Many communities, in the midst of revitalizing their down towns and city centers, are concerned once more in their river fronts, quality open space, and natural area preservation. Also, the need for fitness has amplified the number of people out on trails and pathways. And, as our roads become more congested, creative ideas concerning mobility are bringing greenways into the mainstream of transportation alternatives. This interest may also be stirred due to the direct and indirect benefits of greenways and greenway systems. Besides the alternative transportation opportunities, greenways can provide environmental protection through the preservation of wetlands, like those typically located near rivers and streams.
Greenways can provide buffers to waterways which can improve water quality.
Greenways also enhance open space by linking public parks, natural areas, and historic sites. Greenways have the ability to provide better recreational opportunities for urban families, furnishing them with natural places to relieve stress by walking, biking and jogging. Greenways offer a cost-effective way to access open space by leveraging open space acquisition dollars to stretch parkland. Finally, studies have shown that greenways through residential areas will actually increase nearby property values. The Palmetto Greenways Initiative is devoted to the planning and development of greenways through out South Carolina.