The city of Carbondale opened their newest bike path on Monday with a ribbon cutting for the new Saluki Greenway. The new trail stretches for more than 2 miles west of the city along State Highway 13.
The city received a grant in 20-20 to help fund the extension. The new path includes crosswalks with signals, guardrails, and trail signage.
Carbondale Senior Planner Molly Maxwell says the new paths will benefit the community, "You're killing two birds with one stone. You're making transportation more accessible, and easier for folks without cars. You're also improving those recreational opportunities."
After the ribbon cutting two dozen cyclists hit the new trail for a test ride.
Sandra Schwartz from Murphysboro has been biking all her life. Over the last five years she's taken it more seriously because of the fresh air and relaxation she gets.
She hopes Carbondale residents take advantage of this new opportunity to ride, "We've been driving by waiting for this to come about. You're away from the traffic. It's someplace else where you can ride, and still be safe."
Maxwell says there's still more connections to be built. Jackson county is leading the construction connecting the path between Carbondale and Murphysboro.
