Protect the Natural Beauty of the Blue River Corridor

The presenter from Public Works did a great job of explaining the geotechnical engineering aspects of the problem and how the road building standards of the 1920s in this particular location were destined to fail eventually. In plain English: the closed portions of Blue River Road are an active, slow moving landslide and the cost to both stabilize the slope PLUS rebuild the road would be astronomical. With no federal funds available, going all-in with PIAC and/or GO Bonds for such an expensive endeavor is likely to mean that other necessities and amenities in our district would suffer: sidewalks, curbs, gutters, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, park shelter improvements, etc would be left without adequate funding for years and years to come.

Keeping the road closed but transitioning it to a nice trail surface for cyclists, hikers, walkers, etc. to enjoy is the most cost-effective option. If done right, this could become a primary hub for access to nature, to the Blue River, and for recreational enjoyment right here in South KC, similar to Cliff Drive in the Historic NE area of KC. In partnership with Jackson County and KCMO Parks, I envision parking areas, restrooms, upgraded trail signage and riparian woodland restoration with local conservation groups like Heartland Conservation Alliance, Bridging the Gap and Sierra Club. I live in a neighborhood directly off Blue River Rd and currently access it as-is on bicycle and foot on a weekly basis. I love our little urban oasis but would love to see it improved so that more people feel comfortable and safe accessing it too. Thank you.