The proposed King County improvements to the Sammamish River Trail should be rethought.

King County:

Pay for planning, scheduling, gravel and paving trucks add two feet of gravel, four feet of pavement, four feet of gravel. Throw down some gravel, good for a few years. Train residents how to use the trail properly.

Electric bikes and electric scooters (traveling 15-20 mph), cyclists, exercise machines share the same space as elderly, physically challenged, families with strollers, groups and children (traveling 2-4 mph).

Alternative:

Add a parallel trail for: Electric bikes, electric scooters, cyclists, etc. Separate the two distinct user groups. Put the first stretch from NE 90th St. to the soccer fields in Redmond. Everyone has the opportunity to stroll the river for about two miles in an enjoyable and relaxed manner.

The Sammamish River Trail is a unique and special place and that should be enjoyed by all types of users — without the need to be trained in how to stroll along a river training or policing. On Sunday afternoon a family should be able to stroll freely without any fear of injury or anxiety.

Brent Schmaltz

Redmond