helps build goodwill of neighbors adjacent to the trail and improves the overall perception of safety on the Loop .
Fundraising is another key role a citizen advocates group can perform . Citizen advocate groups in other cities spearhead fundraising campaigns to fund such amenities as trail structures ( like bridges ) or trail heads . Their role assists in lowering the city ’ s financial commitment while also building awareness and a sense of ownership in the private sector .
Other key roles advocate groups play will be as ambassadors . Many trail advocate groups help the managing agencies to communicate with the public through the development of maps , newsletters , websites , social media activities , and other sources to educate users and improve the quality of the public ’ s experience on the Loop .
Citizen advocate groups provide a critical voice to coordinate efforts and partner with all sectors , whether public or private , to assure maximum potential to reap the multiple benefits that a trail like the Louisville Loop can provide . As Margaret Mead articulated “ never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world . Indeed , it ’ s the only thing that ever has .”
Management and Maintenance
An imperative of the Louisville Loop Strategic Plan is to establish that “ the loop corridor is maintained at the highest standards for safe public use , connectivity , recreation , and transportation .” The guiding principle throughout the planning of the Loop has been to balance high-quality design with cost-effective maintenance . Operations and management of the entire project should adhere to consistent and agreed upon standards and protocols . Four key objectives have been outlined in this plan , including :
• Determine the appropriate entity and organizational structure to oversee maintenance and protection of the Louisville Loop that appropriately addresses the statutory and regulatory roles of key agencies ;
• Develop a general maintenance plan for the Loop that meets the goals of being cost effective , with efficient delivery of services , while protecting and enhancing the ecological integrity of the Loop ;
• Ensure public safety within the Loop by developing the necessary relationships with local police , fire , and EMS and developing appropriate initiatives to engage the community to promote public safety ;
• Determine conservation initiatives and partnerships that enhance and protect the loop as a provider of habitat , a vital resource connecting the community to the natural world , and that uses public art as a tool to interpret the natural worlds as well as to celebrate special places on the Loop ;
The following sections describe in more detail how these initiatives are being pursued and can be developed in future years . Louisville Metro and its partners have begun to ensure a consistent operation and apply the highest standard for path and facility maintenance through its agreements and early implementation projects . In addition , community groups , residents , business owners and other stakeholders continue to be engaged in the long-term stewardship of the resources preserved and enhanced by the Louisville Loop and its complementary facilities .
Management and Operations
An effective and agreed-upon protocol for multi-agency operation and management of the Loop is key to ensure the Louisville Loop remains a safe and secure . Metro has developed a Louisville Loop Management Agreement between Louisville Metro Parks , the Metropolitan Sewer District , and Louisville Metro Public Works that addresses such details as jurisdiction of maintenance , commitment to standards , and documenting issues . Metro Parks will be the Metro agency responsible for supervising Loop maintenance to avoid confusion , complement its mission , promote consistent work practices , and reduce inefficient effort . This includes general coordination of maintenance activities sufficient to ensure that standards of care are being met for the entire Loop . Actual maintenance activities shall be carried out by the respective agencies according to the conditions in the agreement between the agencies .
64