Communities without paths and trails to connect their centers of interest, culture, and beauty, are hardly communities at all. They become sterile and regressive. Residents become increasingly isolated and disconnected. When communities are disconnected, neighborhoods erode and people become distrustful of their neighbors. Seeing neighborly faces, of all sorts, out on the trail, living normal human lives, is imperative for breaking down the walls between classes, races, religions, and more. Show me a thriving, vibrant community, and not far away, you’ll find the trail.
Parks and recreation are essential infrastructure.
Kevin Roth, National Recreation and Park Association
Trails and parks fulfill part of the need every community has for the Commons, the Square, the Corner, etc.; shared social spaces where folks go to mingle and discuss news of the day. Though the situation has begun to improve, Danville still has a woeful lack of these spaces. Where they exist, driving is almost always required, creating hardship for those who may not be able to do so.
If Danville would like to revive it’s defunct neighborhood organizations and foster a stronger sense of community, and continue it’s positive momentum in this direction, planning and codifying a comprehensive active transportation plan is a must. Building new trails and paths to connect the bright spots in our community will be like electrifying a place that’s not been before. They’ll be alight with enthusiasm, fellowship, and growth.