Masters Of Outdoor Amenities: Seat On The 'Iron Horse' Landscaping Committee Is Open

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Abandoned in 1977, the Iron Horse Regional Trail between Concord to Pleasanton has become a popular destination for biking, walking, running, and horseback riding.

A seat is now open for a Concord residents who want to help guide the future of a 18-mile corridor.

The dealine for applications is 5 p.m. Nov. 14.

The multi-use, whole-access trail between the cities of Concord and Pleasanton follows the Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way established in 1891 and abandoned in 1978, according to the East Bay Regional Parks District. The trail connects residential and commercial areas, business parks, schools, public transportation (BART, County Connection), open space and parks, regional trails, and community facilities.

As the trail became a popular destination, residents living along the corridor asked Contra Costa County officials to allow landscaping. In response, the county developed the Iron Horse Corridor Management Program which includes a landscape element. The management program allows for landscaping by individuals or groups under specific conditions.

The Iron Horse Corridor Management Program Advisory Committee includes seats for one representative from each jurisdiction, or unincorporated community, along the corridor.

That includes Alamo, Concord, San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill as well as other areas.

Application forms are available online. More information is available on the Iron Horse website.