We're excited about having a beautiful rail trail in Newton County and know that such a trail will provide many benefits for our community.

 

SUPPORT THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Economically, the rail trail might be the single most important element for the future of Newton County with regards to attracting high quality industry and higher income residents who seek healthy lifestyles and outdoor recreation opportunities.  Rail trails also attract tourists who spend money in the towns along the trail.  Subsequently, trails help to grow small business opportunities benefiting the local economy.

 

PRESERVE HISTORY AND THE ENVIRONMENT

A rail trail will also help preserve and share the history and natural beauty of Newton County.  Moving at a slower pace than those traveling by car, pedestrians and cyclists take time to read historic markers, photograph old buildings and natural scenery, and seek out the stories behind the places they visit, all of which can fuel preservation efforts.

 

INCREASE RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

Another important benefit will be residents' increased access to recreation.  According to the 2016 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation County Health Rankings, 34 percent of Newton County adults are obese, compared to 29 percent statewide.  Additionally, 30 percent of Newton County adults are inactive, compared to 25 percent statewide. CDC data shows a strong correlation between communities with high incidences of walking and biking and lower levels of obesity-related illnesses like diabetes.