Southern Alleghenies Greenways and Open Space Network Plan
Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset Counties, along with the Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission (SAP&DC), have developed the Southern Alleghenies Greenways and Open Space Network Plan. The Plan outlines a series of policies and projects for linking existing natural and man-made resources within the region’s six counties. By connecting these assets into a comprehensive greenway network, the region’s natural resources are leveraged to promote and strengthen their value to the region for a range of purposes. The report is available for download below. Select the appropriate link to download an individual section in PDF format.
*Note: Download times will vary depending on file size.
For the complete plan in electronic format on a CD, please contact Fred Querry. To download the plan in its entirety, please click on the link below. NOTE: The file is approximately 50 MB in size and could result in lengthy download times over a slow network connection.
Project Implementation
Part 5 of the plan contains comprehensive implementation information as to planning, coordination, stakeholders, activities, scenarios, action plan matrix, priorities, identified project, tools, and funding sources. Funding implementation is a difficult aspect of implementation especially when considering state and federal funding for a project. The limited funds available from the state and federal agencies make competition very high. Other sources must be explored from the local and private sector in most cases to round out a complete financial package to implement a project. Implementing organizations can consider numerous additional options when developing a project’s concurrent financial strategy.
Taxes
Greenways can be funded through local sales tax revenues.
Impact Fees
Impact fees are monetary one-time charges levied by a local government on new development. Unlike required dedications, impact fees can be applied to finance greenway facilities located outside the boundary of development. These fees can be levied through the subdivision or building permit process.
Bond Referendums
Communities can place propositions on local ballots to support greenway development. Bonds rely on the support of the voting population; an aggressive education and awareness program will need to be implemented prior to any referendum vote.
Capital Improvements Program
Some local governments can initiate a yearly appropriation for greenway and trail development in the capital improvements program.
Private Sector Sources
Communities can solicit greenway funding from a variety of private foundations, corporations, and other conservation-minded benefactors. As a general rule, local foundations and businesses will have a greater interest in and be more likely to fund local projects. These local sources should be approached first, before seeking funds outside the community.
Local Businesses
Local industries and private businesses may agree to provide support for development of greenways through:
- Donations of cash to a specific greenway segment;
- Donations of services by corporations to reduce the cost of the greenway;
- Implementation, including equipment and labor to construct and install elements of a trail;
- Donations in the cost of materials purchased from local businesses that support greenway implementation and can supply essential products for facility development. This method of raising funds requires a great deal of coordination.
Trail Sponsors
A sponsorship program for trail amenities allows for smaller donations to be received both from individuals and businesses. The program must be well planned and organized, with design standards and associated costs established for each amenity.
Volunteer Work
Community volunteers may help with trail construction, maintenance, fund raising, and a whole host of other activities.
"Buy-a-Foot" Programs
"Buy-a-Foot" programs have been successful in raising funds and awareness for trail and greenway projects across the country. Under local initiatives, citizens are encouraged to purchase one linear foot of the greenway by donating the cost of construction.