On August 16th of this year, we met with a representative of a local family foundation who spoke passionately, even emotionally, about his love of the trail and what it has meant to him over the past 10 years. He also spoke about “giving back”:
“After running for more than 40 years, my knees and lower back finally capitulated and pleaded that I find an alternate activity to remain fit. Ten years ago, I discovered the bike trail and a new passion developed for riding after work. The stress of a busy surgical practice would melt away as I pedaled along the river, through open fields, and quiet forests. With each mile, I shared nature’s beauty with other exercise enthusiasts of all ages who were walking, running, skating, and biking on one of the most spectacular trails in America. It was only natural that I would want to “give back” in order to maintain this spectacular resource. I feel privileged to help preserve this treasure for my children and my grandchildren to enjoy as much as I have during the past decade.”
Trail users indicated that Safety was a top priority, a close second to trail condition, in FLMSP’s 2017 Trail User Survey. So in the spirit of “safety”, this person has offered a generous donation of $20,000 to improve the safety on all 41 trail intersections. Phase I will be painting crosswalk “ladders” on road surfaces using reflective paint and clearing lines of sight to 45 degrees by removing brush, low limbs, and trees. Phase II will be installing U-channel posts topped with diamond-shaped road signs picturing a pedestrian and a bicycle, and 45-degree arrow signs pointing down to the crosswalk “ladder.”
The donor described above has shown his love for the trail and concern for safety through his generous donation. Can we count on you to join this local family foundation and make a “safety donation”? If so, just write “safety” on your check and send to the address below. If you prefer to donate by credit card or PayPal, you may do so here and check the “custom donation” circle. Either way, we will add you to the list of people who consider “safety” in general and “intersection safety” in particular a top priority for those who love the trail.
Photos: top, SR 350 before safety markings; left, SR 126 with "ladder" and sign; right, bicycle/pedestrian sign pointing to crossing
Send donations to:
Friends of the Little Miami State Park
9378 Mason Montgomery Rd.
Suite 395
Mason, OH 45040-8827
