I love walking. As a bigger guy, I'm never going to run a marathon or iron man, but there's not much more I love than to put on a podcast and walk for an hour (or more when its not a million degrees outside). If you're like me, you get a little bored walking around your neighborhood. One lap around my complex is about .8 miles. It's quick, not fun, and I have to watch for cars.
Imagine if there was a 15 mile stretch where you could walk, ride your bike, and more right here in Bonita and Estero? The "Friends of the Bonita Estero Rail Trail" are trying to do just that. I was able to connect with Friends of BERT President, Deb Orton, who shared so much with me and I want to in turn share that with you all.
To start, I knew I had to ask how this organization was born. As someone who tries to be involved in my community I am happy to report this idea, like so many others, came about by going to a public meeting.
“The Seminole Gulf Rail Corridor acquisition to convert to a rail to trail has been in the works for at least four years, likely longer. A Feasibility Study was underway with Lee MPO and was presented to the public June of 2022. My friend and I were approached at the public meeting, asking us to get involved with generating public support for the project. Emily Porter and I founded in Sept. of 2022 an organization we called Friends of Bonita Estero Rail Trail...BERT. We launched it with a website and FaceBook page, by the end of 2022 we had 900 Friends of BERT. A great start!”
At only two years old, BERT has made incredible progress. Never underestimate the impact you and a few likeminded people can have on an issue that matters to you. So what is next? Are shovels going the ground soon? Not quite yet, but with everyone’s help, we can make it happen.
"February of 2024, Seminole Gulf Railway agreed to sell the 14.9 mile, 130 foot wide rail corridor for 82 Million by March 2026. The work now is to raise public funds for the acquisition. Trust for Public Land is the lead and successfully negotiated the sales price. They are leading the process, with municipalities and both counties to raise the funds. The funding sources will be local; county; state and federal dollars for acquisition and construction of the rail to trail. Multiple Federal Infrastructure grants are underway, along with state and local funds. This project is a high priority for Florida DOT's SUN Trails program, and we expect construction funds to be from SUN Trails."
$82 million is a significant amount of money. It will be a challenge to raise the funds needed to finalize the sale agreement. However, re-read Deb’s answer. In two years, Deb and the entire BERT team have formed an incredible team with an organization who does this all across the country. It will be our local advocacy, writing to elected officials, and volunteering that will be difference. And how can you begin to win over hearts and minds? Talk about the anticipated amenities!
With everyone’s help, we’re not just talking about a safe area to walk and ride. We’re talking about dedicated parking, restrooms, picnic areas. We’re talking about “pocket” parks every few miles for people to enjoy the environment around them. These are real tangible things that can significantly increase the quality of life. Deb mentioned there will be official renderings later this fall. You can sure this amateur journalist will be sure to share those renderings when published.
To wrap up my conversation with Deb, I asked her what message she had for those reading.
"We have learned a great deal! The primary message is our area of SW Florida must improve the cycling and pedestrian safety. Separating pedestrians and cyclists from the traffic will save lives. In addition, greenways and trails improve our health and provide an economic engine. It is only possible with people getting involved! Become a Friend of BERT! We can use everyone's ideas, political influence, volunteer work and of course, financial donations"
How can you become a friend of BERT? Remember, they are a 501c3 with an all volunteer group of community activist who want to do better. If you ever want a tax write off and you’re looking for a worthy organization, Friends of BERT should be high on your list! I know I look forward to helping turn this dream into reality. I want to thank Deb for answering my questions. I’m so happy to get the word out.
Go to https://bonitaesterorailtrail.com/ to learn more
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