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Portland Trails system claims $112M benefit to area economy

cyclists on a paved trail in Portland PHOTO / COURTESY PORTLAND TRAILS The Fore River Parkway Trail is a popular commuter and recreational trail in Portland.
By Tina Fischer

A new study from Portland Trails finds that the organization’s 100-mile network contributes to a wide range of environmental, health and economic benefits.

The just-released annual Economic & Community Contribution Study says trail use generates $112 million in annual local economic activity, eliminates more than one million car trips per year and delivers millions in health, environmental and property value benefits to the greater Portland region.

The study was funded by a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, awarded through the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation. It was conducted by Richmond, Va.-based Camoin Associates, in partnership with Portland Trails and the University of Southern Maine.

“This study offers a roadmap for strengthening and expanding a trail network that already touches every neighborhood in Portland and improves life for tens of thousands of residents across the region," said Jon Kachmar, executive director of Portland Trails.

“As Portland grows, the need for safe, accessible and connected routes for walking, biking and rolling will continue to increase.”

Highlights from the study include:

  • Portland Trails sees 1.375 million annual visits across its 100-mile network.
  • Trail-related spending supports 921 jobs, $42.4 million in earnings, and $112.8 million in annual local sales in Greater Portland.
  • Statewide, that grows to 1,215 jobs, $53.9 million in earnings, and $141.6 million in total sales.
  • 23% of trail users commute on the trails weekly.
  • The network eliminates 1.1 million car trips and 4.8 million vehicle miles traveled each year.
  • Reduced congestion and emissions create $700,000 in annual congestion savings and $550,000 in avoided CO₂ emissions.
  • The trail system provides an estimated $2 million to $5 million in annual ecosystem services, including reduced heat island effect, improved air quality, carbon sequestration, and flood mitigation.

Strengthening neighborhoods and property values

The study also found that proximity to trails boosts residential property values by up to $290 million and generates over $4 million in annual property tax revenue for the city of Portland.

Founded in 1991, Portland Trails builds and stewards a 100-mile network that connects neighborhoods to nature, workplaces, schools, parks and commercial centers across Greater Portland. The trail system also extends to Falmouth, South Portland and Westbrook.

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