activity for people living in both urban and suburban areas, reducing obesity and chronic disease. An American Heart Association white paper found that for every dollar invested in building trails, nearly $3 in medical cost savings may be achieved.
Mental Well-Being
Greenways and trails are natural restorative environments for mental rejuvenation. Just 5 minutes walking in nature has been shown to improve mood, self-esteem, and relaxation, with frequent exposure to nature reducing anxiety and depression.
Social Cohesion
Greenways foster community engagement and social interaction, strengthening neighborhood bonds and a sense of belonging. Research by the National Park Service shows that communities that are closer to nature are more likely to have stronger ties with their members.
Increased Property Values
Tourism and Local Business
Proximity to greenways can increase residential property values by 3% to 15%. Studies show that community gardens and walking or biking trails have a positive impact on surrounding residential properties and create more tax revenue for local governments.
Greenways attract visitors, generate tourism revenue, and create demand for local recreation and service businesses. They also contribute to a high quality of life which helps attract and retain skilled workforces, with the added benefit of boosting employee creativity and reducing stress.
North Carolina’s outdoor recreation economy is a major driver of jobs, busines growth and community vitality. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows the sector generated :
$17.8 billion in value added to North Carolina’s economy in 2024
Supports 155, 462 jobs statewide
Represents 2.1% of NC GDP
NC ranks 11th nationally in outdoor recreation economic impact