The  Crowfield Plantation Board of Directors recently decided unanimously to close the hiker/biker trail along St. James Avenue from Gilligan's Seafood to Stratford Drive and have residents utilize the sidewalk that runs along St. James Avenue instead.  The map below shows the approximate location of the referenced section of hiker/biker trail (imagery courtesy of Google Earth). 

This section of trail is heavily utilized by residents of Crowfield Plantation. The green space between the sidewalk and the trail provides a safeguard for our residents to safely walk, run, and bike with their families and pets without the danger of speeding cars within arm's reach - the speed limit along St. James Avenue is 45 miles per hour with many vehicles exceeding that limit).  The greenspace also provides a  buffer from the noise and exhaust of passing vehicles, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable outing.  

Crowfield Plantation's website highlights the 16 miles of trails throughout the community "designed to enhance your outdoor experience and connect you with nature" with policies to  "maintain the tranquility and natural beauty" of said trails.  Forcing residents to walk/bike on the sidewalk of a main thoroughfare with small children and pets is anything but tranquil and there is no natural beauty to be seen or connect with among the potholes and trash-littered gutters of the roadway.  This section of trail is a fundamental part of the outdoor experience of many residents of Crowfield and closing it will hinder the ability of residents (adults, children, and pets alike) to safely access and enjoy the outdoors in their own neighborhood. 

By signing this petition, we are respectfully requesting that the Board rescind their decision to close this section of trail, keeping it open for the safety and enjoyment of our residents.