Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Opens to Cyclists and Pedestrians
On Saturday, November 16 a new section of the Bay Trail opened on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge allowing first time access for cyclists and pedestrians on the span. The 6-mile stretch proved popular during its first two days of use. Initial counts show there were about 5,000 one-way trips across the path during opening weekend. During opening day there were 3,600 trail users, and then 1,400 on Sunday. The opening is part of a pilot program that will use counts of cyclists and pedestrians as a factor in whether the trail becomes permanent. This events page will highlight organized walks and rides on the bridge.
News
The Bay Trail and Covid-19
The State of California has issued a shelter-in-place order to slow the spread of Covid-19. If you find the need to be outdoors for physical and mental well-being, State and local health officials are recommending that you walk, run, hike, and bike in your own neighborhood and local parks while practicing social distancing of at least 6 feet. If you find that you’re unable to maintain 6-feet of social distancing, find another location where the 6-foot distance can be maintained to protect your health and the health of your family and community.
Ravenswood Bay Trail Under Construction
A new section of the Bay Trail is currently under construction at Ravenswood Open Space Preserve in East Palo Alto. The trail will close a 0.6-mile critical gap on the peninsula, connecting 80 miles of continuous Bay Trail and river connector trails across three counties. The trail includes a new boardwalk and bridge spanning the wetlands at the northern end of the preserve. An overlook along the boardwalk will include benches and interpretive signage, providing a great location for bird watching. The new trail opening is anticipated in summer 2020. For more information, click here.
San Francisco Bay Trail featured on NBC Bay Area’s “Open Road with Doug McConnell”
NBC Bay Area
This brand new 2020 Open Road segment featured the newly opened pedestrian and bicycle path on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, highlighting how bike commuters are using the Bay Trail for transportation and recreation. Doug spoke with a community leader in Richmond getting kids on bikes, and to the winner of the Bay Trail’s “30 on 30” social media contest.