A story in the Contra Costa Times about the nearly finished Pacific Electric Trail bridge over Foothill Boulevard (aka Route 66) in Rancho Cucamonga says residents are “mixed” about its look.
But the trail and the bridge are so darned good, it seems like they’re getting over their misgivings.
Rancho Cucamonga resident Holly Hostetler, who walks the route four or five times a week with her friend Glena Bivens, said the artwork is a little overdone, but expects it to grow on her.
“I don’t mind the Route 66,” Hostetler said. “I sort of like the reference to the cars. I don’t even mind the states, but they’re large. My 12-year-old niece said it looks like a cartoon, so it’s too much.
“I don’t hate it as much as I did last week. It’s a spectacular walk.”
Bivens said she believes the work is a little bit much.
“But I love the trail itself,” she said.
When finished, the trail will allow residents to walk or cycle from Claremont to Rialto — a distance of about 20 miles. As it is, the overpass helps cyclists or pedestrians travel more safely over a seven-mile distance.
The new overpass replaces an older span that once carried the Pacific Electric rail line. The new span has images of all eight Route 66 states, and images of classic cars traveling the Mother Road on the other side. A portion of the historic bridge has been used for decor with the Route 66 Trailhead, a park near the overpass.
The Pacific Electric Trail has induced a businessman to open Route 66 Grub & Stuff near the overpass. The business will offer drinks, food, and bicycle rentals: