Mid-70s

It is not likely that this will get built this year. The appeal is the necessary first step to litigation, which could take a number of years. From what I gather after reading the enviro docs, the mitigation for wildlife (somebody could smash into a bull elk at 930 in the morning, afternoon is less likely but still possible. Bad for the elk worse for the rider), erosion (the trail design is only as good as the maintenance plan) and traffic (managing traffic like the busy season is not the same as mitigating for increased traffic during the slow season) are weak. If they can negotiate with the groups and make some changes, they may get things done this year, but it will be a stretch. The project is approved, so it is not likely that the groups can stop the project, although they can delay for years and years until it no longer makes economic sense to build it because in 2020 everyone thinks it super cool to be a roadie. So it would be better to work with the groups and make a good compromise so they drop the appeal. Pay more money for better mitigation, or pay more money for litigation. But with litigation comes large delays, and hurt feelings.

Aaahhhh....RATTLESNAKE!