Bridging the trails

During the ceremony to celebrate the dedication of the two new bridges along the Mexican Ditch Trail, Parks and Recreation Director Roger Mollendorf called them both functional and metaphoric.

"They literally connect one trail to another," he said. "But they're also a symbol of our dedication to building trails."

Nearly 100 people attended the opening ceremony Saturday morning where Mayor Bob Crowell cut the ribbon to officially open the trail to the public.

Spectators showed up on bikes, horses and on foot to witness the ribbon cutting and unveiling of a plaque.

One of the bridges is a repair of an existing bridge. It is wider and more equestrian friendly.

The second bridge is new and connects the trail to the Silver Saddle Ranch, where a network of trails begins, also connecting to the Prison Hill trail system.

Users then got a chance to try out the extended trail with a 5K run along the trail and through a loop at Riverview Park and back again.

Others walked a mile along the trail.

"I think it went really well," said Ann Bollinger, natural resource specialist for the Carson City Parks and Recreation Department. "The weather turned out really well for us. It felt like a family atmosphere."

Mayor Crowell, who ran the 5K after ceremoniously cutting the ribbon, said he was impressed with the area and would like to better promote areas like it in and around Carson City.

"Whenever I go places I like to find nice spots like this to go for a run," he said.

"We need to let people know this is here."

Bollinger said the trails promote healthy people and healthy communities.

"It's just a great opportunity for people to get outside," she said.