Friends of the Katy Trail Blog

New Sign at Snyder's Union

2011-08-19T12:06:00.000-05:00

If you have been on the trail over the last 24 hours, you may know that we have a new directional sign at Snyder’s Union. Concrete is going to be poured next week to complete the design of the sign. Presently, there is an error on the signage. The sign company switched the directions, showing Knox and SMU on the south end of the trail and American Airlines Center and Thomsen Overlook on the north end. We are aware of the problem and wanted to inform you that it will be changed next week. The sign will be a nice addition once it is complete.

Membership Social on August 4th at Komali's

2011-07-21T17:13:00.002-05:00

Please join us at our exclusive members-only happy hour on Thursday, August 4th from 5:30 to 7:30 at acclaimed chef Abraham Salum’s new restaurant, Komali, located at 4152 Cole Avenue, suite 106.

Patrons will enjoy samples of his award winning menu, which will include: cheese and poblano quesadillas, refried bean and chorizo sopes, chicken flautas with salsa verde, albondigas with pasilla sauce, tortas de milanesa, and cream of poblano and corn shooters.

A complimentary glass of wine, beer, or margarita will also be included.
Be sure to RSVP to Ashleigh@KatyTrailDallas.org if you plan to attend because space is always limited.

Not a Friend? Go to www.KatyTrailDallas.org to join. Membership starts at $50 a year! This isn't the first social and it certainly won't be the last! Don't miss out!!

Beat the Heat

2011-07-21T17:09:00.002-05:00

Hot, sticky, slow—and that's how you feel before you head out. Your run can feel twice as hard since your body tires faster in high heat. But that doesn't mean you have to swim all summer. Here's how to last longer when the mercury rises.

SET YOUR ALARM Sunrise is the coolest time of day, although it can also be the most humid. It will still be hot at sunset because the ground radiates accumulated heat.

GO TECH-Y Technical fabrics wick away sweat. Keep sun out of your eyes with a visor, not a hat, which traps heat.

DRINK UP Drink eight ounces of liquids before you head out and two to four sips of water every 15 minutes.

SLOW DOWN Every five-degree rise in temperature above 60° F can slow your pace up to 20 to 30 seconds per mile.

RUN IN WATER Substitute one weekly run with a pool-running session of the same duration. Use a flotation device and move your legs as if you were running on land.

COOL OFF On very hot days, run for eight to 15 minutes, then hose yourself off or jump in a pool for three to five minutes. Repeat as necessary.

Tips from Runner's Words Jeff Galloway

Don't Be Cruel, Keep Your Dog Cool

2011-07-21T12:47:00.001-05:00

Don't be Cruel, Keep Your Pet Cool
Please keep an eye out for your pet. The weather is already near 100 degrees and during these hot and humid months pets can suffer from a condition known as hyperthermia or heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when your pet absorbs an excessive amount of heat that they cannot properly dissipate. The symptoms you need to be aware of are:
• Vigorous panting
• Dark red gums
• Collapse/laying down and unwilling to get up
• Disorientation
• Vomiting/diarrhea
• A rectal temperature of 104 degrees or higher
• If you notice any of these symptoms please call your veterinarian immediately.
There are many ways to keep your pet safe and to prevent heat strokes. Here are a few things to remember:
• Puppies can't regulate body temperature as well as adult dogs. Your puppy can get overheated when exercising on a hot day so bring along plenty of water.
• Don't exercise your dog during the hottest parts of the summer.
• Watch for signs of heat stroke: excessive panting; noisy breathing;bright red gums and tongue; weakness and collapse
• If it is too hot for you to walk on the sidewalk concrete barefoot then it is too hot to walk your dog. The pads of their paws will burn.
• Walk your dog only early in the morning or in the evening after the sun has set. Bring along water and make frequent water stops. Don't take long walks in the heat of the summer.
• Dogs cool themselves by panting and if the panting does not reduce the heat then the dog can have a heat stroke.
• Dogs get sunburned, especially dogs with short hair.
• Overweight and older dogs have more trouble in the hot days of summer
• Snub nose dogs have poor panting mechanisms and are more susceptible to being overcome by the heat.
• Panting does not cool your dog well when outside temperature and and body temperature are close to 103 degrees.
• Walk, don't run: In very hot, humid weather, never exercise dogs by cycling while they try to keep up or by running them while you jog. Dogs will collapse before giving up, at which point it may be too late to save them. They can quickly become severely overheated, and an "exercise" session can turn into a medical emergency.

New Board Members

2010-12-30T11:00:00.004-06:00

At December's Board of Directors meeting, The Friends of the Katy Trail board and staff paid tribute to our four outgoing board members for their many years of service. While Cissy Carr, Howard Sutton, Craig Reynolds, and Keith Nix were all honored with gifts officially thanking them for their service, we could never put into words our gratitude for the dedication and time these individuals committed to this organization.

While we say thank you to our friends who are leaving the board, we also welcome five new members to the Board of Directors. Please welcome: Robert Bartzokas, Mary Beecherl, Paula Blackmon, Chuck Dannis and Charles Gale.

Also, the David Stocks Award was given to David Demarest. The award is given annually to one board member in recognition of outstanding work for the Katy Trail.

It's the Season to Give

2010-12-20T16:26:00.001-06:00

The holidays are coming fast, as is the end of the year. It’s a great time to get into the spirit of the season and make a year-end donation to the Friends of the Katy Trail.

You love the Katy Trail. Whether you were out there this morning, or will be today after work or this weekend, you look forward to getting on the Trail. But the Trail you love needs your help too.

It's a common misconception that your tax dollars are what make the Katy Trail your urban oasis. While the City of Dallas owns the Trail, it’s up to the people who use and enjoy it to sustain it through their donations The truth is the things that you and so many other Trail users love, are possible, not because of public tax dollars, but thanks to private donations to the Friends of the Katy Trail.

• Do you use the Trail when the lights are on?
• Do you stop to get water at the drinking fountains?
• Do you enjoy seeing the landscaping?
• Do you feel safer knowing the police are patroling the Katy Trail?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, you benefit from what the Friends of the Katy Trail pays for. All those things, and much more, are possible thanks to donations made to the Friends of the Katy Trail.

Your donation is an investment in your city, the environment, and the health of the community. Friends of the Katy Trail makes sure the Trail is clean, safe and beautiful for you and and all Trail users. Please make your gift today.

Please give a year-end gift now by going here. And remember, donations are tax deductible. If you have any questions, please contact Ashleigh Falk at Ashleigh@KatyTrailDallas.org.

Thank you for your continued support of the Katy Trail. We hope to see you on the Trail.
Sincerely,
Friends of the Katy Trail

December e-news

2010-12-09T14:44:00.002-06:00

Give A Katy Trail Christmas Gift

You face the dilemma every year: what to give to that hard-to-buy-for person on your Christmas list. Problem solved! Give them something they can use every day of the year – a membership to the Friends of the Katy Trail. Your gift membership will help keep the Katy Trail a great place to run, walk or ride a bike.
Take advantage of the special membership offer. Receive a Friends of the Katy Trail T-shirt with each membership of $50 or more. Normally, T-shirts are only given at the $250 level.

As a bonus, gift memberships come with a 15 percent discount at all Luke’s Locker locations until Dec. 31, 2010 (the offer excludes sale items, Garmin products, watches, sunglasses, strollers and heart rate monitors and no other discounts apply).
Along with their T-shirts, gift recipients will receive a letter informing them of the great membership you gave them.

Click here to give your gift membership. And while you’re at it, be sure to join yourself (or renew your membership). If you have any questions, please email Santa's little helper Ashleigh Falk at ashleigh@katytraildallas.org.

First Ever Annual Support Campaign Raises More than 90,000

The first Annual Support Campaign came to a close at the end of November.Heartfelt thank-you's go out to all of our donors and volunteers, we would not have been successful with out your time and efforts. More than $90,000 was raised for the ongoing maintenance and management of the Katy Trail. After all, the Katy Trail relies on private donations for 90 percent of the annual cost to maintain it.

Their generosity will help keep the Katy Trail a clean, safe and beautiful place to walk, run, bike or just sit. A special thank you to our major donors: Jeff Jackson and Sally Warren, Balfour Beatty, David Demarest, Patty and Andy Smith, Jonie Rose, Sarofim Realty Advisors, Tony Dona, Vantage Realty Holdings, and Deedie and Rusty Rose.

This was the first year for the Annual Support Campaign, which was established to provide additional stability to the operating budget. As its title says, it will be back next year in September. (We’re already looking for volunteers, so if you’re interested in helping contact Robin Baldock at Robin@KatyTrailDallas.org. )

Safety Tips

Here’s a reminder about the ways to make your visit to the Katy Trail safe and enjoyable this holiday season:
• Keep to the right.
• Announce “passing on left.”
• Always look both ways before moving across the Trail.
• Watch your speed and remain in control at all times. When cycling, keep a 3-feet distance between pedestrians.
• Use headphones responsibly by keeping the volume down and only using one ear piece. After all, our ears can help keep us safe.
• Watch children carefully and keep them close.
• Keep pets on a short leash and clean up after them.
• Use the soft surface designated for pedestrians when running or walking.
• Go single file down the Trail when with a group.
• Stop to look for traffic before crossing at Knox and Harvard streets.

It’s the Season to Give

The holidays are coming fast, as is the end of the year. It’s a great time to get into the spirit of the season and make a year-end donation to the Friends of the Katy Trail. After all, the Katy Trail is connecting the people and places of Dallas. While the City of Dallas owns the Trail, it’s up to the people who use and enjoy it to sustain it through their donations.
Please give a year-end gift now by going here. And remember, donations are tax deductible.

Curious About the Lights?

The lights turn on every morning at 5 a.m. and turn off on sunrise. In the evening they come on at 5 p.m. and turn off at 10 p.m.
The lights are controlled by 9 timers located throughout the trail. These timers are quite sensitive, so it is possible that certain sections may turn on or off by a couple of minutes before or after their adjacent section does. Every effort has been made to keep the lights in sync as much as possible.

There are 162 lights on the Katy Trail. The electricity is paid for by membership contributions to the Friends of the Katy Trail. If you are not a member, but enjoy using the Katy Trail in the early morning or after dark, please consider doing your part to help pay for the lights by becoming a member of the Friends of the Katy Trail. If you notice a light is out, please email Ashleigh@Katytraildallas.org and she'll inform our Trail Manager, Bill Williams.

Katy’s List (of likes, wants and just because)

- The members of the Friends of the Katy Trail who make so much possible
- A January member's event to kick off 2011 -- look for details soon
- Cold, rain or wind our Trail Manager, Bill Williams, weathers the storm for our members
- Happy holidays and the best for the New Year!

Need an Internship?

Students and recent grads: are you looking for an internship for next semester? Do you want to gain extremely valuable non-profit, events, fundraising, corporate relations, and PR experience? If you or someone you know is interested in interning at the Katy Trail, please have them send their resume to Ashleigh Falk at ashleigh@katytraildallas.org.

Follow Us and Get the Latest News
We want you to be a friend of The Katy Trail on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Friends-of-the-Katy-Trail/460263880013. Get all the latest news on our blog!! http://www.katytraildallas.blogspot.com/

Have a question about anything Katy Trail related? Get an answer by asking KT. Click here to Ask KT.

Happy Holidays from the Friends of the Katy Trail! And Happy Trails to You in 2010!

Let’s celebrate: Phase 1 of Master Plan complete

2010-11-19T11:30:00.002-06:00

City officials and the Friends of the Katy Trail gathered at Snyder’s Union on Nov. 17, 2010, to mark the completion of Phase 1 of the Katy Trail Master Plan, as well as recognize the donors who made possible the five entrances completed in the past year.
Mayor Tom Leppert spoke, calling the Katy Trail a jewel in the city’s crown. City Council Member Angela Hunt commented on the great work that the Friends of the Katy Trail does to manage and maintain the Trail.
Philip Henderson, chair of the Friends board of directors, thanked the donors who gave the lead gifts for the five new entrances:
• Bobbi and Dick Snyder for Snyder’s Union, which overlooks Lee Park. It was built to commemorate the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary.
• Barron Kidd for Dedo’s Place, the northern most entrance at McKinney Avenue, in honor of his wife Dedo Kidd, a long-time member of the Friends of the Katy Trail board of directors.
• The Cityplace TIF for the West Village Entrance at Blackburn.
• Jim and Sarah Hutcheson and son Nathan for the Tao of Warren, the entrance at Armstrong Boulevard, which honors their son and brother Warren.
• The Theodore and Beulah Beasley Foundation for the Theodore and Beulah Beasley Entrance, which rises from Hall Street to the Katy Trail.
Also recognized was Inland American, which underwrote the event and was instrumental in completing the approach to Snyder’s Union from Carlisle Place.

West Village Dog Trot and Treat

2010-10-26T09:48:00.004-05:00

Stop by the West Village Dog Trot & Treat benefiting The Katy Trail on Sunday, October 31st from 2-5 p.m., an event geared for our furry friends and the people they own! Pooches and their people will parade around West Village picking up treats at various boutiques along the way. When the bags are full, guests are invited to enjoy live music, sips from Cork Wines, and nibbles for everyone. Canines will also be entered into a costume contest, where the winner will take away a doggie bag full of goodies. Vendors will be on hand offering everything from pet portraits to samples of all natural baked food for dogs. Registration is now open at www.KatyTrailDallas.org. ENTRY FEE: $15 Per Pet, People Free (Registration will be $20 Per Pet on the day of the event) For more info visit www.westvil.com or www.KatyTrailDallas.org.

Accident on the Katy Trail

2010-10-04T13:50:00.000-05:00

The Friends of the Katy Trail extends its condolences to the family of Lauren Huddleston, who died as the result of an accident on the Katy Trail.

Here are a few guidelines to follow to make the Katy Trail a safe and enjoyable place:

Keep to the right.
Announce “passing on left” when passing someone in front of you.
Always look both ways before moving across the Trail.
Maintain a safe speed and remain in control at all times.
Watch children carefully.
If using headphones, keep the volume low so you can hear those behind you.
Keep pets on a short leash.
Stop and look for traffic before crossing at Knox and Harvard streets

Accident on the Katy Trail

2010-10-01T12:28:00.001-05:00

Accident on the Katy Trail

The Friends of the Katy Trail is saddened to hear about the tragic accident on the Katy Trail Thursday night (Sept. 30) involving a jogger and a bicyclist. It was an unfortunate reminder that those on the Trail must be alert to other users for everyone’s well being.

Here are a few guidelines to follow to make the Katy Trail a safe and enjoyable place:

Keep to the right.
Announce “passing on left” when passing someone in front of you.
Always look both ways before moving across the Trail.
Maintain a safe speed and remain in control at all times.
Watch children carefully.
If using headphones, turn the volume down so that you can hear those behind you. Keep pets on a short leash.
Stop and look for traffic before crossing at Knox and Harvard streets

Support Our Annual Campaign

2010-08-31T15:16:00.001-05:00

YOU EXERCISE, BUT DO YOU EXERCISE YOUR SUPPORT?

If you’re reading this, chances are that you love the Katy Trail. But do you support it with your checkbook? The Katy Trail relies on private donations for 90 percent of the cost to maintain it each year. Just think if those donations didn’t come in. There would be no drinking fountains and no lights. Weeds would grow over the Trail and tree branches wouldn’t get trimmed.

Help keep the Katy Trail a place that you love to spend time. Exercise your support during the Annual Support Campaign Sept. 1 through Oct. 31. Donate now!

DO YOU ENJOY THE TREASURE THAT IS THE KATY TRAIL? THEN HELP FUNDRAISE!

Also, you can help right now online! Register to receive a personalized fundraising page! By signing up for your own personal giving page, your effort can help us reach a bigger audience and ensure the Katy Trail remains the gem that it is today.

Knox Street intersection changes aim to improve safety

2010-08-16T13:09:00.000-05:00

Safety all along the Katy Trail is a concern of the Friends of the Katy Trail. That’s why our non-profit organization continues to work with the City of Dallas to improve safety where the Trail intersects streets.

Katy Trail users have probably noticed some changes at Knox Street. The City of Dallas has installed yield signs in the middle of that intersection to remind drivers to exercise caution there. Also, the adjacent traffic lanes have been re-striped to promote safe driving.

Although the motorists on Knox Street have the yield sign, Trail users should remember that they have a stop sign on the Trail. Everyone traveling through that intersection – whether they are on foot, bike, skates or in a car – should take extra caution when crossing. Don’t worry about who has the right of way. Show concern for your safety and the safety of others. Slow down, be aware and then proceed. It’s the common sense approach.

Monitoring safety at the Katy Trail-Knox Street intersection is an ongoing process. Other changes may be made in the future to that intersection and the Knox Street corridor to promote vehicle and pedestrian safety.

Katy Trail – Phase III Construction Begins

2010-08-16T10:39:00.000-05:00

If you’ve driven down McCommas Boulevard lately, you’ve seen the construction going on. This is the newest link constructed by the City of Dallas that will eventually connect the Katy Trail with the White Rock Lake trails. A dedicated lane is being constructed for users to continue north by crossing North Central Expressway via the McCommas Boulevard overpass.

Eventually, a suspension bridge will be built over Mockingbird Lane, making for easier access to the Katy Trail and providing longer distances for cyclists’ routes.

Spring is near

2010-02-05T06:22:00.000-06:00

That means that crews will be on the Katy Trail fertilizing to help promote healthy growth on the trees, shrubs, grasses and flowers. The Katy Trail uses organic fertilization methods, which employ ingredients that are a bit fragrant (to put it politely). So if you smell something a little odd on the Trail during the next week or so, just know that it's nature at work getting ready for spring blooms and leaves.

New entrances open on Katy Trail

2010-02-05T06:21:00.000-06:00

Two new entrances to the Katy Trail are now open. The recently completed Beasley Entrance at Hall Street is a sweeping staircase that allows walkers and runners convenient access to the Trail, instead of the scrambling up a hill as before. The lushly landscaped entrance is a gift from the Theodore and Beulah Beasley Foundation.

The Tao of Warren is on the west side of the Trail at Armstrong Boulevard and was dedicated on Jan. 1. It is a dual staircase flanking a round seating wall and plaza. Sarah and Jim Hutcheson with their son Nathan made the naming gift in the memory of their son Warren, who was killed at 19 in a car accident.

During 2009, Friends of the Katy Trail initiated construction on five new entrances called for in the Friends of the Katy Trail Master Plan. These projects cost a total of $2.1 million in private funds that the Friends raised.

New entrances open on Katy Trail

2010-01-22T08:37:00.005-06:00

Friends of Katy Trail elects officers, new board members

2009-12-29T08:20:00.003-06:00

Friends of the Katy Trail board of directors recently elected its 2010 officers and six new board members.

The officers:
Chairman – Philip Henderson
President – Matt Lucas
Vice President – Beth Huddleston
Treasurer – David Demarest
Secretary – Pat Snoots

The new board members are Jayson Bales, Charles Chen, Sherri Conger, Greg Rohan, Joni Rose and Tommy Tucker.

Also, the David Stocks Award was given to Keith Nix. The award is given annually to one board member in recognition of outstanding work for the Katy Trail.

The lights are back!

2009-11-06T11:11:00.003-06:00

Thanks to the generosity of several people and three civic-minded businesses, the 12 Katy Trail lights that were damaged by thieves are operating again. And at no cost to Friends of the Katy Trail or the City of Dallas! Let's shine a light on the people who made this possible.

Balfour Beatty is the contractor currently building Snyder's Union on the Trail. Ty Walton, project manager, offered the help of his electrical subcontractor, Prism Electric, when he heard about the damaged light poles.

Kyle Eastep, an electrician with Prism, quickly got involved assessing the damage. He alerted Blake Combs, the owner of Prism and a frequent user of the Trail, who agreed that Prism would donate its time to get the lights back in working order.

The folks at Prism contacted Graybar Electric, which donated the supplies needed, including a lot of expensive copper wire.

Kyle and a crew of eight electricians then went to work and got the lights back operating again in record time. They also installed stronger tamper-resistant plates on the light poles to deter thieves in search of the copper electrical wire.

Thanks to all of them for their generosity of time, expertise, materials and spirit!

Some Trail light poles damaged

2009-11-04T10:26:00.002-06:00

In an attempt to take copper wire, thieves have damaged nine of the light poles on the south end of the Katy Trail near Reverchon Park. The culprits pried open base plates on the poles to access the wire. The result is that these light poles are not operating. Be aware that some of the lights are not working on the south end of the Trail and avoid that area after dark.

Friends of the Katy Trail is working with the City of Dallas to get the lights repaired as soon as possible.

Trots and Treats Tomorrow!

2009-10-30T10:39:00.000-05:00

The West Village Dog Trot & Treat benefitting The Katy Trail

Saturday, October 31st - 11a.m. to 1 p.m.

An event geared for our furry friends and the people they own. The West Village Dog Trot & Treat will benefit the Katy Trail.

This year, pooches and their people will parade around West Village picking up treats at various boutiques along the way! The fun's just starting when the Trot & Treat ends, we'll have a post-party featuring a canine costume contest, live music, sips, and nibbles for everyone.

Registration at:
http://www.katytraildallas.org/site/PageServer?pagename=fkt_dogtrot_registration

Troy Aikman to kick off membership drive

2009-10-20T20:17:00.000-05:00

Dallas Cowboys legend and sportscaster Troy Aikman will make a special appearance on the Katy Trail from 6-7 p.m. Thursday (Oct. 22) to kick off the first-ever Friends of the Katy Trail membership drive. Join the fun at David's Way, the entry plaza at Knox Street.

In addition to special guest Aikman, there will be refreshments and music by Jayson Bales and the Charmers, who will be selling their new CD with half the proceeds going to Friends of the KatyTrail. Check out a free song download at www.KatyTrailDallas.org.

All weekend Friends of the Katy Trail volunteers will be on the Trail to register news members. All those who join this weekend will receive a cool Katy Trail T-shirt courtesy of Luke's Locker.

Also, Friends of the Katy Trail is having a drawing for exclusive prizes with tickets $20 each or six for $100. They are available from the volunteers during the membership drive or online at www.KatyTrailDallas.org. Prizes include four tickets to a Dallas Cowboys game in a private suite with one parking pass and two American Airlines round-trip tickets to anywhere in the Continental U.S. or Mexico.

Although it is a city park, the Katy Trail is improved and maintained with private funds. Anyone can support the Katy Trail anytime of the day at www.KatyTrailDallas.org or texting Katy to 95495. Memberships start at $50.

Troy Aikman to Kick Off Membership Drive

2009-10-18T12:04:00.002-05:00

Dallas Cowboys legend and TV sportscaster Troy Aikman will make a special appearance on the Katy Trail Oct. 22 to kick off the first-ever Friends of the Katy Trail membership drive. A devoted Katy Trail user, Aikman will be on the Trail from 6 to 7 p.m. that day signing autographs and convincing people to join the Friends of the Katy Trail. He will be at David's Way, the entry plaza at Knox Street.

In addition to special guest Aikman, there will be refreshments and music by Jayson Bales and the Charmers. Friends of the Katy Trail board members and volunteers will be there to register new members and explain how contributions maintain and improve the Trail. The membership drive will continue through Sunday, Oct. 25 with volunteers recruiting new members on the Trail at David's Way, the Thomsen Overlook at Reverchon Park and at Snyder's Union, the new plaza being built between Lemmon Avenue and Carlisle Place.

So join now or renew if you're already a member!

Also, Friends of the Katy Trail is having a raffle with exclusive prizes during the membership drive. Raffle tickets are $20 each or six for $100. They are available from the volunteers during the membership drive or online at www.KatyTrailDallas.org/raffle.

  Prizes include

    · Four tickets to a Dallas Cowboys game in a private suite with one parking pass

    · Two American Airlines round-trip tickets to anywhere in the Continental U.S. or Mexico

    · One-year family membership to the Dallas YMCA

    · Luke's Locker "runner's fanatic" package including a Garmin GPS personal training device and Asics shoes

    · Hockey stick signed by the Dallas Stars players

    · Tickets to a Texas Rangers game

    · Soils Alive organic fertilization

    · Highland Park Animal Hospital services

Friends of the Katy Trail membership contributions pay for the lights, water fountains, off-duty Dallas Police bike patrols and maintenance of the landscaping.

Anyone can support the Katy Trail anytime of the day at www.KatyTrailDallas.org. Memberships start at $50.

Volunteers needed

We need volunteers to help with the Oct. 22-25 membership drive. During the drive, volunteers will be on the Trail talking to folks about how their membership dollars will help improve and maintain the Katy Trail. If you're interested in helping, send an e-mail to Office@KatyTrailDallas.org or call 214-303-1180. The more the merrier!

Gardening with a little help from our friends

Maintaining the landscape along the Katy Trail is a big job. That's why we're very grateful for help from the Heart of Dallas chapter of the National Charity League, a non-profit group of mothers and their daughters serving communities together. Last month, 28 NCL mothers and daughters spent their Saturday on the Katy Trail weeding one-eighth mile of the Trail. That's a lot of dirt.

Their volunteer project started with a "identify the weed" session led by Jim Apken and Amanda Griffin, two members of the Landscape Advisory Committee, a blue-ribbon group of experts lending their expertise to maintaining the Trail's landscape. Helping to the keep the Katy Trail weed-free will be an ongoing project for the NCL volunteers.

"Heart of Dallas NCL is committed to helping the Katy Trail. This is an ongoing partnership," said NCL member Charisse Bradley.

Friends of the Katy Trail board chairman Philip Henderson welcomed the NCL group and told them how as "volunteer gardeners" they are providing a big service to the Katy Trail and the beauty of Dallas overall.

If you know of other groups that may be interested in helping with the gardening along the Katy Trail, let us know by sending an e-mail to Office@KatyTrailDallas.org.

Friends of the Katy Trail Membership Drive

2009-10-13T08:57:00.004-05:00

Join, renew and volunteer Oct. 22-25

Friends of the Katy Trail is launching its first-ever membership drive Oct. 22-25. The objective is to tell Trail users how their support helps keep maintain and improve the Katy Trail, making it the resource they love.

What can you do? Join right now at www.KatyTrailDallas.org or sign up on the Trail during the membership drive. If you’re already a member, renew now.

Want to do more? We need volunteers to help educate Trail users about the benefits of joining Friends of the Katy Trial. Most users don’t realize that improvements and maintenance of the Katy Trail is paid for with private money.

Volunteers will work shifts over that weekend to explain how the lights, water fountains, off-duty police patrols and landscape maintenance are some of the things that just wouldn’t happen if it weren’t for Friends of the Katy Trail. Volunteers will be stationed at three spots on the Trail: David’s Way at Knox Street, Thomsen Overlook at Reverchon Park and Snyder’s Union, currently under construction between Lemmon Avenue and Carlisle Place.

If you want to volunteer, send an e-mail to Office@KatyTrailDallas.org or call 214-303-1180.

Dog Trot & Treat

2009-10-09T18:27:00.001-05:00

More construction on Katy Trail

2009-10-09T17:57:00.001-05:00

Construction has started on yet another new entrance to the Katy Trail. Work began this week on the sweeping staircase that will go from Hall Street to the Katy Trial above. This project is expected to be completed in December and will provide much more convenient access to the Katy Trail than the dirt path that was there.

While work is underway, the construction site is fenced off so please avoid it and get on the Katy Trail at other places.

Possible Rain Contingency

2009-10-06T16:34:00.001-05:00

If you're planning to ride to city hall tomorrow with Bike Friendly Oak Cliff, then you will need to heck in to: http://dallasbikestocityhall.com/ by 6AM on Wednesday morning (October 7th). Bike Friendly Oak Cliff will announce if the ride will be rescheduled due to inclement weather.

DALLAS BIKES TO CITY HALL' ON OCT. 7

2009-10-05T12:59:00.007-05:00

JOIN COUNCIL MEMBER ANGELA HUNT

Anyone who spends any time on the Katy Trail knows that there are plenty of Dallasites who love to ride bicycles. However, our fair city has the not-so-fair distinction of being one of the worse U.S. cities for bicycling (according to one publication). So join City Council Member Angela Hunt and other city officials for a ride to Dallas City Hall to promote greater bicycle awareness.

Wear your Friends of the Katy Trail T-shirt or hat and meet Council Member Hunt at Union Station at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7. City Council members, Park and Recreation Department officials, Bike Friendly Oak Cliff members and bike lovers will then ride along Young Street to City Hall.

At the completion of the ride, the city's new bicycle coordinator will be introduced and new initiatives that embrace “complete streets” policies will be unveiled. Complete streets are streets designed to provide access for all users, not just cars.

For more information, visit www.dallasbikestocityhall.com.

As Council Member Hunt's District 14 includes a lot of the Katy Trail, you may be interested in attending her Oct. 12 town hall meeting at Arlington Hall, 3333 Turtle Creek Blvd. On the agenda is Oncor's tree-trimming practices, which often result in trees cut into unsightly V-shapes around electric lines. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m.

Event Announcement: Haute on the Trail

2009-09-24T22:27:00.003-05:00

The Friends of the Katy Trail invite you to Haute on the Trail, a special evening of fun and fashion honoring two great Dallas non-profits, The Friends of the Katy Trail and Texas Next Top Designer.

When:
October 7th, 2009, 6 - 9 pm
Where:
The Travis at Katy Trail
4611 Travis Street at Knox
Dallas, Texas 75205

You and a guest are invited to preview the exciting newly-renovated common areas adjacent to the Katy Trail and tour select residences, including the penthouse.

In addition, 2009 Texas Next Top Designer finalists and associates will be presenting their 2010 Collections throughout the property. (Local designer merchandise and art pieces may be purchased.)

Appetizers will be provided by Toulouse. Wine samplings from Hall Wines. Sake by Ty Ku.

Complementary Valet Parking.

Business, Cocktail, High Fashion or Jogging Attire.

For More information, call 214-219-1700

RSVP by Friday, October 2, 2009
FashionParty@thetravisatkatytrail.com

Parking Update

2009-08-19T11:57:00.001-05:00

The city has fenced off some of the parking at Reverchon Park. The parking lot by the baseball field is still open for public use and Trail users.

The city has informed us that they've closed the parking to install a new waste water line. The construction may last into next year. After the construction is complete, the old parking lot space will be replaced with grass.

We're Going Worldwide

2009-08-11T09:41:00.002-05:00

ABC News Travel did a cool story about Dallas - "Designer Purses and $10 Enchilada Plates," and they just happened to mention your favorite Trail. So while designer purses may not look quite right on the Trail and an enchilda plate will have you wanting to walk it off on the Trail, you can still check out the story and all the other recommendations here.

Oh, and a blog in Kolkata, West Bengal, India picked it up too, so we're well on our way to world trail domination.

Katy Trail Considered One of Dallas' Best Outdoor Activity

2009-08-10T12:56:00.002-05:00

This past spring TravelSkoot, a travel planning Web site focused on the Katy Trail as one of the best outdoor places around Dallas. The video also mentions the Katy 5K Run and the off-duty Police officers that Katy Trail employs. So check out the video, the beauty of the Katy and see what adventures you can plan around Dallas through TravelSkoot.

A bicycle build for ... SEVEN?

2009-08-07T13:37:00.008-05:00

Not much going on at the Katy Trail these days ... well, except for the $1.5 million construction project on the Trail overlooking Lee Park.

So we thought it was a good time to show the picture we have of the bicycle in Prague that seated ... wait for it ... SEVEN people. Yes, seven (7) people. Check it out:

Biking Craze Sparks Creativity

2009-08-07T11:47:00.003-05:00

As concerns about the environment and health increase, many Americans are choosing to bike to their destinations instead of driving. Because of this increase in popularity many biking groups are forming around the Dallas area. Some groups are organized by local bike shops including Fleetwood's Kit Kat, which is just southeast of Southern Methodist University and very close to the Katy Trail. In an interview with the Dallas Morning News Fleetwood predicted that specialized bikes are the newest item. The editor for the new magazine Kickstand agrees. So for a nice Sunday bike ride, check out Fleetwood's and rent your dream bike for a few hours and glide gently down the Katy Trail towards Victory Promenade and the come back to Airline. Check the DMN story for information about biking around Dallas.

Park Cities People reports on construction

2009-07-31T15:35:00.001-05:00

Park Cities People newspaper wrote a story about the Katy Trail construction in its latest issue. Click here to read all about it.

Forms Being Placed for Snyder's Union

2009-07-30T10:02:00.003-05:00

The wood forms that will shape and hold the concrete for the base of the plaza on the Katy Trail overlooking Lee Park are being built now -- well, not while it's raining -- and should be completed by the end of the week. Concrete for the base should be poured sometime next week, barring any more thunderstorms.

Despite all the rain, the contractor on the $1.8 million project, Balfour Beatty Construction, says they have only lost a couple of days work.

The plaza, known as Snyder's Union in honor of the donors Bobbi & Dick Snyder, is still expected to be complete by Thanksgiving. Check out our homepage for a slide show of more construction photos.

Interesting adventures along the Trail

2009-07-27T13:11:00.003-05:00

As summer comes to a close the kids’ summer camps start to end, but they still need something to do. Why not try geocaching? Even if you don't have kids but are looking for some adventure or a way to get to know Dallas and the Katy Trail better, try geocaching. So, what is geocaching?

Under going a revival in the spring of 2000 in Oregon (due to the Internet), geocaching is commonly referred to as a high tech game of hide and go seek. Participants use GPS or other tracking devices to find or hide small containers (caches) all around the world. Once participates have located or hidden the caches they can place the information and stories of their adventures online. Despite the international hunt only gaining in popularity nine years ago, there are over 800,000 cashes world wide. So the staff of the Friends of the Katy Trail thought they would see just what's hiding on the Katy and the surrounding neighborhoods. Check out the geocashing Website to discover all the adventures you can have.

Making the Temporary Trail Safer

2009-07-23T10:22:00.003-05:00

In an effort to help you get past the $1.5 million construction project on the Katy Trail even easier and safer, the Friends of the Katy Trail asked Balfour Beatty, the contractor on the job, to widen the temporary trail a little near the TXU/Oncor tower. That work was completed on Monday, and a center strip was painted to also make it clear to everyone where they should travel around this zone.

The construction area is located between the bridges over Lemmon Avenue (eastbound) and Hall Street. It is scheduled to be completed by Thanksgiving.

Speaking of thanksgiving, thank you to all the donors who helped make this project possible, as well as all the members of the Friends of the Katy Trail who make an annual contribution that helps pay for the lighting and drinking fountains. If you use the Katy Trail, but are not a member, please become one today by clicking here.

Rails to Trail Conservancy named one of the beneficiaries of Brita Climate Ride 2009

2009-07-22T13:19:00.003-05:00

Last year, the first annual Brita Climate Ride took place, starting in New York City and ending in Washington, D.C. The five day, 300-mile ride takes over a hundred riders through the wonderful scenery of America to emphasize how bikes can become an alternate form of transportation. The five day event also has presentations from people who consider the environment something very important. This year's event is held September 26 through 30.

As well as helping the environment the Brita Climate Ride has some exciting news - this year a portion of the money raised will go toward Rails-to-Trail Conservancy which is one of the organizations that helps the Friends of the Katy Trail.

As well getting to meet amazing people and getting to see wonderful places through out our country, the Brita Climate Ride is sponsoring a wonderful group of people to come talk to the participants, including:

Colin Beavan, "No Impact Man": Featured at the Sundance Film Festival in the documentary No Impact Man, Beavan maintains a very popular blog about reducing his impact on the Earth.
Alison Gannett, world champion free skier, Patagonia Ambassador, founder of the Save our Snow Foundation, and star of Warren Miller ski films: In her free time, Alison converted the first solar-powered SUV plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the world to get 100-plus miles per gallon. This amazing athlete and climate-change warrior also leads ski expeditions to Bhutan, Bolivia, India and Pakistan to document climate change.
Josh Dorfman (a.k.a. the Lazy Environmentalist): Dorfman has a new show coming out on the Sundance Channel, and he will also return for his second year to show that he can ride 300 miles without training (!!)

If you are interested in joining people all over the nation for the Brita Climate Ride check out their Website and help spread the message that our climate is constantly changing.

Turf Suffers During Summer Heat

2009-07-22T10:08:00.008-05:00

Just like your yard, the Katy Trail has to deal with keeping our plants looking nice during this summer heat. Although this week has been wonderful with the weather, our plants are still thirsty and tired. Unfortunately, with the heat some of our grass is turning a lovely shade of brown. "Why?" you may ask.

Well, the first thing we check is the nozzles of our sprinkler systems. Sprinklers are spaced out so the water from one reaches another, thus creating an overlap in water and support for the plants. If this goal is not being achieved with the sprinklers, this maybe part of the issue.

A second issue that maybe causing the browning of the turf is a small, black bug called the chinch bug. These bugs have a white or grey spot on their backs and are most commonly found eating the green edges of a brown patch. One of the best ways to control them is with Orange Oil.

A third issue turning turf brown maybe a fungus called Brown Patch. The best way to control this fungus is to water later in the morning so that the ground cover does not remain uncomfortably soaked through out the day. If the fungus as already started to grow, organic fungicide is the best way to help scale it back.

Speaking of bugs, when you are gardening or enjoying nature this month and into the last days of summer, look out for Bag worms in Junipers and Bald Cypress Trees. Also, keep an eye out for leaf spots on roses, lace bugs on azaleas and Boston ivy, and scale on hollies, magnolias and crape myrtles.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans Gain Momentum

2009-07-20T10:02:00.005-05:00

Washington Post columnist Neal Peirce, a prominent journalist and urban thinker, recently focused his column on the need for improved bicycle and pedestrian connections in our cities. The column, titled "Biking and Walking: Our Secret Weapon?" highlighted the need for our country to stop building roads and bridges and instead spend more effort, and money, on building complete streets. Reasons to do so, Peirce said, include:

Addressing the country's obesity epidemic
Cutting down the amount of gas we use
Reducing the amount of carbon we release into the air
Improving the safety of our streets
Making better connections to public transportation

Of course, the Friends of the Katy Trail has been trying to address these issues as well by completing the Trail, making more public access points so more people can use the Trail, and making connections so the Trail becomes a viable option for transportation as well as recreation.

Click here to check out Peirce's full column.

Bench for Don Lucas

2009-07-20T09:57:00.003-05:00

Don Lucas, founder of Luke's Locker and a great supporter of the Katy Trail, recently had one of the benches on the trail reserved in his name by hundreds and hundreds of friends. Don was presented the slat to his bench that bears his name during a little gathering on Saturday that was complete with complimentary champagne for those who attended. Thanks to Isaac Gian, shown in the picture giving the bench slat to Don, for leading the fundraising effort.

The bench is located on the north side of Lemmon Avenue if you want to check it out.

Congratulations Don on a well-deserved thank you from your appreciative friends.

Trellis Construction Begins at Snyder's Union

2009-07-16T14:43:00.003-05:00

The future trellis at Snyder's Union came closer to reality last week when the drilling rig arrived at the construction site overlooking Lee Park, just south of Lemmon Avenue. Drilling will take place all week and should be done by the end of next week. The entire $1.5 million project, generously funded by Bobbi & Dick Snyder and numerous other Friends of the Katy Trail, will feature benches, a three-tiered drinking fountain, easy access from Carlisle Place and numerous other amenities. Construction will be complete by Thanksgiving. Always check the Friends of the Katy Trail's construction update page and blog for the most current information and images of our construction projects.

More pub about the Katy Trail

2009-07-14T10:47:00.004-05:00

The Dallas Morning News published a story on the Katy Trail and our $1.5 million project at Lee Park for the plaza called Sydner's Union, just south of Lemmon Avenue. The article explained to readers how the newest addition will help users of the Trail. To read the whole the article check it out here.

Temporary trail ready for use

2009-07-13T12:59:00.010-05:00

Those of you who have been on the Katy Trail around Lee Park have noticed the beginning of the newest addition to the Trail. Crews have started clearing the shrubbery to begin construction for Snyder's Union, a plaza overlooking the Park below. A temporary trail is in place to take you around the construction and ready for you to use. Snyder's Union is scheduled to finish in November.

Thanks to Bobbi & Dick Snyder, who donated more than $1 million for this project, and all the many supporters who stepped up to help meet their challenge grant.If you have questions about the construction project, please call the Friends of the Katy Trail at 214-303-1180 or e-mail us at office@katytraildallas.org

Katy Trail bridge over Mockingbird

2009-07-13T10:58:00.006-05:00

One of the most common questions we receive at the Friends of the Katy Trail is when the Trail will be extended out to White Rock Lake. We recently picked up the latest rendering of the bridge over Mockingbird that is part of this Katy Trail extension.

Before it gets to Mockingbird, the trail will run through Glencoe Park then between Hotel Palomar and Public Storage before hitting this bridge shows on the left. After crossing Mockingbird, trail users will circle around behind the Mockingbird DART station before following the DART line all the way to the White Rock DART station.

Check out the Friends of the Katy Trail's "Trail Tips" section of our website for more details and answers to all your other Katy Trail related questions.

Trail Removed near Lee Park

2009-07-07T08:38:00.003-05:00

As you can see from the photo to the left, the concrete of the trail was removed late last week in the area around Lee Park where the Friends of the Katy Trail is adding a new plaza named Snyder's Union. The general contractor on the $1.5 million project, Balfour Beatty Construction, has installed a temporary trail around the construction zone. The project is made possible by the $1 million gift from Bobbi & Dick Snyder, as well as numerous donations from other supporters.

Thank you, in advance, for your patience as we continue to make the Katy Trail better for you. Construction should be complete by Thanksgiving. For more information on Katy Trail improvements, check out our Construction Page or our Homepage for details.

Dedo's Place - Construction Slows

2009-07-06T10:37:00.004-05:00

We're not sitting around watching the grass grow. In fact, we're doing quite the opposite -- we're waiting for the grass to die.

Construction of the $200,000 plaza at the north end of the Katy Trail known as Dedo's Place may look like it has stopped; but in reality we've treated the ground with weed killer to get rid of the pesky nut grass that keeps popping up. Once the grass, and any other weeds, are gone, the planting will continue.

Look for construction of the plaza, generously funded by Dedo & Barron Kidd, to be complete by the end of the summer.

Katy Trail Welcome Santa Fe Trail

2009-07-06T10:19:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday, July 1 the Santa Fe Trail opened in east Dallas. Although the trail is just beginning, the Friends of the Santa Fe Trail hope this city trail will one day be a wonderful place for neighbors to enjoy the outdoors. Since the Trail's formal opening, the organization is expecting an increase in use, even as the summer days get warmer. With this increase will come more safety measures for pedestrians on the cross streets, making the journey through the Trail more enjoyable. Ultimately the Santa Fe Trail will connect to White Rock Lake and Deep Ellum allowing for an even stronger network of Trails around Dallas.

For the full story check out Santa Fe Trail on the Dallas Morning News' Web site:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-santafe_02met.ART.Central.Edition1.4c05bd6.html

Lee Park Project Gets Underway

2009-07-03T10:51:00.005-05:00

Construction of Snyder’s Union -- a $1.5 million plaza on the Katy Trail overlooking Lee Park and its beautiful fountain -- began early this week. As you move through this section of Katy Trail between Lemmon and Hall over the next five months, you will notice several changes:

The main trail will be removed and a temporary trail will be built to move you around the construction zone
Fences will be installed to keep you from running, biking or skating into the construction zone
Scrub brush will be removed from the hillside between the Turtle Creek pond in Lee Park and the Katy Trail
Construction crews will establish a staging area at the bottom of the hill between the pond and the Trail
Signs will be posted with a rendering of the finished product as well as donors who helped make it possible

Thanks to Bobbi & Dick Snyder, who donated more than $1 million for this project, and all the many supporters who stepped up to help meet their challenge grant.

If you have questions about the construction project, please call the Friends of the Katy Trail at 214-303-1180 or visit our Construction Updates page.

Tips for Your Dogs in Hot Weather

2009-07-02T11:03:00.004-05:00

After two weeks of near 100 degree plus temperatures, it seems as if we’re already into the warmest part of our summer. Because it feels like Dallas is closer to the sun than any other U.S. city, it's important to consider the stress and strain that warm weather can put on our furry friends who love and use the Katy Trail as much as we do. Here are a few tips for you to keep in mind:

The right time of day for a walk, run or playtime for you pet is in the cool of the early morning or late evening, but never after a meal or when the weather is humid.

Don't let your dog stand on the running trail, which is hotter than the concrete trail. His or her body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn.

Heat exhaustion is often caused by over-exercising or running with a dog during hot weather. Both heatstroke and heat exhaustion can result in brain damage, heart failure or even death in a short period of time. Short muzzled and thick-coated breeds and mixes are particularly vulnerable. Always bring cool water along. To cool off an overheated dog, offer him or her plenty of water, then wet the dog's body and paws with cool water and then fan.

When it’s warm, we are able to sweat and cool ourselves; but our furry friends can only sweat around their paws. In order to cool themselves down, dogs pant. Although this is an effective way for animals to cool themselves, its success rate is limited in confined areas or humid weather. Please pay close attention to your pets at this time of year.

New Trail in Town

2009-07-02T09:44:00.002-05:00

If you happen to be in East Dallas or you're looking to stretch your legs on another great Trail in town, check out the newly opened Santa Fe Trail. Click here to read all about it.

Dog Bag Stations Refilled

2009-07-01T14:02:00.001-05:00

Our trusty intern and one of our fabulous volunteers refilled all the dog bag waste stations with bags. Don't forget to pick up after your pooch!

Construction Delay from McCommas to Mockingbird

2009-06-24T14:40:00.003-05:00

Many of our trail goers have been wondering when the construction from McCommas to Mockingbird is going to be begin. Well, the Friends of the Katy Trail recently received some news as to what is holding up the newest connection. The City of Dallas's plans under went some changes and must now be reapproved by the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDoT). The plans are under review at the local TXDoT district office so everything should be finalized by September 2009. The beginning stages of the construction should start by the end of this year.

Shout Out to Katy

2009-06-18T10:04:00.002-05:00

Vanessa over at Examiner.com recently discovered what you probably know - the Katy Trail is a great place to get some exercise and fresh air. Click here to check it out. Thanks!

A Little Katy History Lesson

2009-06-17T13:45:00.003-05:00

If you'd like to read a brief history of the MKT (aka Katy) Railroad and Katy Trails throughout the Midwest, check out this blog post from Abandoned Oklahoma.

And if you like that kind of stuff, you'll want to read the incredibly dull but historically rich book The KATY Railroad and the Last Frontier by V.V. Masterson.

Selective Clearing to Begin

2009-06-16T16:07:00.002-05:00

Selective clearing has begun in the section of Katy Trail property just off the running path between the bridges over Harry Hines and McKinnon, about half a mile from the Trail’s south end. The intent is to see what’s behind all the scrub brush and overgrown weeds. If there is ample space, the hope is to build a wood deck in this area that could be serviced by a restaurant.

Imagine using the Katy Trail in the morning and stopping in this area for your daily cup of coffee or morning tea. Or imagine grabbing a bottled water and a sandwich here on a lazy afternoon. Who knows, you might be able to return at night for a beer or a glass of wine. Wouldn’t that be nice?

Sandblasting Done at Dedo’s Place

2009-06-16T16:02:00.001-05:00

Construction at Dedo’s Place, the plaza near the north end of the Katy Trail, is in high gear. On June 16, sandblasting took place to give the colored concrete a rougher texture, perfect for skates and bikes to be able to hug the surface. All of the stonework was completed last week. Next up – landscaping. Expect to see that work begin by July 4 and conclude by the end of the month.

The entire project, generously funded by Dedo & Barron Kidd along with gifts from several other major donors, should be done by the end of the summer. Check out the slide show of construction on our Construction Page.

Storms Take Toll on Trail

2009-06-15T09:54:00.005-05:00

Like the rest of North Texas, the storms that whipped through here Wednesday and Thursday took a toll on the Katy Trail. Check out this photo of one of the many trees that tumbled into the Trail's path. Parks was out early Friday working on removing as many of the downed limbs and possible, but it will take them weeks to get to all the affected areas.

There were also a few locations along the Katy Trail where the soil or decomposed granite were washed onto the Trail. The Friends of the Katy Trail has asked our landscape maintenance firms -- paid for by membership contributions -- to sweep the north and south ends that they maintain. Expect to see the grounds crews from both Moore Lawn & Garden and Valley Crest out there on Tuesday to help get the Trail clear of any and all debris.

Katy Trail Welcomes Summer with New Plants

2009-06-11T10:53:00.002-05:00

Summer is almost here so all of our summer colors are planted and we cannot wait for you to see them. But don't feel to bad for the other plants, all of our beds and turf are about to receive their second batch of fertilizer. Speaking of taking care of our plants, unfortunately with summer comes more bugs. So if you are on the trail and you’re taking five or even ten and you happen to see some unwelcome bugs on our plants, let us know. Specific bugs of interest or signs that our plants need help include: bag worms on junipers and Bald Cypress trees; leaf spot on roses, lace bugs on azaleas and Boston ivy and scale on hollies, magnolias and crape myrtles.

Bike Transportation Plan for Dallas?

2009-06-02T10:47:00.002-05:00

Check out what our Executive Director thinks Dallas should do regarding bicycle transportation in Dallas by reading his column that ran in The Dallas Morning News on Sunday. And if you want to see what Fort Worth is doing, click here.

New Stone Benches at North End

2009-06-02T10:34:00.003-05:00

As we moved around the limestones that make up the seatwall at Dedo's Place, the plaza under construction near the north end of the Katy Trail, we ended up with two extra blocks. They became the new seating area at the far north end of the Trail near Airline Road -- a perfect place for you to take five before you head back south down the Trail, or stop to lace 'em up as you get ready to start your first trip. Check 'em out.

Dedo's Place is still on schedule to be finished this summer. The $200,000 project was generously funded by Dedo & Barron Kidd as well as the Ben E. Keith Foundation, Deedie & Rusty Rose, and numerous donations from the employees of Century 21 Judge Fite in honor of Richard Brown. Click here to go to our construction page to get updates and see the slide show of the project in progress. And check that page often for new info.

Dallas Giving Day a Success - Thanks

2009-05-27T11:23:00.003-05:00

A big thank you to everyone who gave $25 to $2,500 to the Friends of the Katy Trail last Thursday as part of Dallas Giving Day. The foundations that made it possible reported the following information from that day:

8,400 donations made
353 organizations received gifts
98 percent of participating organizations received something
More than $4 million given in total to North Texas nonprofits

The foundations estimate it will take 640 man-hours of gift processing to finish all the calculations. Expect to see what the Friends of the Katy Trail raised by the middle of June.

Thanks again to everyone who made a donation to the Katy Trail. We can't keep the Trail clean, safe and beautiful with your support.

Limestone blocks installed

2009-05-20T11:10:00.002-05:00

Last week the limestone blocks were installed that make up the seatwall at Dedo’s Place, the plaza under construction at the north end of the Katy Trail. New colored concrete was also poured, which appears to be darker than the original stained concrete. However, it will lighten in color as it cures and will match the rest of the concrete. Expect to see all the concrete sand blasted later this week or early next. The contractor will also be moving the stones around slightly before he affixes them permanently. That should happen before Memorial Day.

The entire $200,000 project will be done by the end of the summer. Check out the slide show on our construction page for more scenes of this project in progress

Word O' The Day

2009-05-18T16:09:00.002-05:00

While we don't actually have a word of the day feature, we happened to read this one and thought it was a good one to share:

Freiker: a frequent biker. Used in a sentence: There are many freikers on the Katy Trail.

Try inserting that word into a conversation the next time you're at a swanky party.

Info You Need to Know about the Michelob Ultra No. 11 Katy 5K:

2009-05-12T16:41:00.000-05:00

Online race registration is available through midnight on Tuesday, May 12.

Packet pickup is at Luke's Locker (3607 Oak Lawn) through 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13

Race Day Registration will be available starting at 4:30 p.m. at Reverchon Park (3505 Maple)

Parking is available at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children at Maple and Oak Lawn

Race Day Start Times are:

6:10 p.m. - Katy Trail Kids Point-5K Dash
6:25 p.m. - 5K Skate
6:30 p.m. - Run/Walk Begins
6:45 p.m. - Katy's Picnic Opens

For more information email Office@KatyTrailDallas.org or call 214-303-1180.

One Arts Plaza Loves Katy

2009-05-12T13:56:00.002-05:00

Our good friends at One Arts Plaza have made an extensive post on their blog about the upcoming Katy 5k. Thanks One Arts!

If you don't know already, One Arts Plaza is the office/residential high-rise on the east side of the new Arts District in Downtown Dallas. There's been talk that Routh Street, which runs right in front of One Arts, might be redesigned to make it more bicycle and pedestrian friendly. Check out the One Arts Plaza website for more info about this super cool location.

Free Gift Bags for Biking the Trail

2009-05-07T10:37:00.002-05:00

DailyCandy and Fleetwood’s Kit Kat are hosting a bike ride down the Katy Trail to the W Hotel for a private patio lunch benefitting Friends of Katy Trail. It gets even better because you'll get a free gift bag and VitaminWater10 (while supplies last).

Check it out on Sat., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Meet at 5214 E. Mockingbird Ln. Tickets $25 (includes bike and lunch). R.S.V.P. to 214-282-9951 or thefleetster@gmail.com.

"Runners Wanted" Truck Debuts

2009-05-06T09:25:00.003-05:00

Check out the new roving advertising truck that helps promotes the Katy 5K for the Friends of the Katy Trail. It is generously furnished by Rod Collins of Bulldog Mobile Billboards. Thanks Rod! You may see it parked at the lot near the Knox Street entrance, where this picture was taken, or perhaps notice it tooling around the Uptown-Turtle Creek-Oak Lawn-Downtown areas of our fair burg. Hope you like it. We think it rocks. And don't forget to sign up for the Katy 5K, taking place Thursday, May 14 at 6:15 p.m. at Reverchon Park. Click here to register today.

Concrete Fails - Gets Replaced

2009-05-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately for all of us, the world is an imperfect place. That became evident last week when cracks formed in the freshly poured concrete that was installed just the week before at Dedo’s Place, the plaza under construction near the north end of the Katy Trail. So the contractor began removing sections of the concrete that cracked and will replace it later this week.

Despite this setback, and the amount of rain that limits construction, the contractor still believes the $200,000 project will be completed by the end of the summer. Thank you for your patience during this time period that the main trail is closed and all Trail traffic is forced to share the running trail.

You Deserve VIP Treatment

2009-04-30T14:00:00.002-05:00

You wear sunglasses at night to protect your eyes from the flashbulbs of the paparazzi. . . You live on the side of the velvet rope others only dream of going to . . . You always score the best table at the hottest restaurants . . . and you want everyone to know you're a VIP at the Michelob Ultra No. 11 Katy 5K, but how can you do that?

Brand new this year is VIP Registration for $100. Sound steep for a 5K? It's not. It's the best value in town because it includes access to VIP area before and after the 5K with your own catered food and drink, a 2009 Friends of the Katy Trail membership, 5K entry, and a cool, limited edition Katy 5K running hat. As a bonus, it's limited to 150 participants. So sign up today!

D Magazine and Aeon Studio Love Us

2009-04-30T13:50:00.002-05:00

Want a free circuit-training session? Want it at a super cool gym that looks out on the Katy Trail? Good news, you can get that at Aeon Studio. Click here to check out the details from D Magazine.

Did we mention Aeon is giving $50 to the Friends of the Katy Trail for every member who joins this month? Go check it out and our friend Ryan will make sure to pump you up, er, motivate you.

It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's . . .

2009-04-28T14:56:00.002-05:00

The Bulldog Mobile Billboard for the Michelob Ultra No. 11 Katy 5K!

Feel free to wave at the truck and tell Rod thanks for promoting the Katy 5K with his cool mobile billboard truck.

Drinking Fountain Arrives at Dedo's

2009-04-27T11:01:00.003-05:00

The drinking fountain that will be installed at the plaza near the north end of the Trail arrived on the scene last Friday. As you can see by the photo, the fountain is our standard three-tiered one with drinking bowls for adults, children and people in wheelchairs, and pets. The concrete to anchor the drinking fountain will be poured later this week, weather permitting.

Construction of the $200,000 Dedo's Place plaza is expected to be complete by the end of the summer. Go to the Friends of the Katy Trail's construction page for more photos of the project.

Fort Worth Going Bike Friendly

2009-04-23T15:20:00.002-05:00

Fort Worth has rolled out a plan to become a Bicycle Friendly City by 2015. The plan includes making complete streets that are accessible to ALL forms of transportation users -- vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, mass transit, disabled, elderly -- as well as requiring new development to meet city codes for bicycle accessibility and parking. They even plan to (gasp!) remove some parking and replace it with bike lanes and bike parking.

Check out our neighbor to the west's effort to solve their transportation and infrastructure problems and move their city into the 21st century.

Bike Oak Cliff on Saturday

2009-04-17T13:59:00.002-05:00

Our friends at BFOC (that's Bike Friendly Oak Cliff) are having ribbon cutting for the Coombs Creek Trail on Saturday, April 18. Here are the details from their blog:

"The first leg of the paved Coombs Creek Trail has been completed and a ribbon cutting is set for tomorrow morning. We’ll try to arrive around 9ish in the morning, and will probably be riding in a small parade at 9:30 a.m. The trail is located at Kessler Parkway and Junior Drive (on the northwest side of Methodist Hospital). The best way to get there is to take Sylvan Northbound toward I-30. Kessler Parkway is the street before the highway. Go right (east) to Junior. There should be a good crowd out that can point everyone the rest of the way."

Here's a link to their website. KT says "check it out."

Question of the Month

2009-04-15T15:47:00.000-05:00

Last month we asked you what you would spend federal stimulus funds on. The power-brokers down at City Hall must have been listening because the Council approved the submission of a $21 million grant request to finish the Katy Trail-Trinity Strand Trail-Coombs Creek Trail corridor. Now let’s keep our fingers crossed that the Feds like our trail plan, too. The grant will be submitted by the City in late summer.

However, paying the $1 million ransom to Dr. Evil isn’t part of that grant request, so the whole thing may be moot if he’s successful in his quest for world domination. But you were concerned enough to make Dr. Evil the third-most popular answer, and we appreciate that.

Here’s this month’s question:
What are you planning to do for Earth Day and/or Arbor Day this year?

Keep Your Helmet On

2009-04-15T10:26:00.003-05:00

We just received a tip from the Mayor of McKinney Avenue (who knew there was one?) about DPD officers issuing tickets to bicycle riders who are not wearing a helmet. As KT said on a recent answer in the Ask KT section of our website, it is a City of Dallas code that cyclists wear helmets. So be forewarned that DPD can give out a ticket, which comes with a $147 fine.

So unless you're willing to challenge the law, or your head is harder than concrete, we suggest you wear a helmet at all times when on your bike. This goes for inline skates as well.

Report Quality of Life Offenses to DPD

2009-04-14T15:32:00.002-05:00

DPD has asked us to help them identify locations where you consistantly see any Quality of Life Offenses. Here's what Lt. Lewis said in an email to us earlier today ...

"With the weather becoming more pleasant and more daylight to enjoy it, there may be a noticeable increase of quality of life offenses such as panhandling, sleeping in public, public intoxication, homeless encampments and urinating in public. I am seeking your assistance in identifying locations that tend to have a chronic problem with such offenses. Please at your earliest convenience e-mail me with any locations you are aware of that need police attention in the Uptown area."

If you know of any specific locations like this, particularly on or around the Katy Trail, please email Lt. Lewis at ricky.lewis@dpd.ci.dallas.tx.us.

What's Your Fav Trail Event?

2009-04-13T08:59:00.002-05:00

The Rails to Trails Conservancy asked its members that question in March and listed some of the responses on its website this month. Guess what event topped their list? The Michelob Ultra Katy 5K, of course. The RTC site even ran two photos from last year's event. Check it out.

Obviously, you don't want to miss the Katy 5K this year. The annual event takes place Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. If you haven't signed up yet, click here to register online today.

New Construction -- Dedo's Place

2009-04-10T10:42:00.005-05:00

The contractor working on the plaza near the north end of the Katy Trail is digging trenches to install the irrigation line that will add a new drinking fountain to the Trail. Expect to see that work this week and early next. The hope is they will begin to pour the new concrete for the primary trail by then end of the week of April 13. The photo shows the forms that have been put in place to support the stained concrete that is part of the plaza. Expected completion of the $200,000 project is this summer. Remember, always check out the Construction Updates page on the Friends of the Katy Trail's website for more details and additional images of the construction progress.

This is a Freaking Cool Calculator

2009-04-08T16:26:00.003-05:00

In case you were trying to figure out how green you really can go (while even losing some weight) or you're looking to waste some time at the office, check out this super cool calculator that tells you how much you can save by biking to work.

Dallas Police Department Events

2009-04-08T10:54:00.003-05:00

Our friends at the Dallas Police Department sent us an email about two upcoming events that we think you should mark on your calendar. The first is Volunteers in Patrol training on April 11th. Volunteers in Patrol are trained by DPD in order to be a more effective version of neighborhood watch. On April 11th, DPD will teach volunteers how to spot suspicious or criminal activity in their neighborhood. The second event is the Central Patrol Division’s quarterly crime summit, on April 16th.
If you want to learn more information about the events, visit their website at http://www.blogger.com/www.cepatrolcrimewatch.org.

Construction Signs Installed

2009-04-02T11:30:00.005-05:00

Just so you can't miss the location and reason for the big mess on the north end of the Katy Trail, here's a shot of the new signs that were installed on both ends of the construction zone. Sure hope we make that construction completion date despite all this rain.

North End Construction Underway

2009-03-31T09:55:00.007-05:00

The area has been fenced off and the concrete is being removed near the north end to make way for Dedo's Place, the entry plaza at the intersection of McKinney Ave and the Katy Trail. Signs will be installed soon on either side of the construction zone that inform Trail users of the project and expected completion date -- sometime this summer. Check out the photo above of what the mess looks like today after all the thunderstorms last night.

Contrary to what some Trail users are saying, the concrete trail will not be closed off forever. It will open in a couple of months, but will simply be in a stained pattern to help create the space that is the plaza. If anyone tells you the concrete is gone for good, please correct them.

Dedo's Place Construction Begins

2009-03-30T17:00:00.003-05:00

Construction has started on the entry plaza near the north end of the Katy Trail where McKinney Avenue hits the Trail. Last week, the contractor did the saw cuts for the sections of the concrete that will be removed. You may also see the removable metal bollards out of their collars during the day. And very soon, the contractor will be pouring some asphalt to help move people from the concrete trail to the rubber trail just south of the construction zone.

New Bike Store Offers Free Rides on the Katy Trail

2009-03-27T10:57:00.002-05:00

Fleetwood’s Kit Kat, a new boutique near SMU that sells and rents cruiser bikes, is hosting FREE rides on Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Show up early to stake your wheels (we hear hot pink goes fast), then follow him down the Katy Trail to Victory Park where you can grab a snack before heading back.

The boutique itself stocks vintage Western shirts, graphic tees, retro home furnishings, stickers (they’re free!), and homemade cupcakes on weekends. Five percent of proceeds from bike sales and rentals benefit Friends of Katy Trail.

Who knew cruisin’ could be so cool?Fleetwood’s Kit Kat, 5214 East Mockingbird Lane (214-282-9951 or fleetwoodskitkat.com).

Turn out. Take Action

2009-03-26T10:47:00.003-05:00

Be part of Earth Hour on March 28, 2009, 8:30 pm local time.

World Wildlife Fund is asking individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world to turn off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – to make a global statement of concern about climate change and to demonstrate commitment to finding solutions.

Graffiti Goes Away - Again

2009-03-25T16:49:00.006-05:00

So the graffiti gurus who work for the Parks Department -- Mark and Keith -- got rid of most of the graffiti on the Katy Trail last Thursday and Friday. And, as you know from reading the blog last week, they tackled the biggest problem by painting over the Lemmon Avenue bridge. Well, no good deed goes unpunished.

When the guys returned on Monday to finish up, they found the bridge had been hit again, and the dirty little taggers had hit almost a dozen other places along the Trail. Undeterred, Mark and Keith repainted the entire Lemmon bridge -- again. Then on Tuesday, they attacked the graffiti on the Trail with a power washer, using bio-degradable cleaners. By Wednesday, most of the graffiti was gone.

Mark reports that they have helped wipe out graffiti at other City of Dallas parks, and expect to win the battle of the Katy Trail, too. Thanks, guys, for your persistence and help in eliminating this problem.

DPD Working Hard in Uptown

2009-03-24T10:56:00.004-05:00

Two stories of good work by DPD in the Uptown area.

First, on March 17 around 3 a.m. an individual was robbed in the 4000 block of Cole Ave. As he was getting out of his car to go into his home, two suspects approached him with a gun and an ice pick. They took his laptop and drove off. But he got a good look at their vehicle, and its description was broadcast over police radio throughout the city. The suspects were arrested later that morning in northwest Dallas.

Second, because there had been some cars broken into around Gold's Gym, the Central Division conducted an operation in the area. On March 19 around 9:45 p.m., suspects burglarized a vehicle and removed a piece of property that contained a police tracker. DPD was able to track the suspects to the 3800 block of Cedar Springs, and three individuals were arrested.

Getting Your Workout Even in a Tough Economy

2009-03-24T10:18:00.002-05:00

The American Council on Exercise did a survey of its certified fitness professionals, and 48 percent expected gym memberships to decrease in 2009. Aren't you glad you can use the Katy Trail without that monthly fee? (But you should be a Friend of the Katy Trail starting at just $50 a year. Click here to join.)

The Dallas Morning News has an interesting article about other inexpensive workouts. Click here to check it out.

Grafitti on Bridge Goes Bye-Bye

2009-03-20T10:50:00.003-05:00

The City of Dallas Park Department gave us a big hand this week by painting over the graffiti that had defaced the bridge over Lemmon Avenue last weekend. Thank you to all the folks in the Parks maintenance division who helped get rid of this eyesore.

Dedo's Place - Construction Meeting Set

2009-03-18T17:21:00.002-05:00

Valley Crest Landscape Development, the contractor that will build the plaza at the north end known as Dedo's Place, got the notice to proceed from the City of Dallas. So ... the first on-site construction meeting for the entry plaza is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24 at 9 a.m. We're getting close to being fully under construction.

Red Oaks Being Replaced - Today

2009-03-17T11:14:00.002-05:00

The saga of the Red Oaks at Reverchon Park is finally coming to a close ... TODAY. We finally found someone to remove them at no charge. And the Parks Department is standing by to install some nice Vitex shrubs (some people call them trees) as soon as the Red Oaks are gone. That should make Oncor (some people call them TXU) happy.

Please be patient as the landscape activity around the Thomsen Overlook may make it difficult to get past today and tomorrow.

Ever Wanted to be a Chair?

2009-03-17T11:07:00.000-05:00

The Crime Watch Executive Board (CWEB), is a nonprofit organization made up of crime watch volunteers who act as a liaison between members of the community and the Dallas Police Department. CWEB is electing its chairperson on March 18 at 7 p.m. at DPD Headquarters (1400 S. Lamar St).

Directors serve for two-year terms, and the Boards meets monthly. At these meetings, CWEB invites speakers to keep them up-to-date on subjects such as Homeland Security, 911, crime statistics, etc.

CWEB works very closely with the Divisional Neighborhood Police Officers (NPO) and neighborhood crime watch groups. It strives to encourage citizen involvement in these and other volunteer programs. Some of CWEB's goals are:

To identify all crime watch and Volunteers in Patrol (VIP) groups and their contacts for better communication and to target areas for expansion
To increase crime watch groups' knowledge of CWEB
To improve communication with the DPD
To change CWEB's composition to better reflect the crime watch community, including apartments and businesses

If you are interested in being nominated for the Central patrol Chairperson please email Sgt. Dennis Craig at dennis.craig@dpd.ci.dallas.tx.us. If you have any questions call 214-670-4420
CWEB chairperson will be nominated by the crime watch representatives who show up at 1400 South Lamar; police headquarters in the media conference room. There will also be a short crime watch meeting with refreshments provided.

HP to Start Digging Up Dirt

2009-03-17T10:10:00.002-05:00

Here's hoping you have nothing to hide, because the Town of Highland Park will begin digging up dirt on Katy Trail users in the next week or two. OK, seriously, our friends at HP have been making improvements to Abbot Park, adjacent to the Trail, and need to fix the storm drain from the Park into the alley that sits between the Park and the Trail. So they'll be flinging dirt from the Park to the Trail just north of the HP Pump Station by the end of the month. Most of the work will be in the alley, but could impact the Trail. Nothing to fear, though.

Dedo's Place Construction to Begin

2009-03-16T10:23:00.002-05:00

You may notice some pin-flags on the north end of the Katy Trail soon. They'll be marking the site for the construction of Dedo's Place, the plaza connecting the Trail to McKinney Avenue. Demo work should start the week of March 23.

Red Oak trees find a home

2009-03-13T10:15:00.001-05:00

After much hard work done by Todd at SWA and Reuben and Parks, the Red Oak trees on the east side of the Thomsen Overlook have a new home. The company that will remove the trees -- a no cost to Parks or the FKT -- will do their work the first half of next week. So be on the look out for these trees to be removed and replanted elsewhere.

The FKT and Parks will put some new Vitex trees (or shrubs, whichever you think they are) in place of the Red Oaks in the near future.

Reverchon Roundup Cancelled

2009-03-13T09:24:00.000-05:00

The Dallas Park Department has just notified us that the Reverchon Roundup will unfortunately be cancelled for Saturday, March 14, 2009. We all share their concern for the safety of the volunteers and the potential damage to the Park as a result of recent heavy rains with more forecast for tomorrow. The event will not be rescheduled this year.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you next spring! Please feel free to contact Texas Scottish Rite Hospital at (214) 559-7825 if you have any concern.

When is Earth Day?

2009-03-05T14:36:00.002-06:00

Officially, it's April 22. According to the latest City of Dallas newsletter on Stormwater Management (yes, there's a newsletter for stormwater) ... they believe in "Earth Day, Everyday." But if you want info on what's happening on the "official" Earth Day, just click here to link to the City's "green Dallas" website.

Did you know the first Earth Day was on April 22, 1970 and was celebrated by 20 million people worldwide? Neither did we. Thank goodness for the Stormwater Management newsletter. Oh, and here's the website for this City department.