Old Railroad Grade

Creating a visitor-friendly and sustainable multiuse trail.

UPDATED: NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Trail Work Complete

Work on the Old Railroad Grade in Loma Alta Preserve is complete. This trail is open to visitors.

Project Description

A section of the Old Railroad Grade was deeply rutted and in poor condition. It travelled through two water courses with steep banks, and came to be known as "The Plunge." Rehabilitation of this area was identified as a priority project in the Fiscal Year 2015–16 budget.

Work included habitat restoration along approximately 1,000 linear feet of existing trail, installation of a bridge and culvert to reduce erosion, and trail construction.

Objectives

  • Restore approximately 10,000 square feet of oak and bay woodland habitat.
  • Eliminate sedimentation caused by steep grades and user traffic through watercourses.
  • Build a bridge that allows visitors to more safely experience the head waters of Corte Madera Creek.
  • Establish a trail system that is less disruptive to wildlife.

Timeline

  • 2014: Project Identified
  • 2014–2015: Project Planning
  • Summer–Fall 2016: Implementation
  • Fall 2017: Opening ceremony at the new bridge