KIRKLAND, Wash. — A new proposed trail is being introduced in Kirkland that would add 5 miles to the Burke-Gilman Trail and also increase safety for students at Juanita High School.
If the Juanita Public Pathway is built, it would run on the east side of Juanita High School and beyond.
"We are hoping to have a 5-mile trail that connects Burke-Gilman Trail to cross Kirkland corridor along three parks and along Juanita High School," said Doug Rough, chair of Juanita Neighborhood Association.
The trail could provide an alternative way for people to commute to work or school.
"Safer way to travel, healthier way to travel," Rough added.
The most important reason for this trail is safety near the high school.
In 1999 and 2000, two teens were killed walking only blocks away from the school, Rough added.
"Saving kids' lives is the most important piece," he said. "We want to get students off the streets. We want to get kids off the streets."
President of One Bothell, Roger Burton, supports the proposed trail project. He has experience building trails and planning parks. He would help build less than a mile stretch of the new proposed trail.
"People don’t want to share busy roads with cars," Burton said. "It’s a great idea. The use of the public trails during COVID exploded and people really love the idea of connecting neighborhoods."
Rough admits the process will take time and it's very much in the planning stages.
"This is not going to get done tomorrow but it helps so many people," he said.
In two weeks, the Juanita Public Pathway will be presented at the Kirkland City Council meeting on April 16. Current students of Juanita High School are expected to attend to advocate for the trail and for safety.