World Photo by Madeline Steege The walkers end the walk at the Empire Boat ramp just down the hill from the Hollering Place in Empire. In the late 1800’s this is where people would cross the bay to go northern part of the state.

Coos Bay city councilors gave their blessings to a plan to put signs marking the route of the historic Sawmill-Coos Indian Trail, running from Simpson Heights to the Empire boat ramp.

Dick Wagner, chairman of the North Bend Historic Landmark Commission, said the project wouldn't cost taxpayers a penny, with funding coming from grants.

The route follows existing roads and paths that trace the steps taken by Coos Indians, as well as workers in the area's earliest mills.

The grants would go toward paying for signs to post along the five-mile route, as well as to print brochures.

Mayor Jeff McKeown said it's a great project.

"Nice walks are something people in our community really value," he said.

The council also unanimously approved rules for the city's new skate park, though plans to ban roller bladers from using the park are on hold.

City Engineer Carl Nolte said he thinks the rule was included because in-line skates can do damage to the park's bowls and edges.

"That's my guess," he said.

But Jelena "Dudi" Wittwer questioned the ban, noting after the meeting that a similar park in Medford allows rollerblades. She also said she was concerned the ban would prevent in-line skaters from using future streetscape additions to the park.

"I just want them to have a fair chance," she said.

Mayor Jeff McKeown asked staffers to look into the issue.