An over $2 million bike path in Marysville is a step closer to reality, but not without some controversy. Marysville City Council Monday voted six-to-one to accept grants from several statewide organizations to complete a section of the regional Bridge to Bay trail network along River Road.
Currently, bicyclists and pedestrians share the road with vehicle traffic. The preliminary plan is for a separated bike path along the two way section of River Road between the cemetery and Mack Avenue. Along the one way section of River Road between Mack and Davis, the path will consist of a dedicated bike lane with flexible delineators separating it from the roadway. Mayor Hayman says the proposal will increase safety along the corridor.
“It’s (currently) very narrow, there’s not a lot of room, and there’s a lot of traffic that goes down there,” said Hayman. “If you had a stroller or were on a bike with kids, it’s scary.”
Some residents were concerned about landscaping that was placed in the right of way, with Hayman saying anything removed for the bike path will be either relocated or replaced at no cost to property owners. She adds that the entire project will take place within the city owned right of way and will not infringe upon private property.
The third section of the project will consist of a bike path that will be built along Davis Road between River and Busha Highway, where it will then connect with an existing portion of the Bridge to Bay trail.
