David Kay, President, Interfaith Council of Central Florida

Last week: DOWNTOWN TRAIL Imagine being able to walk, bike, or drive safely from I-4, through downtown Orlando, past Lake Eola Park, through Thorton Park, and up in the milk district. It’s a two-mile straight that passes parks, schools, and historic neighborhoods. That’s the story that broke last week about a plan by city and state transportation offices to revamp Robinson Street between Hughey Avenue and Crystal Lake Drive. Bike lanes, spacious sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian-friendly landscaping, and more. In a city with one of the highest rates of pedestrians being hit by cars, this is a welcome and much needed change.

Look forward: CHANCE TO VOTE Monday, July 25 is the last day to register to vote in the August 23 primary elections. It may be tempting to ignore the primaries as early conclusions, but that would be a mistake. Not only do they determine who is on the ballot in November, but they also shape local and county government. Even if you’ve already registered, be sure to confirm your “active voter” status by going to https://registration.elections.myflorida.com/en/CheckVoterStatus/Index and entering your first and last name and the date. of birth.