LANSING, Michigan – A recent analysis published in Eco‑Tourism and Sustainable Development suggests that expanding the Great Lakes Way trail system could add as much as $5 billion in economic activity each year. The study, co‑authored by John Hartig of the International Association of Great Lakes Research, examined how a more connected network of greenways and blueways would draw visitors and support local businesses across Southeast Michigan and the broader Great Lakes region.
Economic potential of a connected trail network
The researchers estimate annual benefits ranging from $3.75 billion to $5 billion. Those figures reflect increased tourism spending, new jobs in hospitality and recreation, and higher sales for restaurants, shops and lodging providers along the routes. The study emphasizes that the projected numbers represent potential activity from expanded trail tourism, not current revenue from the existing network.
Current trail mileage and gaps
Today the Great Lakes Way includes roughly 160 miles of greenways and 156 miles of water trails, though only about 65 % of that mileage is considered usable for cyclists and pedestrians. Hartig notes that many projects have struggled to secure sufficient funding, leaving portions of the system incomplete.
Funding breakthroughs and local projects
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan recently raised $25 million in matching funds to help greenway grants move forward. Notable projects already underway include the Bridge to Bay Trail in St. Clair County, the Downriver Linked Greenways, the Huron‑Waterloo Pathway Initiative, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s Riverwalk, the Iron Belle Trail in the Upper Peninsula, Detroit’s Joe Louis Greenway, and Monroe County’s Cornerstone Trail.
Detroit’s Joe Louis Greenway links Dearborn, Hamtramck and Highland Park to larger state‑wide routes, while the five‑mile Detroit Riverwalk has earned multiple national accolades from USA Today. Todd Scott, executive director of the Detroit Greenways Coalition, stresses that quality construction matters; he warns against shortcuts such as routing cyclists onto sidewalks instead of building dedicated facilities.
Water trails and cross‑border opportunities
Hartig confirms that planned water routes—including the Detroit Heritage River Water Trail and the River Raisin Water Trail—are complete, though Scott points out that additional amenities like campgrounds and restrooms are still needed on some segments.
The recently opened Gordie Howe International Bridge adds a toll‑free pedestrian and cyclist pathway between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. Both Hartig and Scott say the bridge has already exceeded usage expectations, spurring economic activity on both sides of the river. A multi‑day cycling event organized by the Waterfront Regeneration Trust highlighted the new connection, drawing Canadian cyclists into Detroit and generating business for local hotels and restaurants.
Challenges and next steps
Despite early successes, participation remains uneven. Some communities have shown little interest in joining the effort, raising concerns about whether the network can achieve its full potential. Hartig notes that the eight Great Lakes states are discussing a broader, region‑wide trail system that could eventually mirror Canada’s Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, using existing, planned and completed routes as a foundation.
Supporters argue that a fully linked network would benefit both urban and rural areas by attracting visitors, supporting local enterprises, and enhancing quality of life for residents. While the study’s multibillion‑dollar estimate reflects potential economic impact, it underscores the importance of continued investment, coordinated planning, and community engagement to turn the vision into reality.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
