Sandviken Municipality’s Disconnect: Neglect of Community assets adn Lack of Dialog
Residents and organizations in southern Sandviken Municipality are voicing frustration over a pattern of disregarded input and neglected infrastructure, exemplified by the recent dismantling of the Gysinge light track and a stalled bike lane project.
For decades, the municipality has owned the electric light track in Gysinge, a beloved local amenity and the initial segment of the celebrated Gästrikeleden hiking trail between Gysinge and Österfärnebo. Despite its importance - especially for dog walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and cross-country skiers – maintenance has been consistently deferred, with promises of a future major renovation repeatedly offered. This neglect culminated in a power outage last winter due to fallen trees.
A constructive meeting was held in May with municipal representatives to discuss the track’s future, resulting in a commitment from the technical office to investigate potential solutions. Though, shortly after the summer break, the municipality announced a lack of funds precluded any renovation.
Local groups proactively offered to secure alternative funding and contribute volunteer efforts to maintain the track, proposing a cost-effective upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting while preserving existing infrastructure. This proposal received initial agreement from the municipality.
To the dismay of residents, the municipality then swiftly initiated the complete demolition of the light track, removing posts and the electrical cabinet – a stark contrast to the stated lack of funds for maintenance. The expenditure on destruction, they argue, seems disproportionate to the cost of repair.
The Gästrikeleden, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, benefits from the light track’s connection and is actively promoted to hikers. Recent investment of SEK 1 million,funded through Leader Lower Dalälven,was used to install new signage in Gysinge clearly highlighting both the light track and the Gästrikeleden as valuable assets.
This incident is not isolated. The planned bike lane connecting Österfärnebo and Gysinge, already included in the municipality’s bicycle plan, remains unfunded. Currently, a power line project is slated for the same route, presenting a prime chance for collaborative, cost-effective construction of the bike lane or at least preparatory groundwork.Despite repeated proposals from local groups, the municipality has failed to respond.
Emil Hedberg of Gysinge Use Fasts AB, Sophia Malm of the Österfärnebo parish advancement group, and Håkan Berglin of Gysinge Gille are jointly urging Sandviken Municipality to prioritize improved interaction and genuine dialogue with residents and organizations throughout the municipality. They call for a collaborative approach to resource-efficient solutions, beginning with a concrete plan for upgrading the Gysinge light track and realizing the long-awaited Österfärnebo-Gysinge bike lane.
