Improving access to multi-modal transit facilities and building public support for such projects through community engagement can have a transformational impact on residents and visitors of all ages. Three North American case studies, including Marshalltown Iowa, Hopkins Minnesota, and Waterloo Region Ontario, show how key destinations in small to medium-sized communities are reinvigorated through thoughtful design of accessible and appealing active transportation corridors.

This presentation will discuss how connecting destinations and managing community safety concerns with proper surfacing, lighting, and amenities, seamlessly combines walking and cycling with everyday transit. Integrating transit and active transportation to connect destinations within a community create strong opportunities for economic growth.

In addition to creating safe and accessible facilities, trail use is also greatly impacted by the attractiveness of the trail and its environment. The use of pavement surface enhancements, tailored maps and branding, and public art within corridors is attractive but also creates a sense of place and identity for communities. Placemaking in these communities impacts economic growth and tourism in the short term while sustainable designs that last in the future allow communities to grow and build around that identity.