The Future of RI Recreation

What do we have now, and how are we looking to change? The Greenways Council, in conjunction with the State Trail Advisory Committee, has been working on an extensive plan to provide greenways throughout the state. This plan offers a vision of an integrated, statewide greenway network, and provides strategies to advance protection of valuable resource lands, encourage transportation alternatives, and expand recreational opportunities. As an element of the State Guide Plan, A Greener Path’s policies and recommendations will guide future state, local, and private efforts to preserve greenspace and create greenways within Rhode Island.

Click Here to see the RI DEM Greenways Plan

Over 500 miles of natural corridor greenways, 200 miles of bikeways, and the 70+ mile North/South Trail would connect many of the 93,000 acres of greenspace resource areas and the 87,000 acres of (currently) protected open space in an integrated network under the plan’s State Greenspace and Greenway System (see graphic). A broad mid-state greenbelt would provide a distinct break between urban areas and those that should retain a more rural character in the future. Complementing the State System is the plan’s Local Greenspace and Greenway System. The local system includes 115 miles of natural greenway, 135 miles of bike route, and 70 miles of trail proposals; it is certain to grow in the future as communities see possibilities for other connections with their neighbors.

To view the current greenways map (available from the Greenways council) click on the thumbnail.

Click Image to Enlarge

All of the information here is taken from the Greenways Council website, which can be accessed by clicking here. These maps are provided courtesy of the Greenways Council, under the planning and development department of RI DEM.