Greenway connections key to Richmond’s continued outdoor rise

We have some of the best trails on the East Coast, and as we head into the XTERRA East Championships this weekend, get ready to hear it again and again. As we make progress toward greenway connections, we have a chance to make Richmond a top-level hiking- and biking-friendly city. Outdoors columnist Andy Thompson of […]

June 6, 2011; 6:57 AM • by Phil Riggan

Outdoors columnist Andy Thompson of the Richmond Times-Dispatch is the person that I recall who first started writing about greenways in Richmond. Since that introduction, I’ve watched City of Richmond trails manager Nathan Burrell blaze the trails and carry the torch for creating greenways. He, James River Park staffers and their volunteer army led by Richmond MORE are responsible for the city’s already robust trails, but there is so much more to do.

Also, Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones continues to do his part by backing these efforts. Now we need to get the Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Trails Coordinator position hired.

See more in Andy’s column:

Central Virginians have it good, far better than most urban areas, in the amount and quality of paths suitable for walking, running, biking and other outdoor pursuits.

What we lack, however, is a greenway system that would connect these trails and green spaces. Just as important, greenways connect communities to each other and to natural areas. They offer recreational and often commuting opportunities for residents of the neighborhoods these paths pass through.

“For a long time, Richmond has fallen behind some of other places in terms of [greenway] development,” said Jennifer Wampler, the trails coordinator for the Department of Conservation and Recreation. “I think that’s changing. The mayor has shown real leadership in having the bike/pedestrian commission.”

See what the future trail system might look like [PDF from DCR]