We, the undersigned, residents of
the City of Sioux City and surrounding greater tri-state Siouxland area, or visitors to the community, strongly favor
construction of the Big Sioux River Dike Trail as a dedicated bikeway between
Riverside Park and Stone State Park, in the northwest quadrant of Sioux City.
We believe the proposed trail and
bikeway are needed because it will be the safest and most attractive way to
allow bikers, roller skaters, hikers, walkers, runners, joggers, pedestrians,
and all non-motorized vehicles to enjoy the scenic corridor consisting of the
Big Sioux River and Loess Hills National Natural Landmark.
We believe such a trail and
bikeway will encourage recreational tourism and other economic activity in the
neighborhood and the surrounding Siouxland communities.
For decades, it has been a
community goal to establish a continuous trail system from Stone State Park
through Riverside to linkages with the Citywide Trail System – to connect
Downtown Sioux City to Stone State Park. With the completion of many segments
of trail throughout the area, the extension through the Milwaukee Railroad
Shops Historic District is needed to complete the “missing link” to this goal.
As signers of this
petition, we encourage the Siouxland Historical Railroad Association and its
partners to pursue development and funding opportunities to bring the Big Sioux
River Dike Trail System to completion. As such, I am proud to endorse this project by
signing this petition and offering my comments as a demonstration of my support.