John Wayne Pioneer Trail Reconnection Route

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Parks & Recreation Plan Project Narrative 1. Project Description: Please describe the project in detail. Indicate the major work to be completed, any milestones that need to be overcome in order for the project to move forward, and include a comparison of existing and proposed conditions. Included the anticipated completion date. The name of this project is the John Wayne Pioneer Trail Reconnection Route. As the name indicates, this is 4.6 mile trail that connects the John Wayne Pioneer Trail (JWPT) around the northern part of Ellensburg. The JWPT currently ends on the west and east edges of Ellensburg. This section of trail has been missing since the trail was created in the 1980's. The trail features will include a trailhead north of the Kittitas County Event Center, a pedestrian and bike linkage to Central Washington University (CWU), a linkage north through private to the Kittitas County owned Bowers Airport, Kiwanis Park, North Alder Street Park and McElroy Park, new residential development in northwest Ellensburg, Ellensburg School District facilities, and the historic downtown district. Surfacing will include paved and unpaved surfaces to accommodate the diversity of users. Landscaping and lighting will be used to enhance the experience of the trail user and neighbors and to buffer them from the surrounding land uses. To date the City, in partnership with CWU and private property owners, have constructed .21 miles of trail with another .48 miles of trail scheduled to be completed by the end of 2016. As with many large scale projects the biggest hurdle to completing the project is funding. There is no dedicated revenue source for this project. Completed, or soon to be completed, sections of trail have been funded through a variety of grants and partnerships with private citizens. As a result there is no anticipated completion date for the project. 2. Kittitas County Parks and Recreation Plan: Please explain how the project meets the goals and priorities in the Kittitas County Parks and Recreation Plan as adopted. Also, describe the specific parks and/or recreation needs the project addresses and how the project directly increases, enhances, and/or maintains parks and/or recreation opportunities in the County. PROS Goal 1 Strategic Role -The County Parks & Recreation Plan, calls for a strategic approach in the development and operation of developing open space and trails. This project is a partnership project between CWU, the City, State Parks, private citizens and Kittitas County. PROS Goal 2 Recreation Program - The County Parks & Recreation Plan calls for the promotion of healthy eating habits and active lifestyle programs and outreach activities of special interest and lifestyle benefits for county residents. The development of the JWPT provides a resource for county residents to enjoy a healthier lifestyle. PROS Goal 6 Trail Trail Systems — Facilitate the planning, development, and operation of a variety of countywide trails. Work with public and private agencies to develop and maintain an integrated system of trails.