On the morning of September 28th, around 10:00 a.m., crowds gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting at Parley’s Trail. Many people were chatting and celebrating, saying things like, “We finally got here” and “It’s time to celebrate.” Bike riders were lined up, ready to take their first ride on the Trail. Parley’s Trail is finally complete after 30 years of planning, fundraising, and construction, with the completion of a bridge on 900 West over the Jordan River, according to Parley’s Trail website. 

Many mayors spoke at the ribbon cutting, including the Mayor of Salt Lake County, Jenny Wilson, the Mayor of West Valley City, Karen Lang, Mayor of South Salt Lake City Cherie Wood, and Juan Arce‐Larreta also spoke, who is involved with Parley’s Rails Trails and Tunnels (PRATT) Coalition. “This is a great addition for our city and residents to take advantage of this Trail. Our Trail in West Valley City starts at about 7200 West and comes down and connects in with this Trail,” Lang said. 

“The works not quite done yet,” Arce-Larreta said, referring to the additional maintenance that will go into trails done by PRATT, which Arce-Larreta is a part of. Mayor Wood mentioned that it was West Valley’s 85th birthday and the perfect birthday present for the city. “To all of you who are here and kept pushing us to figure out ways around, thanks for always being the squeaky wheel that completed all of this. 

This Trail contributes to the ongoing traffic issue in the Salt Lake Commuter Infrastructure; there’s been discussion on widening freeways such as the I-15 and others. Now that Parley’s Trail is complete, bikers can commute safely and decrease traffic issues. 

To get involved with the PRATT Coalition, go to their website.