A new statewide economic impact study finds that New York’s 750-mile Empire State Trail is delivering transformative economic, health, and environmental benefits to communities across the state, generating $1.87 billion in economic activity while connecting millions of residents and visitors to safe outdoor recreation.
Stretching from New York City north to Canada and from Albany west to Buffalo, the Empire State Trail is the longest multi-use trail network in the nation. The 750-mile trail spans 26 counties and hundreds of urban, suburban, and rural communities, attracting an estimated 9.75 million visits annually.
In addition to the approximate $1.87 billion in total economic output each year, the report finds the Trail supports 9,680 jobs statewide, produces $640.9 million in annual employee earnings, and generates $206 million in annual state and local tax revenue.
According to the report, every $1 invested in the Empire State Trail generates $5.43 in sales revenue, with off-road trail segments producing four times the economic impact of on-road segments. Each off-road mile contributes $3.9 million in annual economic output while also supporting local jobs and tax revenues.
Impact on the Erie Canalway Trail Region
The Erie Canalway Trail, which extends 360 miles from Buffalo to Albany, sees 3.7 million visits yearly. A combination of direct visitor spending, supply chain support, and household consumption results in a total annual economic impact of approximately $687.4 million. The trail supports 3,555 jobs, providing more than $235 million in total employee earnings and generating nearly $75.4 million in state and local tax revenue to the State and local municipalities.
The study highlights the trail’s unique ability to drive economic activity in communities that are often underserved by traditional economic development strategies, including small towns, legacy downtowns, and rural corridors.
Approximately two-thirds of the Empire State Trail, roughly 540 miles, serves communities identified by Empire State Development as moderately or severely distressed, meaning areas facing elevated poverty, unemployment, or stagnant income levels.
Businesses located near the Trail report significant economic benefits:
• Nearly one in four business owners surveyed cited the Trail as a deciding factor in their business location.
• More than 40% of businesses are investing in bicycle amenities, trail access improvements, and visitor accommodations.
Businesses surveyed reported that trail-related visitors account for 26.2% of annual sales.
The study also found that proximity to the Trail increases residential property values in many communities. Single-family homes on 0.25–0.5 acre lots near the Trail command a 14.3% premium, averaging $51,000 higher than comparable properties. Residences on 0.5–1 acre lots see a 3.6% value premium, reinforcing the Trail’s role as a vital asset.
The full report can be viewed at: https://www.ptny.org/reports/the-economic-impact-of-the-empire-state-trail/