Trail Master Plan
Groundwork is engaging neighborhood stakeholders, business leaders, funders and the City to plan and build the Emerald Trail by 2029. When complete this signature outdoor destination will encompass approximately 30 miles of trails, greenways and parks that encircle the urban core and link at least 14 historic neighborhoods to downtown, Hogans Creek, McCoys Creek and the St. Johns River.
The trail links to 16 schools, two colleges and 21 parks among other destinations like restaurants, retail and businesses, with 13 additional schools and 17 parks located within three blocks. The Emerald Trail has the potential to be a catalyst for social and economic development in Jacksonville, from encouraging healthy lifestyles and promoting public safety, to spurring economic growth and neighborhood revitalization. Groundwork Jacksonville is connecting expertise, resources and passion to bring this potential to life.
Over a six-month period, the planning team conducted field work, analyzed data and worked with our Steering Committee and neighborhood working group to ensure the proposed trails were safe, appealing and destination-driven.
The Steering Committee dissected the Trail Master Plan into three implementation tiers: Programmed Segments, Implementation Tier 1, and Implementation Tier 2. The goal for implementation is to have a trail segment within acquisition, design, permitting, and construction at all times until completion.
The Emerald Trail Master Plan was developed by the PATH Foundation βan organization responsible for building more than 260 miles of trails throughout Georgia, in concert with landscape architect KAIZEN Collaborative.
The $88,200 plan cost was privately underwritten by a $50,000 donation from JTC Running (JTC), as well as through grants from Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and the Giving Forward Community Endowment Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.