The wind is going down, the sun is shining and it is time to get outside! Our communities are fortunate to have beautiful parks with playgrounds, a golf course, swimming pool, and a trail. A 3-mile section of trail on the west edge of Tama-Toledo connects the two towns. Many people are unable to take advantage of this because of age or inability to walk that distance. On Wednesday, May 25th from 12 to 3 p.m. the trail will be closed to the general public by permission of the Tama and Toledo City Councils. Golf carts will be provided to transport anyone who is unable to experience the trail. You must be 50 or older and unable to walk or bike on the trail to reserve a ride. It is time for all of us to get outside.

This event is sponsored by the Tama/Toledo Healthy Hometown Team. This group of 15 passionate volunteers grew out of the Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning Group which was begun December, 2020. During the next 10 months this local group worked with Iowa State University, the DOT, and Trees Forever to survey the community and to have in- person groups talking about our assets and challenges. The results revealed many barriers to walking and biking to our schools, parks and grocery stores. Plans are being developed in cooperation with both the Tama and Toledo City Councils to address these issues over time. Our main goal is to make active transportation (walking and biking) safe and inviting for all ages.

The Tama/Toledo Healthy Hometown Team has joined forces with Wellmark’s Healthy Hometown Program. Their research and expertise are shared with us to educate and encourage our citizens to move more, eat well and feel better. We have discovered that individuals can control 60% of the factors that impact their health. AARP has also shared their Livable Communities resources. This initiative supports the efforts of local leaders and residents to make their communities more livable and age-friendly.

If you are interested in taking a ride on Wednesday, May 25th between 12-3 p.m. please call or text Denise at 641-891-7426 or email ldfletcher@mchsi.com to register and get further information by Friday, May 20th. We will get back to you to set up a time for your ride from either Toledo Heights Park or Tama City Hall.

Check out our website at cv.tamatoledo.org and our Facebook page at Tama/Toledo Community Visioning Team to find out about upcoming events and status of projects.

We invite you to join us on a beautiful spring day to experience nature and visit with friends and neighbors while exploring the Tama/Toledo Trail. Guaranteed to make you feel better!