From: Claire Fetrow <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, November 23, 2024 3:43 PM
To: Kevin Patterson <[email protected]>; Craig Scott <[email protected]>; Henry Babits <[email protected]>; Kay Rivers <[email protected]>; Sylvia Lemus <[email protected]>; Susan Harvey <[email protected]>; Ben Ford <[email protected]>; Laura Sparks <[email protected]> Subject: Item 9A on Consent Calendar Multi Use Path
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Many years ago a number of citizens gathered around the idea of preserving one of the only hard pack/dirt paths along the creek in Cotati. Our efforts were rewarded by preserving a small slice of a more natural path to enjoy in Cotati. It has persevered with very little issue or need to be repaired.
As you consider the repaving of a section of path that the asphalt has degraded on that runs from East Cotati to Gravenstein Hwy, it would be appreciated if the consideration of the benefits of a more natural approach would be discussed for that path as well.
The benefits are many and well documented People are more and more removed from the natural world, the sound of the crunch underfoot of a natural path, the benefits of the softness it provides and the natural feel of a green space. Asphalt predominates our modern culture and does not provide that experience. The path itself is in a pretty section of creek, and this could be seen as a retreat-like area to slowly walk, allow children to explore, or quietly commute by foot or bike and enjoy the little bit of nature that exists there.
This path could serve as a natural extension of the path preserved many years ago, and which is treasured by walkers and cyclists alike.
As someone who speaks with walkers, families and cyclists, as well as non automotive commuters daily in my business at the bike shop in town, I hear the frustration with asphalt that is left to degrade for years, and which develops dangerous ruts, and bumps. Its not fun to ride on as you are constantly looking out for dangers, and walking it for some can be the same sort of risk.
A sturdy, natural material or hard pack dirt can provide all the benefits of asphalt, but less cost, less use of toxic materials, and be an enviable feature for Cotati.
Please consider removing this item from the consent calendar, so that more consideration of path materials and usage can be considered.
We could be setting a trend by incorporating more natural elements into our bike/walking path networks, and also allowing for some peaceful segments in specific areas that could create more parklike settings for our population to enjoy.
Thank You,
Claire Fetrow
The Hub Cyclery
Cotati, Ca
www.thehubcyclery.com
707 795 6670
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