A new path in memory of Shirley Cleveland

A new trail is located at the corner of Marshal Drive & Grenman Place on the north end of Camano Island. A memorial to Shirley Cleveland, a new walking trail has been completed in the neighborhood of Utsalady Heights.

Located at the corner of Marshal Drive and Grennan Place on the north end of Camano Island, the new trail is a privately-funded gift to the community in memory of the long-time resident of Camano Island who passed away last Christmas.

The new paved trail makes a full circuit of an open space that contains a large stormwater detention pond.

The community green space had long been a favorite walking area of the residents, where they would walk through grass, along the level edge of the pond area until they were blocked by a small steep ravine with a small stream running through.

At that point they could either return along the route they came or brave the steep slope, forging the stream through mud and blackberries.

The trail heads stone marker reads, “This trail has been created in memory of Shirley Cleveland. She loved this are for its beauty and serenity. Please enjoy with love in your heart.” Bordered by trees and wending through the grass field along the edge of the detention pond, the new trail crosses the ravine on a small bridge, completing a full circuit of the pond.

The paved path is five feet wide and mostly level with gentle grades and covers a little more than a quarter mile.

The idea for the trail was presented to Designs Northwest Architects earlier this year for design and permits. The desire was to provide a paved, level, meandering path that would cross the intermittent stream and ravine.

Because the site was designated as a class three wetland, wetland permitting and mitigation measures for construction were required. Low impact construction techniques, removal of noxious weeds and replanting of indigenous wetland plant communities were part of the mitigation plan.

Designs Northwest Architects completed the project design and permits in May this year. Ron Scott Equipment and Hauling was the general contractor for construction of the trail, which is now open to all who wish to enjoy a serene, safe and simple loop trail.