Yes, trails and rails

Times change, memories fade and political convenience encourages different recollections of intentions and events. So repeat it early and often: The Eastside rail corridor is all about dual use.

As public ownership of a 40-mile BNSF rail corridor in the heart of east King County is being negotiated, the long-term vision of a commuter-rail option needs to be sustained along with visions of bicycle trails. A statement of principles signed last week by cycling enthusiasts, conservationists and officials from the Port of Seattle and King County guarantees that memories can be jogged in the future. Not only is the concept of dual use endorsed, any future trails will be signed as interim and placeholders for future rail use.

The transfer of the property is not a done deal, and financing for transit is an earnest wish devoutly to be pursued. Both represent works in progress. Bike riders and property owners need to be reminded early and often what the future might bring.