facebook-pixel

Letter: Renaming the well known Burr Trail after Trump is beyond any rational person’s imagination

(Erin Alberty | Tribune file photo) The Burr Trail switchbacks in Capitol Reef National Park is pictured Oct. 4, 2015.

The Garfield County Commission is proposing to rename the Burr Trail after his majesty, Donald Trump.

Changing the name of the Burr Trail is similar to the disastrous attempt years ago to change the name of the Delta Center. After several name changes, regardless of its sponsors, the Delta Center was always known as the “Delta Center” by not only locals, but also the millions of out of state visitors who had been there for various events.

The Burr Trail is no different. Garfield County has been the host to millions of both local and out of state visitors who have relished the scenic beauty of Highway 12 between Torrey and Bryce Canyon, and the majestic views along the adjacent Burr Trail. I have personally led hundreds of local and out of state motorcycle enthusiasts throughout Garfield County. Locals frequently encourage visitors not to miss taking the side trip along the Burr Trail. It is so popular that it is now found on most maps, paper and electronic gps, as a “must see” destination when passing through Boulder. Changing the name would be confusing and frustrating for those who have only heard of the Burr Trail and are trying to locate it while mapping their visit through Garfield County.

Imagine the confusion and frustration for map makers that President Trump is now creating by his misguided selfish attempt to renaming the Gulf of Mexico, stealing the Panama Canal, purchasing Greenland, and suggesting Canada be our 51st state. These are nothing more than mafia boss land grabs to honor himself, not the people affected. Why the Garfield County Commission thinks it is wise to honor a man who is so self-centered and has created the largest division in American history is beyond any rational person’s imagination.

Fred Champneys, Sandy

Submit a letter to the editor

Help The Tribune report the stories others can’t—or won’t.

For over 150 years, The Salt Lake Tribune has been Utah’s independent news source. Our reporters work tirelessly to uncover the stories that matter most to Utahns, from unraveling the complexities of court rulings to allowing tax payers to see where and how their hard earned dollars are being spent. This critical work wouldn’t be possible without people like you—individuals who understand the importance of local, independent journalism.  As a nonprofit newsroom, every subscription and every donation fuels our mission, supporting the in-depth reporting that shines a light on the is sues shaping Utah today.

You can help power this work.