King County Parks’ ongoing work to improve trails and other amenities in Big Finn Hill Park continues with a public meeting, Thursday, June 20 in Kirkland.

Set for 7-8:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Finn Hill Junior High School, 8040 NE 132nd St., the meeting will resume the county’s community outreach as part of a comprehensive trail planning process for Big Finn Hill Park.

King County staff held two public meetings in 2012 to collect public feedback on trail and park management issues, then formed the Big Finn Trails Committee for weekly meetings. The committee has acted as the advisory group to King County Parks, and is composed of Finn Hill neighbors, park users, hikers, mountain bikers and dog walkers.

Based on input gathered at the two general meetings, the committee identified numerous themes and trail issues that have served as key focal points of the committee’s agenda.

The June 20 meeting will include updates on these short- and long-term trail plan recommendations, including:

· Trail mapping and inventory,

· Trail maintenance,

· Trail uses, layout and design,

· Juanita Drive crossing,

· Dogs on trails,

· Engaging youth,

· Trail connection to O.O. Denny Park,

· Access and parking, and

· Beaver management.

At 220 acres, Big Finn Hill Park contains 3.5 miles of trails for hiking, running, wildlife viewing and other activities. The county’s trail system connects to seven miles of trails at the adjacent Saint Edward State Park.

The county’s goal is to produce a clear and concise trail plan that insures continued hiking, biking and running opportunities for park users of all ages and abilities.

For information on the trail planning process, contact David Kimmett in King County Parks, 206-263-7159, or david.kimmett@kingcounty.gov.