First Change-in-use project suffers temporary setback Bob Middagh Trail Update

MCBC is disappointed by the temporary setback in opening the Bob Middagh Trail to shared use, when Judge Paul Haakenson sided with Community Venture Partners in their petition to oppose bikes on the trail. It is unfortunate when CEQA is used as a tool to prevent progress at the public’s expense.

County Counsel Brian Washington stated that no decision had yet been made on whether to appeal Haakenson’s ruling. “This ruling affects this project but what will the impact be on other projects? That is what we will be analyzing and making our recommendations to the Board of Supervisors.”

If the County decides not to appeal, they can circulate a new Initial Study for a change-in-use to allow bikes in the near future.

This is the second change-in-use proposal to move forward in Marin County, and possibly the first which allows bikes equal access to shared trails. We have anticipated setbacks and are not deterred by this one.

We continue to believe in the value of the project and look forward to the day when the Bob Middagh Trail is available to all users.

Watch for a follow-up message with more details and recommendations on what you can do to help move the project forward.