|
IN SPRING 2004, RENO Magazine introduced readers to the
new Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway project, a vision of creating a continuous
foot and bike path along the Truckee River from its source at forested
Lake Tahoe to its desert terminus at Pyramid Lake. When completed,
the route will descend from Tahoe more than 2,000 feet in 116 miles,
using existing trails and roads. Also, new trails will be created
and eight to 10 bridges will be built. Lands crossed will include
public and private property in two states, five counties, one Indian
reservation, and three federal agencies (see map at tpbikeway.org).
Since that time, the project’s sponsors have built
a bike trail from Mogul to Verdi, where bicyclists have ridden on Interstate
80. Trail paving and completion await warm weather and dry soil.
Funding for the $289,000 Mogul-Verdi Bike Link came
from public and private sources, notably a $100,000 grant from Nevada State
Parks and generous donations of professional services. A complete list of donors
is at tpbikeway.org and will appear on a bronze donor plaque at the trailhead.
Another initiative to be completed in the spring, is
the installation of route signage, starting in Reno and Sparks.
This will be an exciting year, with several difficult
tasks anticipated. The most exciting development to be tackled in 2005 is establishing
the bikeway from Wadsworth to Pyramid Lake, through the Pyramid Lake Indian
Reservation. In February, the tribal council voted to implement a 25-mile section
of trail through its land in collaboration with the bikeway team this year,
adding the longest single increment to trail mileage ever. The Lower Truckee
River scenery is wild and rarely visited, providing a true adventure riding
opportunity.
OTHER 2005 PROJECTS
• Acquisition of easements for two miles of the
emigrant trail east of Sparks. Project proponents hope private property owners
will see the value of preserving this historic trail and enhancement to property
values, and grant easements.
• Planning and permitting “Bridge at Pioneer
Crossing” over the Truckee River two miles east of Sparks. This historic
site, called “crossing 22” by early pioneers, will be the first bridge
built by the bikeway team. A fund-raising challenge of $700,000 faces sponsors.
This ambitious project is expected to take about 10
years to complete and can use professional help, funding, and partnerships.
To get involved, contact the bikeway team at 825-9868 or tahoepyramidbike@aol.com.
|