Residents fear Greenbelt path for wheelchairs will draw bikes
by Dan Blackburn A war of words erupted Tuesday as Hermosa Beach City Council members tangled with dozens of residents during a discussion of the future of the Greenbelt, called by some “the crown jewel of the city.” At issue was the funding of a study that officials hope will “determine the feasibility of installing an accessible surface path on the Greenbelt to provide a firm, natural looking path that increases accessibility for the disabled and boosts accessibility for all,” according to a staff report. Diversity of opinion was articulated early in the debate by residents Kent Allen and Raymond Jackson. “We’ve beaten this issue to death, and it is clear that the vast majority of the people in this town simply don’t want it,” said Allen. “The Greenbelt is considered the crown jewel of the beach cities and access shouldn’t be limited. There is no harm in increasing accessibility to all. So let’s do the right thing,” Jackson countered. More than 35 residents wrote to tell council members they opposed a “hardened surface” that might encourage more bicycles and other wheeled vehicles to disrupt pedestrian use. Even before debate started, Mayor Justin Massey lectured those who had…
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