I am writing to enthusiastically support LaGrange’s initiative to develop a multi-trail bike pathway; connecting city infrastructure, promoting economic development and improving resident’s quality of life.

City bike paths, like the Atlanta Beltline, have been a huge success, encouraging citizens to be more physically active. The timing of this proposal couldn’t be any better.

The U.S. Surgeon General issued a call to action to promote walking and walkable communities in September 2015. A bike pathway would encourage walking, bike riding, alternative commuting options and more; as individuals, as families and as a community.

Troup County residents, according to the Institute of Health Metrics & Evaluation, do not get enough physical activity. Only 44.6 percent females and 53 percent males get the recommended physical activity, consisting of 150 minutes of heart healthy cardiovascular training per week. This trail will increase the opportunities for LaGrange to be more active.

LaGrange has much to offer its residents and visitors. Installation of this pathway would continue to showcase many of the attractions that make this a wonderful place to be.

It would encourage healthy commuting, decreasing our carbon footprint. It would promote physical activity, ultimately decreasing obesity and obesity-related illness.

Health and wellbeing is a public health initiative. As the LaGrange public health district director, I am thrilled to endorse this opportunity for growth, development and improved wellness.

I applaud our leadership on considering the construction of this multi-path trail. I look forward to personally using this trail. All the more reasons that make LaGrange a special place to live.

Olugbenga Obasanjo

Director, District 4 Public Health