The bike path around campus and the larger Hocking trail system is a great resource.
Unfortunately, the section near the Ohio University golf course, South Green Drive and U.S. Route 33 has been let go.
For as long as I can remember, there have been zero attempts to patch the many large subsidence trenches in the asphalt left over from presumably installing light wiring many years ago.
These trenches extend the width of the path, are several inches wide, have grown deeper over time and now have grass growing in them. They present a rather uncomfortable obstacle for anyone with a derriere or kidneys.
I haven’t seen anyone Rollerblading on that section in years, which is sad because that is a fun way to exercise and a beautiful location.
I have called and called over the years to various groups and people, but the blame keeps getting shifted and nothing ever happens. How hard is it to bring a truck full of patch to that part of the path and fix the trenches? This isn’t rocket science, folks.
The city and university seem to be able to find the time and resources for all sorts of things related to sports and community recreation, so why has this languished?
I have lived in Athens since 1991 and used the path much in my early years as a student. I remember that section in much better condition. Now, I watch my kids get bounced around, to the point of pain, when we ride through there (again last night). Stop making excuses.
You don’t need to wait to spend millions to replace the whole length someday when the budget is perfect, just fill in the trenches and make it usable again. Fix it now!
Jeffrey Harmison is an Athens resident and is the Broadcast IT Supervisor at the WOUB Center for Public Media.
