Mountain Bikers, DPW Nearing Compromise Over Reservoir Trail Use
Baltimore County Council members will issue a resolution in support of expanding trail network at Loch Raven Reservoir.
By Nick DiMarco - Patch
Loch Raven Reservoir trail users and the Baltimore City Department of Public Works could be nearing a compromise after months of negotiations over watershed land use, according to a county councilman and a representative for the Mid-Atlantic Outdoor Enthusiasts (MORE).
Trail users, specifically mountain bikers, have been in talks with Public Works to reclaim a network of "legacy trails" that were closed off—only to bikers—because of fears that tire treads were causing environmental damage to the watershed.
The contentious situation has been going on for over a year, as mountain bikers have pleaded with the city for a compromise.
While Loch Raven Reservoir is under Baltimore City control, the land is located within Baltimore County. With two governing interests involved, change can be difficult.
However, Baltimore County Council is moving ahead with a resolution to expand the trail network in conjunction with MORE.
A resolution (see attached PDF file)—co-sponsored by four council members—has been drafted in support of mountain bikers and outlines intentions for expanding trail networks.
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