Plans Afoot For More Biking, Pedestrian Paths on Sandy Hook

The National Park Service is proposing to add another 1.4 miles of paved path for strollers, joggers, skaters, cyclists and wheelchair users to its existing 7-mile network. 

The additional 12-foot wide paths are envisioned to enhance the public's enjoyment of the Fort Hancock area, as well as help reduce conflicts between cars and people out for a day of recreation by closing loops and extending access. 

"Completing the path loop would allow nonmotorized visitors to safely enjoy the park resources without having to compete with motorists," say architects of the plan, as proposed in the Environmental Assessment report.

Segments of the Multi-Use Path could be added to the Nine Gun Battery along Atlantic Drive, along the east side of Magruder Road, between the existing path near Guardian Park and the trail plaza at the Mortar Battery; and a final segment could be constructed between the intersection of Magruder and Gunnison Roads and Gunnison Beach. Maps and photos of the areas, can be found at the NPS.gov website, or see the NPS map attached to this article.

It is the third phase of the buildout of the popular Multi-Use Path. 
Ray Smith owns a bike rental shop on Sandy Hook, where on a busy Saturday people come of the Seastreak Ferry and line up to take out more than 100 of the bikes. "Everybody loves it," said Smith. "It's a joy for them. They feel like a kid again. They can ride without being in traffic. "

Comments from the public are being solicited on any potential environmental concerns by August 29, as the path would run along wetlands areas. Read details in the Environmental Assessment, at this link. 

Comments can also be addressed to: 
Pete McCarthy, Unit Coordinator
Sandy Hook Unit, Gateway National Recreation Area
26 Hudson Road
Highlands, New Jersey 07732



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