"From Rails to Trails: The Origin Story of America's Beloved Pathways" Screening and Panel
Thursday, January 29, 2026, 1730 - 2030
Trust for Public Land and WABE are sponsoring a special community event featuring a screening of From Rails to Trails: The Origin Story of America's Beloved Pathways, followed by a panel discussion.
From Rails to Trails is a newly released documentary that chronicles the 60-year evolution of the rail-to-trail movement in the United States, telling the story of how disused railway corridors were transformed into the more than 26,000 miles of vital public spaces for walking, biking and outdoor recreation. The film premiered nationally on PBS and is based on the pioneering work of advocates, including Rails-to-Trails Conservancy co-founder Peter Harnik, who served as executive producer on the documentary. Narrated by Edward Norton, the documentary highlights key moments, grassroots leadership and bipartisan collaboration that shaped America's trail network.
The screening and panel discussion will highlight why trails are essential public assets that provide equitable access to nature, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen community connections. Building on the themes of From Rails to Trails, local and national leaders in trail development, community planning, and outdoor recreation will examine the historical significance of the rails-to-trails movement, current challenges and opportunities for trail expansion and the critical role of public-private partnerships. Together, the conversation underscores the power of vision, persistence and public engagement in creating resilient, connected communities through trail access for all.
Panelists:
Peter Harnik, Executive Producer/Co-Founder, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Clyde Higgs, President and CEO, Atlanta Beltline Inc.
George Dusenbury, Georgia State Director for Trust for Public Land
Jennifer Dorian (Moderator), President and CEO, WABE
URL:
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3436091-2?pid=2874
Category: Community | Local / Community
From Rails to Trails is a newly released documentary that chronicles the 60-year evolution of the rail-to-trail movement in the United States, telling the story of how disused railway corridors were transformed into the more than 26,000 miles of vital public spaces for walking, biking and outdoor recreation. The film premiered nationally on PBS and is based on the pioneering work of advocates, including Rails-to-Trails Conservancy co-founder Peter Harnik, who served as executive producer on the documentary. Narrated by Edward Norton, the documentary highlights key moments, grassroots leadership and bipartisan collaboration that shaped America's trail network.
The screening and panel discussion will highlight why trails are essential public assets that provide equitable access to nature, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen community connections. Building on the themes of From Rails to Trails, local and national leaders in trail development, community planning, and outdoor recreation will examine the historical significance of the rails-to-trails movement, current challenges and opportunities for trail expansion and the critical role of public-private partnerships. Together, the conversation underscores the power of vision, persistence and public engagement in creating resilient, connected communities through trail access for all.
Panelists:
Peter Harnik, Executive Producer/Co-Founder, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Clyde Higgs, President and CEO, Atlanta Beltline Inc.
George Dusenbury, Georgia State Director for Trust for Public Land
Jennifer Dorian (Moderator), President and CEO, WABE
URL:
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3436091-2?pid=2874
Category: Community | Local / Community
Starting Price Per Person
Free
Other Information
Where
Atlanta History Center
130 West Paces Ferry Road Northwest
Atlanta Georgia 30305
United States
( Museum - Historical )
130 West Paces Ferry Road Northwest
Atlanta Georgia 30305
United States
( Museum - Historical )
Event Organizer Contact:
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Event ID: 264156
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