This 26-mile project has tremendous support on a national, State and local level.  It has been identified as a high priority in the Statewide System of Greenways and Trails.  The State of Florida, the City of Hastings and St. Johns County have have contributed funds for planning and development and have agreed to designate local areas to serve as trailheads, and in July 2005, Rep. Mica secured $2.32 million as the first major investment in the project to complete design and engineering and begin construction.

    From St. Augustine to I-95, the trail will extend along active Florida East Coast (FEC) railroad rights-of-way.  This will be one of the few rails with trails projects in Florida, providing both railroad transportation and recreation with the same corridor.  From I-95 west to Hastings the trail traverses abandoned railroad corridor adjacent to SR 207 that has been acquired by FDOT.  Connections to conservation areas and local parks include Anastasia State Park, Vilano Beach and Railroad Park in Hastings.  This portion of the trail will be designated as part of the East Coast Greenway and the St. Johns River Heritage Blueway.

    Many small, rural towns located along the entire trail are planning trailheads, which will provide economic development opportunities - people using the trail will stop in the town and spend dollars in local businesses.  New businesses might locate in these community areas to take advantage of the increased numbers of visitors to the town.  In the Town of Hastings, Railroad Park is being developed as a trailhead located at the end of Main Street.  The community believes that the development of the trail and park will promote revitalization of Main Street due to increased activity from both residents and visitors.  New businesses will increase the tax value of the town, provide jobs for residents and increase utility revenues.

    Plans are also in place to extend the trail through the Palatka Downtown Urban Trail, and from West Palatka through Lake Butler to Lake City.