On behalf of the city of Maple Valley, we wish to thank Anthony Pomata for his Dec. 11 Letter to the EditorDec. 11 Letter to the Editor commending the city and county for the prompt removal of the deer carcass on state Route 169.

In his letter, Mr. Pomata also suggested that King County and the city work together to improve the Cedar River to Green River Trail south of state Route 516 (Kent-Kangley Road). I am very pleased to report we are doing this.

This past summer, the city has been coordinating with King County and other governmental agencies to reallocate approximately $148,000 in Federal Grant funds, obtained in 2006, to improve the trail from SR 516 to the north side of the Burlington Northern-Santé Fe rail line right-of way, approximately one mile. These grant funds were originally to be used to design a pedestrian bridge over the rail line. However, we believe these funds and a portion of the city’s share of the King County Park levy funds will best be used to improve and extend the trail by widening, grading and resurfacing. It is anticipated that the trail work will be performed beginning spring 2010. The improvement to this trail section will be a significant benefit to walkers, hikers, bicyclists and Maple Valley and Black Diamond communities.

David Johnston

Maple Valley city manager