In making the decision at its March 15 meeting, the council also decided to balance the fiscal with the environmental by adding fee-based picnicking for up to 800 people at Blackberry Farm--with room for 300 parking spaces.

The council's decision reflected a compromise.

The 800-person capacity is an 80 percent reduction from the current 4,000 maximum for picnickers but slightly above the most environmentally friendly choice--500 people.

"We would like to go to 500, but we can't do it fiscally," said Councilwoman Sandra James. She explained that Cupertino's library is already closed on Sundays and the city government is understaffed. "It's a compromise, but a good compromise."

"We have to pay some attention to the revenue while allowing the creek to flow naturally," said Vice Mayor Richard Lowenthal. He said the revenue generated by the picnic fees helps the city pay for services.

The trail project is scheduled to begin in 2007, with Blackberry Farm operating as is until then. In addition to allowing for 800 individuals and 300 parking spaces at Blackberry Farm, the council-approved plan also allows for a multi-use trail along the east side of McClellan Ranch. According to city documents, the trail's eastern alignment would limit human encroachment on a nearby meadow and on Stevens Creek--an important component of the council's decision.

"The riparian habitat needs to be very protected," said Councilwoman Dolly Sandoval. "That cannot be underscored enough."

Mayor Patrick Kwok, who has a professional background in environmental protection, agreed. "It is important to leave it as natural as possible," he said. "People can come and tell us what they want, but the natural habitat cannot."

As a part of making the trail as natural as possible, the council--after community feedback--also approved an unpaved, non-asphalt trail.

"I like bicycles," Lowenthal said, "but don't think it should be paved."

Instead, Lowenthal, along with his fellow council members, advocated for a trail surface that would accommodate hikers, bikers and "wheeled instruments" such as wheelchairs and strollers.

"A multi-use trail is one everybody can use," Kwok said.

Rhoda Fry, one of more than 15 residents speaking at the meeting, agreed. "I love the council's focus on the environment," she said.

Residents of nearby neighborhoods have yet to agree. According to Therese Smith of Cupertino's Parks and Recreation Department, a meeting is tentatively scheduled for May 5 for residents to provide their thoughts on trail access from nearby neighborhoods.