The Trail Access Campaign is dedicated to Safety, Access and Community. This means ensuring that Classic Ridge surrounding neighborhoods are able to get on and off Classic Ridge as quickly and safely as possible. One resolve is to build a new trail from Cherry Street down Ocean Avenue to Ocean Road (via right-of-way). Nicknamed “Cherry Trail” by the volunteers that have dedicated their time and energy to its development, we are now only a few steps away from its approval by the City of Manzanita. This is an enormous achievement in a very short time and we would like to thank our volunteers and the City Council for all their efforts.
THERE ARE THREE KEY ACHIEVEMENTS THAT HAVE LED TO OUR SUCCESS THUS FAR...
First, Funding. In addition to the over 100 plus subscribers to the Trail Access Campaign we have verbal commitments of funding from over 5 businesses and various local families! The trail is slated to be an expense of roughly $10k - $15k and without their financial support this trail would likely never come to fruition. Thank you!
Second, ADA requirements. We were able to address ADA considerations with the State ADA Representative (Helena Kesch, ADA Coordinator) who asserted that we did not have a compliance issue due to the paved roads that are available. Regardless, we will be adding signage to describe these alternative ADA routes -- Which will be the first route messaging of its kind for the City of Manzanita!
Third, Trail design. We have secured one of the most notable trail builders in the state of Oregon (Brandon Tigner) who works directly with Trailkeepers of Oregon and is a resident of Manzanita. He has designed the Cherry Trail with great care bringing years of experience and perspective to this initiative. The design will reflect some of his most recent work which can be seen here. If you are interested in the specific plans please feel free to request them directly at trailaccess@yahoo.com.
WITH ALL THESE ACCOMPLISHMENTS THE CITY OF MANZANITA HAS SOME OUTSTANDING REQUIREMENTS THAT WE WILL ADDRESS...
First, Geotech Survey. While usually required for housing construction, the City has requested a full geotech report as a condition of approval. The cost for this survey is between $3k-$4k. As an alternative we will be suggesting that the City recognize this trail is appropriate for a “geotech exception” (Building code Section 1803.2) which is authorized when adjacent properties (of which there are three) have undergone similar surveys. As an act of good faith we will revisit the trails continuity in six months to address any additional enhancements if needed. If the City is unwilling to accept this as an alternative we will request them to be clear as to what the survey must reveal in order to be approved so we are not investing the communities time and treasure on nebulous requirements. We will recommend they reference the other three geotech surveys as a standard.
Second, Trail continuity. The City has specifically stated the trail must not remove any trees -- which our plans comply with. In addition there have been concerns of erosion which we have also addressed in our trail development plans. Finally, the trail materials will be a combination of 3 sections of steps constructed with 4x8 inch pressure treated timbers and crushed rock on the step/trail surface for added stability.
Third, Public testimony and interest. With over 100 subscribers (and growing) to this Campaign we are confident we can show strong advocacy for the trail.
WE HAVE MADE GREAT PROGRESS BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP. PLEASE MAKE AN EFFORT TO...
First, Encourage people to join our Campaign and subscribe to our website!
Second, Write our Mayor and let him know that you wish to have a trail that is accessible to Classic Ridge in the event of the Tsunami. He may be reached here: mscott@ci.manzanita.or.us
Third, attend the next July 8, City Council meeting online and be prepared to let them know how important this trail is to you! Here is how to attend...
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL WORKSHOP
Wednesday, July 8, 2020 3:00-5:00 PM
Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85265030795
Meeting ID: 852 6503 0795
Password: 756698
Thank you to all that have contributed to this effort. We will be providing an update on the Doris Davis trail shortly!
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