in orange, would be opened to bike access.
(Download full map PDF here)
Portland Parks and Recreation has just published their Forest Park Singletrack Cycling online comment form. The form includes the list of 12 proposed actions to improve and expand bike access in the park and a list of management actions that focus around methods of enforcement. Along with the form, a map labeled with the proposed actions is also now available online (PDF).
The management actions are included because, “the committee felt strongly that any increase in activity would need to be also supported by an increase in resources, enforcement, and commitment to the park.”
This comment form will be available for only two weeks, so make sure you weigh in soon. You must register on the City’s website (which is very easy and fast) before you can view and fill out the form.
As reported earlier today, feedback gleaned from this comment form will help the Forest Park Singletrack Cycling advisory committee decide on a final set of recommendations that they’ll forward to Parks Commissioner Nick Fish and Parks Director Zari Santner.
Here are some highlights of the 12 proposed actions:
- Open Tolinda Trail and Gas Line Road to cycling (a total of 1.45 miles).
- Widen the shoulder on Skyline Blvd. between Firelanes 3 and 5 to “create safer route for park users”.
- Build a new, 2 mile long trail parallel to Leif Erikson Road that would connect a new trail near the Yeon Ave. trailhead with the Thurman Gate.
- Improve Firelanes 1, 3 and 5 by narrowing them and realigning the existing road. New turns and switchbacks would be added to create the illusion of singletrack. (Note: It remains to be seen whether the Fire Bureau will sign off on this due to the potential of impeding their access to the roads.
Absent from this list is trail-sharing on Maple and/or Ridge Trails. The committee explored this option, but because they were unable to reach consensus on it the idea is not on the list. I learned at the open house last night that it’s possible Commissioner Fish and/or Zari Santner will add trail-sharing in these locations back to the list before the package of proposals is finalized.
Parks also notes that a wildlife survey will be completed before any action is implemented.
Share your thoughts on this issue by filling out the comment form and survey. Read more about this issue in our archives.