The City of Moline asked for a letter of support to add to the grant application. Sharing the text here since I sent the letter on FORC letterhead:

I am writing to you today to strongly consider the grant application the City of Moline has submitted which seeks funding to assist with removing and replacing the Sylvan Island bridge in Moline, Illinois. Sylvan Island has been significant to our community for many years and loss of island access has been difficult for our community.

Sylvan Island is the former site of a steel mill within the Mississippi River and for years after business left the island, it sat vacant and nature reclaimed the land. The commingling of concrete, steel and vegetation coupled with its convenient downtown location and prime spot along a 50 mile Mississippi River corridor has resulted in a uniquely appealing park venue.

The island has been home to many events (mountain bike races, cross country meets, and adventure races) drawing thousands of people over the years. A popular mountain biking magazine, Dirt Rag, rated Sylvan Island as one of the Top Ten Urban Biking Parks in the nation! Adjacent dams attract eagle watchers in the winter, and fisherman flock to the island most anytime of year. With Augustana College South of the island and Western Illinois University directly East along the Mississippi, the island offers a unique and inexpensive option for students -- many of whom can regularly be seen running or hiking on the island. Picnickers can be seen there on any given nice day. It is exciting that our community has something so unique that it appeals to everyone along the age spectrum!

Not only do our visitors benefit from use of the island, but our businesses benefit from increased commerce brought by Sylvan Island visitors. The island is so centrally located within the metropolitan area that visitors often patronize businesses in the area.

We are proud of the attraction and are heartbroken that the island can no longer be accessed. Sylvan Island is a gem in the heart of the Quad Cities. Please help us to get our island back!