As a resident of the 3rd District, I strongly object to the currently planned route of the Fall Line Trail through Bryan Park. This section of the trail raises several serious concerns. 

First, there has been no clear explanation for why Bryan Park—one of our city’s most cherished green spaces—is the only city park being affected by the trail. Most of the Fall Line Trail uses existing roadways, making the detour through Bryan Park an unnecessary exception.

Second, the planned route makes an abrupt diversion off Brook Road, which already has a dedicated bike lane, into the park, only to reconnect with Brook Road later. This detour appears arbitrary and inefficient, and a clear, publicly accessible map showing the trail’s full route through the city has not been made available.

Third, to date, there is no funding identified for the section of the trail as it exits Bryan Park, raising questions about how and when the route will be completed and at what cost to the community.

Given these issues, I respectfully request that City Council investigate and publicly report the rationale for routing the Fall Line Trail through Bryan Park. I also ask that the trail instead be routed along Brook Road, where bike infrastructure already exists. Additionally, City Council should exercise active oversight of the Department of Public Works and ensure transparency in all aspects of the trail’s development.

This project has the potential to benefit the city, but only if it is planned and executed with public input, environmental sensitivity and fiscal responsibility. Bryan Park deserves thoughtful protection, not unnecessary disruption.

SUSAN LAVERTY

Richmond