LAKEPORT >> A grant application that would fund the Phase II construction of the Forbes Street Trail at Westside Community Park was unanimously approved by the Lakeport City Council this week.
If approved by the California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR), the grant will total approximately $600,000 and would require 12 percent in matching funds from the city — or $72,000.
Phase II of the project includes extending the trail current endpoint to intersect with Westside Park Road. Included in the proposal are the development of trailhead facilities, such as parking lots or staging areas, benches, signage and drinking fountains, according to Lakeport Special Projects Coordinator Richard Knoll. All of these are eligible for grant funds.
“Landscaping is generally not going to be funded except for that needed to prevent erosion and trail degradation,” Knoll added.
Erosion control and groundcover are also included in the project proposal.
“I think this is another step in a community asset that really pays off over time,” Knoll said. “There are lots of benefits in terms of recreational activities and community health.”
The trail will be compliant with the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) and open for all uses including hiking, biking and horse riding.
During public comment Lakeport resident Wilda Shock said that benches, bicycle racks and other amenities could potentially be provided by the community as memorials or donations. Knoll agreed and said that anything donated or paid for as a memorial by the public or business can be counted toward the city’s matching funds.
Additional expenses associated with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) environmental review of the proposed project may be incurred, Knoll said. In the event of additional expenses, staff will bring a specific proposal for the review to the council at a later date.
This is the third addition to the park in as many months, with the council unanimously approving the addition of a disc golf course in June, as well as a handball court in July.
Contact J. W. Burch, IV at 900-2022.
