Rails-to-Trails Expert Converts Railroad Corridors to Miami Paths

Ken Bryan, senior strategist for external relations at Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, joined host Harry Gottlieb on "Pillars of the Community" to discuss converting abandoned railroad corridors into public walking and cycling paths.

Bryan, who has spent over three decades developing trails and shaping public policy, outlined how rail-trails serve dual purposes: recreational use and everyday transportation. He highlighted three South Florida projects as models: the Miami Loop, Ludlam Trail, and The Underline.

The episode addressed the challenges of building connected trail networks and maximizing accessibility across the region. Bryan emphasized the value of former railroad corridors as public assets that can link parks and neighborhoods without requiring new land acquisition.

Miami's Community Newspapers produced the interview, which is available for viewing online.