By Jena Stout

April 20, 2007 | RICHMOND -- Richmond could be looking at some new walking trails in hopes to increase home values and encourage tourism.

Tim Watkins from the Cache County Planning Office presented an informational slide show at Tuesday night's City Council meeting, educating the council on the importance of walking trails for the community. His hope is to eventually begin plans for trails in Richmond as he has already completed successful ones in Logan and Smithfield.

Watkins commented that trails could help to "improve air quality, provide more desire for open spaces, and give an alternate transit opportunity." He even mentioned the possibility of horse trails if it is something Richmond desires.

The main concerns of the council were brought up first by Mayor Michael Hall, who was concerned about the costs; however, Watkins assured him most trails in or around public property would be federally funded.

"Are you going to separate the different trails such as walking, biking, horseback riding, so that they don't bump into each other?" Councilwoman Terrie Wierenga questioned.

Watkins replied they can build separate trails for anything the community desires.

The council has yet to decide where the trails would go, but is interested in feedback from the community. Questions or comments can be directed to Marlow Atkins in the City Hall building or to Tim Watkins at timwatkins@cachecounty.org.

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