In last Wednesday’s paper there was an excellent column by local bike enthusiast Maurice Carter on the value of bike trails. If you missed it, we recommend you go to covnews.com to read it.

To tell you the truth we did not know much about the bike riding trails in Georgia like the Silver Comet trail that runs through Cobb, Paulding and Polk County until we had a two-hour lesson from Carter’s counterpart in Rockdale County, Eddie Shirley.

As Carter’s column points out, the beauty of these trails improves the value of the land they run through. The ability for families to ride in safety is invaluable.

You don’t have to be a pro to ride these trails; you can bring a picnic and enjoy a great family day.

There are a series of trails being developed in Rockdale County right now with the intention of continuing on a trail through Newton County into Covington.

We know that counties are facing tough budget decisions and we support that toughness, but we also support continuing funds for the development of the bike trails in both Rockdale and Newton counties.

When these trails are completed, they will provide a safe, fun way for families to enjoy time together and to exercise together.

It also will help keep property values stable. Another benefit will be that companies will want to relocate to a county that cares about its green space and the welfare of its citizens.