According to two new reports released by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, Washington trails contribute more than $8.2 billion annually to the state’s economy.
The reports, developed in partnership with the Washington Trails Association, Washington Bikes, and the University of Washington, highlight the economic, environmental, and health benefits trails bring to Washington. In addition to the $8.2 billion annual impact on the state’s economy, the report also touts the creation of 81,000 jobs, $390 million in health savings, and $5.9 billion in annual environmental benefits. In total, trails account for an estimated 1.45% of Washington’s 2018 GDP.
Spokane’s Centennial Trail, which connects rural areas to Spokane’s urban center, is highlighted in the publications. Experts estimate that the trail contributes $1.7 million to the local economy, as well as $594,000 in labor incomes and $1.6 million in health savings.
According to the report, 90% of Washington residents participate in some form of nonmotorized recreation annually. In addition, each legislative district receives between 2.1 and 27.2 million visits to trails each year.
The reports outline seven recommendations for policymakers:
- Build more trails
- Develop trails that promote multiday trips
- Improve trail amenities
- Use trails as a health intervention
- Conduct comprehensive trail planning
- Improve trail data collection
- Develop standard statewide permitting requirements