City Council Faces Pressure to Reopen Eroded Trail

During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the appeal of the Planning Commission's denial regarding the coastal development permit for the continued temporary closure of the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail. The trail has been closed since February 2023 due to significant erosion and unsafe conditions, with city staff proposing a one-year extension for the closure while they collaborate with stakeholders on repair options.

City Planner Trevor provided an overview of the situation, emphasizing the need for both short-term and long-term improvements. He noted that while some restoration efforts have been initiated, the trail remains closed due to ongoing safety concerns, including a nearly vertical drop at the trail's base. The city is seeking to mobilize resources for immediate repairs, with hopes of reopening the trail when conditions allow.

The council was informed that the ancestral society, which has been involved in the trail's management, supports a long-term redesign aimed at minimizing erosion and enhancing the trail's usability. Sarah Lindgren from the Shrine Ancestral Society highlighted the importance of a thoughtful approach to the trail's restoration, given its historical significance and the sensitive nature of the area.

The council ultimately recommended upholding the appeal to reverse the Planning Commission's decision, allowing for the continued closure of the trail for up to a year. Monthly updates on the progress of the repairs will be provided to both the Planning Commission and the city council, ensuring transparency and ongoing communication as the city works towards a solution.