Title
Report on Riverwalk Trail usage.
Strategic Plan: Short and Long Term Economic Development
Objective: Support the Riverwalk development through infrastructure assistance and public amenities.
Body
Since the opening of the Riverwalk Trail on July 1, 2010, we estimate that close to 9,000 people have utilized the trail. We have seen kayakers putting their boats into the Catawba River, families with small children riding their tricycles and bikes, couples walking and strolling along the trail, rollerbladers exercising with their children on bikes, people walking their dogs, and joggers. As staff has walked and patrolled the trail, we have talked to many local residents as well as people from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Colorado. With each conversation, one common theme resonates, “How much they have enjoyed the trail with the scenic views of the river." One lady from Georgia said that she has now considered moving to Rock Hill. Another observation by the staff and local citizens has been the diversity of the trail users. We have observed young children and seniors, families with children in strollers and wagons, empty nesters, grandparents with grandchildren, cyclists and people of multiple nationalities and races. This trail has definitely made a positive impact on Rock Hill.