The Kent Chamber of Commerce wishes to express our support for the Kent Valley Regional Trail Connector project, proposed to connect the Green River Trail and the Interurban Trail.
We believe this 4,400-foot-long trail will benefit recreationalists and bicycle commuters seeking to make a mid-valley, largely-off-right-of-way connection between our two significant valley regional trails.
The Kent Valley is becoming a magnet for firms with an active workforce that is very interested in using our two valley regional trails for getting to and from their work places. We’re also pleased to see the city’s efforts to make improvements to the trails in order to bring more families into Kent to enjoy all the city has to offer recreationally.
The mid-valley connection between the Green River Trail and the Interurban Trail created by this project will increase riders’ choices in getting to their destinations.
The use of a new HAWK beacon pedestrian signal (allows users to stop traffic for a crosswalk) will provide a safe crossing at West Valley Highway for trail users. This trail should also increase overall bicycle use in the city by offering an important trail connection that is largely off the surface streets and away from vehicular traffic.
Also exciting is the city’s ability to leverage local funds for this project. We are pleased to see that the city’s capital investment of $300,000 is being combined with a $1.25 million federal grant to complete this project. We see this as a prudent use of public funds to achieve a practical and attractive amenity for the community.
The chamber views this project as a win on multiple levels, and is pleased to express our support for it.
– Andrea Keikkala, CEO, Kent Chamber of Commerce
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