The Richard W. Riley Institute of Government, Politics and Public Leadership at Furman University, Upstate Forever, and the Palmetto Conservaton Foundation hosted Keith Laughlin, president of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Over 200 people attended his presentation on Wednesday, November 17th in the University Center's Watkins Room, Furman University on "Connecting Communities through Trails and Greenways." Laughlin discussed the importance of trails and greenways in our community and why rail-trails, such as the line that runs from Furman into downtown Greenville, could be so beneficial to the Upstate.

As president of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Laughlin is responsible for managing all elements of the non-profit that has spurred development of more than 11,600 miles of rail-trail. The organization works to enrich communities by creating a nationwide network of public trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Laughlin served in a variety of capacities as Associate Director for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, including Associate Director for Sustainable Development; Director, White House Task Force on Livable Communities; Co-founder, Partnership for Regional Livability; Liaison, President's Council on Sustainable evelopment; and Chair, Interagency Working Group on Wetlands Reform.

For more information on Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, click here.

Keith Laughlin, President of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

Keith Laughlin discussing Rails-to-Trails in Greenville, SC

Keith Laughlin

Keith Laughlin during Q & A

Keith Laughlin