August 19th At 7:00 in the Great Hall, Plymouth Town Hall, 2nd Floor 26 Court Street in Plymouth

Zoom link (https://pactv.zoom.us/j/91695140644?pwd=UGhFZVJmaHVwQmIxa0pVYjRDMlozZz09) Webinar ID: 916-9514-0644 • Passcode: 121500

agenda posting here.

If you’re a mountain biker, hiker, equestrian, trail runner, or simply someone who sees the value of preserving open space, now is the time to show your support and voice your opinion. Mark your calendar to attend the Select Board meeting when the Board will hear a readout of the Pilgrim 1600 Conservation & Recreation Economic Impact Analysis.

Across the nation, communities like Boulder, Colorado, Bend, Oregon, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, have demonstrated how robust outdoor amenities—from extensive trail networks for mountain biking and hiking to vibrant green spaces—are key drivers of economic growth. These areas attract “mara-cation” enthusiasts, adventure tourists, and wellness seekers, generating significant revenue for local businesses in hospitality, retail, and services. More importantly, access to quality outdoor recreation is now a critical factor for high-paying employers in sectors like tech and biotech, who understand that a healthy, active lifestyle directly impacts employee recruitment, retention, and overall productivity.

In fact, according to The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation, a recent report from Business Facilities, a leading resource for business site selection, has ranked Massachusetts as the fastest-growing outdoor recreation economy.

“Massachusetts is at the forefront of harnessing the power of outdoor recreation to grow our economy and create good jobs,” said Governor Maura Healey. “People come from all over the world to visit Massachusetts. From sailing on our coastline to hiking in the Berkshires, and biking on all the trails in between, Massachusetts is the total package for outdoor recreation.”

By strategically developing this asset for trail running events, mountain biking competitions, equestrian tourism, and nature-based wellness retreats, Plymouth can establish itself as a leader in the outdoor recreation economy. This approach will not only create jobs and diversify our economic base but also enhance the quality of life for all residents, making Plymouth an even more desirable place to live, work, and thrive. This is an investment in both our natural heritage and our economic future.