Why Greenways Matter

Who would’ve thought a greenway could spark so much debate? Over the past few weeks, it’s been one of the biggest topics of conversation in the Greater High Point area. If you’re not familiar with what’s been happening, here’s the rundown.

In January 2025, High Point University submitted a proposal to City Council to reroute a short section of the Boulding Branch Creek Greenway, moving it from a shaded path on their campus to busy sidewalks outside the university footprint. While this section is only about half a mile, it’s one of the few shaded parts of the nearly five-mile-long greenway, making it a favorite stretch for many local walkers, runners, and cyclists.

The High Point Greenway, our small oasis in the heart of our city

The response from the community was immediate—and passionate. What started as a single newspaper ad and letter to the editor quickly grew into hundreds of social media posts, calls and emails to City Council and HPU, local news coverage, and ultimately, a record-breaking crowd of over 200 people showing up to voice their concerns at a City Council meeting.

Many assumed the change was inevitable, with comments like, “This isn’t the hill to die on; the university will likely get what they want.” But in the end, democracy prevailed—HPU withdrew its proposal, and this small oasis at the heart of our city will remain in the hands of the public.

So, why did such a small section of greenway rally so many people? The answer goes beyond just one path. There’s a growing body of research showing just how important public exercise spaces—especially greenways—are for the health, well-being, and long-term growth of a city. Let’s dive into why protecting and investing in these spaces is one of the smartest moves a community can make.

Physical Health Benefits

Let’s start with the obvious: greenways encourage people to be active. A study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that people who live near trails and parks are way more likely to meet recommended physical activity levels (Bedimo-Rung et al., 2005). When exercise is easier and more convenient, people do it more—simple as that. Having trails in neighborhoods means more people are walking, running, and cycling, which helps lower rates of obesity, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses (Health & Place, Sallis et al., 2012).

Mental Health & Stress Relief

There’s something about being outside in a natural setting that just makes you feel better. Studies show that spending time in green spaces can significantly lower stress and anxiety (Environmental Science & Technology, Barton & Pretty, 2010). Another study in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that regular exposure to natural spaces is linked to lower rates of depression and improved overall mental well-being (Bratman et al., 2015). And let’s be real—after a long day, nothing beats a run or a walk through a tree-lined path to clear your head.

Social Cohesion & Community Engagement

Greenways don’t just benefit individuals—they bring people together. When public spaces are accessible and well-maintained, they become natural gathering spots. Research in the Journal of Urban Health found that neighborhoods with more public exercise spaces report stronger social ties and higher levels of trust among residents (Cohen et al., 2014). That’s because shared spaces create opportunities for people to interact, whether it’s a friendly nod on a morning jog or a conversation on a park bench. One study even found that communities with access to well-designed parks and trails see higher participation in volunteer and civic activities (Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Peters et al., 2010). In a time where people are more digitally connected but socially disconnected, these real-world interactions are more valuable than ever.

Economic & Environmental Impact

Public greenways don’t just boost health—they also add value to communities in unexpected ways. Studies have shown that properties near trails and parks tend to have higher values (Landscape and Urban Planning, Crompton, 2005). Plus, greenways help improve air quality and reduce urban heat, making cities more livable and sustainable (Environmental Health Perspectives, Nowak et al., 2014). Investing in these spaces isn’t just about recreation—it’s about building healthier, more resilient communities.

The Bottom Line

Public greenways and exercise spaces are game-changers for both individuals and communities. They make it easier to stay active, boost mental health, create stronger neighborhoods, and even improve local economies. If we want healthier, happier communities, we need to prioritize and protect these spaces.

For a city like High Point, NC, investing in taxpayer-funded public greenways and exercise spaces is an investment in the town’s future. These spaces make High Point a more attractive place to live, work, and visit. They foster a sense of belonging, encourage healthier lifestyles, and create an environment where people feel welcome and connected. As our city continues to grow, ensuring access to safe and well-maintained greenways will play a huge role in making High Point a place where people want to stay, thrive, and call home. So, the next time you lace up your running shoes and hit the trail, remember—you’re not just doing something good for yourself, you’re contributing to something much bigger.

-Coach Brandon