Safety, tourism concerns revive stalled Touchet Valley Trail project
By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
DAYTON, Washington — Local advocates are breathing new life into the long-stalled Touchet Valley Trail project, citing urgent safety concerns for cyclists and pedestrians traveling between Dayton and Waitsburg.
Belinda Larsen of Dayton appeared before the Port of Columbia Commissioners recently to formally request a re-evaluation of the trail. Speaking on behalf of the “Friends of the Trail,” Larsen presented a comprehensive proposal detailing safety, security, and project planning.
“It is a safety, safety, safety issue,” Larsen told the commissioners, describing the current hazards on the narrow highway connecting the two towns. “I see bike riders and walkers on the sides of the road … It scares me to see people out there.”
The multi-use trail, which has been voted a top three community priority for several years at the Columbia County Economic Development Council’s annual Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy meeting, was previously shelved by a former commission. However, current commissioners expressed renewed interest in the project.
Port Chair Mike Spring noted that the trail remains part of the regional comprehensive plan and suggested that if the original design proves too costly, the port should pressure the state to install a dedicated path along the highway.
Beyond safety, Larsen emphasized the trail’s role in economic vitality, noting that Dayton is losing tourism revenue as cycling groups often turn around at Waitsburg rather than brave the “skinny highway.”
The commission indicated a willingness to explore funding options, acknowledging that the groundwork and feasibility studies previously completed by port staff remain a valuable resource for moving forward.
Artist rendering of the Touchet Valley Trail via Port of Columbia
