4-1 vote in favor of environmental document paves way for Carpinteria Rincon bike path

CARPINTERIA

The Carpinteria Planning Commission voted 4-1 in favor of an environmental document that paves the way for a bike path to connect Ventura and Carpinteria.

Cyclists voiced their support for the Carpinteria Rincon Trail.

Eleni Becker was one of the youngest cyclists to attend the Carpinteria Planning Commission's lengthy meeting on Jan. 6.

 "I really like to ride bikes, and I think it would benefit all people like me that don't like to ride by the highway or on the highway and I would really like for them to make this bike path," said Becker.

Hang gliders and para-gliders are not opposed to a bike path, but they said they want to preserve free flight on Bates Bluff.

They made a video sharing concerns about grading for a bike path and drainage bench that they said would cut into the slope's wind
turbulence or orographic lift. Lift is needed for non-motorized soaring.

Jeff Longcar said a compromise could put the path on the other side of the 101.

 "That is why so many people are here tonight, standing room only, all of us trying to find a better solution, do more planning, put our heads together and do something that is not going to fall into the ocean, not going to obstruct views, not gonna move 141 thousand tons of material just to make a bike path."  said Longcar.

The interim director of SB Bike said he understands concerns on both sides.

David Landecker said, "It now appears that this might be a problem for hang gliders and para-gliders that have used that area for many years as well  and they are bringing that up now and it is a little late in the process so we will see how that plays out."

The plan is part of the 101 widening project and Senate Bill 1 funding.

The other path from Ventura to the Rincon is on the coastal side and also stirred debate.

If the decision isn't appealed the path could be ready to ride in a couple of years.