The city has been working for many years to develop and implement a comprehensive multiuse recreational trails system. Beginning as early as 1990, a trails feasibility study laid the groundwork for planning the trails within the city. The city's Open Space and Conservation Resource Management Plan expanded upon the study and provided conceptual trail alignments used today to plan and construct the city's trail network.

In November 2001, the City Council approved the Citywide Trails Report which outlined the future vision and immediate steps to be taken to implement what was commonly referred to as the Citywide Trails Plan. The current Trails Master Plan continues the systematic process of analyzing existing conditions, assessing needs, identifying gaps and proposing future trail links.

Future plans for approximately 41 more miles of trails in the city will bring the total trail mileage to approximately 108 miles.

While the citywide trails system provides many recreational opportunities to enjoy the city's unique natural areas, it also provides a comprehensive network for non-motorized transportation routes, connecting neighborhoods to commercial and business areas, schools, parks and beaches.