Vision Statement

“The Vision Statement is written in the present tense but with a frame of reference approximately 20 years into the future. The Statement articulates the community aspirations for the Scenic Byway and attempts to describe the corridor as a traveler will see it two decades from now.”

The Green Mountain Scenic Byway is envisioned by the Corridor Management Committee as being an integral part of an interconnected and interdependent system of Scenic Highways, preserves, parks, trails, historic districts, education and recreation centers surrounding Lake Apopka. The rolling hills, sweeping vistas, and rural charm have been preserved and enhanced by the prudent planning, management, and cooperation of the Corridor Management Committee, other citizen’s groups, development interests, and government.

The highway itself remains two lane, and wide bike lanes in both directions continue to draw cyclists from around the world for touring, training, and competition. Scenic turnouts are located at locations with the grandest vistas. Lake Apopka has been restored to its former pristine condition, and anglers and boaters once again come from all over the world to enjoy its waters. An environmentally sustainable eco-tourism industry flourishes along the lake’s shores and marshes.

Through careful planning and hard work, the Towns of Montverde and Oakland have each maintained their unique small town atmospheres and sense of community. Local neighborhoods and revitalized Town Centers are linked by pedestrian and bicycle trails, which in turn are connected to a regional trail system. Ferndale remains a quiet rural community, while Tildenville’s historic homes still stand in the shade of century old oaks. Development along the corridor has occurred with an emphasis on conforming to the natural features of the area, not by massive grading and clearing in an attempt to make the natural terrain conform to engineering and economic priorities.

The area’s rich historical, archaeological, and natural heritage is articulated to travelers through historical markers, informational signage and brochures. Neglected, for all intents and purposes, until the turn of the new millennium, the area’s Native American history has been thoroughly studied and all archaeological sites documented and preserved. Habitats for endangered native plants and animals are preserved, and, through careful management, have been expanded and enhanced.

This vision, where the unique and varied intrinsic resources of our Scenic Byway Corridor are maintained, preserved and enhanced, can only be realized through hard work, careful planning, and cooperation. The Green Mountain Scenic Byway Corridor Management Committee intends to be the catalyst that makes this vision possible.