This petition serves as a representation of interest in creating a Toad Creek Trail in Bellingham, WA.

The City of Bellingham Greenways Advisory Committee is meeting on June 1st to discuss the development of a pedestrian trail that will span Toad Creek and connect the neighborhoods along Britton Loop to Northern Heights. This trail will provide a shortcut to Northern Heights Elementary, Squalicum High School, Northridge Park, and WTA bus service, eliminating the need to walk along Britton Rd and shortening the distance by more than a mile (one way).

We encourage you and your family to sign the petition below and to ask your neighbors to do the same. The more public support is demonstrated for the trail, the higher the priority the Parks Department will give to its development.

The attached map illustrates a potential trail route. The green line represents the proposed new trail, while the blue line shows an existing trail between Northern Heights Elementary and Roma Road. Thank you for your time and please reach out if you have any questions.

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We, the undersigned, respectfully petition the City of Bellingham to develop a multimodal trail that bridges Toad Creek and connects the residential areas along Britton Loop with Northern Heights.

Currently, hundreds of families living in the recently annexed region along Britton Loop lack secure pedestrian pathways for accessing public transit, schools, trails, and urban parks. The area is devoid of city parks, and walking to Northern Heights without a designated trail adds significant additional distance to the route, primarily along Britton Rd., a busy street with no sidewalks.

The construction of this trail should be prioritized as it would establish a safe and accessible pathway for children attending Northern Heights Elementary School and students attending Squalicum High School, resulting in a decrease in the need for school buses and saving the School District transportation expenses. Additionally, people wishing to access WTA bus service and existing trails leading to Northridge Park via MaGrath Rd. would benefit from the trail. Upon its development, area residents would frequently utilize this trail, leading to reduced car traffic and increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

The recent construction of multifamily housing in this area further underscores the need for such a trail. The townhomes and apartments currently being constructed in this area do not provide outdoor spaces for children's play. A trail offering access to Northern Heights Elementary, where a playground is available, would benefit these children and their families. Moreover, it would improve their safety by providing an alternative to playing in the streets.