Georgia Hi-Lo Trail Inc. releases the plan explaining the process to connect Greene, Hancock, Washington, Johnson, Emanuel, Bulloch, Effingham, and Chatham Counties through a multi-use paved trail.
With guidance from PATH Foundation, Kaizen Collaborative, and Georgia Hi-Lo Trail Stakeholders, the extensive plan outlines the vision of the project, establishes the value of multi-use trails, and explains implementation phases and timeline. When complete, the Georgia Hi-Lo Trail will connect with The Firefly Trail to form the longest paved trail in the United States. The Hi-Lo Trail will empower small town economies by supporting local businesses through tourism and attracting new residents; improve community health by providing opportunities to safely walk and bike; and enable people with disabilities, senior citizens, and families with children to enjoy Georgia’s great outdoors.
“After five years evangelizing about the relationship between outdoor recreation and economic development, we are thrilled to have this 192-page plan that shows our vision. This report will serve as a powerful tool as we implement future phases of the project. Substantial effort will be required to complete the Hi-Lo Trail over the next 25 years. This plan sets our course, so we can get to work,” explained Mary Charles Howard, Executive Director of Georgia Hi-Lo Trail Inc. “We are tremendously grateful to everyone who has helped move this project forward!”
The full report can be downloaded on GeorgiaHi-Lo.com.
ABOUT GEORGIA HI-LO TRAIL, INC.
Georgia Hi-Lo Trail, Inc. is a 501(c)3 with a mission to connect and empower rural Georgia through a trail that will join communities across an 8-county area. When complete, the 211-mile Hi-Lo Trail will connect to the 38-mile Firefly Trail and create the longest paved trail in the U.S. Georgia Hi-Lo Trail initiatives that promote the organization’s values and raise awareness for the mission include Kids Bike League and Athens to Savannah Ride.
Made possible by a grant from the Chestnut Family Foundation and leadership from BRAG Dream Team, Kids Bike League programming ensures children in the eight-county region have equal access to bikes, opportunities to ride, and empowerment for growth.
The Athens to Savannah Ride serves as an annual fundraiser to support the mission of the Georgia Hi-Lo Trail. The 2024 edition will take place October 17th through 20th. Cyclists choose between a 3-day road ride or 4-day gravel ride. Both routes offer 285 miles of amazing riding, and whether the terrain is paved roads or Georgia red clay, everyone finishes on the Atlantic coast at the Savannah River.
For media inquiries, contact Fonda Johnson, Communications for Georgia Hi-Lo Trail Inc. Email fjohnson@sportsstrategies.com or call 205.453.4544. For more information about Georgia Hi-Lo Trail, contact Executive Director Mary Charles Howard. Email hello@georigaihilo.com or call 706-338-8054.
