The 47-mile Pinellas Trail, is connecting communities and boosting local economies along the west central coast of Florida.
While some communities were hesitant to have the trail pass through their city centers, others saw opportunities and positioned themselves to become a vital part of the trail system, says Lynn Wargo, president of the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce. “They were afraid of change, and of what element it might bring into their communities.”Dunedin, on the other hand, embraced the concept. Municipal leaders saw the trail as a downtown revitalization tool, says Wargo. The main street at that time was a four-lane state highway with traffic and a speed limit that were not pedestrian friendly. “Our stores and restaurants were struggling. That trail was part of a reversal for our community.”
The highway was relocated two blocks from the city center. A new, two-lane main street with a 15-mph speed limit and multiple crosswalks was built in its place. The 100-year-old building housing the Chamber of Commerce was renovated to serve as an anchor for the downtown. “The trail coming through just breathed new life into our community,” says Wargo.
Today, the colorful, walkable downtown features public art, whimsical wayfinding signage, and plenty of signs reminding motorists to stop for the Pinellas Trail, which passes directly through the downtown.
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