Unlocking Opportunity: The Role of America’s Trail Networks in Strengthening Communities Webinar
The Role of Trail Networks
In communities across the country, trail networks promote equitable access to safe spaces where everyone can walk, bike, and be active outside. They strengthen local economies and enhance regional competitiveness, attracting and retaining businesses and talent by improving quality of life, creating active transportation options, and supporting sustainable development.
Rails to Trails Conservancy has identified more than 150 trail networks developing in communities across the country, demonstrating the power connected trails bring to communities, making them more livable and resilient. Join RTC and a panel of experts to explore the economic advantages that come from building connected trail systems.
Speakers
Melodie Mendez was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. After graduating with a degree in Environmental Anthropology from Davidson College, Mel began a decade-long career in public relations where she represented outdoor clients like REI Co-Op, Arc’teryx, NAU, and BLACKYAK. Most recently, she served as a Strategic Communications Manager for the Natural Resources Defense Council, supporting portfolios in food, toxins, extreme weather, and international climate treaties.
Mel joined the Latino Outdoors family back in 2018 as a general member in the New York City chapter and has since volunteered as an Outings Leader and Program Coordinator. As the New York & Northeast Regional Coordinator, Mel is committed to building equitable access for Latine communities in the outdoors, and elevating the metropolitan/urban perspective into the outdoor narrative.
Outside of Latino Outdoors, Mel can be found guiding corporate and small group hikes for Destination Backcountry Adventures or frolicking in nature–whether that’s surfing, white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, or throwing a carne asada.
Liz Thorstensen is a results-driven leader with over 18 years of experience in building innovative partnerships and strategic programs that promote sustainable, equitable investments in communities. She successfully scaled RTC’s TrailNation initiative from concept to a nationally recognized program, now spanning nine regions and 21 states. Through its multidisciplinary approach, TrailNation promotes the growth of trail networks across the country, strengthening local economies, enhancing equitable access to walking and biking, and supporting healthy, active living.
This work highlights Liz’s expertise in blending active transportation planning, economic development, and conservation advocacy to develop innovative, sustainable infrastructure. A passionate advocate for justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (JEDI), she ensures that all communities benefit from transformative infrastructure projects that drive lasting, positive change and contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable future.
Liz holds a bachelor’s degree in Geography and GIS from the University of Maryland, as well as master’s degrees in Urban Planning and Local Economic Development from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the London School of Economics. In her free time, she enjoys biking and exploring the DC region with her family.
Melinda Vonstein is a professional planner specializing in active transportation and outdoor recreation. As the Greenway Planning Studio Lead at the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, she leads efforts to create visionary, nature-based plans that connect communities through greenways and promote outdoor activity. Melinda is passionate about making transportation not only accessible but enjoyable, ensuring that people in urban, rural, and suburban settings can experience the benefits of nature in their everyday lives.
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Everyone deserves access to safe ways to walk, bike, and be active outdoors.