Letter to the Community
On November 7, 2000, the people of the region voted to invest in a network of greenways. Thanks to 25 years of turning community input into collective impact with hundreds of partners like you, the greenway system today features 140 miles of paved pathways, bringing neighborhoods together and giving more people safe places to live life outside. From a group of seniors exercising to young professionals commuting, to families making memories, giving people options is critical for the strength of our region. What started as an idea has truly become a way of life, and we’re proud of what we’ve built together. What we’ve built is only the beginning and we’re excited for what the next 25 years will bring.
Seven projects in the next few years will feature bridges to further connect our communities. Brickline Greenway is making major headway, with two significant segments in construction now. Designed to support inclusive economic development, it reflects the agency’s growing role in shaping a more connected and resilient region and is a key component in Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s 2030 Jobs Plan.
With a long-term plan to build 600 miles of greenways and the Great Rivers Greenway Foundation supporting our work, our agency remains committed to making the region a healthier, more vibrant place to live for generations to come.
Our impact report this year is this poster, highlighting 25 milestones to look back upon and 25 to look forward to. Digital impact report and full audited financials are available on our website, as well as many ways to celebrate our anniversary!
Our work makes this region better precisely because of your support — thank you.
Mark Perkins Chief Executive Officer Great Rivers Greenway
Dr. Bernard J. DuBray President of the Board
Great
Rivers Greenway
That’s more than 1 a day for our 25 years and it happens to match our date: (11/7/00)
11,700 94¢
25 years ago, people voted to invest in a vision for a vibrant region connected by greenway trails. With 140 miles (and counting!) , Great Rivers Greenway wants to thank YOU for contributing to this community vision, the progress to date, and 25 years of turning input into impact so we can all LIVE LIFE OUTSIDE .
See all the ways to cele brate our anniversary at www.GreatRiversGreen way.org/2025
Separate from all the new greenways we’ve built, in the last 10 years alone, extra projects with staff, vendors and volunteers along the greenway include:
182 acres of invasive species removed from our habitats - that’s like filling the field at Busch Stadium almost 58 times with those pesky plants, poof, gone!
819,000 pounds of trash removed - that’s more than 18 different 737 planes full of people and luggage! trees planted to date
Memorable Milestones
140
3K
on every dollar is returned to the taxpayers through greenway projects and programs.
250+
