This wonderful video from the folks at Path Less Pedaled demonstrates that the power of rail-trails is universal. The story of how the Central Otago Rail Trail in New Zealand, at first opposed and doubted but now heralded for revitalizing shrinking rural towns, is identical to what we hear from rail-trail communities here in America.
(Except for the funny accents, of course. Nothing at all like us Australians. Anyone who needs help translating, let me know...)
In all seriousness, this great video is a wonderful testament to the economic impact destination trails have on communities suffering the withdrawal of train traffic, primary industries, population and services. Enjoy and share.
Jake Lynch - RTC Communications Manager.
Very interesting video - now it makes me want to go to New Zealand and ride this 90 mile trail, stay in some of the cabins and eat & drink in the taverns!!! Wouldn't it be 'grand' if something like this could be established for the Erie Canal bikeway here in New York State.
This is exactly what is needed on the 90 mile rail corridor in the Adirondacks in NY. Imagine the ride through the wilderness of the Adirondacks stopping along the way at the small towns and villages along the way.
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy The Duke Ellington Building 2121 Ward Ct., NW 5th Floor Washington, DC 20037 +1-202-331-9696
