🚀 In this insightful episode, host Craig Della Pena sits down with Bruce Donald, Southern New England Manager for the East Coast Greenway Alliance, to explore how regional trail systems are transforming communities. From the challenges of long-term rail-to-trail projects to the power of data-driven advocacy, Bruce shares decades of experience in trail planning, funding, and community partnerships. Together, they uncover how sustainable mobility links cities, boosts local economies, and improves quality of life across New England.
🎧 Hosted by: Craig Della Pena
👤 Guest: 🏡 Bruce Donald – Southern New England Manager, East Coast Greenway Alliance
Bruce Donald is the Southern New England Manager for the East Coast Greenway Alliance, based in Farmington, Connecticut, overseeing greenway development, advocacy, and volunteer coordination across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and eastern Massachusetts. He served as president of the Farmington Valley Trails Council for 12 years and was appointed chair of the Connecticut Greenways Council in 2014. In recognition of his trail advocacy, the Connecticut General Assembly issued an official citation honoring his contributions in 2016. Bruce also brings deep financial and consulting expertise from nearly two decades in investment, management, and banking across Boston, New York, Hartford, and Beijing. An avid cyclist and published historian, he authored a Civil War–era book based on his great-great-grandfather’s letters.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
✔️ Why regional trail connections matter for mobility, recreation, and community health
✔️ The vision and progress of the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway
✔️ Overcoming funding challenges and securing state and federal support
✔️ The importance of local advocacy, data collection, and “trail census” initiatives
✔️ Stories of trail opponents turned advocates — and the power of persistence in community change
🎵 Whether you're an investor, planner, or outdoor enthusiast, this episode delivers lessons in leadership, patience, and purpose.
💼 Connect with Bruce Donald:
🌐 Website → https://greenway.org/
📘 Facebook→ https://www.facebook.com/bruce.donald.758
🎧 Follow Craig Della Pena:
🌐 Website → https://www.greenwaysolutions.org/
🌐 Website → https://www.northamptonrealtor.com/
🌐 Website →https://www.sugar-maple-inn.com/
📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/craigdp413/
🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdp/
⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/
