Understanding opportunities and challenges for collaborative greenway planning in New England

Protection of natural, cultural, and recreational resources requires a regional approach to greenway planning that transcends political boundaries. Previous research on greenway planning has shown there are four main challenges in multi-jurisdictional greenway implementation: inter-governmental coordination, the lack of regional governance, funding, and public perceptions about greenways. The focus of this study was to understand successful strategies for collaborative greenway planning in the fragmented political landscape of New England (USA). To understand these issues, in-depth interviews were conducted with key greenway planners in New England from federal and state agencies and non-governmental organizations. The results of the study revealed four key strategies that are essential to multi-jurisdictional greenway planning in New England: partnerships, clearly defined goals, public involvement, and regional coordination. This study provides lessons for greenway planners who are implementing regional greenways across state, provincial, and international boundaries.