Editor, The Smithfield Times:

I found the Smithfield Town Council candidates’ responses to the Park to Park Bicycle Trail question in last week’s Smithfield Times very disappointing. 

I am a payer of Isle of Wight County taxes. When the agreement was committed to by the town and county, I agreed with the concept. I realized that it would enhance the family-friendly atmosphere of the town and county.

The county was true to its commitment. Its portion was built years ago. But what about the town? The Town Council has failed, year after year.  

Essentially what we have is a bicycle trail that is a path from Nike Park to nowhere. I feel the town has let down the county taxpayers. Would the county have agreed to build its portion if it knew the town wouldn’t honor its commitment?   

The only candidate response that was adequate was by Jim Collins. He stated that completion of the trails should be a high priority.  I agree. As a resident of the town, I also pay Smithfield taxes. I want to see the completion committed to and done.  

Just imagine if the Town Council was responsible for the completion of the work on the Cypress Creek bridge.  Would we also have a bridge to nowhere?

 

Jerry Tenney

Smithfield