The Seattle Department of Transportation released the revised SEPA Determination of Non-significance (DNS) today, proposing to construct the Burke-Gilman Trail Extension. This construction will complete the “missing link” of the trail between 11th Ave N.W. and the Ballard Locks. 

A DNS for this proposal was originally issued in 2008, but the project description has been revised to include a trail alignment along Shilshole Avenue N.W. between 17th Avenue N.W. and N.W. Vernon Place.
 
As a result, SDOT has determined that the project is unlikely to have significant adverse impacts on the environment.  This decision was made after review of the proposal's potential impacts on several elements of the environment.

"It's good news because it moves the process forward," said Chuck Ayers, Executive Director of the Cascade Bicycle club.

The Burk-Gilman Trail is a main corridor for cyclists and runners as it runs unbroken from Issaquah to Fremont but ends in Ballard, where conflicts between cyclists, the city and businesses have delayed the completion of the Missing Link.

Ayers said the Bird-Gilman Trail Extension would improve cycling in that area dramatically but he warns that the process is slow.

"It might get appealed again and we've missed the 2011 construction period," he said. "The process had been contentious but peaceful."

The proposed construction of the missing link would improve an area of Ballard that's infamous among bicyclists for crashes. The narrow roads, rail road tracks and loose gravel creates a danger for cyclists coming to or from Ballard.

"Over the years, I seen two cashes at this location. Both with broken bones," said Greg Sneed, Social Director of the Redmond Cycling Club.

"A truly nasty place for cyclists."

"There have been improvements through the years but it remains a dangerous area for cyclists," agreed Ayers.

"Quite frankly, cyclists think it sucks. It's confusing for automobile drivers and it's confusing for cyclists. Even experienced cyclists have crashed there."

Comments on the DNS and checklist may be submitted until 5:00 pm Thursday, February 24.  In addition, any interested person may appeal this DNS by submitting a Notice of Appeal and a filing fee to the Office of the Hearing Examiner no later than 5:00 pm Thursday, March 3.  Please see the DNS for more information on providing comments and submitting appeals.