by Denise Rosch
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Ed and Kathy Hall have become regulars on the road to Red Rock Canyon.
On a short ride, biking 15 miles from their home in Summerlin.
“Oh it’s just gorgeous there’s no place like it in the world,” says Ed. “Every time you come by here it looks different.”
But the Halls also make sure they stand out.
Wearing bright colors, and installing flashing lights on their bikes.
They know State Route 159 isn’t always kind to riders.
“People are distracted, pulling off to take pictures and go looking at things and they’re speeding,” says Ed.
This is why the Bureau of Land Management is looking at changes.
The proposed Legacy Trail would move pedestrians and cyclists away from traffic.
A 12-foot wide multi-use path that could break ground on phase one, next summer.
It would start at the intersection of Charleston and Sky Vista Drive in Summerlin.
Cutting through the desert west 5.5 miles to the Red Rock Canyon fee station.
“This is really the start of the review, figuring out if there is any significant impact to the environment there,” says County Commissioner Justin Jones. “We know visitation at Red Rock has increased almost half a million (people) each year. And this will bring more folks both in town and from out of town to see the beauty we have.”
The idea of the trail system began 17 years ago.
The group Save Red Rock was formed after the death of off-duty police officer Don Albietz who was killed by a hit and run driver while biking on State Route 159.
Eventually, the plan is to expand the Legacy Trail all the way to the town of Blue Diamond.
“It took a couple of years to move it on, but I’m excited now to see the process,” says Jones.
As for Hall, he says anything that gets people out of their cars and walking is welcome.
“I think it’s a great idea,” he says.
But admits, he’ll personally stick to the shoulder of the road. Taking his chances with traffic.
“Cyclists who are going 15-20 miles per hour prefer to be out on the road,” adds Hall.
BLM will be hosting a virtual meeting on April 14 at 6 p.m. To register, click here.
