In my tours on rail trails, I've met other bike tourists from far and wide. Some bicycle tourists were were staying in hotels and B&B's while others were camping; however, each traveler was there because of a rail trail. Naturally, other types of bike trails attract tourists but abandoned rail lines are excellent candidates for spurring economic growth.
By turning a dormant rail line into a bike trail, the corridor remains intact, properties near the corridor increase in value, new businesses are started, jobs are created, and the quality of life improves. I heartily encourage leaders around the world to look upon decommissioned rail lines as the economic engines they can become.
For more on the tourism value of rail trails (rail lines converted into walk/bike trails), read Rail Trail Economics. Also, the Rails To Trails Conservancy offers a wealth of info about rail trails.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
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