Parking to be More Difficult at Hazel Access
Over the years, many of us wanting to start our runs along the river at Hazel Avenue have been migrating from the parking lot at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery to the parking lot at the CSUS Aquatic Center.
Even though I’ve never seen the lot full except for during boat races (when they charge), it looks like that will no longer be an option as the Aquatic Center staff will begin restricting parking to their clients and staff.
According to the Aquatic Center website:
General Public that wishes to recreate i.e.; swim, paddle their own boats, picnic, should do so at the Nimbus Flats State Park. The Aquatic Center parking lot (inner & outer lot) is reserved for Aquatic Center Patrons.
They are in the process of installing signs indicating this policy and staff at the Aquatic Center stated they would have employees posted at the entrance of their parking area directing folks away to the Fish Hatchery or Nimbus Flats–probably starting September 1st.
What are your options? Parking at the Hatchery is still free, but there are no bathrooms. Nimbus Flat parking is $10, or you can buy an annual State Parks pass for $90. Many of you trail runners have probably already purchased this.
Alternatively, you can wait and hope that Proposition 21 passes this November and admission to state parks will be included in your California vehicle registration.
this was bound to happen sooner or later since nimbus flat has been looking tons of parking money from the AC.
the hatchery has bathrooms but staging there isn’t nearly as nice as having access to stand in the lake afterwards.
1I tried getting a quote from management regarding the “why,” but I haven’t been able to get a call returned.
2Until the construction is completed on the west side of the Hazel Bridge, parking at the fish hatchery is limited. Additionally, forcing runners and bikers to cross Hazel has created a dangerous situation that may soon contribute to an avoidable accident. CSUS may provide an education but, they are not acting intelligent. parking at $1 per hour, or by pass could make them a lot of money…judging by the use of their lots. With a $20 per hour parking ticket fee…well you can see the picture. Think of the maintenance, improvements, etc that could be earned versus waisting a perfectly good lot. Apparently commone sense is in short supply!!
3