Pathways proposal focus of planning, parks and rec meeting

The latest version of the trails plan, now referred to as the Unified Pathways Master Plan, was the focus of a meeting Tuesday that brought together members of the Planning and Parks and Recreation commissions to hear about the plan and what residents think about it.

Most of the 40 attendees were delighted that so many interests could be taken into account and included in one document, though some people had various ideas for improvement.

One of the first residents to address the commissioners was Bill Schulz. He wanted to have the proposed path running through his family's land on the south end of the city removed because the map might be "inviting trespassers," he said.

He said running the path through nearby federal land would provide "a better view" and directs people toward open-space areas.

Sharon Arnold, who lives on Old Clear Creek Road, said she's worried someone will be injured while cycling there. It's a private road and not as wide as it used to be because of wear and tear, she said.

Road residents are considering closing the road because of safety concerns and liability responsibilities homeowners could incur.

"It's better not to advertise that this road is a great place to ride," she said.

The map states that specially designated paths are only proposals and that documentation doesn't imply access, said Vern Krahn, the city's parks planner.

Phillip Harrison addressed business-owner concerns about a proposed bicycle path along Arrowhead Drive near the city's industrial zone.

"Truck and auto traffic can be very heavy at times," he said. "This is not a scenic route."

He said cyclists who commute to work in the area are one thing, but additional riders or, "encroachment of the public," could cause problems.

Other comments focused on such areas as making certain the city ensures the routes are scrutinized using the same standards as streets for automobiles, that care be taken when creating routes for youths to travel to and from school, and that street crossings receive special attention.

Residents can review the plan at the Envision Carson City Web site, www.CarsonCityMasterPlan.com, under "What's New" or contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 887-2262 for details.

Last week, the city's Parks and Recreation Department completed the nearly 70-page draft plan for cyclists, pedestrians, equestrians, roller-bladers, skateboarders and others, whether they use foot trails, bicycle paths and other paths for fun or as necessary transportation routes.

Originally, city officials sought to compile three different reports: a bicycle plan, an Eagle Valley trail system plan and one for pedestrians. Instead, they combined the three reports.

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.