I am one of many Ironton residents who really miss being able to walk on the high school track. It has been locked up since last fall, when the resurfacing project began.

The gate was unlocked for a few days last month and the walkers were back. We can attest that the new surface is wonderful, especially for older walkers and joggers in need of low-impact exercise.

When the gates were locked again, I called the athletic department at the high school. I was told that work on the track wasn’t quite finished and that people riding bicycles and pushing strollers had been observed, activities that damage the costly improvements that have been made.

I certainly understand the point; I’ve seen strollers and bicycles on the track many times. It makes sense to want to protect a costly investment in a facility in which we all feel a great deal of pride.

It’s unfortunate that the careless behavior of a few people must result in the loss of something so important to so many. I walk on sidewalks and streets now, as do many of the people I used to see regularly at the track.

Ironton sidewalks are crumbling and uneven, and our streets are full of holes, treacherous surfaces for residents who are determined to exercise outdoors every day.

It would be great if some accommodation could be made for people who need a safe place to walk or jog outdoors, and who are willing to abide by the rules.

Those daily laps around the track were extremely important to the health and well-being of quite a few Irontonians.

Abby Fowler Ironton