County likely to allow parking on both sides in Middle Gunflint area during Beargrease

Update: From Cook County Administrator Jeff Cadwell about the parking situation:

“After consultation with the County Highway department and the Sheriff’s office we have recommended that the stipulation attached to the John Beargrease sled dog event permit regarding one side of the road parking be removed and that the event be conducted as it has been in the past. We have asked event planners and organizers to be mindful and responsive to situations which may affect transportation or public safety concerns and they have assured us that they will do so. County staff and event organizers will meet to debrief and begin planning for future events after the completion of the race.”

As of 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 18, there was no final decision on parking in the Middle Gunflint area with regard to the upcoming John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

But according to Cook County Administrator Jeff Cadwell, a decision is likely to be made no later than Thursday morning, and in all likelihood will result in allowing parking on both sides of the Gunflint Trail during the race.

The audio file posted below is what Cadwell told WTIP Wednesday morning regarding the parking situation.

There were a number of statements issued during the public comment period of Tuesday’s meeting of the Cook County Commissioners. The comments came from Beargrease organizers, participants and supporters. The statements from the public urged the board of commissioners to reverse their decision made Jan. 10 to allow parking on one side of the road during the Beargrease.

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Race starts on Sunday, Jan. 29, with the busiest day of traffic in the Middle Gunflint Trail expected to be Monday, Jan. 30.