Need for Public Comment: Deadline November 17th, 2023
Please consider filing comments in support of sustained ADA and public access. Public comments on the design plans are due by November 17th, 2023, before finalization in the spring. You are welcome to use our email template below and submit it to Sarah Beardsley at sarahb@bionom.com.
Background: Kilpatrick Bridge Update
- The County has funding to replace Kilpatrick Bridge. The bridge is structurally unsound
and needs replacement – full details here: (Project Plans and Timeline). - The County is seeking public comment on the project.
- Construction of the new bridge is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2025.
- The new bridge will be 108 ft by 28 ft, considerably larger than the existing structure.
- This will allow for pedestrian flow on the bridge as one car passes through,
increasing safety and ADA access. - The bridge will not have a center pylon in the stream, which will improve flow,
and the abutments will be considerably larger. - Existing public access points to Silver Creek must be shifted, including the back access to the s-turns, and the duck blind.
- The Save Silver Creek Alliance (SSCA) hopes to move the ADA access/fishing
platform downstream. - The Nature Conservancy is committed to improving the backside float tube
walk-in and duck blind access. - The existing parking area will get a new layout, and the bathroom will remain.
- The working group involved in construction – TNC, SSCA, Blaine County, Keller
Associates, and LHTAC – state they intend public access should remain available and
accessible in a similar manner as it is now, with shifting entry points.
Email & Public Comment Template:
Subject: Public Access in Kilpatrick Bridge Redesign
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing as a concerned community member regarding the proposed redesign and replacement of the Kilpatrick Bridge.
While I understand the need for bridge improvements, please design those improvements
in an manner that preserves the existing or equivalent public access upstream and downstream of the bridge via footpaths and float tubes.
Maintaining established public access points to the waterway is crucial. All users of the Silver Creek Preserve and Pond rely on this access for recreational and professional reasons. Before construction begins or plans are finalized, please ensure access is preserved in a manner equal to or better than it currently is during and after bridge construction.
I appreciate your time and consideration in addressing these concerns before finalizing the construction plans. Please provide clarity on how public access will be preserved and consider alternatives that balance the bridge and it’s functionality with minimal environmental impact.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]