Burke-Gilman trail given right of way in Lake Forest Park

King County can widen the regional Burke-Gilman Trail through the city of Lake Forest Park despite resistance from the local government, a regional growth-management board has ruled.

The trail, which can attract more than 2,000 users on a busy day, qualifies as an "essential public facility" — giving it the same clout as a school, light-rail line or runway.

The ruling late Monday, by the Central Puget Sound Growth Management Hearings Board, gives trail supporters a hammer to wield against towns or neighbors who would stand in its way.

"It's a big decision for us," said pro-trail County Executive Ron Sims. Sims said he's unaware of other current disputes where the ruling applies, but he thinks it will affect trails throughout the county and beyond. "For all intents and purposes, the trail debates have ended. They are public facilities. That's great. These are transportation facilities, as well."

The county owns 175 miles of trails, with an ultimate goal of 300 miles.

Two miles go through Lake Forest Park. Portions pass residential yards or fences.

Last year, the city passed an ordinance that required "stop" or "yield" signs, and would give the city or a hearing examiner authority to set trail speed limits and to decide certain design issues. But the growth-management board tossed out the ordinance and ordered the city to write a new version by January.

King County intends to widen the trail to 12 feet from the 8- to 10-foot width that now exists in some stretches, said Kevin Brown, county parks director. Eight existing "stop" or "yield" signs would be removed from the trail at crossings or driveways — so that the more numerous bike and pedestrian users get the right of way, rather than motorists. Improvements could begin in mid- to late 2008, he said.

Attempts to reach Lake Forest Park city leaders were unsuccessful.

In a January interview, Mayor David Hutchinson said the city had tried to compromise. He said officials would like to keep bike speeds low so the trail can be enjoyed by pedestrians, children and senior citizens.

The three-person growth-management board found that the trail is a regional commuter route, and that the disputed stretch is inadequate for existing demand.

The Cascade Bicycle Club, which joined the county in challenging the city ordinance, celebrated the ruling.

"There are a lot of people who worked hard to develop the Burke-Gilman Trail a generation ago. It's our responsibility to protect it for future generations," said executive director Chuck Ayers.

Mike Lindblom: 206-515-5631 or mlindblom@seattletimes.com