Happy Wednesday,
It came as no surprise that the price tag of the newly opened Jack Markell Trail led to a few critical comments on our Facebook page.
Many of us have trouble wrapping our heads around spending big bucks on a bicycle-walking trail that runs about eight miles. Eighty percent of the money comes from federal funds. (See story link below for more details)
Older folks tend to think of gravel over a former railroad bed as good enough for a trail.
The Markell trail features a bridge over the Christiana River as well as a boardwalk over wetland areas. That kind of construction, coupled with some asphalt, does not come cheap.
It does not help that Delaware, like most states, has fallen behind in maintaining or upgrading its infrastructure. That $22 million-plus would patch a lot of potholes and widen a few highways.
Then again, we know that trails can result in other good things when it comes to health and the economy.
Such is the case with the Riverwalk on the Wilmington Riverfront, which connects with the Markell trail.
The trail was expensive and presented engineering challenges, but was key to revitalizing the area and drawing hundreds of millions of dollars in development.
The Markell trail will not have the same economic impact but will aid in efforts to draw ecotourism to the state as more connections are built to existing trails. It is also a drawing card when it comes to attracting young people and families.
Perhaps the biggest plus comes in health benefits. It is no secret that Delaware is not an especially healthy state, thanks in part to suburban sprawl that discouraged walking, with some developers able to get away with not installing sidewalks.
The $22 million plus may seem like a bargain if it cuts the state’s high rates of weight-related diseases through more biking and hiking.
In other words, let the critics call it a frill. From my vantage point, more trails, even those with sizable price tags, look like a good deal.
Agree or disagree? Hit the reply button and type away. – Doug Rainey, publisher.
