Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Plan

The Lake Lowell Area and the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge (DFNWR or the Refuge) are critical natural resources. The DFNWR provides important habitat and safe haven for wildlife while Lake Lowell provides the water storage necessary for cropland irrigation. Together, they are also an economic resource helping to drive the recreational, tourism, and agricultural industries of Canyon County and the neighboring communities of Nampa and Caldwell, Idaho.

Recognizing the value of these resources, a sustainable approach is required to both protect the natural resource and leverage the recreational and economic benefits. Accessibility for visitors is one element of an integrated approach to managing these sometimes conflicting objectives. Providing more robust mode choices for travel to and around the Lake Lowell area enhances sustainability and complements the area's value as a natural resource.

The Lake Lowell Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Plan identifies short- and long-range bicycle and pedestrian facilities that will provide the public with safer and more convenient access to the area around Lake Lowell and the Refuge, which is currently served by higher speed rural roads with narrow shoulders. The increased use of non-motorized transportation connections to the Lake Lowell area and recreation sites within the Refuge enhances the safety and visitor experience, while minimizing the need to widen rural roads. The plan also increases connectivity to and from the cities of Nampa and Caldwell and around Canyon County and provides real and effective travel mode choices.