Bikers, hikers, paddlers, runners, horse riders, fishing enthusiasts, beach strollers, sand castle builders and “anyone else who explores Island County with their hands and feet,” are invited to a second round of county meetings about biking, hiking, paddling.
You get the idea.
Updated presentations on a trail system that follows Whidbey’s main corridor, known as the 2006 Non-Motorized Trails Plan, will be given at several locations in June. The first open house is 5:30 p.m., June 12 at the Coupeville Library.
Over the winter, at the first round of meetings, maps rolled out on tables became dotted with colorful symbols indicating walking, biking, horseback riding and boating. These were sites that people pinpointed as possible places for recreational pursuits.
County planners reviewed the suggestions.
“The most popular activity, at this point, appears to be walking,” said Brian Wood, Island County Public Works transportation planner.
“People like to walk along roads, down trails and on beaches, and they are hoping to see new opportunities for safe and connected routes.”
An ambitious goal of building a biking and walking trail along the entire length of Whidbey Island from the Deception Pass bridge to Clinton’s ferry dock, known as “Bridge to Boat,” is part of the non-motorized trail system concept. It would follow the main highway and keep bikers and hikers out of the path of motor vehicles.
The trail is being built in sections as right-of-way clearance and funding allows.
Segments of the paved trail roll alongside State Highway 20 near Coupeville. Construction is underway at the first South Whidbey section near Freeland; a third section from Ken’s Corner to Clinton could be completed in three years, Wood said.
“We are seeing a lot of interest in our trails plan update,” Wood said.
Maps show details of possible additions to hiking, biking and beach areas that Whidbey Island residents suggested last year. More input is being sought at county meetings this June. Photo by Patricia Guthrie/Whidbey News-Times
Residents look over maps for possible additions to hiking, biking and beach areas on Whidbey Island during public meetings this winter. A second round of meetings take place in June on the non-motorized trail plan. Photo by Patricia Guthrie/Whidbey News-Times
