Grinnell Leader hopes new trail brings many visitors

Thu October 28 2004
Posted Oct 27, 2004
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By ELIZABETH OWENS REGISTER STAFF WRITER October 28, 2004 Bikers, walkers, runners and joggers are welcome. Horses are prohibited. "But that doesn't always work," said Amy Kalkbrenner of the Imagine Grinnell Board. Grinnell's new recreation trail, which officially opened on Aug. 28, extends from the corner of Sunset and 11th Street by the high school to Rock Creek Park, about six miles. A trip that previously had to be made via highway, Grinnell residents are pleased with the safety the new trail provides — even though it's a hilly route. "It's a little more of a challenge, but you get wonderful views from the top," Kalkbrenner said. Kalkbrenner said that the impetus for the trail came from RAGBRAI, the Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. The trail cost about $1 million to build and was paid for in part by the state, Jasper and Poweshiek counties, the city of Grinnell and local donations. Although the trail may not be considered economic development, Kalkbrenner said she thinks it will attract people to the community. "I think it's one of those quality-of-life things that people moving to an area see and appreciate," Kalkbrenner said. The Grinnell Bike Club has donated money to keep the trail clean, an easy task provided that the horses steer clear. Source: http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20041028/LIFE04/41027003/1039/LIFE