Bikeway not perfect, but still great

Bikeway not perfect, but still great

I am writing in response to the letter published Sept. 19 concerning the Metroparks Bikeway.

The writer obviously enjoys cycling, as he mentioned using many of the trails in Northeastern Ohio and Western Pa. I too, have biked the Stavich Trail, and the trail through Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I enjoyed both trails, particularly the trail through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which also provides a history lesson along the way. I feel, however, that the writer’s criticism of the Metroparks Bikeway is a bit harsh.

At the majority of the crossings, you usually only have to slow down, look both ways, before proceeding on your way. The crossing at Route 224 in Canfield is a two-lane, thirty-five mph. area with good visibility in both directions. The crossings at Turner Rd. are at forty-five degree angles, but again, slow down, look both ways, and off you go. As for the Bikeway being disdained by serious cyclists, I saw several of them out on the trail in the days leading up to the cycling competition in the valley the last two summers. Perhaps it isn’t the ideal venue for accomplished, competitive cyclists, but I don’t think that was the aim of the various agencies when planning this project. They envisioned a facility everyone could enjoy, and they really hit the mark.

I have seen walkers, joggers, roller bladers, of all ages, young mothers pushing strollers, and families, all on bikes having fun together.

I am a frequent user of the Bikeway, and fortunate to live close enough to enter at several locations. The Kirk Road Trailhead is my favorite. It has a parking lot large enough to accommodate 30 vehicles, a shelter with picnic tables, drinking fountains and restrooms. It is first rate.

The Metroparks Bikeway is a fun, economical, healthy alternative for leisure activity, a recreational gem right her in the Mahoning Valley.

Chris Crowe, Canfield