At the White Rock YMCA, it’s all about connections — connecting with the community through programs and services; and helping members connect and strengthen minds, bodies and spirits. Now an effort is underway to connect the Gaston Avenue Y to East Dallas’ recreational hub, White Rock Lake, by way of a pedestrian bridge to the city’s ever-evolving trail system. It’s been a long time coming, says White Rock YMCA Board of Management chairman Richard Vitale. Quite a bit of chatter has taken place about connecting a bridge from the YMCA to the trails, and the idea offers incentives galore for the public and the organization — members could drop off kids in childcare and incorporate a trail run into their workout, for example. Those accessing the trails could take advantage of the Y’s ample parking lot, easing traffic around the lake. Plus, the endeavor, if it came to fruition, would beef up awareness about the YMCA, Vitale says, allowing the Lakewood-area facility to function as a meeting spot for running and cycling clubs, even as a start point for races and fun runs. Vitale’s enthusiasm went beyond talk, says White Rock YMCA executive director Derek Smith. Once Vitale joined the board, he “immediately took action to make the YMCA trail connection a reality,” Smith says. First and foremost would be funding, but board members needed a plan before they could ask for money. Wasting no time, a specific strategy for a pedestrian bridge from the White Rock YMCA to the nearest point along the White Rock Lake trail was hashed out and drawn up. With a “well-thought-out plan” in hand, the board was able to get the attention of public works, and city and county officials — including District 2 commissioner, Mike Cantrell, who promised, and later put in writing, his intention to fund half the project, which could end up costing $1 million once all is said and done, says Vitale.