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property that is common practice along similar trails in the US. A workforce of <br />volunteers will also be solicited for volunteer work along the trail in areas such as <br />trail heads, beautification areas, hummingbird/butterfly gardens, and nature trails. <br />This Trail system will preserve critical open space that provides natural buffer <br />zones to protect streams, rivers, and lakes from pollution run-off caused by fertilizer <br />and pesticide use on lawns and farms. It will also serve as a flood plain that absorbs <br />excess water and mitigate damage caused by floods. <br />The ecological benefits of the greenways can help these communities mitigate costs <br />associated with the control of water and air pollution and flood management. This <br />dedicated trail corridor can also play a valuable role in preserving linear space for <br />future infrastructure needs. <br />The measureable economic benefits of The Trail may begin with increased user <br />expenditures in the region, but further intangible results may be seen long after <br />visitors leave. Some of those are: enhancements of nearby property values along <br />areas that feature the Trail, reduced healthcare costs that may result from increased <br />opportunities for healthful exercise, and encourage walking or bicycling to locations <br />within a reasonable distance-such as school, work and recreational areas, rather <br />than driving. <br />Safety <br />The Northeast Texas Rail-Trail project will provide a safe alternative to roadway <br />traveling as pedestrians or cyclists can travel on the trail without fear of accidents <br />with automobiles. Not having to contend with motorized vehicles is a prime trail <br />usage motivator for families, the elderly, and the physically challenged. <br />This non-motorized trail will increase safe and affordable options for exercise and <br />recreation, helping to improve the health of visitors and residents alike. It will <br />function as a safe, viable transportation corridor. It provides opportunities for <br />families to enjoy a healthy activity together. It will enhance the safety and <br />convenience of travel to many of the community's residential and commercial areas. <br />Currently, the Paris, Texas, section of the trail has been completed and is included in <br />the Paris ISD master plan for Safe Routes to Schools program. Other communities <br />are sure to follow suit with the finished trail. The trail will feature multiple access <br />points creating more visibility and providing safety. Planning and construction of <br />the trail will follow safety protocols involving yield to traffic signs and roadway <br />signs alerting travelers of approaching trail crossing. Education sessions informing <br />trail users of safety tips will be formulated and presented. <br />Other Goals Addressed by the Project: * <br />(Identify applicable goals and include a brief description in the text box.) <br />Job Creation and Economic Stimulus <br />5 <br /> <br />156, <br />