I have spent countless weekends walking and appreciating the beauty of Lake Ballinger Park in Mountlake Terrace, WA. As an avid user of the Interurban Trail, which I frequent to both enjoy nature and maintain an active lifestyle, the closure of the gate on the Edmonds (West) side of the park has been a significant obstacle for me and many others. This gate, which once allowed seamless access between the park and the trail, has been closed for almost a year due to ongoing work—a project that came to a halt in September 2025, and has not seen any progress since.

The closure has forced many trail users, including myself, to take a lengthy detour around the park, detracting from the experience and convenience that the Interurban Trail and Lake Ballinger Park have always offered. Opening this gate is not just about improving access; it’s about reconnecting the community with the natural spaces we cherish and making our beloved trail accessible once again to all, including those with physical challenges who find the lengthy detour even more burdensome.

According to local reports and community discussions, the construction work has been at a standstill since September 2025, and with no visible signs of resumption, it is unreasonable to keep this invaluable passage closed. The community needs transparency regarding the project timeline and justification for its prolonged inactivity.

I urge Mountlake Terrace city officials to prioritize this matter and consider the immediate reopening of the gate. This action would restore the community's access to vital recreational paths while we await the completion of the stalled work. Furthermore, such a move would demonstrate a commitment to fostering community-centered spaces and enhancing urban liveability.

Please join me in advocating for the reopening of the gate at Lake Ballinger Park by signing this petition. Together, we can encourage the city to take act and reunite our community with the park and trail system we value so dearly.

Sign today to make a difference!

Jeff Niten

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