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City officials and community volunteers praise Millicombe Marsh Trail improvements and management plan
Summary
City public works director Linda Wursing and community volunteers described completed trail repairs, culvert replacements and interpretive work at Millicombe Marsh; grant-funded work and partnerships with the district and state recreation program were highlighted.
City of Coos Bay officials and community volunteers told the Coos Bay School District board on Oct. 13 that recent improvements to the Millicombe Marsh Trail have increased public access and helped protect the site's environmental integrity.
Linda Wursing, city public works director, spoke during the public-comment portion of the meeting and said the city strongly supports the district's stewardship of the Millicombe Marsh Trail and the district's 2000 management plan (revised in 2018). Wursing said the trail is not a city park but provides important community benefits and aligns with the city's 2023 parks, recreation and cultural facilities plan.
Jamie, a community volunteer, and other presenters described multi-year efforts to repair the Swallow Loop and Millicombe trail segments, replace culverts to improve drainage, enlarge the trailhead parking area and add interpretive signage. Presenters said the project used a mix of local funding, community in-kind labor, and a Recreational Trails Program (OPRD) grant application; other local funding was used to deliver matching work.
Why it matters: The trail provides recreation and outdoor education opportunities for students and residents, and presenters said partnership among the district, the city, South Slough and local volunteers were key to making the work possible.
Project details reported: - Culvert replacements and plantings done as part of a DEQ SEP-funded project, and interpretive signs were added. - Contracted and volunteer crews completed the Millicombe Marsh Trail resurfacing and clearing work; a local contractor performed additional pro bono work to clear edges around shelters. - A new or expanded trailhead and parking area were installed; district vocational students constructed features such as bollards and pavers.
Funding and next steps: Presenters said some small remaining balances remain in the project account; the OPRD reimbursement check had not been received as of the meeting and staff and volunteers said they will continue routine maintenance and pursue added security for tools and equipment.
Community comment also included praise for the Lighthouse School (a charter partner) and for community contributions to trail maintenance.
