On the right trail

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Matt Davis walks with his family on the site of a proposed trail near Hayes Elementary School. (Staff Photo by BILLY HEFTON)

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April 16, 2011

On the right trail

Davis quite ready to see plan come to fruition in Enid

By Robert Barron, Staff Writer Enid News and Eagle The Enid News and Eagle Sat Apr 16, 2011, 05:00 PM CDT

After years of working to establish a walking and biking trail in Enid, Matt Davis is enthusiastic bids are being opened to get the project started.

Davis became a supporter of the trail system as a member of Enid Park Board. One of the projects it identified as a priority was the trail system.

“My enthusiasm comes from recognizing that Enid needs more outdoor activities that people can do every day. Not to mention it is dangerous to ride a bike or run or walk in Enid,” Davis said.

He also sees the trail system as a big attraction to Enid and believes it will draw people to Enid.

“We asked ourselves what can we do to make Enid more fun and interesting. The trail system seemed to be one of the ideas there, Davis said.

Davis said it has taken a long time to get the drawings done, and they have learned how to make contact with landscape architects to get the project moving. Davis, the father of five children, likes to take his family for bicycle rides. It concerns him taking them riding on Enid streets because he would rather have a dedicated area to ride.

Bids are in, and Enid City Commission must determine which bid it will accept, but Davis said he anticipates the groundbreaking of phases one and two within 30 to 60 days.

While Davis does not see himself as an exercise advocate, per se, he believes the trail system is something everyone can enjoy, whether people walk with their family or use it as transportation. He emphasized when the trail is complete it will be possible to ride a bicycle from Enid’s colleges to Walmart and enjoy doing it.

“You’re not in harm’s way, and there isn’t the danger of getting run over by a car,” Davis said. “To me, doing things to make Enid more fun and interesting is a key to retain companies like Continental (which recently announced it is leaving Enid). If it is easier to attract 30-year-olds to Enid we are less likely to lose companies like Continental.”

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Community Service 2011

Community Service 2011
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On the right trail
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On the right trail

Davis quite ready to see plan come to fruition in Enid

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