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San Leandro Creek Trail Master Plan <br />1-6 <br />1.3.3 CONNECTIVITY TO SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS <br />The direct benefits of the trail development will be to the surrounding <br />neighborhoods. It is important to make as many connections as possible to <br />residential neighborhoods, shopping areas, schools and employment centers. <br />1.3.4 ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES <br />Various studies have shown that a well-planned strategic trail development <br />can lead to economic benefits to the community. Bicycle and pedestrian <br />facilities are proving to be a wise economic investment for communities. <br />Studies have shown that these facilities can stimulate local economies in a <br />number of ways. Along the San Leandro Creek there are numerous food and <br />retail businesses that can benefit from spending by trail users, and the trail <br />would link residents to education and workforce development opportunities <br />with neighboring residents and boating along the inter-tidal first mile of <br />the Creek. This in turn attracts and revitalizes businesses, creates jobs, and <br />increases public revenue. Trails can also have a positive effect on nearby <br />properties as home buyers and business owners realize the value that such <br />facilities bring to a community (Active Living Research, 2010). <br />1.3.5 EDUCATIONAL OPPOTUNITIES <br />The proposed San Leandro Creek Trail could provide educational opportunities <br />that aim to strengthen connections between the users and nature. Educational <br />efforts can be focused on enhancing their environmental awareness, and <br />encourage them to make active and healthy lifestyle choices. The proposed <br />trail passes through a variety of landscapes and hence provides opportunity <br />to study habitats in a variety of settings. <br />20