Leaders of Pierce County and the cities of University Place and Lakewood have agreed to work together to develop a trail through the scenic Chambers Creek Canyon.
The two cities have already approved the agreement. With the Pierce County Council’s unanimous approval on May 26, the three entities agree to collaborate on seeking grants and other funding sources to plan and build a recreational trail.
“The property borders our respective jurisdictions, and it would be very expensive for any single entity to construct all on its own, so this resolution allows us to join forces and build something great for our residents,” said Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy. “We have such a wonderful, natural setting in the Chambers Creek Canyon and citizens have been asking for a recreational trail through the area for some time.”
Council Resolution 2015-57, a bipartisan measure sponsored by Councilmembers Connie Ladenburg and Doug Richardson, cites the county’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan; the City of University Place Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan; the City of Lakewood Legacy Plan; and the county’s Chambers Creek Properties Master Site Plan to support the development of natural recreational opportunities that link local communities.
“In early 2013, we hosted a joint town hall meeting with University Place and Lakewood to listen to what the people had to say about the possibility of future trails through the canyon,” said Richardson, who represents the 6th Council District, which includes Lakewood. “I’d say the response was overwhelmingly positive and I'm glad we’re moving forward with this trail which people wanted.”
“There is clearly a need for a safe, non-motorized trail through the canyon in order to access the trails and communities on each side of Chambers Creek,” said Ladenburg, who serves the people of the 4th Council District, which includes University Place. “This resolution means that we’re serious about providing that community resource.”
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Pat McCarthy, Pierce County Executive
253-798-7477
[email protected]
Doug Richardson, Pierce County Council
253-798-3308
[email protected]
Connie Ladenburg, Pierce County Council
253-798-7590
[email protected]