Brainerd: Rails with Trails is an economic opportunity

Brainerd: Rails with Trails is an economic opportunity

To the Editor:

Northeast Oregon is one of the most desirable areas in Oregon for cyclists, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Local businesses should draw on this economic vein because Oregon’s bicycle-related tourism alone contributes as much as $400 million (or about $1.2 million per day) to the state’s economy.

Imagine the possibilities and revenues that our local businesses and economy can dredge up simply by supporting leisure activities generated by an infrastructure such as Rails with Trails.

Like a gold mine, our unique area is rich in economic resources in which local businesses can excavate and produce revenues to keep our area prosperous. Not only is there economic potential, but it is a local source for maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle.

The Joseph Branch Trail Consortium (www.josephbranchtrail.org) has been busy exploring the probability of such a trail and rail network by working with local residents, property owners and organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce.

The website details the 63-mile proposed right-of-way trail, including maps, videos, links and other beneficial information. As an Elgin Chamber representative, I encourage businesses and others to check out the website to learn more about the potential benefits this trail can produce and how you can get involved.

Being a business in Union and Wallowa County that supports such a trail will be the dredge that mines the gold. Don’t let your economic opportunities peddle on by.

Kem Brainerd

Elgin