ARMSTRONG CO., Pa. (EYT) — A recent discussion during a public meeting generated enthusiasm and strategies for attracting visitors to Armstrong and Clarion counties’ trails, waterways, and towns. Many of the trail towns bordering the Allegheny River in Armstrong and Clarion counties are filled with vibrant businesses, historical sites, and places of beauty that are unique to each community.
But — finding those unique locations can sometimes be a challenge for visitors.
The answer? Better signage.
The meeting centered on figuring out ways to make it easier for visitors to explore the beauty of the trails, the waterways, and the many points of interest found off trails in the town centers and neighborhoods.
Those in attendance were from Ford City, Kittanning, New Bethlehem, Templeton, and East Brady. They represented groups such as municipalities, county government, economic development groups, businesses, tourist promotion groups, trail groups, public libraries, and youth development agencies.
Presenter Cathy McCollom, of McCollom Development Strategies, reviewed the Trails and Towns Regional Initiative. The intent is to create an on-going coordinated promotional effort among towns along the Redbank Valley and Armstrong Trails to grow existing businesses and increase tourism.
One of the main goals of the initiative is to determine ways to invite trail visitors to frequent local businesses.
Ron Steffey, Executive Director of the Allegheny Valley Land Trust, was among those in attendance.
“The meeting was a very positive step in getting more people involved and generating ideas on how to capitalize on people coming to the area for the trails,” Steffey said.
After breaking out into small discussion groups to generate ideas, several strategies were identified. Signage was considered the highest priority by every community and county group. Gateway, Trailhead, and Wayfinding signs are needed as well as branding the region and developing lodging options are important. Helping existing businesses and communities become more trail friendly is critical to the effort.
The community was encouraged to continue meeting to move this initiative forward. The next meeting for the Trails and Towns Coalition will be held in the fall.
To get involved or to gain more information on this initiative, contact Kay Owen, Armstrong Trail Volunteer at 724-543-3608.
