Norfolk Southern nears $1M in giving to expand equitable trail access nationwide

A new $250,000 donation continues Norfolk Southern’s support of the Trust for Public Land (TPL), bringing the company’s total contribution to $950,000 since 2022.

NS previously launched the Norfolk Southern Trail Activation Fund, a first-of-its-kind initiative that supports early-stage trail projects across the U.S. These funds help TPL transform underutilized land into vibrant public trails that foster health, equity, and economic vitality.

Why it matters: Trails provide recreation and connect people to nature, opportunity, and each other. Together with TPL, we are working to expand access to outdoor spaces, boosting local economies and promoting healthier communities.

The Chattahoochee RiverLands in Atlanta, GA

Trail projects funded across key regions

• Cleveland: Planning the city’s first mountain bike trail at Kerruish Park to expand access in an underserved neighborhood.
• Chicago: Supporting the revitalization master plan for the historic Major Taylor Trail, a linear park and cultural landmark in South Side neighborhoods.
• Birmingham, Alabama: Advancing a new partnership to expand the Shades Creek Greenway, improving trail connectivity and access for diverse communities.
• Atlanta: Supporting engagement and park planning for the Chattahoochee RiverLands project in collaboration with Groundwork Atlanta.
• Buffalo, N.Y.: Transforming an abandoned freight corridor into the River Rock Connector Trail, reconnecting neighborhoods previously divided by infrastructure.

The Major Taylor Trail in South Side Chicago, IL

Our broader impact through expertise and funding

Beyond funding, our support has:

• Helped grow TPL’s Trails Initiative, providing expert guidance to over 30 field offices nationwide on strategy, funding, and risk management.
• Assisted in funding the Economic Benefits of Mountain Biking study, which found that mountain biking tourism generates an average of $416 per trip, providing a measurable boost to rural economies and trail towns.

Looking ahead: Reaffirming support with additional funding

NS reaffirmed its commitment to TPL this year with the additional $250,000 investment into the Trail Activation Fund, further expanding access to trails and greenways nationwide. To explore more of the partnerships that power our mission – promoting safe, sustainable operations, supporting local workforce development, and enhancing the communities we serve – visit: https://www.norfolksouthern.com/partnerships. 

What they’re saying:

Kristin Wong, Director, Norfolk Southern Foundation & Community Impact: “We believe in the power of trails to connect communities, boost local economies, and create healthier places to live. Our partnership with Trust for Public Land is helping deliver on that vision at both the local and national level.”

J.T. Horn, Director of TPL National Trails Initiative: “These trails do more than improve mobility; they also help people feel proud of where they live. The results from this partnership are helping communities across the Southeast and beyond build healthier, more inclusive, and connected outdoor spaces.”