Trails for a Healthy Maine Bond -- Key Points

HEALTH - The top two health threats in Maine are tobacco and inactivity. We know that Maine has an obesity problem directly related to physical inactivity and that Mainers need more exercise. We want everyone in this state to have the option to walk, bike, skate, and run. We also know that when people have safe, convenient, and attractive places to walk and bicycle that they will live more active and healthy lives.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & INVESTING IN QUALITY PLACES - We know we also need to invest in "Quality Places." Trails do make communities greater quality places that attract and keep visitors and residents. Look at the great examples of how the Brunswick bike path, Portland Trails, Kennebec River Rail Trail have enhanced their communities and help make them places where people want to live and invest. And a $10million Trails Bond will create over 400 jobs.

TOURISM - Perhaps the biggest potential economic development is tourism dollars. MaineDOT's study showed in 2001 that Bicycle Tourism bring in over $66 million annually to Maine's economy. Indicators would suggest that this number has increased since. And of course visitors often turn into new residents! Those who are attracted to our state for healthy reasons will help make Maine a healthier place too!

GLOBAL WARMING - Trails that are healthy for people are also healthy for the planet. The more Maine citizens and visitors are able to get around without burning fossil fuels the more they help offset emissions that threaten to incite climate change.

IT IS TIME TO BUILD - We've all waited too long to see these trails get built as it is. With current funding levels it will take 75 to 100 years to build the trails currently on the planning board. The health of our states environment, economy or citizen's cannot wait this long. None of us can wait 100 years.

IT IS ESSENTIAL TO MAINE'S HEALTH and FUTURE! - We work with MaineDOT in 65 schools across Maine to encourage kids to bike and walk to school. Having safe places including trails is a huge need. We worry that as kids get driven around everywhere that they will slip into sedentary lifestyles that will lead to more obesity. We need to do all we can to raise a healthier generation of Mainers. Again, it is a Trails Bond for a HEALTHY Maine.

Closing: We know that promoting physical activity, addressing the obesity epidemic, creating quality places, and using clean and green transportation are all important. The Trails for a Healthy Maine Bond encompasses all these priorities and will make Maine a better place for us all!

Show your support of the Trails for a Healthy Maine Bond with your business or organization endorsement or by contacting your legislators today to urge their support.