April 25, 2008

Position on the Proposed Bridge over Lagunitas Creek

The Giacomini Wetlands Restoration Project has been receiving a lot of attention in the press as of late. This is due to both the sensitive environmental nature of the project, and most recently, the discussion of placing a bridge over Lagunitas Creek. The Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC) supports the bridge option, and we encourage local residents to come to the public meeting at the Dance Palace on May 14 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM to learn more.

This new public process provides an opportunity to present a "fresh look" at the alternatives and options for getting people safely between Point Reyes Station and Inverness Park on foot and on bicycle.

The MCBC sees the proposed bridge primarily serving local residents, and we support a bridge designed to retain the rural character of West Marin. We do not expect out of town cyclists to seek this short pathway out; the vast majority of recreational cyclists riding the roads will want to stay on the roads because they are the most direct routes to their destinations.

Local residents who travel by foot and bicycle know that there are significant dangers to using the roadway - due mainly to narrow shoulders and fast-moving traffic. Providing an alternative to the road shoulder for cyclists and pedestrians would provide an important and safer alternative to the current travel route. It is important to note that when the temporary dam was in place, local residents regularly used it for both transportation and recreational trips.

MCBC has been involved with the Giacomini Wetlands Restoration Project since 2002. Our position has always been focused on working with the community to provide safe passage of bicyclists and pedestrians through the project area. The National Park Service mission includes providing safe and equitable public access that this path and bridge will provide. We see the bridge as an important non-motorized transportation connector between West Marin villages that will make the route safer for local residents of all ages and abilities.

Last updated May 2008