The Cascade Cycling Club has responded to a lawsuit filed by a group of Ballard industrial businesses over the city’s plans to move forward with filling the “missing link” of the Burke Gilman trail. “We are deeply disappointed that the appeal has been filed, particularly since the prior decision was clearly in our favor,” the group said on its website, referring to the Office of the Hearing Examiner’s ruling last month approving the project. “The appeal process will likely cost Cascade tens of thousands of dollars, but we will not give up this battle for your safe access to the public right of way.”
Cascade maintains the “missing link” is not safe, a sentiment shared by many cyclists who ride along the narrow stretches of 45th St. and Shilshole Ave. in Ballard, crossing the occasional railroad tracks at jagged angles. We contacted the Seattle Department of Transportation for reaction, but it would only say the department plans to pursue the legal process.
Plus: Read the lawsuit (.pdf file) | See missing link map
Wednesday: Ballard businesses sue over Burke Gilman trail
Last month: Hearing Examiner gives city green light to fill missing link