Easy Grade Trail - Change in Use

Easy Grade Trail - Change in Use

Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 of the Public Resources Code. California Dept. of Parks and Recreation (DPR) proposes to implement the Easy Grade Trail Change-in-Use Project to allow bicycle use at Mount Tamalpais State Park under the process outlined in the California State Parks Road and Trail Change-in-Use Evaluation Process Program EIR (CIU EIR) approved in 2013. The Easy Grade Trail is located in Mount Tamalpais State Park, which is approximately 7 miles north of San Francisco, off Highway 1. The trail includes a climb through a mixed woodland forest connecting Pan Toll Station to Mountain Theater near the summit of Mount Tamalpais. Project-level review has been completed and staff has determined that the project is covered under the CIU Program EIR, with the adoption of specific Standard Project Requirements from the CIU EIR. (CEQA Guidelines 15168.) The request to add bicycle use to the Easy Grade Trail was approved with design modifications as described in herein and included in attachments. The Change-in-use evaluation process determined that the addition of bicycle use on the Easy Grade Trail could be accommodated in a safe and sustainable manner and would not have significant effects to natural or cultural resources if recommended design and management modifications are implemented. The major project components include minor trail reroutes, trail reconstruction, installation of drainage structures, installation of pinch points (designed to slow cyclist where safety could be a concern), retaining wall construction, switchback construction and removal and rehabilitation of rerouted trails to natural conditions. Trail widths would remain between 4’-6’ with the exception of locations where significant resources would constrain widths or safety concerns would necessitate increased widths. The trail would remain native surface with the exception of small areas of brown shale aggregate backfill, and bridge and boardwalk decking surfaces which will be redwood lumber. This is to advise that the California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) (the Lead Agency) has approved this project on November 7, 2019.

Marin

San Francisco Bay Area