Kirkland has been my beloved home for 21 years now. Having come from South Carolina by way of New Hampshire and Texas, I value the opportunity our climate offers to have year round outdoor sports availability. I feel so blessed to live in a city that offers the luxury of a non-motorized transportation option. This is my home, and I live close to the new bike trail using it two to four times weekly for commuting, grocery shopping, exercise, and community building.
The non-motorized Cross Kirkland Corridor has been an amazing addition to our dear hometown of Kirkland. Wow! when Kirkland does it, we do it right. You have made the trail a truly enjoyable place to spend time. I remember in the beginning when it was dangerous to even walk on the large stones that made it up. I continue to encourage my Woodinville and Bellevue friends to “do their part” and make this trail all it can be by connecting our cities.
CKC is Kirkland’s 5.75 mile longitudinal park serving our community as a recreational and non-motorized trail connecting our neighborhoods, schools and parks. There are even incredible wine tasting/art gallery options along the Totem Lake portion of the trail, which allow a little imbibing without the driving – brilliant. Our trail is lined by a 50-foot greenbelt on either side, with thoughtful and important signage reading, “Environmentally Sensitive Area.” Would motorizing really protect our sensitive area?
Kirkland City Council members, I truly feel if you are using this trail, you would not even consider trying to “motorize it.” Get out there and enjoy it. Why spoil a good thing? Our non-motorized corridor will one day be Kirkland’s biggest selling point. We are headed for greatness. Don’t let short-sided planning ruin a long term vision. We want to grow old here in Kirkland and stay physically fit and healthy, and this trail can be part of that. You are wise, that is why we elected you and placed our trust in you. Please don’t let us down. Preserve this unique amazing trail for our grandparent, parents, children and their children.
Constance Ballou, Kirkland
