A map of White Salmon’s proposed Bluff Connector Trail, along with pictures of what the different features could look like. With its engineering partners, the city is currently studying whether the project is feasible.Â
A map of White Salmon’s proposed Bluff Connector Trail, along with pictures of what the different features could look like. With its engineering partners, the city is currently studying whether the project is feasible.Â
WHITE SALMON — More than 40 people came to White Salmon’s City Council Chambers on Oct. 10 to ask questions and learn more about the proposed Bluff Connector Trail, a steep-grade, pedestrian corridor linking Jewett Boulevard with State Route 14 through a series of stairs and walkways, during the project’s second open house.
Along with Harper Houf Peterson Righellis (HHPR) and Columbia West Engineering, the city is currently assessing whether the project is possible, both structurally and financially, through a feasibility study funded by Washington’s Department of Transportation. While the project’s cost, design and timeline aren’t yet determined, the city is seeking public input.
Back in the late 1800s, a 652-step wooden staircase brought residents down to the Hood River Bridge, but a 1950s bluff fire burned the last remnants. This time around, the city’s looking to add more viewpoints and walkways, and maybe even a pedestrian bridge over Dock Grade Road. They’ll also use non-combustible materials, of course.
On average, 3,000 cars drive through downtown White Salmon every day, so the trail could help reduce traffic congestion and enhance pedestrian safety. With greater accessibility and water connections every 200 feet, the trail would also make wildfire mitigation efforts much easier. Apart from a viewpoint near the top, however, folks with wheelchairs or other devices to assist with walking likely won’t be able to use most of the trail.
The City of White Salmon and its partners expect to have the feasibility study complete by the end of this year. The city will host a second stakeholder meeting on Nov. 14 in its chambers, and if you wish to comment on the trail, please visit www.whitesalmonwa.gov/planning/page/bluff-connector-trail-community-open-house.
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