(Atlantic) Dave Chase, President of Nishna Valley Trails and a retired attorney, says the organization continues to push forward on two main priorities. As reported earlier this week, one key goal is to be incorporated into Atlantic’s comprehensive plan, with the vision of linking recreational and bike trails to all 10 city parks.
“The broader goal,” Chase explains, “is to eventually connect Atlantic with the T-Bone Trail,” a major regional route.
Chase emphasized the need for the City of Atlantic and Nishna Valley Trails to enhance the visibility of local trail connections. This includes installing signage to guide cyclists through town. However, linking to the T-Bone Trail remains a longer-term challenge, with about three miles of trail still needing development.
According to the Iowa Bicycle Coalition’s January 2025 Economic Impact Study, Iowa boasts over 2,000 miles of multi-use trails. Around 900,000 Iowans ride bicycles annually, with 350,000 cycling at least twice a month. The study estimates biking and trail use contribute $1.4 billion annually to Iowa’s gross state product and support over 21,000 jobs, mostly in retail trade.
Chase says the efforts to connect all city parks and complete the unlinked stretch of the T-Bone Trail align with broader redevelopment projects in Atlantic. These include 144 new housing units, an expanded YMCA, and a new childcare center for up to 300 children.
“If we don’t invest in these amenities in Atlantic,” Chase warns, “we risk becoming like many other small communities—we’ll dry up.”
Founded in 1992, Nishna Valley Trails is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the development, construction, and promotion of multi-use recreational trails in Cass County and surrounding areas. The organization cites benefits to public health, community well-being, and economic development.
