OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) — Cyclists traveling from the Platte River to Lincoln via the Mopac Trail have to ride on roads due to an eight-mile interruption in the trail at present.
Until that section is complete, the signs tell riders to go down a gravel road that can be treacherous, even for the most experienced cyclists.
Mike McGee, who is part of a nearby cycling group, frequents the region’s pathways. The ex-policeman isn’t fond of this particular trail.
This is intended for use with vehicles and agricultural machinery,” explained McGee. “While people do ride it, it’s not an ideal setting for doing so.
A natural resources district selected one among four proposed paths, impacting just three driveways. The Lower Platte South NRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, assured the Cass County Board of Commissioners that taxpayers will not face unexpected financial burdens.
“To build this project, we have a strategy that won’t necessitate increasing taxes,” stated Sousek.
Judy Stroy, residing close to one of the suggested paths, believes the issue extends beyond tax revenue.
“I’m not totally against the trail,” Stroy said. “i just want them to find the most feasible route that affects the least population going across driveways and stuff.”
Rather than endorsing the NRD trail connector, the county board decided to form a subcommittee to reassess all suggested pathways, which has left members of cycling and pedestrian clubs feeling disheartened.
“Delaying this is just going to bring up the same opportunities to ask the questions that have already been answered multiple times, so it’s time to move forward with Route D,” said Julie Harris of Bike Walk Nebraska.
Route D is the one that the NRD estimates will cost between $10-$15 million, with the state already setting aside $8.3 million. The rest of the money raised through pledges is being gathered by non-profit trail groups.
After leaving the board meeting, a contentious gathering between trail skeptics and supporters took place outside the courthouse.
“One opponent of the trail argued, ‘If they desire it that intensely, they should cover the cost for the entire darn route,’ ” he stated.
“Since Nebraska State desires the bike trail and has already allocated $8 million,” stated Sousek.
Sousek informed First Alert 6 that the $8.3 million allocated by the state for the trail connector is secure, so he believes the postponement should not result in the funds being withdrawn by the legislative body.
