The little town of Piru, population about 1,000, has lost a $672,000 arrangement for a bike path on farmland. The contract was canceled several weeks ago when county officials tried but failed to reach an agreement with critics of the planned path.

Piru Neighborhood Council and several farm interests expressed concern and opposition on public safety issues, possible pesticide exposure and crop contamination.

Supporters of the project said the concerns were without merit.

Contractor R.C. Becker and Son Inc., of Santa Clarita, was awarded the bid, and was on hold while county officials tried to come to an agreement with those opposing the path. The decision to cancel the contract was approved without opposition.

Becker and Son will submit a settlement to compensate the company for expenses. A $1 million federal grant would have paid for the project.