New Section of Bay Trail

Yesterday was the official opening of the newest section of the Bay Trail. We’re so lucky to live in an area that has so many wonderful options for outdoor recreation. This 2.4 mile section of land was donated by Cargill. They’re the salt company that is located in the lower end of the East bay. This donated portion of land is 16 acres. The goal is for 500 miles of trail that goes around the bay area to all be connected. Right now, there are 300 miles of trail completed. Cargill donated a total of 73 miles of trail to residents of the bay area. This new portion was donated to the government and cleaned-up by NASA Ames. In some areas the muddy land was contaminated and mud that was 2 or 3 feet deep had to be removed. It’s clean now and safe for public use. The land is also home to burrowing owls and pond turtles. We wouldn’t want to interrupt them during they’re breeding periods, so special care was taken to allow the animals to have their natural schedule and behavior.

The gates at each end of this section of the trail will stay because sometimes they will need to be locked. For example, if Air Force One is carrying the President and lands at Moffett Air Field, the gates will be temporarily closed.

Up until now, bicycles and pedestrians came to a locked gate as they were on the trail going south along the bay. Now they are able to continue their route down into Sunnyvale. There is a photo of the most current map of the trail. Please visit BayTrail.org for more trail information.

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo gave a beautiful talk about the trail during the opening ceremony. She spoke about all the organizations and individuals that were involved in making it possible and that they were creating a legacy for future generations. “A gem for generations to come” she said. Thank you to all of the many organizations involved in making this new part of the trail available for recreation. You truly have created a legacy for future generations.