Sanpete County has recently received a game-changing grant of $750,000 to conduct a feasibility study for a two-way protected bike trail. Our hope is that the trail extends from Fairview to Gunnison. While this grant does not guarantee the construction of the trail, it paves the way for evaluating the potential impacts on the community, local businesses, the environment, and air quality. The grant allows Sanpete to map out where the trail can go. Exciting times! In this article, we explore the incredible benefits that a bike trail could bring to Sanpete County.
Fostering Community Bonding:
A two-way protected bike trail would serve as a unifying force for the entire county. It would provide a safe and inclusive space for residents of all ages and abilities to come together, promoting a sense of community and enhancing social connections. Families could enjoy leisurely rides, joggers could embrace a healthier lifestyle, and enthusiasts could organize cycling events, all contributing to a vibrant and active community.
Boosting Local Businesses:
The introduction of a bike trail would breathe new life into the local economy. Nearby businesses, such as bike rental shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels, would witness a surge in patronage from trail users. As visitors explore the trail, they would be more likely to stop at local establishments, generating increased revenue and creating new employment opportunities. Moreover, the trail could attract tourists from neighboring regions, providing an economic boost for the county.
Preserving the Environment:
A bike trail aligned with US-89 would have a profound positive impact on the environment. By encouraging cycling as an alternative to motor vehicles, the trail would reduce carbon emissions and the overall carbon footprint of the county. With more people choosing bikes over cars, traffic congestion and noise pollution would diminish significantly, leading to a healthier and more sustainable environment. Additionally, the trail would promote active transportation, fostering a culture of eco-friendly commuting.
Improving Air Quality:
The introduction of a bike trail in Sanpete County would contribute to a marked improvement in air quality. By reducing vehicular traffic, the trail would help mitigate harmful emissions, particularly in densely populated areas. Cleaner air would enhance the overall health and well-being of residents, leading to a lower incidence of respiratory ailments and improved quality of life. The trail's accessibility and safety measures would encourage more people to opt for cycling, thereby reducing car usage and its associated pollution.
The $750,000 feasability study grant awarded to Sanpete County signifies a significant step toward evaluating the potential for a transformative two-way protected bike trail. While the trail's construction is not yet guaranteed, the potential impacts on the community, local businesses, the environment, and air quality are truly remarkable. From fostering a sense of community and boosting local businesses to preserving the environment and improving air quality, the introduction of a bike trail would bring numerous benefits to Sanpete County. It is an exciting opportunity to envision a more active, sustainable, and interconnected future for the county's residents and visitors alike. Moreover, community involvement plays a crucial role in shaping the future of this project. Joining community rides and volunteering can make a tangible difference. For those interested in getting involved, email cyclesanpete@gmail.com to learn more about volunteering opportunities and various projects that require support.
In the meantime, please write your city leaders and express your gratitude for making this project possible. Some noteworthy names include Chris Anderson, Lori Nay, Chuck Bigelow, John Scott, Shaun Kjar, Jenna Draper, Justin Atkinson, and Kevin Christensen. However, we are grateful and appreciative to all our city leaders, they really are what make Sanpete so special.