(Photo by Danny Fulgencio)

(Photo by Danny Fulgencio)

Trailblazer

Our city may never be as pedestrian friendly as Chicago or New York, but that hasn’t stopped Jeff Kitner from encouraging Dallasites to get out of their cars and onto the trails. The neighborhood native was recently appointed to Dallas’ Park and Recreation Board. He’s also president of the Friends of Northaven Trail, a volunteer organization that supports the trail through events and beautification. Lately the trail has expanded, with plans for a pedestrian bridge to navigate across Central Expressway and into the White Rock Lake system, thanks in part to the dedicated work of the Friends.

Why is the Northaven Trail so important to you?
I like to be outdoors. I like to be on my bike when there’s time, and it’s not raining. It’s health. It’s connecting with your community. It’s more fun.

What upgrades to the trail are you looking forward to the most?
I’m excited that eventually you will be able to get on Northaven Trail and get to almost anywhere in the city. You can get to a park, get to a rec center, get to a restaurant. It’s an exciting time for trails and transportation connectivity in the city.

If you were in charge of Preston Hollow, what’s the first thing you would do?
I’d ask all the drivers to slow down, especially where you’re supposed to be sharing space with bicyclists. I’d have more bikes, more pedestrian-friendly areas, locate a site for a dog park and add a Tacodeli and Freebirds to the neighborhood.

What are a few things that surprise people about you?
I have a Corgi, who we rescued from a shelter. I’ve always been fascinated by geography, directions, maps. I feel like in a challenge, I could identify zip codes and streets up there with anybody. I love to travel.


Interview edited for clarity and brevity.