OLYMPIA – February 17, 2016 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission invites the public to help plan for the future of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail in eastern Washington through a series of public meetings.
Because the trail spans such a distance, State Parks has scheduled two initial meetings that will cover the same topics. The first meeting is 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, at the Cheney City Hall Auditorium, 609 2nd Street, Cheney. (Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/H8HrZuU2F6v). The second meeting is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, in Room 137A of the Student Union and Recreation Center at Central Washington University, 400 E. University Way, Ellensburg. (Directions: http://www.cwu.edu/facility/campus-map).
These meetings are the first of two rounds of public meetings in which State Parks staff will gather information and comments from the public that will help lead to a long-term plan for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. At these meetings, State Park staff will have a presentation followed by a breakout session to collect public comments on a range of trail-related issues, including noxious weed and vegetation management, trailhead and camping opportunities, fencing and trail-use permits. To view a map and get more information about the John Wayne Pioneer Trail planning project, visit http://parks.state.wa.us/979/John-Wayne-Pioneer-Trail-Planning. The public may provide written comments at the meeting, online or by contacting Randy Kline, Parks Planner, (360) 902-8632 or randy.kline@parks.wa.gov.
Background
The John Wayne Pioneer Trail section undergoing public planning is part of the Iron Horse State Park Trail that extends 285 miles from North Bend to the Idaho border and comprises most of the former Milwaukee Road Railroad corridor. The eastern portion of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail begins on the east side of the Columbia River and extends 175 miles east to the Idaho border. In winter 2015, State Parks began working with a 12-member advisory committee to produce a plan to address management and recreational use issues on this section of the trail. The advisory committee members represent an array of trail interests, including:
- Adjacent landowners
- Tekoa Trestle and Trails Association
- Agriculture
- Tourism and economic development
- Natural resources
- Historic and cultural resources
- Hikers/walkers
- Cyclists
- Equestrians
- Utility provider
Planning for the 110-mile western portion of the Iron Horse State Park Trail from Cedar Falls (near North Bend) to Beverly Bridge on the west side of the Columbia River was completed in 2000. In 2014, State Parks completed planning for the 35-mile section of railroad corridor between Malden and the Idaho border.
State Parks has completed more than 100 land-use plans for parks around the state, through its Classification and Management Plan (CAMP) public process. The CAMP process addresses issues such as day-use and camping opportunities, overall visitor experience, natural resources and other topics of interest to the community.
Note to media: For a higher resolution image of the planning area map, please contact Randy Kline.
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
Follow Washington State Parks:
Share your favorite state park adventure on the State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
Support state parks by purchasing your annual Discover Pass today, and enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun on Washington’s beautiful state-managed recreation lands. For more information, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Media contacts:
Randy Kline, (360) 902-8632
Virginia Painter, (360) 902-8562
Wash. Telecommunications Relay Service: (800) 833-6388
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