By MELISSA MAIN
On Feb. 5, Sebring's city council approved a project designed to promote fitness, encourage development in the downtown district and throughout the city, and increase economic growth. The project known as Sebring Trails, Trailheads and Blueways received a unanimous vote.
Sebring Trails, Trailheads, and Blueways will connect bike trails throughout the city and widen the path of existing trials to 8 feet. Trailheads at the Sebring Civic Center, Veterans Beach, and other designated locations will provide bike racks, water fountains, benches, and restrooms. Trailheads will provide a shady rest area for bikers and encourage longer bike rides throughout the city. Two blueways, or canoe routes, will also be provided on Lake Jackson.
Why is Sebring pursuing such an ambitious trail project? The council discovered that cities that invested in bike facilities received economic rewards for their expenditures. For example, in North Carolina's Northern Outer Banks, the annual economic impact of cyclists was $60 million in 2004. Bicyclists promote economic growth because they typically have a large disposable income. When bicyclists were surveyed regarding their income, almost half reported earning more than $100,000 a year. Providing bike paths to our downtown area and restaurants will encourage bicyclists to make purchases from our local businesses and fuel our local economy.
The trail system will add additional recreational opportunities for the large influx of winter visitors seeking a warmer climate. It will also encourage fitness among Sebring residents. Healthy lifestyles and physical activity promote healthy body weights. Exercise such as biking decreases the likelihood of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
The benefits, including economic growth and a healthier Sebring, are obvious, but how much will this project cost taxpayers? According to the council's proposal, funding will come primarily through grants, private partnerships with nonprofit organizations and local businesses, and donations. The project will be completed over a span of several years as funding becomes available. According to the report, "new city taxes or bonding are not recommended to be used but may be used to fund trail improvements only upon approval by the city council." The city council's conservative record regarding spending seems to affirm the statement made in the proposal.
Soon Sebring residents and visitors will be able to bike around beautiful Lake Jackson, head downtown to shop and eat, and then peddle their way to the local library on the new Sebring Trails, Trailheads, and Blueways. Merchants, residents, and visitors will be able to enjoy the benefits of the new plan, including a slimmer waist, recreation, and fatter wallets. Relying on grants, donations, and partnerships with nonprofits and businesses will make the project even more appealing. City council members hope to add to the fun without adding fees for local residents.
Melissa Main is a Sebring resident. Guest columns are the opinion of the writer, not necessarily that of the News-Sun.
Friday, February 08, 2013 - www.newssun.com/col-021013-main