King County Parks and the King County Sheriffs Office are joining forces to ensure the continued safety of all trail users during the busy summertime months.

“Trail use increases once the school year ends and improved summer weather begins, so now is the right time to remind everyone about the importance of following the basic rules of conduct,” said King County Parks Director Kevin Brown.

Beginning immediately, King County Sheriff deputies will patrol stretches of the Burke Gilman and Sammamish River trails and provide trail users with information about trail conduct rules, including posted speed limits, leash laws and other rules that are intended to keep everyone safe.

Deputies who see violations could issue warnings or fines. Some potential violations include cyclists who are greatly exceeding the trail system’s 15 mph speed limit, failure to follow pet leash laws that lead to accidents or other incidents and alcohol use.

The enhanced enforcement effort will continue along selected portions of the trail system through the Labor Day weekend. The cost of this safety program is estimated at about $20,000 and will be funded through the King County Parks budget.

The King County Regional Trail System is a network of approximately 175 miles of multi-use trails that is used by bicyclists, pedestrians, runners, skaters, equestrians and others. Regional trails are popular for recreational use and for commuting.