Economy

A study of the Virginia Capital Trail that sees 1,000 visitors per day documented a “3.7 percent increase in property values that bordered the trail between 2014-2016 over similar properties not adjacent to the trail” while other studies have shown a 10% increase in property values along a trail system.

For every $1 invested in building trails, there is a direct correlation of $3 to saved medical costs.

Economic activity will naturally increase as isolated communities can more easily access retail centers at GreenGate, West Creek, and Tuckahoe Village.

The new Hampton Inn & Suites at the North end of the Tuckahoe Creek Trail immediately becomes more desirable of a destination if it can be connected.

“With nearly one million user counts annually, the Capital Trail is a vital stimulus for local businesses, tourism, and economic activity.” Cat Anthony, executive director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation, said in a news release.

“The Economic and Fiscal Impacts for 2018-19 concludes how impactful the Capital Trail is to our local economy. Approximately $8.9 million in economic activity and $5.3 million in value-added effects were generated between FY2018-19, contributing to 99 full-time jobs supported.”