Coastal Trail foes may be pleasantly surprised by a test walk in summer

Why is there such adamant opposition to the southern extension of the Coastal Trail?

For those who fear the trail will devalue their property, they need to talk with the influential citizens who have chosen to live along the existing route and the developers who regularly build new houses along its path.

For those worried about damage to the ecosystem, travel the existing trail and talk with the birdwatchers who come every year from around the world to explore Cook Inlet's avian diversity.

I would challenge those who are now against this project to take one afternoon this summer and bike or walk, by themselves or with family, from Kincaid Park to Westchester Lagoon or from Earthquake Park to the lagoon.

The diversity of scenery, wildlife and serenity along the trail will stir even the most cynical of souls.

Extending the Coastal Trail will be a positive enhancement to our community. After it is finished, former opponents just may agree that it was a project worthy of us all.

---- Tom Hughes

Anchorage