Newton Trails

These days, many of us lament the loss of civility in our society.  And, of late, I've come to worry more and more about the risk posed to cyclists on our roadways in a world where those on bikes and those in cars come increasingly into heated conflicts where cyclists too often pay with their lives.

Well, tonight, I had one of those experiences I felt certain was headed in that direction.  Out riding with my friend Lee, we were on a fairly deserted, semi-rural road, riding side by side and chatting it up on a nice relaxing post-work ride.  Suddenly, from behind, I heard a blowing horn, a large red pickup trucked passed us on my left, and the driver quickly slowed with his hand out the window motioning us to stop.  I just knew a heated exchange was next, and I was in no mood for such.

I was past the truck before I knew what was happening, but I circled back in time to hear the man behind the wheel saying something, and Lee saying we were allowed to ride side by side.  As expected, here comes the hollering and shouting.

Much to my pleasant surprise, though, when I got to the window, the man was saying in a very calm tone that he was not complaining.  He asked us politely to consider riding single file when a vehicle was approaching.  "I love that you guys are out here," he said.  "You're being healthy.  That's great.  I just want to ask you to try and make it easier for cars to pass."

I explained that I agreed completely.  That I normally try to do just that, no matter that the law makes biking two abreast legal.  I explained that I just wasn't paying attention this night, and I did not see him coming.

We parted amicably.  And, I truly was grateful for his actions.  It bothered him that I did not ease over.  But, rather than pass us and curse under his breath, he took a chance and stopped us to express himself politely.  Just as we had no idea what he had in mind, he had no idea how we might react.  But, he took a chance.  And, I respect him so much for that.

 Taking a chance, communicating calmly, and listening with respect.  We could accomplish a lot that way.  Thank you, sir, whoever you were.

It's been a quiet January on the Trail Talk blog.  Once you get past reflections on the past year's accomplishments and dreaming of what we can achieve in 2011, you get back to the reality that it's winter.  It's a time for transitioning from holiday mode back to the daily grind.  It's a time for staying inside where it's warm and not outside where it's was cold and ICY for much of the month.  It's not been a time to think much about trails.

Which is why I was excited when the Covington Lions Club invited me to be guest speaker at their January 13 meeting.  And, lucky for me, when snow and ice forced cancellation, they invited me back last night, January 27.

Of all the things we do as advocates for trails and greenways, nothing is more important than the simple act of talking with our friends and neighbors.  We often assume everyone sees the same vision we do, but the reality is that dialog is what leads to understanding.  That's why I was so happy to discuss the reasons that I personally -- and Newton Trails as a community-focused organization -- believe trails and greenways are a great investment for Newton County.  We talked about health benefits, transportation needs, economic impact, property value stabilization, greenspace preservation, and the conserving of our history and heritage.

I'm grateful to the Lions for giving me that opportunity, for being great hosts, and for joining me in a lively, friendly chat about something that matters much to me.  It was a fun night, and I hope a productive one.  It was just what I needed to get reenergized and refocused on what we need to accomplish with trailbuilding in Newton County this year.

I encourage each of you to find times and places where you can have such conversations with your friends and neighbors.  And, if there's ever a chance I can join you, please let me know.

By now, you've probably seen a "Derail the Trail" sign around the county -- possibly in the yard of  a friend or neighbor.  Maybe you have one in your yard.  (We even had one in ours for a night, put there obviously by someone who thought that would be funny.)

Many trail supporters say they'd gladly pay for signs to counter.  I appreciate the offer, and the passionate support, but, we won't be putting up signs of our own.  It's tempting to play the numbers game...  "We have xxx people putting up signs opposing a rail-trail...  "Oh yeah, well, we have almost 600 supporters on Facebook..."  And, so it goes...  But, the problem with counting heads to make your point is neither side tries to understand the other.  Signs can't talk, and signs can't listen.

I believe building a trail system in Newton County -- including a rail-trail -- is a sane, responsible act that will benefit our entire community.  Considering the facts, it makes good economic sense, even in these times.  I know many fellow citizens who agree, but I also know there are a significant number who do not.  I respect that.

On this website, we spell out why Newton Trails expects multi-use trails will benefit Newton County as a public health and an economic development asset.  Regardless of your views, I encourage you to take ime to read the materials referenced here.  Supporters, please us this information to explain your position to doubters.  Skeptics, please also take the time to review the case studies and research we have cited.  Of course, I hope it will change your mind.  But, more important, I want you to see that we have studied this carefully and reached conclusions based on facts and experience.  This organization, Newton Trails, has been in existence for over 22 years; we do not act rashly or without  due diligence.

No matter how you feel, I would love to talk as neighbors should of your hopes and mine for our community and our prospects for better days ahead.  I'll gladly meet with anyone interested in having such conversation.

thanks,
Maurice