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On the Trail to Healthier People, Economy

Residents of Wheeling, Bellaire, Barnesville and four other cities attended a public forum Thursday to discuss ways to improve and connect local bike trail systems to reap direct economic benefits and support a higher quality of life.

Amy Camp, with the Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition, and Eric Oberg, of Rails to Trails Conservancy, led the presentation at the invitation of the Ohio Valley Trail Partners. Camp’s group represents a collection of 24 groups across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and West Virginia committed to linking the region’s trailways.

Camp offered several recommendations for community members eager to better utilize nearby rail trails. These included steadfast maintenance, the appearance of physical connections through public maps and art, regional collaboration and a show of hospitality.

Camp previously worked with the Great Allegheny Passage, which runs from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C. She said in recent years the trail has incited an estimated $50 million in direct spending from tourists.

Mayor Glenn Elliott, who offered an introduction to the forum along with 4th Ward Councilwoman Wendy Scatterday and 3rd Ward Councilman Brian Wilson, said Wheeling’s Heritage Trail can benefit residents as a means to adhere to a healthier lifestyle.

“The nature of rail trails, I believe, is an easy means of recreation,” Camp added.

Heritage Trail, according to Doug Wayt of the Ohio Valley Trail Partners, is in need of upgrades, specifically fresh pavement or patchwork to smooth noticeable cracks in its surface. The trail also lacks adequate signage — a necessary accessory to ensure a friendly, accessible experience, according to Camp.

Camp said to make such improvements it’s important to connect residents with the trail. She said the community should understand it as an asset. She said if a sense of ownership is developed by local residents, then progress can be made.

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