The greenway program has been implemented as a regional partnership. The four local governments of the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, City of Salem and Town of Vinton established the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission. In spring of 1997 each of the four localities adopted the 1995 Plan as a component of its comprehensive/community plan, with Roanoke County and the City of Roanoke also adopting additional policies.

The four jurisdictions help fund the office of Greenway Coordinator on a per capita basis, match capital grants within their respective jurisdictions, oversee planning and construction projects, and provide extensive staff time and in-kind services for greenway construction and management. The greenways are owned and operated by the localities, and the respective parks and recreation departments have responsibility for management and maintenance.