Trail Neighbor Celebrates Extended Grant Wood Trail

Cedar Rapids YMCA President and CEO, Bob Carlson, lives on the new section of the Grant Wood Trail. He and his wife, Robin worked with Linn County Conservation to provide an easement to make the trail happen. They report that “Construction staff, the architects, and the construction team were absolutely the best. They were kind, courteous and easy to work with.” 

The family and their dog Josie use the trail almost daily. “It is nice to be able to hop on the trail in front of our property now and go in whichever direction we choose. To the west, through Marion and on to Council Street in Cedar Rapids, it runs around 13 miles and will soon reach the Cedar Valley Nature Trail which extends from Cedar Falls to Solon. “Going East, the Grant Wood Trail will eventually connect up with Springville and Martelle.  This is such a great addition to the Linn County trails system for our community! “

Bob reports that they have only experienced positives from the new trail. Tales of littering, noise and bad behavior are myths. In fact, trail users are among the nicest people, kind and respectful, there to exercise and enjoy nature. “This is why we knew it was time for us to step up and work with County Conservation to make this section of the trail a reality. “ 

They live it every day and only see the joy in the folks who use it.

His advice? “Get out and use the trails system in Linn County. You will be glad you did!”