Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Kimball needs more sidewalks, walking trails and biking trails as well as better maintained sidewalks according to the results of a recent assessment by the Kimball Active Living Advisory Committee. The assessment also indicated that many would like to see more bike lanes in the area.
Kimball Active Living Advisory Committee consists of representatives from Panhandle Public Health District, the City of Kimball, Kimball County and Kimball Health Services among others and the group wants to improve conditions that make walking and biking in Kimball easier and safer.
The premise is that increased activity leads to longer, healthier, happier lives.
Over the summer the committee circulated a questionnaire, the results of which indicate that many citizens want to see better maintained sidewalks as well as more sidewalks, walking and biking trails.
Safer intersections and sidewalk transitions were among other concerns and the study revealed a preference for walking and biking routes that avoid heavy traffic. The results also suggest that residents want to walk and bike for recreation, exercise and to experience nature.
“The assessment is a helpful tool in helping the Kimball Active Living Advisory Committee make decisions that will help people more safely walk or bike to the pool, parks, school, downtown businesses, grocery store, hospital, and library. The progress done by the Kimball Community Trail is a wonderful benefit and addition to the community and evident through community input the demand for access to trails like the one being initiated on the south side of town,” said Jessica Davies, Assistant Health Director with Panhandle Public Health District.
These measures are separate from the Kimball Area Foundation walking trail currently being built at the Janicek Dam area.
The next Kimball Active Living Advisory Committee meeting will be Friday, Sept. 14 from 10 – 11 a.m. at the Kimball Health Services north campus. Call Janelle Visser at 308-487-3600 for more information.