| Summary: | This study aims to develop a detailed understanding of the success factors required in the development of a multi-municipal regional trail network. It has been prepared with the view of generating a trail planning framework that integrates community wellness and active transportation considerations, along with tourism and economic development opportunities. In doing so, this study will add to the growing body of research into the benefits and impacts of regional trail networks to local communities while advancing our understanding of the unique challenges to be faced in the planning shared infrastructure projects across multiple jurisdictions. Key informant interviews were conducted with representatives from regional trail groups and local trail associations along with municipal and provincial governments throughout the months of November 2014 to February 2015. The interviews explored the participants' experience, and knowledge of the development, management and governance aspects of regional trail initiatives in Ontario. Themes were created and organized to capture the connections and interrelations of the data collected. The history of trails development in North America dates back to the first nations. Their trails were established for early trade and helped lay the framework for future settlement patterns across the country. Just like the historical long-distance trails of the First Nations, modern regional trail infrastructure must be established to connect communities with regional points of interest. Some regional walking trails can be hundreds of kilometres long and in some cases even thousands of kilometres long. There is a growing interest in regional trails that also serve as long-distance cycling routes. The province of Ontario has a long and rich history with the development of long-distance and regional trail systems. In the early part of 2003, the Ontario government began development of The Ontario Trails Strategy. It offered a vision of achieving 'a world-class system of diversified trails which ...
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