Le Mars City Administrator Jason Vacura, McClure Engineering Project Manager, Brett Langley, and Graham McGraffin speak to the Plymouth County Board of Supervisors about the request for approval for a REAP grant application to go towards the Plywood Recreational Trail. Supervisor Mike Van Otterloo looks on.
(Le Mars) — The Plymouth County Board of Supervisors voted 3 to 2 in favor of approving a grant application through the state funded REAP program which, if approved by REAP officials, would be applied to the construction of the Plywood Recreational Trail between Le Mars and Merrill. The discussion on the topic became contentious at times. Supervisor Craig Anderson stated he had some questions for the Plywood Trail officials and the engineering firm behind the project, starting with DOT certifications.
Brett Langley an engineering consultant with McClure Engineering Firm, the company that is responsible for the trail’s proposed route tried to clarify the position involving the Iowa DOT with a portion of the trail that has been given approval for construction.
Anderson mentioned he had spoken with NIPCO officials and says it was his understanding that NIPCO was most concerned about security.
Anderson who has a farm next to the proposed route that would run parallel to Highway 75 shared his reasons for opposing the project.
Anderson says he is not opposed to bicycle trails. He made the suggestion to get the trail away from the highway. Supervisor Mike Van Otterloo reminded his fellow supervisors that the application is for the grant itself, not necessarily for the trail in general.
Van Otterloo, Meis, and Horton voted in favor of the measure, and Anderson and Kass voted against the trail grant application.
