Lime Ridge is an Open Space Preserve where the protection and rehabilitation of the natural environment is a priority, where families from all over Contra Costa county can hike, bike and picnic.
To improve community availablity, the Walnut Creek Public works department has been working with impact studies on how to to create multiple safe, environmentally conscience “Flow trails” in Lime Ridge.
Flow Trails take mountain bikers on a terrain-induced roller coaster experience, with little pedaling and braking necessary. This style of trail typically contains features like banked turns, rolling terrain, various types of jumps, and consistent and predictable surfaces. Trails are adaptable, and allow to gain the confidence that they need to build out their cycling skills.
Most community members are incredibly excited about purpose built trails on Lime Ridge. We are anxious to work with the city to build, maintain, and foster cycling in the area.
There are flow trails all over the Bay Area. In Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, you can find them at Crockett Hills, Joaquin Miller Park, Redwood Regional Park, and Briones Regional Park. Having dedicated cycling trails on will be a huge benefit to all visitors of the park. These trails attract thrill seekers from far and wide.
The City of Walnut Creek assessing the liability and risk associated with the proposed Flow Trails, and with that, the requisite environmental studies on the impact to the natural habitat and wildlife.
Homes that are near the Open Space already face significant fire risk, and the proposed Flow Trails will attract more people which does nothing to increase the fire danger.
The Flow Trail may also impact the grazing patterns of the cattle, which are huge methane producers, and that drive away the wildlife that call these hills home. Riders, hikers, and naturalists all agree that getting rid of the cattle would be a fantastic idea.
More people biking on the hills don't bring any more risk of danger or fire. Homeowners abutting Lime Ridge already face high risk of fire originating in the Open Space due to the on-going drought. If they are concerned about fire danger, they should move away from Lime Ridge, allowing others that enjoy cycling to buy their homes. Flow Trails are awesome, and boost the value of homes in the area.
