Vision

Establish the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) and greenway that is connected to trail systems both north and south that make up the Florida Gulf Coast Trail.   The greenway and trail provide access to the area’s natural resources and safe recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. 

Mission

The mission of the Friends of the Bonita Estero Rail Trail organization is to raise awareness and advocate for the benefits associated with the Bonita Estero Rail Trail and greenway, and the Florida Gulf Coast Trail in Lee and Collier Counties.   We will accomplish this by establishing and continuously improving the non-profit organization; growing Friends of BERT membership; conducting fundraising; leading public education sessions; building consensus with public officials; and identifying / securing funding sources for the trail.   We will engage with area business leaders, community organizations and media to build support for the trail and greenway.   We will work to enhance safety and security of the trail and greenway.  We will promote the use of the trail by residents and tourists in a way that encourages business development along the trail. Ultimately, our focus is to serve users of the Bonita Estero Rail Trail.

Major Activities Supporting the Mission

  • Advocate, raise awareness and educate area residents and others on the benefits and opportunities associated with the BERT trail and greenway through all phases of planning, financing, construction and future trail enhancements  
  • Continuously improve Friends of BERT non-profit organization as a going concern 
  • Grow Friends of BERT membership
  • Lead education sessions on BERT and the Florida Gulf Coast Trail (FGCT)
  • Organize fundraising activities supporting BERT and the Friends of BERT organization    
  • Build consensus with public officials, identifying and securing funding sources for the trail’s purchase, construction, maintenance and on-going improvements  
  • Engage with area business leaders, community organizations and media to build support for the BERT trail and greenway as well as the trail’s connection to the FGCT
  • Advocate for the continued development and connectivity of all parts of the Florida Gulf Coast Trail    
  • Enhance safety and security of the trail greenway by conducting safety training, educating nearby communities and by advocating for such things as safe street crossings, trail head amenities, parking, lighting, etc. 
  • Promote the use of the trail by residents and tourists
  • Encourage business development along the trail that serve trail users and contributes positively to the local economy