The Recreation and Connectivity Task Force has been exploring the desire for a trails network in Smithville. This group sees the current and potential trails network as a key part of the future ‘value proposition’ of Smithville as a community. Task force survey results also include:
“How should the trails network in Smithville develop, and what are the critical sections that should be completed in the next few years?”
- There is desire for an ambitious trails program, with 60% of Taskforce wanting a full connected internal system within next 5 years, and the balance within 5-10 years.
- In terms of the design, 53% of task force wanted Smithville to be thinking very Bold – ‘think big and out of the box – create something unique’
- 56% want complete separation of trails from road network; with 44% wanting ‘Complete Streets’ approach (which is protected integrated bike and pedestrian lanes)
- Most people saw the trails mainly for recreation, with walking / running and biking; and connected to main community nodes of lake, downtown and schools.
A completely connected network of trails away from the road, that would lead from all major trails into downtown and back would be incredible! I live in Harborview and would love one day to be able to access downtown by running or biking with my family in a safe way. I do not prefer to have bike lanes on the street as I do not view this as safe, especially for families.
Clean up the trails we already have for starters. Some trails are not paved that would good if all were paved. Bike lanes on public roads not a good idea for obvious reasons. Making the trails intersect to lead to downtown sounds good, but at what cost? How would you connect the trails that are opposite sides of the lake???? Maybe some lighting but I don’t know if that would be cost effective. Maybe more signs for people to able call rangers for help letting the rangers know where they are. Again it always comes down to money.