Action Line: RAF Feltwell runners in need Published March 11, 2011 By Col. John T. Quintas 48th Fighter Wing commander ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- QUERY: Being a keen runner (albeit a rather slow one) I wonder if I might respectfully ask you to consider putting in an off-road cinder jogging path around the perimeter at RAF Feltwell to keep runners safe from vehicles? Currently, runners must use the roadways and pavements for their runs around the base. During weekly PT sessions, I see runners jogging on the roads and pavements, as do civilians and military members running in their own time. The risks of injury by jumping from road level then back up to pavement level and so on is a concern, and running on these surfaces isn't good for the joints. Being on roads also makes the use of use music devices dangerous, and while I prefer to run without music, I think I'm in a minority on that, and runners could use these devices on a separate dedicated jogging path. Keeping personnel off the roadway is especially important during the times of year when it the daylight hours are shorter, and also there is increased traffic on base due to the construction of the new homes. When people start to move into their new homes here in the future some of them may like to use a new jogging track. I believe this path will help improve fitness amongst military members and the civilian workforce. Running is so good for you and it can be a lifelong fitness habit. It would surely boost the morale of the RAF Feltwell community and add to the facilities here. I hope that you can consider this request and thank you for your time. REPONSE: Thank you very much for submitting the excellent idea of constructing a jogging trail on RAF Feltwell. I am always pleased when a member of our team takes the time to submit ideas that may improve the quality of life on our installations. Your suggestion is very relevant with today's culture of fitness excellence. I forwarded this project idea to my Base Civil Engineering team. They will conduct initial planning and submit it to the upcoming Facilities Board Working Group where it can be prioritized for funding. Times are tough for new projects, so I wouldn't expect us to break ground soon. But for all the reasons you mentioned, I hope that we can make it a reality. ******************************************* The Action Line is your direct link to the commander for complaints, suggestions or comments. It's not intended to replace the chain of command. When normal command agency channels haven't been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, e-mail Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil , send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215 APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1063). You may remain anonymous; however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address. Names are confidential.