Real Property Values - Many studies demonstrate that parks, greenways and trails increase nearby property values. In turn, increased property values can increase local tax revenues and help offset greenway acquisition costs.

Expenditures by Residents - Spending by local residents on greenway related activities helps support recreation oriented businesses and employment, as well as other businesses which are patronized by greenways and trail users.

Commercial Uses - Greenways often provide business opportunities, locations and resources for commercial activities such as recreation equipment rentals and sales, lessons and other related businesses.

Tourism - Greenways are often major tourist attractions which generate expenditures on lodging, food and recreation oriented services. Greenways also help improve the overall appeal of a community to perspective tourists and new residents.

Agency Expenditures - The agency responsible for managing a river, trail or greenway can help support local businesses by purchasing supplies and services. Jobs created by the managing agency may also help increase local employment opportunities.

Corporate Relocation - Evidence shows that the quality of life of a community is an increasingly important factor in corporate relocation decisions. Greenways are often cited as important contributors to quality of life.

Public Cost Reduction - The conservation of rivers, trails, and greenways can help local governments and other public agencies reduce costs resulting from flooding and other natural hazards.

Intrinsic Value - While greenways have many economic benefits it is important to remember the intrinsic environmental and recreational value of preserving rivers, trails and other open space corridors.

*Adapted from Economic Impacts of Protecting Rivers, Trails and Greenway Corridors, National Park Service, 1990