For many years now, I and my family have gone on many outdoor vacations and, on many occasions, have piled into the car and driven long distances to experience the great outdoors.

It has occurred to me on more than once occasion that we should be doing more to promote enjoyment of outdoor spaces and parks. Our city and counties don't have the funds for these kind of improvements. But recently I have heard a great deal of discussion about how Gold Rush Ranch and Golf Resort will be building free public hiking trails that will finally allow my family to experience the incredible views from this property. I have also heard the project will have new tennis courts open to the public.

My hat is off to the Gold Rush Ranch partners for sticking with the plan of creating new recreation options that everyone can use. These are important to the future of Amador County.