Grange Stages Capitol Rally For 1,000 Mile Trailway
Nearly 100 cyclists from Sacramento area clubs converge on the Capitol in support of SB 669, a bill that would create 1,000 miles of trails along the Delta levees.
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California State Grange President Randy Lewis greets cyclists as they arrive for a rally in support of Grange-sponsored SB 699, a bill that would create 1,000 miles of trailways along Delta levees.
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SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA, October 2, 2007 --- Stretching two city blocks, an entourage of nearly 100 riders from Yolo and Sacramento county bicycle clubs joined the California State Grange for a Ride Around The Capitol today, in support of SB 669, legislation that will create 1,000 miles of biking and hiking trails along the Delta levees if signed by Governor Schwarzenegger.
Carrying signs and banners that read “Public Lands For Public Use”, “Governor – Sign SB 669”, “1,000 Miles of Trails” and others, the enthusiastic cyclists converged on the State Capitol for a Grange-sponsored rally.
“We’re here today to let the Governor know we want him to sign SB 669,” State Grange President Randy Lewis encouraged from a bullhorn. “There are no losers with this legislation. Only winners.”
Major newspapers, television and radio stations covered the well-attended event. Throughout the day, State Grange Director of Legislative Affairs Mike Greene rallied the crowd and fielded questions from reporters.
The cyclists started from Cesar Chavez Park at 10th and J Streets and rode 18 blocks around the Capitol, piloted by State Grange News Editor Jay Hartz driving a pick-up truck with a large sign in the bed that read: “California State Grange Supports SB 669 – Public Lands For Public Use.” Onlookers stopped on sidewalks to watch the parade of cyclists pass, some applauding and waving their arms in support.
Sponsored by the California State Grange and introduced by State Senator Tom Torlakson, SB 669 has passed through the legislature and is on Governor Schwarzenegger desk awaiting his signature.
The establishment of bikeways on the levee system will create a network of pathways linking the San Francisco Bay Trail and the proposed Sacramento River Trail, to be known as the Great California Delta Trail. Open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders, the trail will cover more than 1,000 miles of the Delta waterfront in Solano, Contra Costa, Sacramento, and San Joaquin counties.
“The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is one of California’s great natural resources,” said Senator Tom Torlakson. “Creation of this trail system will permit every Californian to appreciate its beauty and will give city residents a chance to visit our farms and fields. The California Grange has been an important ally in turning this idea into a reality,” he concluded.
“The Grange sponsored SB 669 because the trails will provide new opportunities for family farms and rural communities to capitalize on California’s growing agri-tourism industry which allows for those who live in the cities to enjoy a visit to the country for day or weekend trips,” said Randall Lewis, President of the California State Grange. “We hope all Californians will join us in asking the Governor to sign this bill.”
For more information on SB 669 and other State Grange-sponsored legislation, call Director of Legislative Affairs Michael Greene at (916) 736-1572.