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Bikers looking for a direct route between the cities would probably prefer the option that starts in Iowa City, runs through North Liberty along Highway 965 and ends in Cedar Rapids. But a more scenic route along the old Rock Island Railroad, also known as the Hoover Nature Trail, would allow bikers to pass through Solon and Ely as well.

The second, more meandering option seems more in keeping with the successful Root River Trail system in southeastern Minnesota. In the 1980s, many of the smaller towns along the Milwaukee Railroad fell upon hard times after railroad pulled out. After the state built a 60-mile trail system linking the towns, however, suddenly more than $25 million in tourist dollars began being poured into the local economies annually. Cities like Lanesboro, Minn., have transformed from near-ghost towns into prime tourist destinations.

Although the North Corridor doesn't have the same breathtaking scenery as along the Root River, a trail system would open up a host of opportunities. We urge our city leaders, corridor supporters and state legislators to work seriously on transforming this dream into a workable and affordable plan.