Rebuilding the Loveland Reservoir trail: A look at the vision
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5 KUSI) — The Loveland Reservoir, once drained and shuttered in 2022, is now poised for a transformation with the allocation of a $750,000 state grant aimed at enhancing its trails.
John Allen, a volunteer trail advocate, expressed his vision for the reservoir, stating, “We want to establish all user groups — the dog walkers, the equestrians, as well as the grandmother who wants to fish with her grandchild and the disabled veteran, and everyone in between. That is my dream.”
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The recent meeting held in Alpine at the Women’s Club saw stakeholders convening to discuss ideas for utilizing the funds to repair trails damaged in recent rainstorms and envisioning a brighter future.
“For us, water quality and safety are paramount. So, anything we plan and anything we do has to have those two things in mind,” said Paulina Martinez-Perez, chairwoman of the Sweetwater Authority board.
The Sweetwater Authority is tasked with managing the funds to improve the trails, with community input playing a significant role.
“I would say go for the low-hanging fruit. I love the idea of opening the SDGE trails. And dogs, I think we have been dodged on that. There are so many people who would enjoy the lake more with their best friend,” said Karen Wood, director at the Friends of Loveland Reservoir organization.
However, the grant money has yet to be earmarked for a specific project, prompting the community to act swiftly to develop a plan or risk a government fund freeze.
Proposals for the revitalization project include providing access to the trails for mountain bikers, hikers, dogs, horses, fishing, and even a Tai Chi platform.
“We want the community to feel valued and heard, and that we are taking their concerns seriously. But I do want something tangible, quickly,” said Martinez-Perez.
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