BPAC refers Vizcaya trail connection to Promotion, Education & Communications subcommittee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee on Tuesday voted to refer an investigation of a rough, informal trail behind the Vizcaya Apartments to its Promotion, Education & Communications subcommittee.

Member Gabriel introduced the request on behalf of a constituent, saying the path crosses an arroyo to reach the Albertsons parking lot and would create a useful link to the Miguel Reba Trail, the Saint Francis Trail and the Chamisa Trail. "It seems like an ideal trail to enhance," Gabriel said, noting that the connection could particularly benefit residents of a large nearby apartment complex.

Members and staff warned the route crosses or abuts multiple private properties and that easements and ownership are likely the first questions. Chair Garcia said the committee cannot unilaterally direct city staff to build infrastructure and recommended assigning the initial investigation to a BPAC subcommittee that could coordinate with the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Public Works.

The motion, offered by Member Gabriel and seconded by Member Pilcher, directed the Promotion, Education & Communications subcommittee to start the investigation and to add members as needed. The committee took a roll-call vote and members voting in the affirmative included Member Farrell, Member Pilcher, Member Garcia, Member Schiff Miller, Member Gabriel and Member Wing; the motion carried.

The committee asked the subcommittee to report back with feasibility findings, including whether easements from private owners would be required, potential funding or volunteer options for a low-cost soft-surface solution, and any coordination needed with public-works projects. Staff and committee members also flagged potential social-service and homeless-camping concerns in that corridor as issues the subcommittee should consider.