Heidi Anderson, The Trail Foundation

The economic impact of a lush urban trail system

A well-developed urban trail system has a number of benefits: it delivers substantial health benefits, provides an important transportation alternative, and lowers urban temperatures and reduces air pollution.

But more than that, it has an economic impact.

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is the 10-mile lush, urban pathway in the heart of Austin that serves as the hub of the city’s 130-mile trail system. With more than 2.6 million visits annually, the Trail is one of Austin’s most popular recreational attractions, and has an economic impact of $8.8 million every year.

Join us as Heidi Anderson discusses The Trail Foundation’s strategic vision for continued growth and connectivity along the Butler Trail, as well as the 15 new projects recently announced in honor of its 15th anniversary.

About our speaker

Heidi Anderson is the executive director of The Trail Foundation, the nonprofit organization that works to protect, enhance, and connect the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail for the benefit of all. 

As executive director of TTF, Heidi leads the Foundation’s strategic vision and continued growth, including projects currently underway such as the Trail-wide ecological restoration, Holly Shores revitalization, and enhancements to the East side of the Trail. Her key duties include overseeing the administration, projects, programs, and strategic plan of The Trail Foundation. Other responsibilities include fundraising, communications, marketing, and community outreach. 

She and her family regularly enjoy the Trail for its urban access to nature and connectivity to community. Heidi’s commitment to the Trail lies in the belief that this treasured asset, within Austin’s core, is at the heart of what makes our city great and our people healthy.

Agenda:

6:50am - Coffee & Networking 

7:10am - Breakfast Buffet

7:25am - Introductions & Announcements

7:50am - Speaker Introduction

8:20am - Q&A

8:30am - Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Directions and Parking to UT Club

Breakfast Fees & Policy