The Fennel Creek Trail will benefit nearby communities

Contrary to the beliefs of some, the increased number of people using trails discourages criminal activities by increasing the number of eyes watching what is going on.

Multi-use trails are becoming increasingly popular. Such trails provide opportunities for healthy, outdoor physical activity for families and people of all ages and abilities. Look at the Foothills Trail from Puyallup through Orting and South Prairie to Buckley on a sunny afternoon and you will see many people walking, bicycling, skateboarding, in-line skating or otherwise enjoying the great outdoors.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has found that homes within one-quarter mile of a trail or park have a higher value than similar homes that are further removed from such amenities. NAR also recognizes that trails can be an economic driver for communities. These health and economic benefits of trails in Pierce County have been enumerated in the Tahoma to Tacoma report published by the Puyallup Watershed Initiative. Millions of dollars per year can be expected from a trail connecting Mount Rainier to Commencement Bay. Other trails can be expected to have similar benefits relative to size.

Contrary to the beliefs of some, the increased number of people using trails discourages criminal activities by increasing the number of eyes watching what is going on.

The Fennel Creek Trail plan was adopted by the City Council as part of the Bonney Lake Comprehensive Plan in August 2007. Results of a 2010 parks, recreation and culture survey showed that the most-desired park facility was trails which received 75 percent of first-place votes. The Fennel Creek Trail will eventually connect Victor Falls with Bonney Lake Elementary and Allan Yorke Park. It will provide great opportunities for safe, accessible and enjoyable active recreation and transportation. It is also part of an envisioned countywide trail system connecting all of Pierce County’s communities and destinations.

Bonney Lake residents should welcome completion of the Fennel Creek Trail and be pleased to have a forward-thinking city council and staff dedicated to creating great facilities to benefit the health of the people, the economy and the environment of the city.

Terry Reid

President, Forever Green Trails

Lake Tapps