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Board adopts mitigated negative declaration and approves Henningsen–Lotus multi-use trail project
Summary
After public outreach, the Board approved an IS/MND and project for a roughly half-mile multi-use trail linking Henningsen Lotus Park to State Route 49, including boardwalk sections where shoulder space is limited; staff said construction funding is the next step.
The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday adopted the California Environmental Quality Act initial study/mitigated negative declaration (IS/MND) and approved the Henningsen–Lotus Road multi-use trail project, a roughly half-mile pedestrian and bicycle connection from Henningsen Lotus Park to State Route 49.
County Department of Transportation staff said the project emphasizes low-impact design to avoid sensitive habitat and to remain above ordinary high-water marks near the South Fork of the American River. Matt Smelzer, deputy director of engineering for the Department of Transportation, described grant support from congestion mitigation and air quality (CMAQ) programs for planning and design; John Balzer, project manager, reviewed boardwalk/hillside viaduct sections where the trail must cantilever above steep embankments.
Why it matters: The project would fill a longstanding gap in walking and bicycle access in the Coloma–Lotus area, connect park facilities and trailheads, and support safer access to river recreation. Staff said the design preserves existing roadside pullouts and aims to coordinate with Caltrans and State Parks to improve crossing points at SR 49.
Public response: Speakers from Lotus business and recreation groups and residents — including market managers and business owners — strongly backed the project, citing safety concerns about the current lack of shoulder and on-road users who currently mix with traffic. Commenters also asked staff to extend the trail in the future and coordinate with Caltrans.
Funding and timing: Staff said the IS/MND and design work are funded; however, construction funding has not been secured. The department said it will pursue additional grants and aims for a 2026–2027 construction window if grant funding can be obtained.
Outcome: The board adopted the IS/MND, approved the project and adopted associated mitigation monitoring and reporting measures by a 5-0 vote.
Next steps: Staff will continue design coordination with Caltrans and State Parks and seek competitive construction grants; the board encouraged extension and coordination with neighboring agencies for a longer, connected route.
