Southwest Wasilla trail gains ground

WASILLA — A proposed trail system through the city continues on its path with a green light from Wasilla planners.

Proposed by the Southwest Trail Group, made up of property owners, Wasilla Rotary Club members and others from the community, the Southwest Wasilla Trail project plans to run about 3.5 miles of trails through the city. Ultimately, the trail system would link existing trails and amenities in the Wasilla area. With a trailhead located near the Wasilla Multi-Use Sports Complex, the system would connect Lake Lucille Park, Iditarod Headquarters, Smith Ballfields and the Wasilla Senior Center.

The city planning commission voted to support the Southwest Wasilla Trails project, said Jessie Elkins, a planning commissioner. The planning commission is the second city entity to show its support for the project. The Parks and Recreation Commission was the first to give the project a thumbs up.

Elkins said the project will be a great recreation addition to the community. Not only will the trail provide a place to recreate and exercise, but will provide a place to carry out those activities away from major roadways.

“It’s nice to see property owners get together for something like this,” Elkins said. “I’m all for trails. It will help people get out a lot more.”

As an avid trail enthusiast, Elkins said she has spent a lot of time on the paths in Wasilla. The commissioner appreciates the trails that are available, but she said there is still a need for trails that keep foot traffic away from motor vehicle traffic — a feature that the proposed system will have.

Although Elkins is in favor of the project, she said the trail proposal also raise additional questions.

Along with walking, running and jogging, Mat-Su Valley residents enjoy activities like riding snowmachines and dirt bikes, she said. It is important not to forget about the trail needs of that sector of recreation enthusiasts.

“That’s the only problem Wasilla has now, we need multi-use trails,” she said.

Elkins said she supports all types of trails that could fulfill the needs of those wanting some fresh air. In addition to pedestrian walkways, she believes it’s possible to devise a trail plan that would satisfy various needs and keep motorized vehicles separate from pedestrians.

Bruce Urban, recreation and cultural services manager for the city, said the Southwest Wasilla Trail will have numerous benefits.

“It has great potential to be a great trail system,” said Urban. “It’s going to provide a lot of different types of recreation to a lot of different users year-round.”

Overall, the trail could provide opportunities for families and fitness buffs, Urban said, adding he has heard a large positive response from the community about adding to and upgrading the city’s trail system.

Contact Chris Gillow at chris.gillow@frontiersman.com or 352-2284.