Yesterday was a perfect day of Spring, straight from heaven! Blue skies, warm temperatures and a very mild wind. Wanting to capitalize on this rare moment, I suggested to my husband that we take a walk. We drove the short distance from our house to the newest jewel in Inver Grove Heights: the Rock Island Swing Bridge. There were only a few other folks out this day, also taking in the sights. Folks here are a friendly lot, eager to share smiles and stories. While my two little dogs were making friends with a Boston terrier named "Oreo," we chatted with "Oreo's" owner for a bit, then continued on. I was struck once again, as I am almost every time I come to this place, of the majesty of the river, the beauty of the surrounding vegetation, as well as the awesomeness of the fact that this park is here only because of our representative, Joe Atkins and the efforts of so many other folks, whose names are inscribed on a large chunk of limestone at the bridge's entrance. It is due to their love of this area, our city and the many people, past, present and future who will also partake in this place, that it is here at all. Indeed, back in 2005, I came to this very spot to ponder a major life decision. Back then, it was a rundown, seedy place, with a tollbooth that had been crushed and desecrated by graffiti, with dirty condoms and broken glass everywhere. I walked through overgrown vegetation and wandered onto the bridge, staring out at the fall foliage, trying to make up my mind about this new life choice that I needed to make and I recognized the potential even back then that this bridge would have. Now, almost eight years later, my decision was a very good one, as my life has changed in ways I never could have imagined then. In fact, at that time, my life was in as sorry a state as the bridge had been! Hats off to the many who have made this place so grand; both the ones who worked behind the scenes as well as the ones who enjoy it and who WILL enjoy it in the years to come! If you haven't visited it, just take Concord Blvd. to 65th St E. make a turn to the east and drive about a half mile to the end of the road, park in the lot and take a stroll to the bridge. You will be so very glad that you did!
