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CV Link could have gaps

The CV Link is a multimillion-dollar project proposed to create a biking and walking path from one side of our Coachella Valley to the other.

It has been in the works for nearly a decade and over the past two weeks, there was both good and bad news for the project. On Nov. 1st, the Coachella Valley Association of Governments announced the 50-mile-long pathway was recommended for $24-million in funding from the state . Then, last Tuesday, a second Valley city weighed in on the plan, with an outcome that could slow the process, or even stop it altogether.

“There will be a couple of gaps unfortunately in CV Link, and bicyclists and riders, wheelchairs and golf carts will have to use Highway 111 like they currently do,” said Tom Kirk, e xecutive director of CVAG . “U nfortunately, that’s a very dangerous piece of roadway.”

The city of Rancho Mirage pulled out of the plan in 2015, citing concerns over its impact. M easure H in the city of I ndian Wells passed last week, and now forces the City Council there to get voter approval for any movement on the trail.

The mayor pro tem in I ndian Wells, R ichard B ollaco, said a lot of the concern has been over the trail’s route.

“I think the issue for the city initially was the passage through the golf course, which will have to happen if the CV Link connects through,” he said outside the council chambers Monday afternoon.

Bocallo said more information needs to be presented, including an environmental impact report, before it is brought to a vote.

Some area business owners and residents told CBS Local 2’s and KESQ News Channel 3’s Katie Widner they think it would be a good thing if the trail were to be built in the city.

“I think that it’s good and the walking path should be in place for everybody,” said Mark Porcello , an Indian Wells resident and business owner.

Another local business owner said he was concerned over the public’s safety.

“How many people get killed on bicycles trying to pedal on the street here? Having a trail would make it safer throughout the whole Coachella Valley,” Arnold Marin said.

Despite the possible gaps in the plan, Kirk said the project is now f ully funded for everything that is in the plans for the 50-mile trail network over the next few years. He added that CVAG plans to start phase one construction in Cathedral City, with the first couple of miles of beginning near Ramon Road and V ista Chino.

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