WELCOME!

BREC, the Park and Recreation Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge, learned that TRAILS were the #1 public request during our public meetings that preceded the development of our strategic plan.

The Capital Area Pathways Project is an initiative to identify routes and build a network of trails and greenways throughout East Baton Rouge and surrounding Parishes.

What is a Greenway?

Greenways are linear corridors of protected open space that often follow natural geographic features such as bayous and rivers, but may also be built within utility corridors, transportation corridors, and abandoned rail lines. Most greenways include a trail or bike path that provides recreation or non-motorized transportation connections through a community. In addition to recreation, healthy lifestyle promotion, alternative transportation and economic benefits, they also provide natural resource conservation, environmental protection, wildlife habitat and education.

Benefits of Trails and Greenways

Trails and Greenways require less long-term maintenance than other recreational facilities such as ball fields, tennis courts, and golf courses. In addition to preserving green space
and providing alternative modes of transportation, trails and greenways also:

• Promote Healthy and Active Lifestyles

Louisiana has consistently ranked as having one of the highest levels of adult obesity in the nation. Promotion of healthier and more active lifestyles through activities such as cycling, walking and jogging will help foster long term reduction in obesity as well as reduce corporate health costs.

• Spur Economic Development and Neighborhood revitalization

Trails and greenways serve as a catalyst for new residential and business development in the communities. They also serve as an important catalyst for rehabilitation of economically depressed areas.

• Promote public safety

When more people are outside and keeping an eye on their neighborhoods, perpetrators are less likely to attempt to commit crimes.

• Tourism

Trails and greenways can become tourist attractions – generating expenditures on lodging, food and recreation related services. This in turn improves the attraction of a community to potential new residents and retirees.

• Attracting Corporate Citizens

Evidence shows that the quality of life of a community is becoming an increasingly important factor in corporate relocation decisions. Research indicates trails and greenways as important contributors to quality of life.

• 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.

• Environmental Benefits

By providing alternative transportation, trails and greenways offer improved air quality through reduced road congestion. As protected open space, larger greenways can help reduce storm water runoff, provide increased flood reduction, water quality protection, and preservation of biological diversity.

This site will keep you informed of all of the discussions surrounding the project. Relevant news regarding the project will be linked onto this site to keep you up-to-date.