Because of increasing danger on our roads, Naples Pathways recognized the urgent need for a safe, multi-use pathway system in Collier County to provide greater safety for people who walk, bike, and run. In 2018, we introduced the vision for the Paradise Coast Trail, a 100+ mile biking, walking, and running trail that will be 10-12 foot wide, paved, separated from the road, and connect Naples to Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Collier Seminole State Park, the Paradise Coast Sports Complex, Ave Maria, Everglades City, Immokalee and beyond.
Through our advocacy efforts, the community’s financial support and key endorsements, we are making great progress on building the Paradise Coast Trail which, as of this month, is now officially part of the master site plan of the 220+ mile Collier to Polk Trail! This continuous multi-use trail will connect small towns, natural areas, and working lands to help users experience the region’s culture, environment, and history. When completed, the Collier to Polk Regional Trail will connect to other regional trail systems such as the Florida Coast to Coast Trail and Florida Gulf Coast Trail.
Momentum and Milestones
- 2019: Gathered stakeholders, City and County staff, and local business leaders to pitch the trail system and get buy in for the project.
- 2019: Hired engineering and planning consultant firm, Kimley-Horn to develop a strategy to build a 70-mile pathway system. The first big step was conducting a Feasibility Study.
- 2022: Secured $250,000 from the State and raised the $100,000 required match from our generous supporters for the Feasibility Study.
- 2022: Kimley-Horn engineers efficiently and thoroughly completed the survey of the entire 70-mile corridor.
- 2023: Legislators in Tallahassee voted to adopt the segment of the Paradise Coast Trail from Marco Island through Naples, the new Sports Complex, Ave Maria, Everglades City, and Immokalee into the State’s SUN Trail network. The portion of the trail from Collier Seminole State Park to Bonita Springs had already been included in the SUN Trail, so now the entire length of the Paradise Coast Trail is part of the State’s SUN Trail network. This is a massive win for Collier County!
- 2024: Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) completed the Project Development and Environment study for the Livingston Road segment of the Paradise Coast Trail and it is now officially part of the Collier Seminole State Park Master Site Plan.
Why Advocacy Matters
Having all 100+ miles of our Paradise Coast Trail as part of Florida’s SUN Trail network means we now have even more power and funding to get the trail built in the shortest amount of time. Collier County and FDOT advised that we are on track to complete most of the trail within five to six years! The four-mile Gordon River Greenway took 25 years to complete so we are moving at lightning speed by comparison. Our proactive approach and advocacy efforts have already cut five-seven years from the typical planning timeline. However, we must remain vigilant in keeping the Paradise Coast Trail at the top of the minds of our elected officials and Collier County and FDOT staff through our continued advocacy.
Partnerships and Support Paving the Way
Naples Pathways saw the need and had the vision for a safe pathway system in Collier County. We helped the powers that be understand the many benefits the trail will bring to our residents and visitors:
- increased safety with no fear of being hit by a distracted or aggressive driver while walking, running, or biking,
- no cost recreation
- fitness for every age and ability
- a healthier lifestyle and improved quality of life
- tremendous economic benefits
- expanded tourism offerings
Support for the Paradise Coast Trail has been phenomenal. With endorsements from the Rail to Trails Conservancy, Collier County Metropolitan Planning Organization, City of Naples and funding from the state and community, we’re making great strides. Naples will become known for the Paradise Coast Trail, not just our beautiful beaches, fine dining, and shopping.
Your continued support will help further our efforts to create a safe, bikeable, and walkable Collier County. Our community needs us, and we need you. To donate towards our advocacy efforts for the Paradise Coast Trail, click here. Thank you for believing in our mission and financially supporting our work.
