Area residents say they don't bike or walk as much as they'd like because there aren't enough trails and connecting paths, according to a survey conducted this summer by Spotsylvania County.

Now, the Planning Department has joined forces with the Spotsylvania Greenways Initiative to complete a Trailways Master Plan.

Right now, Spotsylvania has about 22 miles of bike and fitness trails.

The county needs 104 more miles of trails to meet the parks and recreation guidelines outlined in its 2008 comprehensive plan.

On Sept. 22 at 7 p.m., Spotsylvania's Planning Department will take comments from the public on the Trailways master plan.

Residents can comment on trail needs, potential uses and desired amenities.

The hearing will take place in the Community Development Conference Room at 9019 Old Battlefield Boulevard.

The three-week, online survey yielded 442 responses, the bulk of which came from folks living outside Spotsylvania. Those surveyed expressed a need for additional trails, but don't want the county to pay for them. Instead, they believe volunteers, grant money, private donations and developers can offset the cost.

The Spotsylvania Greenways Initiative, a volunteer group, recently opened the 2-mile Salamander Loop of the Ni River Trail, off U.S. 1 near Massaponax.

The survey's results and comments from the public meeting on the Sept. 22, will help the county develop the Trailways Master Plan, which will include proposed routes, possible easements the county will need and how much the project is expected to cost.

Chris Folger, Spotsylvania Greenways Initiative chairwoman, said the 2008 trailways map in the comprehensive plan will be replaced by one showing greater detail.

Dan Telvock: FLS
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