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SUB AREA 6: SILVER LAKE Area Description/Features The Southeast subarea includes the areas east of I-5 and south of Wood Creek to the 128th SW- 132nd SE corridor. I-5 runs along the western border. The subarea encompasses the plateau and ridge above the Snohomish River floodplain and extends downhill to Lowell-Larimer Road. Along the ridge and upon the plateau, suburban development follows the topographic contours, giving way to dense, rapidly growing multifamily areas surrounding Silver Lake. In spite of the growth and increased traffic, people can still be seen, dripping wet, walking home along the busy roads after a swim in the lake. Maintaining the quality of life is essential to residents of this subarea. The Silver Lake neighborhood group is very active in all planning issues relating to the impacts of growth on their environment. The subarea currently has four elementary schools and one junior high school. Silver Lake is recognized as a regional scenic and recreational resource. Trails and parks are also seen as important elements to promote family-oriented recreation, while showcasing the beauty of this subarea. Existing trails Recent improvements to 132nd Street SE include sidewalks and bicycle lanes on both sides of 132nd Street east of 19th Avenue SE. Trails within publicly owned right-of-way, and property adjoining the lake exist, however, these do not provide a continuous route around the lake. In addition, parking around Silver Lake is becoming scarce as higher density development brings more people to the area. The existing sidewalk system should be expanded to promote better access and safety along all arterial streets. Proposed trails Trails are clearly needed within this subarea to provide pedestrian access to the lake, as well as bicycle access through the neighborhoods. In addition to a loop trail around Silver Lake, safe access is needed in the form of frequent crosswalks and accessible sidewalks radiating outward from the lake into the community. Continuous sidewalks should be provided in neighborhoods surrounding the lake and on arterial streets in the area to promote safe, efficient pedestrian access. The area's scenic nature ensures that many people use existing roads for bicycle touring. These roads can be improved through the use of widened shoulders, additional lanes, and safe crossings. Trails within this subarea have the opportunity to link with the Snohomish County trail systems, McCollum Park, and with trails along the Snohomish River. Overall, this subarea offers many opportunities for scenic trails. W:\PLANNING\TRAILS\COMP96.DOC 21