During a recent East Grand Rapids City Commission meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed new trail, citing concerns over safety and the adequacy of existing infrastructure. Resident Pat Miles expressed skepticism about the necessity of the trail, arguing that surveys from local students indicated a need for improved sidewalks rather than additional ones. He highlighted that the Golden Triangle area lacks sidewalks entirely, contrasting it with the city's historical commitment to maintaining at least one sidewalk on every street.

Miles emphasized that the proposal seemed incomplete, lacking a comprehensive plan for both sides of the trail along Reeds Lake Boulevard. He criticized the timing of the proposal, suggesting that it had not been adequately communicated to residents.

Mandy Sharp Eisinger, another resident, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of safe routes to school and the need for a more robust plan addressing safety issues at school crossings. She urged the community to focus on proactive measures to enhance safety rather than simply opposing the current proposal.

The discussions highlighted a broader concern among residents regarding pedestrian safety and the effectiveness of the city's planning processes. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while there is support for improving community safety, there is significant apprehension about the current trail proposal and its implications for local infrastructure.