Developing Cedar Lake good for city

To the editor:

The further development of Cedar Lake as a recreational asset for the City of Cedar Rapids and what it can do to enhance the well-being of the people who live here and visit our city is a great project. I firmly feel an extensive trails system and outdoor recreation venues improve the vitality of a city and its reputation. Venues like Cedar Lake with its bike trail and lake activities are used by businesses and people when deciding to relocate.

I am an avid runner and bike rider. I enjoy using our existing trails several times each week, year around, day and night. I have visited many Midwest cities and would actively seek out their trails and lakes for a place to run, relax and enjoy the outdoors. I can tell you without hesitation which cities impressed me most because of their investment in outdoor recreation.

I see the plans by the Friends of Cedar Lake as a huge improvement to this area. Several key components are coming together so now is the perfect time to move this project forward. First impressions are important. Thousands of people from outside our city and state pass through Cedar Rapids each day. Let's give them something to be impressed by.

Join me in supporting the Friends of Cedar Lake and encourage your local elected officials to support the future recreational and beautification development of Cedar Lake. This is something we need to do now.

Jeff Pick

Cedar Rapids