What is the value of a green way to a buyer in today’s market?
Had an interesting conversation this morning in the Crozet Mudhouse with someone who was noting that the attitude shift toward greenways has shifted significantly in the past 10 years or so.
It used to be that real estate agents and developers and even buyers placed little to no value in having access to a means of passage that was not centered around an automobile.
Today, that attitude has shifted 180°.
Access to bike paths or suitable walking trails (for strollers) is an enormous asset. Through my admittedly myopic view as seen through the eyes of my buyer clients who are seeking such access and proximity, and through the eyes of my seller clients who are advocating for the benefits of such access, I would say that the world has shifted in this respect.
In the Charlottesville-Albemarle area my view is that the City of Charlottesville is fairly well poised to design and build more greenways and bike paths (hint: West Main). The County of Albemarle needs more will and more money, but the Crozet Trails Crew and Trails System are fast becoming outstanding assets to the community. And they both need to work together to have the respective systems work together.
Worth noting is that the departments within the respective localities are filled with remarkable people doing remarkable work.
The market wants these things.
Americans are finally realizing that staying active has far reaching health benefits and lowers the overall cost of healthcare. There are also the psychological benefits. A run after work is a great way to shake off a bad day. I hope more and more communities see the benefit and work to make them a part of our life.