HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018.09.04 OSTB_BOCC reg_joint meeting minutes_S MINUTES
OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS BOARD
REGULAR SESSION
September 4, 2018
Maroon Conference Room; 530 E. Main St.,Aspen
OSTB Present:
Graeme Means Howie Mallory Amy Barrow Michael Kinsley Wayne Ives,
Dist. 1, Chair Dist. 2 Dist. 3 Dist. 4 Dist. 5
Staff Present: Gary Tennenbaum, Ted O'Brien, Pryce Hadley, Richard Neiley, Janet Urquhart,
Paul Holsinger, Fran Soroka
Others Present: Mike Pritchard, Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association (RFMBA)
Graeme Means called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment.
APPROVAL OR THE MINUTES
Wayne Ives moved for the OSTB to approve the 8/2/2018 OSTB regular and joint City of Aspen
Open Space Board(COAOSB) regular session minutes as amended. And to approve the 8/2/2018
joint OSTB- COAOSB executive session minutes as presented. Amy Barrow seconded. Motion
passed. (5-0)
RFMBA —Aspen Snowmass/Roaring Fork Ride Center Application'
Mike Prichard recapped Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association(RFMBA)memo and
highlights of the Ride Center Application to International Mountain Bike Association(IMBA).
RFMBA became an IMBA chapter in 2012 and received a Bronze level certification in 2014.
Currently, RFMBA is supported by 380 members (@ $50/membership) including thirty to forty
business partnerships. Mike described how the valley's jurisdictions have created exceptional
single-track trail routes that has evolved into a community treasure. RFMBA emphasis is to
enhance and maintain the trails that already exist. From Pritchard's perspective, the existing
trails are not crowded and promoting the trail experience will be positive for all the valley
communities. RFMBA has established a `trail agent' program with sixty-five trained trail
volunteers working with other outdoor volunteer entities keeping trail corridors cleared of
vegetation. RFMBA hopes to expand their trained seasonal trail crew staff of three. RFMBA
provides training for trail agents and crew plus RFMBA provides liability insurance coverage.
RFMBA is working hard to change the `trail fairy' culture to responsible sustainable trail
support. The application process will provide RFMBA valuable insight into the valley's 280
miles of trail. RFMBA is asking for OSTB input and support as RFMBA goes through the
application process.
Discussion
1 9.04.2018 OSTB Meeting Packet Materials: August 27,2018 Memo—Aspen Snowmass/Roaring Fork Ride
Center: RFMBA's Comments in support of application to upgrade status level
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Amy Barrow questioned whether RFMBA could reapply for Ride Center certification.
Affirmative. RFMBA application will receive some level of certification. IMBA's response will
provide valuable evaluation that RFMBA can address in any future application.
Howie Mallory recommended RFMBA's application emphasis the County's multi-use trail ethic
and not portray OST trails as dedicated mountain bike trails. Also to emphasis OST's
environmental trail ethics. Prichard agreed with the recommendations.
Graeme Means questioned whether the Ride Center(gold certification)would increase
recreational trail use and consequently put more management, infrastructure, enforcement and
cost pressures on the OST program. This is a primary concern for OST program. He commented
mountain bike use on multi-use trails tends to discourage other trail users. Graeme recommended
the application express OST's environmental and multi-user trail balancing values.
Michael Kinsley agreed with Howie and Graeme's comments. Michael stated his opinion that in
many ways mountain biking has become a large problem here. The application needs to
discourage bandit trails. Michael commented, the popularity of mountain bike use has developed
so quickly and the use is disrupting the backcountry experience.
Wayne Ives supported emphasizing OST's trail and environmental ethic.
Howie commented the discussion warrants additional time when considering increased e-bike
usage is on the horizon. The Nordic Council is another organization that has worked hard to
resolve trail connectivity issues. Nordic system also struggles with a multi-use trail system.
Gary Tennenbaum explained RFMBA has been working hard educating mountain bikers and
stopping bandit trails from occurring. The culture is changing. RFMBA's trail agent and seasonal
crew programs are helpful to the OST program.
Graeme summarized that the OSTB appreciates RFMBA's advocacy efforts and looks forward to
continued working relationship. OSTB input is for RFMBA to provide a broader recreational
picture in their IMBA application. Describe how RFMBA's trail advocacy fits within the
valley's varied trail systems and the environmental landscape.
Mike Pritchard left the meeting at 9:05 a.m.
2019 Work Plan Introduction
The 2019 Work Plan was reviewed. The Work Plan and 2019 Budget will be back for further
discussion at the October 4th meeting. Three positions are proposed for 2019; changing one
Seasonal Ranger position into one Ranger FTE position; changing the Seasonal Maintenance
Foreman position to a FTE and sharing the position with the Road& Bridge department; and
adding a Natural Resource Planner FTE.
Howie requested the Work Plan summarize the estimated project costs by fund category.
2018 Budget Supplemental—Administrative Specialist Position Overlap
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Fran Soroka, OST's Administrative Specialist will be retiring at the end of 2018. The
supplemental authorizes OST funds for a new hire. The overlap provides training for the new
hire. Board authorization will initiate Human Resources to begin the recruiting process.
Graeme requested the hiring process prioritize existing community members and to those that are
aware of OST values.
See Board Action below.
BOARD & STAFF COMMENTS
Graeme invited Ted O'Brien [Resource Manager] and Pryce Hadley [Ranger Supervisor] to
provide their resource maintenance and enforcement perspectives about RFMBA pursuing
IMBA Ride Center certification status.
Pryce agreed that RFMBA is doing a great job bringing mountain bikers into their community
providing an improved trail ethos culture. Pryce commented the incidents of bandit trails have
reduced and less closure violations. Speaking to the potential of increased trail usage, Pryce
added he would want to see RFMBA increase their trail ethos education program and provide a
volunteer bike patrol acting like trail ambassadors as other IMBA areas have done. Colorado's
population is increasing and recreational trail usage will inevitably increase regardless of
RFMBA receiving higher certification recognition.
Ted stated he understands why an IMBA gold level status for the valley benefits RFMBA, Aspen
Ski Company and Town of Snowmass Village. The IMBA recognition will put `heads in beds'
and every mountain bike magazine will advertise the valley's gold level status. OST trailheads
will be definitely impacted. There will be more equestrian complaints for designated equestrian
trails. Ted agrees the backcountry is being used as a recreational gym. Even Sky Mountain Park
is more about focused exercise time and not about the enjoyment of the natural landscape
experience. Ted questioned the value of IMBA Ride Center(gold level) qualifications such as
the area must have a brewery. Ted questioned whether IMBA certification qualification
requirements are out- of-sync with what a great trail experience is. As an avid mountain biker,
Ted stated his personal preference is to stay away from a IMBA gold level destinations because
he does not want to share the trails with ear-bud clad mountain bikers. Graeme added other
questionable qualifications like the amount of gravity drop trails and that 80% of trails need to be
shuttle accessible. Shuttling capacity is not something OST can support.
Gary contributed RFMBA is a good partner and working within OST goals. The trail agent
program works well with the OST. Agreeing that a RFMBA volunteer bike patrol program
would complement OST's Ranger program.
Amy added that maybe the OSTB does not agree with some of the marketing components,but
the Board does support what RFMBA is doing well like education and maintenance.
OSTB does not support the marketing aspects of the IMBA Ride Center(gold level) standard.
OST does support the advocacy, trail use education and the management of the existing valley
trail systems.
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Graeme commented that Eagle County's Open Space program is up for reauthorization. The
reauthorization is to extend the existing tax for an additional fifteen years. OST will be sending
out an endorsement.
Richard Neiley entered the meeting at 9:35 a.m.
BOARD ACTION
2018 Budget Supplemental—Administrative Specialist Position Overlap
Michael Kinsley moved for the OSTB to recommend to the BOCC approving the 2018 third
quarter budget supplemental-administrative specialist position overlap. Wayne Ives seconded.
Motion passed. (5-0)
Grace Parcel
Wayne Ives moved for the OSTB to recommend to the BOCC the acquisition of 10 fee simple
acres from Grace Church for$600,000 including the fulfillment of the contingencies stated in the
contract. (Allocation of water rights;final covenant language; mutually agreed revised site plan;
subdivision approval; and partial release of bank's deed of trust)Michael Kinsley seconded.
Motion passed. (5-0)
OSTB and JOINT BOCC EXECUTIVE SESSIONS
The OSTB moved to enter executive session in accordance with CRS 24-6-402(4) (a)(b) and(e)
for the purpose of discussing acquisitions, attorney consultation and negotiations at 9:40 a.m.
The BOCC joined the OSTB already in executive session at 10:05 a.m. The BOCC moved to
enter executive session in accordance with CRS 24-6-402(4) (a)(b) and (e) for the purpose of
discussing acquisitions, attorney consultation and negotiations. The OSTB adjourned executive
sessions at 11:50 a.m. At 11:50 a.m. the BOCC decided to remain in executive session.
JOINT OSTB—BOCC WORK SESSION
Commissioners Meeting Room; 530 E. Main St.,Aspen
All OSTB Trustees Present
BOCC Present: Patti Clapper(Chair), Rachel Richards, George Newman, Steve Child, Greg
Poschman
Staff Present: Gary Tennenbaum, Lindsey Utter, Jessie Young, Dale Will, Jon Peacock, John
Ely, Fran Soroka
Patti Clapper called the joint work session to order at noon.
The entire joint work session meeting video is available from this link:
https://pitkincounty.ompnetwork.org/sessions/493 82?embedInPoint=l&embedOutPoint=15016
&shareMethod=link
Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail Draft Plan Discussion
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The September 4, 2018 Agenda Item Summary and Memorandum— Carbondale to Crested Butte
Trail Corridor Planning—Draft Plan Revisions are included in this record as `Exhibit A'.
Gary Tennenbaum summarized the intent for today's joint meeting discussion. Staff is seeking
from both Boards to provide input and direction on plan's action items that will be included in
the development of a final plan for adoption. The latest draft plan was released for public
comment on April 24, 2018. Public comments were collected through July 27th. This latest round
of public input added 175 community member comments these were all compiled and posted
online August 9th. Another advertised public survey received 252 responses. OST staff also met
with collaborating agencies, partners and stakeholders including CPW, CDOT, USFS, and
advocacy group representatives from Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society(RMBS), Wilderness
Workshop (WW), RFMBA, CVEPA, Scenic Byway, Watershed Biodiversity Initiative (WBI),
Roaring Fork Conservancy(RFC), and local environmental advocates. In early August, both
Boards were provided all the public input including the survey summary and data, letters from
partnering organizations and letters from individuals. The collected information was provided to
the public via the online project website August 9th. The plan is a vision of what is possible
from where the Crystal Trail ends today to the top of McClure Pass. The plan's Phase I action
item comprises all the process requirements needed to provide a single-track trail from Redstone
to the top of McClure Pass where it would join the Gunnison County/Crested Butte trail. All the
other potential trail segments from Redstone to the Crystal Trail's termination at the KOA
Campground can stand alone as separate trails, phased and independently approved. The Plan's
inclusion of many biodiversity enhancement action item projects throughout the Crystal Valley
corridor has moved the Plan beyond just a trail plan.
Lindsey Utter opened the draft plan's revision discussion.
Al. Biodiversity Enhancement and Preservation:
- A1.3,A3.2,A3.4 and A3.5:
The Boards agreed to add Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society as funding partners to the
above action items.
- A1.5 Seasonal Closures of Potential Trail Routes:
The revision memo's seasonal closure is fine. Add to the Plan: `seasonal closure
information may be updated through Board discussion later on.'
- A1.6 Conservation Easements:
BOCC requested the plan clarify the elements that make up the potential to add 80%
more dwelling units within Pitkin County's Crystal Valley jurisdiction. The BOCC also
indicated the plan should reference Gunnison County's potential buildout in the Crystal
Valley. OST clarified the intent as stated in the Plan; `OST will continue to pursue
acquisitions of parcels that protect important habitat.'
- A1.7 BMPs for Trail Construction:
The added text is accepted.
A2. Recreational Amenities:
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- A2.1 and A2.3:
Plan revisions were accepted.
- A2.4 Work with CDOT on increasing the paved shoulder widths on HWY 133:
BOCC suggested additional language. Continue to discuss potential opportunities with
CDOT and not wait for 2030.
- A2.5 Avalanche Campground Improvements (Based on feedback from White River
National Forest [WRNF]):
There was BOCC consensus to increase the estimated OST cost share with the WRNF as
stated in the revisions and to add clarifying language. OST will add verbiage that a long-
term agreement with the WRNF will be sought to assure the Avalanche Campground
stays open. Additionally, recommend to WRNF to keep all campgrounds open.
BOCC expressed concern that there are no assurances from the WRNF that Avalanche
Campground will remain open. The WRNF is closing other campgrounds in Pitkin
County. The Boards noted it is critical to maintain public access to public lands.
A.3 Management, Maintenance Enforcement and Outreach:
A3.2,A3.3,A3.5—Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Society will be added as funding
partners.
- A3.1 Maintenance Staff and Equipment:
OST staff further clarified that 'no winter maintenance' does not mean `closure'.
Additions were accepted.
- A3.4 Enforcement Staff:
The Plan's proposed additional enforcement staffing was accepted.
- A3.6 Commercial and Special Use Permits:
The addition of Gunnison County as a potential partner was accepted.
A4. Trail Alignment Action Items
Updates for the introduction were accepted.
Howie questioned if the Plan dissolves, how would the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society be able
to continue involvement with the Crystal's Bighorn herd? Similar concern was echoed in regard
to the Plan's biodiversity action projects. Noting all the biodiversity action projects are critical
for the Plan to move forward.
Several OSTB Trustees stated they were not in the position to recommend any trail alignments
from Redstone to the KOA campground.
Staff recommends proceeding with Phase I2 (Redstone to top of McClure). Redstone to Hayes
Falls in alignment A then alignment B to the top of McClure.
Plan Comments and Discussion:
2 Phase I refers to:A4.14 Castle Trail Segment;A4.15 Hawk Creek Trail Segment;A4.16 Hays Falls Trail Segment;
A4.17 Bear Creek Trail Segment;A4.18 Placita Trail Segment;A4.19 McClure Pass Trail Segment;and Top of
McClure Trail Segment.
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Graeme Means suggested changing the Plan's trail alignment references [Redstone to KOA]
from `preferred' to `possible' alignments.
Wayne Ives stated he would like the Plan to include the steps needed to complete CDOT and
WRNF required environmental processes. Including how each agency determines the process
outcomes. Noting, if Phase I is initiated then environmental processes outcomes will determine
three possible actions; a) accept the proposed action; b) adapt a mitigated action or c)no action.
Wayne stated he is comfortable moving forward with Phase I.
Patti Clapper agreed to proceed with Phase I planning. It will provide an opportunity for Crested
Butte to come to Redstone. Phase I would provide a huge amenity.
Howie Mallory reminded the Boards that the trail alignments are multi-use trail surfaces to be
determined as appropriate to each site location.
Steve Child presented a different vision for the Crystal Valley. Often pedestrians have a poor
experience on shared bike trails. If alignment A is considered the preferred bike route, then the
identified footpath trails in alignment B could be pedestrian trails. Realistically,pedestrians will
not want to hike from Carbondale to Redstone and will prefer short day hikes. Patti suggested
adding text that the Plan will continue to pursue providing public pedestrian access to existing
trails. Gary contributed that separating uses in Phase I would be problematical for the WRNF.
Segments from Redstone to KOA would be part of future discussions. Adding that separating
uses would add to costs especially long-term management enforcement costs for both WRNF
and OST.
Greg Poschman commented he sees the Plan's priorities as the preservation and restoration
action items for the Crystal Valley. The costs to meet these actions keep increasing. Trail
decisions become secondary. The Plan's decisions are about what is possible not what is going to
happen.
George Newman reiterated that the Plan is a visionary plan that states all the possibilities with
nothing set in stone.
Michael Kinsley stated he would be more comfortable with the Plan if there was direct
stakeholder involvement in the design process. With County selected Crystal Valley stakeholders
directly involved in the final designs. Patti commented there is a citizen committee as part of the
Airport planning. Patti added that such a stakeholder committee would need to draw from all of
Pitkin County and not be limited to Crystal Valley.
Amy Barrow commented the Plan is visionary and sets up a framework for the future
discussions. At this time the components for Phase I are ready to begin. Phase I provides a great
connection with Pitkin's planning partner Gunnison County. Noting the Plan has already
received stakeholder input and will continue to receive public input as all planning elements
progress.
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Rachel Richards commented the overall Plan's development has become an incredible research
project producing many possibilities. The vision to connect Carbondale to Crested Butte has a
much longer history than just being identified as a missing trail connector link by the Governor's
`16 for 16 Initiative'. Hwy 133 safety issues have been expressed many times during Rachel's 11
1/2 years Commissioner tenure. The Plan has many admirable elements: a) the many stand-alone
segments; b) investments in restoration and biodiversity projects and c) investing in preserving
WRNF campgrounds that in turn preserves access to public lands. Rachel continued that
inevitable population growth will bring community changes and will only increase Hwy 133
safety issues. Without alternative trail accesses, the valley becomes an auto only experience. She
questioned whether any trail users would actually feel safe using a limited separation along Hwy
133. Many evaluation questions come up about the dollars spent vs. the value received. Equally,
Rachel questioned how many recreational users would travel circuitous routes to Crested Butte.
The Plan's restoration and biodiversity projects need to come to conclusions before any educated
trail alignment decisions can occur. Rachel requested the Plan reference the Watershed Biologic
Diversity project initiative. She expressed concern not to let the trail planning morph into two
trails. Noting, two trails would lead to more impacts and the County may not have enough
money for one trail. Additionally, the Rio Grande Trail with all its connectivity would not be a
reality today if the rail corridor had not pre-existed valley's development. Concluding that the
County Commissioners have a long history supporting wildlife and supporting wildlife was the
purpose that passed the Open Space & Trails fund. Rachel accepts the presented Plan revisions
and supports proceeding with Phase I.
Greg Poschman appreciated Amy and Rachel's comments about moving forward. His is greatest
Phase I concerns are for Bear Creek and switchbacks segments and what would be allowable
through the NEPA process. Greg questioned why staff is not recommending the road alignment
all the way up McClure pass. Gary responded the trail from Crested Butte is an off-road trail.
Pitkin County has been proposing where feasible to continue in a similar off-road experience
from the top to McClure to Redstone.
Steve Child noted three of the thirteen segments from Redstone to KOA are through
subdivisions, which most likely would not want a trail through their subdivisions. CPW has
recommended alignment A for six of the thirteen segments because of wildlife concerns. Healthy
Rivers and Streams Board and Crystal River Caucus along with CPW have stated a preference
for alignment A. This brings nine segments out of the thirteen preferring a road alignment. He
recommended the Plan continue to reference all of these segments as `preferred alignment'.
Also, adding to the Plan in parenthesis, that from the perspective of 2018 this is what the
`preferred alignment' should be. It does not mean in the future that the Plan would preclude
discussing other options.
Michael Kinsley added his preference to keep the Plan's reference as `preferred alignment'. He
offered to send board members information about how a collaborative design processes could
work with the Crystal Valley planning. Gary contributed the Plan's intention already provides
further planning collaboration,but the Plan could state it more clearly.
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Graeme suggested edits to the Plan's introduction: Page 6; A. Trail Context first sentence
change to 'On a regional scale, the `potential' trail will link to the 44-mile...' Additionally, B.
Connecting Two Mountain Towns all trail references to `potential' trail.
Wayne requested further Phase I clarification. Gary responded OST would initiate the NEPA
process with option B through Bear Creek. The NEPA process will also consider the highway
alternative action and or no action.
Steve added that Phase I could start with Redstone to Hayes Creek Falls without going through
the NEPA process. Consulting and working collaboratively with the neighborhoods and starting
the process immediately. Gary responded OST is already working with CDOT, but CDOT
processes will take as long as the NEPA. The Phase I neighborhoods have already stated their
preference for wide crusher-fine trail surface.
Patti Clapper summarized BOCC's direction:
o Certain segments from Redstone to KOA will be 'off-the-table' for discussion at this
time. The final Plan will continue to identify Filoha, Janeway North and Perham
segments as critical areas and 'off-the-table' for consideration.
o Keep the `potential' alignments A and B open in the Plan. This does not preclude future
`potential' alignments. After Phase I is complete,public engagement will be initiated to
select subsequent trail alignments and trail surface decisions.
o Bring back to BOCC potential Phase I planning processes for a broader discussion, i.e.
NEPA processes. NEPA is a long process with public comment components. NEPA
( results will either accept proposed projects, accept modified projects or deny (no action).
o Bring back to next joint BOCC meeting what the build-out potentials are within
Gunnison's Crystal Valley jurisdiction.
o BOCC recommends changing Plan's trail references to `potential'.
o BOCC will review Kinsley's forwarded collaborative design processes.
o BOCC will review the Plan for adoption as soon as feasible. If feasible, the BOCC will
hold the meeting in Carbondale. Adoption will be a two reading resolution with public
comment available at first reading.
Gideon Kaufman was in the audience and asked whether the public comment portion of the next
joint meeting would allow power point presentations. Patti responded presentations would not be
accepted as public comment.
ADJOURN
The OSTB and Joint OSTB-BOCC meetings of September 4, 2018 adjourned at approximately
2:00 p.m.
Appr. •ed: Attest:
rae • eans, Chair ran Soroka
'it ' County Open Space &Trails Board Pitkin County Open Space &Trails
Administrative Specialist
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EXHIBIT A- 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
WORK SESSION MEETING DATE: September 4, 2018
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail Draft Plan Discussion
STAFF RESPONSIBLE: Gary Tennenbaum and Lindsey Utter
ISSUE STATEMENT: Over the past year and nine months,planning for the Carbondale to Crested
Butte Trail has engaged the public and generated a lot of interest in the future recreation and
preservation of wildlife and riparian areas in the Crystal Valley. Three separate rounds of public
comment were completed with numerous public presentations and meetings with agencies and
organizations interested in the Crystal Valley. The BOCC released the draft plan on April 24, 2018
and collected additional public comment through July 27. All public comments on the draft plan
were compiled and posted online August 9.
This work session is an opportunity for the BOCC, with Open Space Board input, to provide
direction on action items to include in the final draft. OST staff has provided options for changes to
the draft plan in an attached memo from all the public and agency comments. In addition to
feedback on the proposed plan changes included in this memo, staff is seeking OSTB and BOCC
input on any additional plan updates to the development and adoption of a final plan.
The plan is a vision of what is possible for the Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail in Pitkin
County and recommended phasing. All segments can stand alone, so if no other segments are
completed, the created trails will connect people to places or trailheads. If adopted, only the first
phase, Redstone to the top of McClure Pass, would be initiated for continued planning with
additional public process for NEPA on the federal lands and CDOT, in the Highway 133 ROW.
For all future segments from Redstone to the KOA campground, the BOCC, with
recommendation from the Open Space Board, will decide on the actual timing to begin planning.
Adoption of a final plan will initiate coordinated recreation and biodiversity projects. These
projects will enhance wildlife and riparian habitat and guide the future development of the trail
in Pitkin County. This corridor plan will have many partners. Future BOCC and Open Space
Boards will determine if and when any new segments should be planned and continue to fund the
protection and enhancement of habitat in the Crystal River Valley. Taking a phased approach on
the trail, even with many alignments not finalized, allows for future planning to determine if a
trail is needed and then where and what type of trail to pursue. It will also allow future residents
of the Crystal Valley to participate in the planning. This plan will take decades to complete and,
as with all OST plans, is meant to be adaptable. Therefore, this plan will most likely be changed
many times as new information is generated and different elected and appointed boards are
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EXHIBIT A- 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
selected. The vision in this plan is the beginning of a major collaborative effort to significantly
enhance recreation and biodiversity in the Crystal Valley.
BACKGROUND: Planning for the Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail from Seven Oaks to the top
of McClure Pass began in early 2017. GOCO provided the County$100,000 for the planning
process with the expectation of an adopted plan by December 2018. The process kicked off with
open houses to gather input on what the public would like to see in a trail plan. After that,
environmental and engineering consultants were hired to gather existing environmental condition
data and examine feasibility and costs of potential routes.
In September 2017, all the data and potential routes were released for public comment. The
public comment period was open for 2.5 months and included multiple presentations, an
interactive website, and online comment form. We heard from over 500 individuals and received
many letters and partner comments.
During the public process for the trail plan, a theme emerged that there were important
biodiversity and other recreation projects that were needed in the Crystal River Valley, so the
scope of the plan for the Crystal Valley portion of the trail was significantly expanded to include
action items to address the corridor's needs more broadly. This includes Action Items for
Biodiversity Enhancement and Preservation; Recreational Amenities; Management, Maintenance
Enforcement and Outreach; and Trail Alignment. The draft alignment is broken into 13
segments with a recommended alignment and seven(7) segments that require additional
planning and engagement prior to selecting a recommended route. The plan also included
implementation phasing and a summary of costs.
The draft plan was released in April and a third round of public meetings was held with 175
community members participating. A public survey was advertised to collect input on the draft
plan, receiving 252 responses. Also during this time, OST staff met with collaborating agencies,
partners and stakeholders, including CPW, CDOT, USFS, Colorado Bighorn Society, and
advocacy group representatives from Wilderness Workshop, RFMBA, CVEPA, Scenic Byway,
the Biodiversity Initiative, Roaring Fork Conservancy, and local environmental advocates. A
copy of the public input including the survey summary and data, letters from partnering
organizations and letters from individuals was provided in early August to the boards and posted
online. Staff reviewed all of the feedback collected from the survey and letters submitted from
individuals and partnering organizations, and prepared the following list of potential plan
revisions to be discussed with the BOCC and OSTB.
LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN: The following "Core Focus Areas & Success Factors" are related
to this item:
Flourishing Natural &Built Environment—Success Factors
1. Conserved natural resources and environment
2. Responsibly maintain and enhance County assets
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EXHIBIT A- 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
3. Ease of mobility via safe and efficient transportation systems
4. Well planned and livable built environment
KEY DISCUSSION ITEMS: Draft Changes to the Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail Plan that are
attached.
BUDGETARY IMPACT: Included in Plan when adopted
RECOMMENDED BOCC ACTION: Provide direction to staff on updates to the draft plan
and what to include in the final plan. Set next joint board meeting date.
ATTACHMENTS:
OST Memorandum
Draft Plan Public Comments
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EXHIBIT A - 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
TO: Board of County Commissioners and Open Space and Trails Board of Trustees
FROM: OST Staff
SUBJECT: Carbondale to Crested Butte Trail Corridor Planning— Draft Plan Revisions
DATE: September 4, 2018
CC: Jon Peacock
Discussion Topics:
Below are the proposed plan updates to be considered:
3. Crystal Valley Corridor Planning Actions
Al. Biodiversity Enhancement and Preservation:
- A1.3, A3.2, A3.4 and A3.5 - Update action items to include Rocky Mt Bighorn Society
as a partner agency. The Bighorn Society is willing to help fund controlled burns and
deed restrictions and can provide matching grants on agency projects. (Based on
Feedback from Rocky Mtn. Bighorn Society)
- A1.5 Seasonal Closures of Potential Trail Routes
o Update text in this section to indicate Janeway South and the Narrows Sections
do not have a recommended alternative at this point.
o Add text: "Physical barriers including full gates will be utilized at bridges and
other appropriate locations to mark seasonal closures" (Based on feedback from
CPW)
o Add text: "Seasonal closures on segments that cross Forest Service lands can be
discussed as a part of the NEPA process." (based on feedback from USFS)
o Add text: Through the combination of physical barriers (gates at access
points/bridges), camera monitoring, education and enforcement seasonal
closures are an effective way to protect wildlife and create a recreational
amenity and non-motorized transportation alternative. (response to multiple
comments)
- A1.6 Conservation Easements
o Add acquisition to action: A1.6 Open Space Acquisition and Conservation
Easements. (Added based on feedback from the Advocacy Group Meeting)
o Add text: There remains substantial potential for additional development within
the Crystal Valley that can be preserved through open space acquisition and
conservation easements. The Pitkin County portion of the Crystal Valley has the
potential to add approximately 80% more dwelling units to the existing housing
stock based on the 2014 Build-Out analysis. If full development of the valley is
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EXHIBIT A - 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
achieved over time with the existing zoning, an additional 351 homes could be
constructed. (Added based on feedback from the Advocacy Group Meeting)
- 1.7 BMPs for Trail Construction
o Add text regarding bridge gates, where applicable, for seasonal closure areas.
A2. Recreational Amenities:
- A2.1 Trailheads and Parking Locations
o Add language to accommodate ADA parking spaces and accessible restrooms
■ Following last sentence of first paragraph: "ADA parking and accessibility
standards will be integrated into the designs were possible" (Based on
CDOT Feedback)
o Add base of McClure Pull-off as expanded trailhead location. (Public Feedback)
- A2.5 Avalanche Campground Improvements (Based on feedback from WRNF)
o Update Time Frame to 2019 (currently Fall 2018)
o Increase Cost to $73,500 (an additional $23,500)
■ The forest service has evaluated this project further and it may need to
be implemented with the help of a contractor in addition to the USFS
road crew, necessitating additional funding for a total of$147,000—OST
staff recommends funding up to 50% of this cost.
- A2.4 Work with CDOT on increasing the paved shoulder widths on HWY 133.
o Update text to reflect CDOT's timing (Based on CDOT Feedback)
■ Implementation Time Frame: As opportunities arise; however, pursuant
to CDOT's repaving schedule and the recent repaving undertaken on Hwy
133 in 2018, additional shoulders are unlikely to be added by CDOT even
with funding from Pitkin County until after 2030.
- A2.1 Trailheads & Parking Locations/A2.3 Signage (Based on public survey)
o Add text to both action items to ensure any new amenities and facilities are
consistent with the rural character of the Crystal Valley.
A3. Management, Maintenance Enforcement and Outreach:
- A3.1 Maintenance Staff and Equipment
o Add text to clarify that OST would assume maintenance responsibility for the
trail segments that traverse White River National Forest. This would be
established as a part of the NEPA process and could be achieved through OST
funding Forest Service staff or adding open space staff dedicated to the Crystal
Valley trail. OST will work with the Forest Service to add maintenance staff as
needed when trail segments are constructed. These costs will be added in all trail
construction budgets. (WRNF feedback)
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EXHIBIT A - 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
o Potential Costs: Add "Cost for additional maintenance staff/needs will be
determined when new sections of trail are added; the current cost for a seasonal
crew member for the Forest Service is $25,000. A maximum of 4" (WRNF
feedback)
o Potential Partners: Add WRNF (WRNF feedback)
o Add text to work with RFMBA on future trail maintenance partnerships on
singletrack trail segments south of Redstone. Add RFMBA as a potential partner.
(Based on Feedback from the Advocacy Group Meeting— RFMBA)
o Add text to clarify that no winter maintenance is proposed for either A or B
alignments (CDOT Feedback/ staff clarification).
■ This is how the phase from Carbondale up to 7 Oaks subdivision is
currently managed. While seasonal closures will limit winter use of the
trail on some of the potential B Alignments, use will also be limited
seasonally along the A alignments as these will not be maintained in the
winter due to plowing and safety issues. This is an important clarification
as many members of the public view the seasonality of the B alignment
as a negative, when this limiting factor is true for both alignments.
■ CDOT has concerns about any users on Alignment A in the winter due to
plowing spoils.
- A3.4 Enforcement Staff
o This action item initially included only a summer Forest Protection Officer
position with more presence as trail segments are completed. The
recommended plan change is to add a winter Forest Protection Officer beginning
in 2019 to help with the enforcement of seasonal closures, which would require
an additional $25,000. The new estimated cost for this action would begin at
$50,000 through 2025 and increase as needed with the development of
additional trail segments. (Based on feedback from CPW and WRNF
meetings)OST is also proposing to turn a seasonal ranger into a full-time position
to provide more winter coverage on all OST lands, but this cost is for the entire
system so is not included in this plan.
■ Update Estimated Cost: $50,000 (annual costs for summer and winter
officer through 2025, costs would double with the need for additional
seasonal officers or full-time positions when trail sections are completed)
- A3.6—Commercial and Special Use Permits
o Add Gunnison County as potential partner
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EXHIBIT A - 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
A4. Trail Alignment:
- Update intro section to reflect number of segments with a recommended alignment
and number of segments where no recommended alignment is identified.
- Add section on segments requiring additional study:
o "The CCB trail alignment concept for the Crystal Valley is a visioning plan for the
future. While a recommended route has not been identified for each of the trail
segments, this document lays out the initial feasibility and constraints for each
one. The plan is a starting point for additional planning, engagement and studies
for the segments where no recommended alignment is provided."
- A4.11 Narrows Trail Segment
o Maintain both the A and B options in the Draft Plan for additional analysis and a
Preferred Alignment recommendation after further planning. Update all relevant
maps (Based on Feedback from CPW, Wilderness Workshop, and the Public
Survey)
- A4.12 Filoha Trail Segment
o Add language to ensure that CDOT pull-offs can still accommodate maintenance
requirements (Based on feedback from CDOT)
■ "During trail design and implementation of this segment, work with CDOT
to ensure that pull-offs remain functional to accommodate the
maintenance requirements for Highway 133."
- A4.14 Castle Trail Segment
o Update to show Alternative A as the recommended trail alignment to pursue at
this time for the CCB Trail. Identify Alignment B as a potential future alignment
for a secondary trail that would create a trail loop opportunity serving adjacent
neighborhoods and Redstone visitors. (Based on Public Feedback)
- A4.16 Hays Falls Trail Segment
o Replace Typical Section with the 3-5' option up to Hays Falls. This desirable route
could serve as a popular out and back from the town of Redstone and may need
to be wider in places where the topography will allow. (Based on Public
Feedback)
o Add text to end of first paragraph:
■ "Safety improvements at the crossing are likely to include Advance Notice
signage and warnings for vehicular traffic approaching Hays Falls" (Based
on feedback from CDOT)
- A4.17 Bear Creek
o As a part of the NEPA process, consider adding seasonal dog restrictions (e.g. no
dogs allowed) during the transition times when wildlife is vulnerable. (Based on
Public Feedback and CPW)
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EXHIBIT A - 9/04/2018 OSTB and BOCC Joint Work Session Minutes
- ALL Highway Segments/Options where no Alignment is recommended (Staff
clarification / CDOT feedback)
o Add text: "No winter maintenance is anticipated for Alignment A due to
proximity to the highway, plowing requirements and safety concerns."
■ (A 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.5, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 4.10, 4.11, 4.12, 4.13, 4.14, 4.15, 4.16,
4.18, 4.20)
B. Implementation Timing and Cost Summary:
— Add section to clarify the immediate next steps in the plan (Based on feedback from
Advocacy Group Meeting)
o This text would include the following:
■ October 3rd, 2018— 1st Crystal River Resource Enhancement Workshop
■ Begin USFS segments' NEPA process for Redstone to McClure
■ Work on design and Engineering of trail segments Redstone to McClure.
■ Work with CDOT on Hwy 133 ROW trail segments Redstone to McClure.
■ Work with RFMBA to determine segments of trail that could be
constructed with the help from volunteers or RFMBA trails crew. (RFMBA
has expressed willingness to help maintain and construct new trail
segments)
■ Work with CDOT to get Hwy 133 on improvements list for multi-modal
projects for TPR funding and shoulder widening. (based on CDOT
feedback)
— Add Funding Opportunities and Partnerships Section (Staff Suggestion /CDOT
feedback)
o Include potential grant opportunities: TAP, FLAP, DOLA, GOCO, and other state
transportation funding.
o RFMBA may have resources to assist with the construction and maintenance of
the singletrack segments south of Redstone. (Based on feedback from the
Advocacy Group Meeting— RFMBA)
4. Gunnison County/GMUG Trail Planning
— OST staff is working with Town of Crested Butte and USFS staff to finish the
Gunnison County trail segments from the top of McClure to the Town of Crested
Butte. This chapter will be a part of the final plan.
— Include action item to work with Gunnison County and Marble Residents and
Business Owners to evaluate the potential for a trail extending from the Placita
segment to the intersection of Hwy. 133 and Hwy 3. (Based on public feedback)
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General Plan Edits/Corrections
— Pg 221 - Map error—Janeway South Label
— Pg 228— Map error—add Janeway South as option
— Pg 234— Map error
Additional comment themes and staff response
Below are a few additional themes heard in the public comment and the staff responses.
— Bandit Trails and Seasonal Closure Enforcement—The possibility for bandit, or
unauthorized trail construction, and users trespassing during seasonal closures are two
reasons some survey respondents cited for not utilizing the B Alignment. Survey
responses made comparisons to other lands within Pitkin County where bandit trails or
trespassing is a problem; however, the references cited are not lands owned by OST.
While OST acknowledges that this is a concern, Action Item A3.4 Enforcement Staff
adequately addresses this concern by funding a Forest Protection Officer position who,
in partnership with our ranger staff, can patrol and enforce any illegal trail building in
addition to trespassing during seasonal closures. OST has a history of aggressively
pursuing enforcement actions against illegal trail construction and trespassing, which
will continue into the future.
— River impacts and bridges—Staff received multiple public comments expressing
concerns about river impacts from potential infrastructure related to the trail, in
particular bridges. Staff wanted to reiterate that we are committed to improving the
impaired condition and channelization of the Crystal River. Many of the existing bridges
on the Crystal River are pinch points narrowing the flood plain; opportunities exist,
during trail construction, to increase the span of existing bridges. As noted in Action
Item A1.7, any new bridges would be designed with the maximum feasible length across
the river to minimize floodplain constriction and promote channel migration,
hydrological balance and riparian habitat succession.
Many segments Alignment A between the KOA and Redstone require more heavily
engineered trail section, very similar to what is seen in bridge spans. These segments
are running along sections of highway currently reinforced with boulder riprap
contributing to the current channelization of the Crystal River. There may be limited
opportunities to improve the river health along these stretches but the trail would not
make the situation worse; it may just maintain status quo given the constraints of
protecting the highway from river erosion. Further design of any of these structures,
and therefore additional details regarding construction would need to wait until the
planning and decision for trail locations occurs.
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