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WHEREAS, the Allegheny Trail Alliance is a coalition of trail groups building and managing the Great Allegheny Passage. Their work is supported by many volunteer organizations and many local governments encompassing the region; and
WHEREAS, the Great Allegheny Passage is a multiple-use trail, where one day it will connect the City of Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C.; and
WHEREAS, 100 miles of the Great Allegheny Passage have been completed. It is the longest rail-trail in the Eastern United States and is part of the National Scenic Trail system. Over 350,000 visits made to the trail each year generate some $7 million in direct spending; and
WHEREAS, residents living along the trail and in the region benefit with free recreation, safe transportation options, tourism that stimulates community and economic development, protection of river corridors, as well as opportunities for education about the region's history, its environment and its people; and
WHEREAS, on May 21, 2004, the Allegheny Trail Alliance is celebrating National Trails Day 2004 in the City of Pittsburgh. "Hike the GAP" will commence at the UPMC South Side Sports Complex, where hikers are to walk over the LTV Hot Metal Bridge and then continue on to downtown Pittsburgh.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh commends and congratulates the Allegheny Trail Alliance, its member organizations and the thousands of volunteers and supporters for their great progress and extraordinary perseverance to enhance the quality of life in our region and for their efforts in making the City of Pittsburgh the trail gateway to our Nation's Capital.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that today, May 21, 2004 be hereby declared "National Trails Day 2004" in the City of Pittsburgh.