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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1-23-23 Special Study Session Agenda PacketSPECIAL STUDY SESSION AGENDA CITY COUNCIL CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 W. 29th Ave. Wheat Ridge CO January 23, 2023 To commence at the conclusion of the Regular City Council Meeting This meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting, and in person, at 7500 West 29th Avenue, Municipal Building, if allowed to meet on that date per COVID-19 restrictions. Some members of the City Council or City staff will be physically present at the Municipal building for this meeting. The public may participate in these ways: 1. Provide comment in advance at www.wheatridgespeaks.org (comment by noon on January 23, 2023). 2. Virtually attend and participate in the meeting through a device or phone: • Click here to join and provide public comment • Or call +1-669-900-6833 with Access Code: 845 3679 0710 • Passcode: 751014 3. View the meeting live or later at www.wheatridgespeaks.org, Channel 8, or YouTube Live at https://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/view Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Contact the Public Information Officer at 303-235-2877 or wrpio@ci.wheatridge.co.us with as much notice as possible if you are interested in participating in a meeting and need inclusion assistance. Public Comment on Agenda Items 1. Open Space Management Plan Update 2. Staff Report(s) 3. Elected Officials’ Report(s) ADJOURNMENT Memorandum TO: Wheat Ridge City Council THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager FROM: Karen A. O’Donnell, Parks and Recreation Director DATE: January 23, 2023 SUBJECT: Open Space Management Plan Update ISSUE: Through much of 2022 and into 2023, Logan Simpson worked closely with Parks, Forestry, and Open Space staff to lead a robust process of obtaining feedback from the Wheat Ridge community, staff members, and elected officials to inform the City’s updated Open Space Management Plan. Community and stakeholder input has provided a foundation for identifying preliminary recommendations and concepts to carry forward in developing the draft plan. Taylor Broyhill, Associate Planner with Logan Simpson, will review with City Council the process, community engagement, and preliminary recommendations at the study session. BACKGROUND: Through a competitive process, Logan Simpson was selected to lead the Open Space Management Plan update for the City of Wheat Ridge. Last updated in 2002, the plan was in need of a refresh. The new plan looks to balance recreation use with resource protection, while incorporating strategies for long-term sustainability and stewardship. NEXT STEPS: • Finalize Recommendations • Project Prioritization with staff and Parks & Recreation Commission - FEBRUARY • Draft Plan for Public Review - MARCH • Parks & Recreation Commission Recommendation to Council – APRIL • City Council Considers Plan for Adoption – MAY ATTACHMENTS: 1. Community Engagement Summary Stage 1: Listening 2. Community Engagement Summary Stage 2: Preliminary Recommendations 3. Open Space Management Plan Update presentation OPEN SPACE & TRAIL MANAGEMENT PLAN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY STAGE 1: LISTENING Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 1 SEPTEMBER 01, 2022 OVERVIEW Purposeful and sincere outreach is critical to cultivating public trust, expanding support for the plan, addressing concerns early in the process, and building a sense of ownership for plan implementation. The first stage of stakeholder and community engagement for the City of Wheat Ridge Open Space and Trail Management Plan, the Listening stage, took place from July through August 2022. This stage of outreach included of a robust series of engagement opportunities that engaged a total of 330 Wheat Ridge stakeholders at the time of this publication. The PFOS Division and planning team utilized a variety of engagement tools to gather valuable feedback from community stakeholders regarding their experiences, challenges, opportunities, and values related to Wheat Ridge Open Space and the Clear Creek Trail. The purpose of these conversations was to: •Stimulate community-wide awareness of the planning effort •Solicit candid feedback from a broad cross-section of the Wheat Ridge community, including residents and visitors to the City’s open spaces •Identify key themes, opportunities, local values, and a future vision for open space and trails in Wheat Ridge NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS BY EVENT City Council & Stakeholder Interviews 11 Parks & Recreation Commission Listening Session 7 Pop-up Engagement Booth: Carnation Festival 65 Online Questionnaire #1 257 Virtual Public Workshop 6 TOTAL 346 PROCESS & MILESTONES ATTACHMENT 1 Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 2 METHODOLOGY Over the course of the summer, the project team engaged Wheat Ridge stakeholders through a variety of methods including in-person and online engagement opportunities, highlighted below. CITY COUNCIL & STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS A total of nine (9) stakeholder interviews were conducted in July 2022. Two (2) interviews were conducted with Wheat Ridge City Council members. Seven (7) interviews or small focus groups were conducted with representatives from Sustainable Wheat Ridge, Jefferson County Open Space, City engineering and floodplain management, the 44th Avenue Sub-area plan, City Planning, and the Clear Creek Integrated Water Management Plan collaborative. Interviews were conducted via telephone or video conference and engaged stakeholders to identify opportunities, local values, and future aspirations for Wheat Ridge Open Space and the Clear Creek Trail. These interviews and other engagement efforts have identified stakeholder contacts for additional interviews to be conducted this fall. PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION LISTENING SESSION The project team conducted a listening session during a special virtual meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) on July 18, 2022. All seven (7) current members of the PRC participated in the discussion and offered insights on the strengths, opportunities, challenges, future trends, and balance between resource protection and recreation experience. POP-UP ENGAGEMENT AT THE CARNATION FESTIVAL The project team staffed a pop-up engagement booth on Friday (8/12) and Sunday (8/14/22) at the City’s popular Carnation Festival. Approximately 65 festival-attendees visited the booth to learn more about the project, scan a QR code for the online questionnaire, and provide their insights via interactive presentation boards and one-on- one conversations. ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE #1 The first of two community-wide online questionnaires launched on July 6th and was open for public response through August 15th, 2022.The questionnaire was structured to collect information on public use of the City’s open space assets including barriers to visitation, values, priorities, and satisfaction with resource and asset management. A total of 168 complete responses plus 89 partial responses were collected for a total of 257 questionnaire responses. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 3 VIRTUAL PUBLIC WORKSHOP A virtual public workshop was held on August 31, 2022 to engage in a deeper exploration of the online questionnaire responses. The discussion focused on “unpacking” some of the more notable results of the questionnaire and the motivations or context behind each response. The virtual format provided a convenient engagement opportunity for community members who are unable to attend in-person events. Six (6) members of the public participated in the virtual workshop. RESULTS: KEY POINTS & TAKEWAYS A high-level executive summary of the key points and takeaways from each engagement event is provided below. Emerging themes that resonated consistently across all events are highlighted in the right-hand column. For additional details, see the complete engagement results at the end of this document. CITY COUNCIL INTERVIEWS • Manage Clear Creek Trail (CCT) as the transportation corridor that it is: o Explore opportunities to separate user groups o Improve sight lines, turn angles, and trail access for safer cycling & reduced user conflicts • Invest in signage & interpretation: regional wayfinding, trail etiquette for different user groups, environmental education • Crossing at Kipling is problematic: explore options for improving the underpass • Social trails are part of the Greenbelt experience and should be stewarded in appropriate locations • Establish Clear Creek itself as a destination with better visibility, formal access points, and trail-side vendors and equipment rental STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS • Maintain greenbelt in natural state rather than developing as parkland • Support for detailed wildlife and vegetation inventory • Water quality of Clear Creek should be a major priority • Jefferson County Open Space anticipates continued grant funding opportunities for trails and trail amenities • Leverage the Peaks to Plains (P2P) trail initiative and partnerships with adjacent jurisdictions to create a cohesive user experience and visual character through branded signage and amenities • Opportunity to amenitize areas of the Greenbelt adjacent to CCT concurrent with floodplain improvements and Flood Hazard Area remapping • Opportunity to pursue City boundary amendment so that all of the CCT through Wheat Ridge is contained within City limits • Explore opportunities for strategic property acquisition, including abandoned ditches, to expand open space, establish new trailheads, or improve connections to adjacent neighborhoods • Align recommendations for trail connectivity with 44th Avenue Sub-area plan 01 Emerging Theme PROACTIVE STEWARDSHIP. Preserving and improving healthy wildlife habitat and riparian areas of the Greenbelt is one of the highest community priorities 02 Emerging Theme ACCESS & CONNECTIVITY. Develop new formal trail access points to improve connectivity and relieve overcrowding of existing trailheads and informal access with negative impacts. Formalize social trails that provide a natural trail experience and useful connections to neighborhoods and other destinations and do not degrade or threaten critical habitat. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 4 • Identify wildlife management best practices • Explore Lena Gulch corridor for possible trail connection • Leverage participation in the Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan to coordinate projects that impact Clear Creek with partners upstream and downstream PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION LISTENING SESSION • Continue maintenance and upkeep as high priority • Continue pursuing grant funding for various projects • Safety is top priority: People Experiencing Homelessness, user conflicts between bikes, pedestrians, dog-walkers • Natural Resource protection is top priority after safety • Balance natural resource protection with user recreation experience • Social trails provide a unique nature experience that should be preserved • Mitigate invasive species • Consider dog off-leash areas within or adjacent to the Greenbelt • Consider proactive fire fuel reduction at Lewis Meadows • Use environmental interpretation and signage to communicate resource management objectives • Consider opportunities for water access: West Lake, Clear Creek POP-UP ENGAGEMENT AT THE CARNATION FESTIVAL • Most visited Open Space destinations o #1 - Anderson Park o #2 – Prospect Park o #3 – Clear Creek Trail • Most popular use on the Clear Creek Trail o #1 – Walk/Run o #2 – Access the creek for wading or swimming o #3 – Nature Viewing 03 Emerging Theme SAFETY. User safety emerged as a top priority across all engagement strategies. Primary threats to safety or the perception of safety include the presence of people experiencing homelessness and conflicts or potential conflicts between different user groups such as: pedestrians, dog-walkers, cyclists, equestrians. 04 Emerging Theme TRAIL ETIQUETTE. In addition to user safety, engagement participants cited a real need for courtesy and proper trail etiquette between different user groups including maintaining control of dogs on-leash, pedestrian groups staying within the right side of the trail, cyclists obeying the posted speed limit and calling out before passing, and waste removal related to equestrians use and dogs. This is primarily a user-education and enforcement challenge. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 5 05 Emerging Theme TRAIL CHARACTER. Invest in signage, interactive educational interpretation, trailside amenities and facilities such as: •Environmental education •Regional wayfinding •Communicate resource management objectives •Trail etiquette •Consistent visual brand •Benches & Shelters ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE #1 •Clear Creek Trail is the most visited open space asset in the City (35% of respondents visit multiple times per week) •Safety concerns related to People Experiencing Homelessness is the most common barrier that prevents people from visiting the Greenbelt or CCT more frequently (49% of respondents) •Walking or running is the most common use of the CCT (85% of respondents) •Anderson Park is the most frequently used access point for the CCT (49% of respondents) •Most users take a personal vehicle to get to the CCT (63% of respondents) •68% of trail users who don’t take a car to the CCT have to use streets without dedicated bicycle or pedestrian facilities •Most users travel one mile or less to get to the CCT. (54% of respondents) •The majority of trail users are not using the CCT to commute. (73% of respondents) •Opportunities to enjoy the natural environment was ranked as the top benefit of open space and trails. •Ecosystem (79%) and water resource (73%) management are the most important services that the City can provide for open space and trail management. •Most respondents believe that the City is providing essential open space and trail management services Somewhat Well. •Continued maintenance of current trail facilities and amenities is the most important action that the City can take to improve the open space and trail experience. (79% of respondents) Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 6 06 Emerging Theme PARTNERSHIPS. Leverage regional partnerships within the Clear Creek watershed and with adjacent municipalities to provide a coordinated approach to trail improvement so that solutions implemented in one jurisdiction do not negatively impact conditions up or down the trail or downstream of Clear Creek (e.g., water quality; enforcement against People Experiencing Homelessness). Coordination with adjacent CCT managers will help create a consistent user experience in terms of maintenance and trail character. Partnerships will also greatly expand the City’s competitive advantage for grant funding. VIRTUAL PUBLIC WORKSHOP • Consider how to manage conflicts between speeding cyclists, dog-walkers, and other pedestrians • #1 use of the greenbelt should be natural resource protection and conservation • Enforce bike speed limit and drone use • Consider a water recreation area like in Golden with ability to access the creek with Creekside park and viewing area • Increase awareness of existing trail access points rather than constructing new ones • People experiencing homelessness and their camps are a problem and make trail users uncomfortable • Criminalizing homelessness doesn’t help. Work with partners to ameliorate and minimize the impacts and find lasting solutions. This is a complex problem. • Social trails should be a focus of this plan. Many social trails are there for a reason and provide connectivity that isn’t there otherwise. Other social trails should be and can be reclaimed and revegetated with the help of education and outreach. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 7 COMPLETE ENGAGEMENT NOTES AND RESULTS CITY COUNCIL & STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEW RESPONSES 1. What are the strengths or the things that the Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division does best, that it should continue doing or expand upon? • Maintenance of parks. • Clear vegetation to see the creek. • City has done a good job managing the open space…appreciate the extent to which they have kept is natural vs. developing with amenities and playgrounds. The playgrounds they have are adequate, but don’t need more. Very much against more developed park area in the greenbelt. • The city has also encouraged the growth of milkweed which is good and should continue. Other opportunities for encouraging species for threatened, such as the Prebles meadow jumping mouse. Primary habitat is on the banks of streams, in the front range. Not sure if this species is found along Clear Creek • They are really good stewards of the trail and greenbelt. 2. What specific issues or challenges facing open space, the Greenbelt, and Clear Creek Trail are of greatest concern you? • Poor configuration for travelers going from the east of Anderson Park, it’s at a 45 degree angle and turn. Too sharp and the cyclists cut through vegetation. • Before Kipling, older route takes you on independence and two parallel sidewalks. The current route is to continue on the path to Kipling and the turn is too tight, too sharp. Need a balance keeping speed low and fixing turns. • Midblock crossing considered where Clear Creek ends on Kipling. This idea is not supported because cars would not stop. But the crossing under the bridge is very dark. Problem area, but midblock is not the answer. The underpass needs to be wider and further from the creek so it doesn’t flood so much. • Prospect Park in the summer has tons of pedestrians. Need separate routes for bicycles in this area because of volume, cyclists too fast on the south side of the prospect parking lot. Head in parking and open access to the trail. • I-70 underpass with limited sight distance and steep downhill. Need signage? People to stay on right side. • Worst spot for sight distance in Anderson Park at southeast corner. Need vegetation cleared and tighter curve. The vegetation removed and hill graded down would fix this. • Horse Management: users are not always considerate. Not just the poop, but galloping a horse on the pedestrian trail is not OK • Dogs with extender leashes. • Kids running all over the place. • SOME cyclists speeding. • E-bikes • Better signage and communication. • Trail needs to work well for everyone. Wider where possible. • Invest in separating uses. • There is tension between appreciate the trail as a natural amenity and very natural experience and the reality of it being embedded in the middle of an urban area. This changes our approach from a stewardship standpoint: issues such as homeless, wildfire fuel mitigation, public safety. Need for Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 8 increased management. This is very much a transportation corridor and needs to be managed as such. Constrained right of way. • Impacts of PEH and environmental impacts. 3. What specific trends, policies, programs, or general opportunities related to open space and the Clear Creek Trail do you think the City should explore or pursue? • Regional wayfinding. 1) Direct people from the trail to nearby regional connections. • Underutilizing opportunities to inform the next generation about nature and biological diversity. Need to invest in this and tell those stories. The next generation won’t steward these assets if they don’t know about them and appreciate them. • Need more interpretation: programming, signage, interactive (see snag park). Natural learning trails with interpretive signs. Self-guided nature scavenger hunt. Better curation of the unimproved trails. Social trails are the best part of the experience. Need to recognize these trails. Currently they are in balance. If the social trails aren’t maintained or stewarded, then people will just make new social trails to get where they want to go. As a city, need to lean towards unprogrammed social trails and maintaining those. • Immediate west of the trailhead west of Kipling. Habitat degradation. In Miller St. trailhead area. • Clear Creek is degraded through Wheat Ridge from WTP to the confluence with the Platte River. Coors is a major polluter with their wastewater discharge permit. The temperature of the water and nutrient content are too high. SW runoff is an issue contributing to the nutrient content. • Low levels of zinc in the creek coming from Lena Gulch. • The P2P trail branding is an opportunity for the City. • Connectivity & user experience – restroom features, parking, and how to get people to the trail who may not have vehicle access (transit?) • Closing gaps or improving user experience, branding. Improving amenities/facilities. Acknowledging the greenbelt and the creek itself. • Mile High Flood District is very supportive of measures to improve quality of the Clear Creek • Downstream of Kipling the floodplain will be reduced. The BFE dropped by a foot upstream of Kipling. • Flood Hazard Area Delineation maps will be adopted by the State this month (July). Mile High Flood District will adopt them THEN FEMA will review and/or adopt them. It could take up to 3 years for those to be adopted. This is a REMAPPING not a LOMR. They have been vetted and likely won’t be revised by FEMA. • Area north of 44th avenue in the floodplain; between 44th and the interstate. Lots of support for amenitizing this area. Study to excavate the bank to improve the flood issues for the neighborhoods would reduce the flood plan. Simultaneous to these improvements, would want to improve and amenitize the trail here. • Want to amend Floodway or make improvements so that the houses and vacant parcels are out of the floodway. Could remaining floodway be dedicated/conveyed to the city? • Idea out there to amend the city boundary from Wadsworth east so that the trail is 100% is in the City of Wheat Ridge. Arvada does not seem opposed, but no one has really championed the annexation/deannexation. • Kipling Bridge…at one time CDOT was examining the potential for excavating the creek under the bridge and raising it so that it would be out of the 100 year floodplain. • Potential for Lena Gulch ponds to be conveyed to the city once the Ralston plant comes online and Lena Gulch ponds are not needed for the Moffatt plant. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 9 • Houses on Tabor Street are in the floodplain. Street is substandard (12ft.). Could City acquire as they come up for sale in order to make connectivity improvements to CCT? • Need to excavate out area at Lewis Meadows to get the houses out of the floodway. • Four nodes of redevelopment identified in 44th Avenue Subarea plan: o Vacant parcels at kipling & 44th o Relocation of travel center…redevelop this site. o Infill at commercial site north of Anderson Park o Mixed Use interstate node at Kipling and I70 • Incorporate recommendations or initiatives of the CC IWMP; identifying opportunities for partnership, and sharing resources o Educational opportunities for interpretation on the trail or interactive interpretation o Access points to the creek channel o Efforts for wildlife habitat preservation (on land and aquatic) o Funding efforts such as a sales tax or 1% for trails or the creek or parks or open space • State recommendation is to redirect humans away from the Ute Ladies Tresses. 4. Where could connectivity to the Clear Creek Trail in Wheat Ridge be improved? i.e., where do you wish you could access or connect to the Clear Creek Trail that does not currently exist? • Neighborhoods on the south side of the trail have more challenges to access because of the terrain. • Kullerstrand Elementary School. • Connectivity from 44th to CCT is major priority • Priority connections to amenitize as being carried forward and recommended in the 44th Subarea plan: o Tabor o Van Gordon o Hoyt Ct. – formalized access with ADA ramp/retaining walls o Parfet St. • Tabor only N/S connection across I70. Recommending to invest in Tabor for bike/ped infrastructure 5. Who else/what key stakeholders should we talk to as part of this planning process? • Prospect Park and recreation district re: their connection to CCT at the new hospital and the apartments • Agencies need to collaborate (Arvada, Denver) on the maintenance standards, user experience, consistency etc. • P2P collaborative PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION LISTENING SESSION 1. What are the strengths or the things that the Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division does best, that it should continue doing or expand upon? • Parks, Forestry, and Open Space is doing an excellent job. Can’t think of anything that they do not do well. • Keep good priority on maintaining parks and staying ahead of trends and implementing things. • Appealing to a diverse age range – something for everyone in the parks. • Maintaining a fantastic parks system all around. The Greenbelt is a diamond in the rough. • Partnerships like with School of Mines and also community engagement – listening to the community. Should talk to the police department. • Pursuit of grants is exceptional Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 10 2. What issues or challenges are of greatest concern to you? • Safety with the homeless population • Kids use the Greenbelt to get to school so it needs to be safe • User conflicts with different speed of trail users – worry about someone getting hit and injured • Wildlife habitat impacts? – eliminating social trails has been discussed and yet they are one of the favorite parts of the greenbelt because it is a nicer experience. Prioritize the enjoyment of the greenbelt over wildlife because it is an urban park and not pristine. However, there are some fairly sensitive areas with endangered plants like the Utes ladies tresses and some wildlife too. • Water quality – how bad is it and can it be improved? E.g. Prospect Park pond? • Would love to have standup paddleboarding – West and Tabor (except in summer for that lake). No swimming signs are a little confusing, but that is primarily because of safety concerns. SUPs and kayaks are non-motorized boating. • Want swim beach on West Lake • What about tubing on Clear Creek? • My kid and their friends would love to access the creek water (me, too, if I am honest); but I get the safety and water quality issues. • What about area for off-leash dogs? Especially on the east end of the corridor where there are not dog parks. Panorama Park is full of off-leash dogs and it’s a problem. • I do see dogs off leash on the Clear Creek Trail, and even on the bike path. I am concerned of a bike/dog accident that could be quite dangerous. • There is a similar dog park to what Cambria was talking about down in Highlands Ranch, where dogs can go in the water. • Fire safety, especially at Lewis Meadows and other open space that requires fuel mitigation as a management strategy. • Invasive species mitigation. Participating in the state mapping program 3. In general, how should the Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division balance open space and natural resource protection with improving and maintaining the Clear Creek Trail experience? • Can’t prioritize one over the other – should be a balance • Have a balance already, and believe in science to ensure that the habitat is healthy (invasive, sensitive species, etc.) Staff and experts know and need to educate the public about that balance. People tend to respect restoration closures. • Safety, habitat preservation, education very important to tell why areas may be closed, keep people on trails, moderate user behavior. • How will increased user numbers and climate change impact the resource? • Maintain the balance we have now • Trust Staff • Safety #1 • Protecting environment & natural resources = #2 • Have to manage for future impacts • Climate Change impacts o Adaptive management for use thresholds 4. What trends in open space or trail management do you think the Division should explore? • Increased access points to make more available to all, which is being discussed with the 44th street plan. • Bikes moving too fast. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 11 • More and more dogs. Have to address dogs off leash • Quantity of use is increasing. More monitoring and use data • Could the barn be converted into a bike in special place, rentals, etc. Would be a nice social place and amenity for trail users. Convert Barn to a trail outpost with snacks/bike repair/rest area • Additional access points for the 44th Ave. area • Additional educational signage and communicate the reasoning for management strategies 5. What key stakeholders should we talk to as part of this planning process? • Local schools – Everitt, Willmore Davis, Peak Expeditionary, Compass Montessori, Norma Anderson Preschool, Mountain Phoenix School (Waldorf school that uses trail for day trips) • Businesses – e.g. Wheat Ridge Cyclery, Rhythm Cycles is another bicycle shop on 44th • Wheat Ridge ATAT Advisory team for transportation. Cruiser rides around the town. https://www.wratat.org/ • Lutheran Hospital staff, now and future site. • Senior Center • Localworks • Public Safety/PD- community services in parks 6. “This Plan will be a success if ….” • Widespread community support • In 20-years the system is still as loved as it is today • If it balances everyone's expectations so that it doesn't favor any one particular group POP-UP ENGAGEMENT AT THE CARNATION FESTIVAL 1. Which WR Open Space & Trail Destinations do you visit? • #1 - Anderson Park (18 responses) • #2 – Prospect Park (5) • #3 – Clear Creek Trail (4) • #4 – Lewis Meadows (2) • #5 – Tabor Lake, Prospect Lake, Conservation Trails (1 response each) 2. How do you use the Clear Creek Trail in Wheat Ridge? • #1 – Walk/Run (18 responses) • #2 – Access the creek for wading or swimming (9) • #3 – Nature Viewing (7) • #4 - Bike or Roller Skate/Blade (6 responses each) • #5 – Dog-walking (3) • #6 – Picnicking (2) • #7 – Skateboard, Electric Skateboard, Gold panning, Fishing (1 response each) 3. What are your ideas for open space & trails in WR? • Keep it like it is – we love it! • Lower bike speeds • Foraging classes • Develop program where PEH can do trail and maintenance work in exchange for shelter • Slide park Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 12 • Designated swimming areas • Wayfinding signage & maps throughout entire CC corridor • Lighting at night • Swim area • Fix the Kipling crossing! VIRTUAL PUBLIC WORKSHOP 1. Are there any trends or new amenities that you think the City should consider? • Consider use of electric bikes, skateboards and their regulation • Need better control of dog walkers and bike speeds. #1 use of the Greenbelt should be natural resource protection. • Consideration for regulating drone usage above greenbelt? • Concerned about fireworks and fire hazard activities…so many people putting off fireworks in/around greenbelt. Drones for fireworks instead? • Downtown Golden Clear Creek is popular for water recreation and has Creekside park with viewing of the water and recreation. Could the creek in Wheat Ridge support some water recreation? A designated area for these activities would reduce risk of people accessing the creek elsewhere. • Improve and open Johnson park trailhead 2. Do you feel there is a need for additional formal access points to the Clear Creek Trail? • No, think that there is plenty of access as it is • Perhaps what is needed is more education on where to access currently rather than developing new access points 3. Survey respondents cited safety concerns due to people experiencing homelessness as #1 barrier to visiting the trail and greenbelt. Do you think this feeling is more of a perception or reality? Do you have any examples from your personal experience to share? • A friend who walks her dog and sees people using the bathroom on the greenbelt. As women, they try to only walk with others, not alone. • Please don’t put bright lights everywhere as a solution. • People camp by Youngfield Trailhead. • Not in favor of homeless amenities at Anderson Park. • People may not all be hiding to do bad things, but wanting to stay out of view/reduce the impact of their situation. Need increased affordable housing to solve the problem. Criminalizing homelessness doesn’t help. Work with partners to ameliorate and minimize. 4. Survey respondents indicated that formalizing and maintaining some of the natural surface social trails within the Greenbelt while reducing and revegetating others to serve conservation purposes is one of the top future actions that the City should take. a. Do you agree with that as a priority action for the City? b. What do think about social trails in the Greenbelt? What is your experience with them? • Perhaps people who are trying to fish in the creek are creating the trails. Consider fishing platforms at the lakes to entice people to fish there. • When you try and close a social trail, it doesn’t usually work. There is a sense of entitlement to use the trail. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Listening Page 13 • Social trails often serve a purpose that is not already met. This is a good question for the trail user intercept: IF you use social trails, why? Are you connecting to another destination or just seeking a different Greenbelt experience? • It is possible to reclaim and revegetate social trails. It requires a lot of education/outreach, but you can successfully close trails. Agree this is an important focus. Report for Wheat Ridge Open Space & Trails Community Questionnaire #1 Completion Rate:65.4% Complete 168 Partial 89 Totals: 257 Response Counts Never A few times per year Once a month Once a week Multiple times per week Responses Arapahoe Bar Gold Panning Area Count Row % 150 74.3% 31 15.3% 5 2.5% 7 3.5% 9 4.5% 202 Tabor Lake Count Row % 72 35.6% 67 33.2% 26 12.9% 17 8.4% 20 9.9% 202 Bass Lake Count Row % 91 45.0% 51 25.2% 23 11.4% 16 7.9% 21 10.4% 202 West Lake Count Row % 88 43.6% 58 28.7% 21 10.4% 14 6.9% 21 10.4% 202 Prospect Lake Count Row % 61 30.3% 71 35.3% 30 14.9% 21 10.4% 18 9.0% 201 Clear Creek Trail Count Row % 7 3.4% 42 20.7% 35 17.2% 49 24.1% 70 34.5% 203 Lewis Meadows Count Row % 138 68.7% 28 13.9% 10 5.0% 12 6.0% 13 6.5% 201 Conservation Trails (natural- surface trails within the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt) Count Row % 25 12.4% 61 30.2% 44 21.8% 30 14.9% 42 20.8% 202 Bass Lake Boardwalk & Bird Blind Count Row % 92 45.8% 51 25.4% 23 11.4% 17 8.5% 18 9.0% 201 1. Please indicate how often you, or any member of your household, use/visit the following Wheat Ridge trails or open space destinations? Prospect Park Count Row % 33 16.3% 78 38.6% 41 20.3% 27 13.4% 23 11.4% 202 Anderson Park Count Row % 26 12.8% 73 36.0% 50 24.6% 29 14.3% 25 12.3% 203 Creekside Park Count Row % 115 57.5% 60 30.0% 11 5.5% 8 4.0% 6 3.0% 200 Johnson Park Count Row % 121 60.2% 56 27.9% 11 5.5% 9 4.5% 4 2.0% 201 Wheat Ridge Recreation Center Count Row % 44 21.7% 81 39.9% 24 11.8% 22 10.8% 32 15.8% 203 Totals Total Responses 203 Never A few times per year Once a month Once a week Multiple times per week Responses 2. Is there anything that prevents you from visiting or using the Clear Creek Trail, Wheat Ridge Greenbelt and other Wheat Ridge open space areas more than you do now? Select up to five. Percent I use trails and open space in other places Prefer indoor activities Too far from home Safety concerns: user conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists Safety concerns: people experiencing homelessness Do not feel welcome Lack of ADA facilities Too busy/not interested Language/cultural/age barriers Nowhere to park I don’t know how to get to trailheads or access points Lack of pedestrian or bicycle access from my neighborhood Other - Write In (Required) 0 50 25 Value Percent Responses I use trails and open space in other places 37.9%77 Prefer indoor activities 1.5%3 Too far from home 10.8%22 Safety concerns: user conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists 24.6%50 Safety concerns: people experiencing homelessness 48.8%99 Do not feel welcome 1.5%3 Lack of ADA facilities 0.5%1 Too busy/not interested 5.9%12 Language/cultural/age barriers 0.5%1 Nowhere to park 3.0%6 I don’t know how to get to trailheads or access points 15.3%31 Lack of pedestrian or bicycle access from my neighborhood 21.7%44 Other - Write In (Required)24.1%49 Other - Write In (Required)Count ....1 Better lighting, water quality 1 Difficult to access without driving. Would prefer more connectivity via walking/biking 1 Don't know about them 1 Getting from EWR to otis trail head requires road cycling which I generally try to avoid. Would be great to have protected lanes (i.e. curb protected) that feed trail heads. 1 Havent known about the other places n locations to hike n walk. Otherwise I would utilize them. 1 Totals 49 I bicycle the Clear Creek Trail & Wheat Ridge Greenbelt multiple times per week.1 I have no idea where some of these places are.1 I really don't know much about these parks. They could be advertised/signed better.1 I visit the Baugh house and historic park about once a month 1 I'm new and would love to explore these areas more!1 Johnson Park is literally in my backyard, but it's too dangerous to walk down from 48th along Wadsworth. 1 Just lack of time, but we get to open spaces as much as possible!!!1 Kipling Crossing is hard to do 1 Lack of bathrooms 1 Lack of dog friendly spaces. Most of these parks are dominated by sports fields or cyclists. It seems dogs are only welcome on a short, short leash. Not fun for the dogs or dog owners. 1 Lack of open restrooms - difficult for families with young children and the elderly 1 Lack of time on our end. I would love to take our kids on the bike trail, but they are still early at learning how to ride safely.The bike path is busy and riders are fast, so I keep them riding in our neihborhood. We hike on the dirt paths along the clear creek trail often. 1 Limited access to Water 1 N/A 1 N/A I find it safe and efficient to access these trails from my home in NW Denver.1 No other issues 1 Non contiguous trails specifically the Kipling Ave crossing is dangerous for cycling and walking 1 None 1 Nope, nothing prevents our use.1 Not as well maintained as it used to be 1 Other - Write In (Required)Count Totals 49 Nothing 1 Nothing limits use 1 Nothing prevents me 1 Occasional litter and waste in greenbelt and in creek 1 Parking nearest to me (Otis Trailhead) needs safety improvements 1 Poor sidewalk infrastructure and protection from traffic from my neighborhood 1 Rec Center _ concern about COVID transmission 1 The kids prefer Discovery Park 1 The use of fast moving electric scooter type uses mixed with horses and young children on bikes. 1 This is a confusing survey. How long has the Greenbelt been in Wheat Ridge. "Git- to-it". Surveys are nice only if there is stakeholder involvement and a plan. Not just words...just words...just words. 1 Use Crown Hill for majority of our open space visits; it's the closest so no need to use WR facilities. 1 Use other Wheat Ridge parks/trails that are not listed 1 broken down pavement 1 cost 1 i have been ill the last 4 years....1 lack of safe ways to access trailheads from my home 1 personal physical limitations 1 poor rest rooms 1 pregnant and with toddler, need to have clean restroom access!1 rgdfg 1 too busy yet interested 1 Other - Write In (Required)Count Totals 49 too many bikes.... many going fast 1 unleashed dogs 1 Totals 49 Other - Write In (Required)Count 3. If you use the Clear Creek Trail in Wheat Ridge, how do you use it? Percent W alk/Run Wheelchair or mobility device Bike E-Bike Roller skate / roller blade Skateboard Equestrian Access to gold panning at Arapahoe Bar Access to Clear Creek for wading, swimming Fishing Nature viewing Other - Write In (Required) 0 100 25 50 75 Value Percent Responses Walk/Run 84.7%161 Wheelchair or mobility device 2.6%5 Bike 61.1%116 E-Bike 5.3%10 Roller skate / roller blade 2.6%5 Skateboard 1.6%3 Equestrian 2.6%5 Access to gold panning at Arapahoe Bar 3.2%6 Access to Clear Creek for wading, swimming 15.8%30 Fishing 7.9%15 Nature viewing 45.3%86 Other - Write In (Required)12.1%23 Other - Write In (Required)Count dog walking 2 Access to Light Rail 1 Bird watching 1 Birdwatching 1 Dog Swimming!!1 Dog walking 1 Dog walks 1 Electric scooter 1 Equestrian ...in the past. I don't feel it's safe even horseback now 1 I don't use it 1 I have volunteered to water new plants and trees.1 Meditating, escaping urban setting 1 Nature exploring with kids 1 Skiing 1 Take my dog for walks 1 Walk my dogs 1 With baby stroller 1 Would love for my kids to be able to bike there, but don't feel comfortable with all the fast cyclists 1 birding 1 transportation 1 walking with stroller and dog 1 xc ski when there is enough snow 1 Totals 23 4. If you use the Clear Creek Trail in Wheat Ridge, where do you access it? (Check all that apply) Percent Trailhead in a neighboring city Youngfield Trailhead Prospect Park Anderson Park W heat Ridge Recreation Center Kipling West Trailhead Kipling East Trailhead Johnson Park at W adsworth Otis Street Trailhead Creekside Park Miller Street Trail Access Moore St. / W 43rd Avenue Access My neighborhood has an access point If neighborhood access point, where? (Write In) Other - Write In 0 20 40 60 Value Percent Responses Trailhead in a neighboring city 6.3%12 Youngfield Trailhead 31.6%60 Prospect Park 28.4%54 Anderson Park 48.9%93 Wheat Ridge Recreation Center 18.9%36 Kipling West Trailhead 25.8%49 Kipling East Trailhead 11.1%21 Johnson Park at Wadsworth 5.8%11 Otis Street Trailhead 20.5%39 Creekside Park 4.2%8 Miller Street Trail Access 8.9%17 Moore St. / W 43rd Avenue Access 4.7%9 My neighborhood has an access point 16.8%32 If neighborhood access point, where? (Write In)16.3%31 Other - Write In 7.4%14 If neighborhood access point, where? (Write In)Count 41st & Newman St.1 41st Ave 1 41st Street parking area, west of Kipling 1 41st and Independance 1 41st ave 1 43th ave and kipling by newgate apartmetns 1 Totals 31 44th and tabor 1 Boyd's Crossing 1 Boyd's Crossing Park W 46th Ave and Everett 1 Garrison/42nd 1 Greenbelt 1 Independence 1 Independence Ct 1 Independence Ct.1 Independence St 1 Independence and 41st 1 Iris St 1 Iris street 1 Jellison 1 McClaighlin 1 Oak St and West 41st and/or Simms Ct 1 Otis Street Entrance 1 Owens Park 1 Simms from 38th 1 Simms st 1 The end of Parfet. St.1 The stairs down near miller entrance but i don't know the cross street 1 W 46 Ave 1 behind Newgate apartments 1 If neighborhood access point, where? (Write In)Count Totals 31 off Simms 1 simms 1 Totals 31 If neighborhood access point, where? (Write In)Count Other - Write In Count 41st Ave 1 41st parking lot 1 41st street 1 Either via Lowell or Tennyson 1 Everett and 45th. Boyd's crossing 1 I don't use it 1 Iris Street 1 Out our back yard 1 Pierce Street North entrance 1 South fork of the creek 1 Under the bridge on the north side of 44th 1 We live on the very west side of Wheat Ridge and I use the new clear creek crossing access point a lot too (might technically be Golden though) 1 Why is access from 44th St closed?1 Would love to access behind Kullerstrand 1 Totals 14 5. When you visit the Clear Creek Trail, how do you get there? Percent Personal vehicle Bike Walk or use mobility device Bus Skate or Skateboard Other - Write In 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Value Percent Responses Personal vehicle 63.0%119 Bike 56.1%106 Walk or use mobility device 45.5%86 Bus 1.1%2 Skate or Skateboard 1.6%3 Other - Write In 1.6%3 Other - Write In Count I feel like the options on this survey could have been better.1 car 1 every now and then there's enough snow to ski :)1 Totals 3 6. If you travel to or from the Clear Creek Trail by walking, bicycling, or mobility device, do you use any of the following facilities? Percent Sidewalks Bike lane Shared lanes marked with "sharrows" Streets without dedicated bicycle or pedestrian facilities 0 20 40 60 80 Value Percent Responses Sidewalks 65.5%97 Bike lane 40.5%60 Shared lanes marked with "sharrows"23.6%35 Streets without dedicated bicycle or pedestrian facilities 68.2%101 7. How far do you travel to use the Clear Creek Trail? 54% 0-1 miles54% 0-1 miles37% 2-4 miles37% 2-4 miles 9% 4+ miles9% 4+ miles Value Percent Responses 0-1 miles 54.3%102 2-4 miles 37.2%70 4+ miles 8.5%16 Totals: 188 8. Do you use the Clear Creek Trail to commute from one place to another? 27% Yes27% Yes 73% No73% No Value Percent Responses Yes 27.0%51 No 73.0%138 Totals: 189 9. If you visit Lewis Meadows, what do you do there? Percent Walk/Run Use a W heelchair or mobility device Bike E-Bike Roller skate / roller blade Skateboard Equestrian Nature viewing Play with my dog in the meadow I do not visit Lewis Meadows Other - Write In (Required) 0 20 40 60 80 Value Percent Responses Walk/Run 26.7%50 Use a Wheelchair or mobility device 3.2%6 Bike 7.5%14 E-Bike 2.7%5 Roller skate / roller blade 1.1%2 Skateboard 1.1%2 Equestrian 1.1%2 Nature viewing 13.4%25 Play with my dog in the meadow 5.3%10 I do not visit Lewis Meadows 66.3%124 Other - Write In (Required)3.7%7 Other - Write In (Required)Count Birdwatching 1 Do not use 1 Every day!1 I don't use it 1 I have no idea where Lewis Meadows is 1 Walk dogs 1 Where is Lewis meadows?1 Totals 7 ResponseID Response 4 keep it natural 18 Perhaps publicize it and its purpose. I am very interested in habitat protection and conservation, but I have no idea where Lewis Meadows is, how big it is, what it is conserving (why plants, animals, birds, etc.) If it is not very accessible because of its management perhaps providing guided walks or open house days when some of us could visit. 29 no suggestions 37 Im unfamiliar with this park 38 leave it alone. 49 Access to lewis meadows from prospect valley elem area without having to go up to 32nd ave and walk along it. 53 It would be great if the trail east of Lewis Meadows connected better to the neighborhoods between Lewis Meadows and Prospect ES. The neighborhoods are not connected at all except for 32nd Ave and the sidewalks are not wide enough. 59 Good the way it is - undeveloped flood plain protection. 68 less bikes 72 A few benches to make looking for wildlife more relaxing 74 no 88 Don't know 97 NA 10. Lewis Meadows is managed as a natural area for habitat protection and conservation purposes. With that purpose in mind, do you have any suggestions for improving Lewis Meadows? (write in) 101 We cherish this area as a little-known neighborhood park used by local residents. It is so small that it can't accommodate a lot of visitors driving in and parking from outside the neighborhood, plus it's so small I can't imagine many people would find it worthwhile to drive there from outside the 'hood. As a local resident, it is really nice to have a small piece of nature nearby, and so I support managing it as a "natural area for habitat protection and conservation purposes". That being said, the "meadow" out in the center of the encircling path is honestly just used by the local residents as a dog park (myself included). It is so quiet and low-traffic (i.e. when there is literally nobody else there) that it's generally accepted to let the dog run around in the grass. Maybe we should accept this as the way folks want to use the space, fence it off, and call it an official dog park? But then I fear hundreds of people would drive to the park just for this purpose. So it's a bit of a catch 22! If I do have one strong suggestion to improve it, that would be to make it larger! Buy some land from the adjacent giant private estates and make it public park land. 102 Enjoy having the goats 104 Dont know where Lewis Meadows is… 105 none as I am don't use Lewis meadows and am not familiar with it 110 I didn't know it existed. Not on the main Clear Creek trail. 111 Clean it up. Many down branches from earlier snow storm. 113 Let the residents know more about Lewis Meadows. 118 Expand eastward (purchasing farms) if feasible. 126 I didn't even know it was there. 132 Adding new gravel especially after rain storms. A few benches here and there would be nice. 136 Nope, it's a great little meadow. I'd like more mature trees, but not like that can happen overnight ;) 151 Keep it as natural as possible, I LOVE that about Lewis Meadows. I prefer the gravel paths and large amount of wildlife I encounter there. 173 The creek is a bit cluttered/clogged with weeds, should it be cleared or is that natural? ResponseID Response 179 I haven't visited this park, but I think the best way to manage an area like this is to be sure there are trash cans available to prevent people littering. Benches for people to enjoy the area. And walk ways that are smooth and wide enough for people to stay off the grass. 185 No 197 Benches to sit and view wildlife. Also to rest while walking. Better trail maintenance along south end in winter. It gets very icy to walk on. Also better grass and weed maintenance along pathway, outside fenced area where goats are kept, and near fence next to neighbors homes. 202 Keep it natural 211 wish it could be longer - link to more sidewalks / its odd to get to unless you live on the exact streets. If people would donate their farm for more access could be great 216 NA I do not know anything about and have never heard of it 225 Might not mind an occasional place to sit and rest for a minute. Of course, more shade would be great, but that isn't the nature of the whole area. 229 Maintain it as a natural area for habitat protection and conservation purposes 239 The entire area is overrun with invasive plant species and has not been actively managed and restored other than bank stabilization. The grass that grows there is not a native grass, but is allowed to spread and thrive reducing the biodiversity of the entire area and choking out other species. Other weed species are left to go to seed and spread throughout the neighborhood. It is not a healthy ecosystem. I have more biodiversity in my backyard that in this protected area. It is in desperate need of true conservation and restoration efforts. 244 a few benches. ResponseID Response Strongly Agree Mostly Agree Neutral Mostly Disagree Strongly Disagree Responses I feel safe in open spaces and on the trails. Count Row % 27 14.7% 116 63.0% 25 13.6% 11 6.0% 5 2.7% 184 I feel welcome in the city's open spaces and on the trails. Count Row % 101 54.9% 64 34.8% 13 7.1% 4 2.2% 2 1.1% 184 The area near my home has convenient access to open space and trails. Count Row % 64 34.8% 50 27.2% 24 13.0% 32 17.4% 14 7.6% 184 I have physical trouble accessing parks. Count Row % 6 3.3% 8 4.3% 19 10.3% 34 18.5% 117 63.6% 184 I feel excluded from parks, programs, and facilities due to gender, religious, or language barriers. Count Row % 3 1.6% 2 1.1% 15 8.2% 10 5.4% 154 83.7% 184 Totals Total Responses 184 11. Please rate your level of agreement with each of the following statements about parks and recreation in the City of Wheat Ridge. ResponseID Response 3 Regarding access to open space, my house is almost 3 miles from rec center and the Kipling W trailhead. Crown Hill Park is the most convenient park for me and I use it frequently. 4 I don't have trouble accessing parks or feel excluded 6 I have no trouble accessing parks, except Prospect Park, which is currently closed. I do not feel excluded from parks, programs or facilities for any reason. 11 These have never been issues. 12 I do not have any physical or geographical restrictions or any gender religious or language barriers that prevent me from accessing open space. 14 The increased homeless population makes me feel unsafe specifically on the trail segment between Otis Trailhead and Anderson Park. I fear for letting my daughter explore the natural area due to the trash and hazardous waste the unhoused leave. While the access point nearest to me is convenient (Otis) it does not feel safe leaving my vehicle there due to people living out of their vehicles frequently being parked there. 16 Would love access to the green belt through the back of Kullerstrand elementary. It would be good for the neighborhood as well as allow for environmental education at the school 19 I don't experience any barriers (religious/gender/etc/) accessing faciities. 22 I am not near any access points to Clear Creak of Lewis Meadows. I do not have any physical trouble access the parks, but I tend to walk the neighborhood streets rather than driving to access the trails in order to walk. I do not feel excluded, I just choose to walk my nieghborhood. 25 I feel unsafe at times on Clear Creek trail when there are homeless people walking along the trail and even sleeping under trees. There are camps and trash that need to be cleaned up. Get rid of the homeless people! 26 During walks thru the greenbelt I have encountered many homeless people sleeping just on the walking path just east of the Prospect Bridge; sitting under a tree by the trail; 2 camps just south of the walking trail all in a matter of 2 weeks!! 12. If you selected “Mostly Disagree” or “Strongly Disagree” in the previous question, please explain your response in the previous questions. Include specific details about which aspect you disagree with and why (specific location, activity, other.) 28 I don't feel excluded 30 i have no physical or other trouble accessing parks 37 38th ave has no sidewalk so its not very safe to travel along it. The homeless often trash thickets with heaps of garbage and sometimes leave bio hazards like feces, drugs, etc. They sometimes engage with me and they dint seem stable/sane. The trash is rarely cleaned up or occupied for prolobged periods leaving beautiful places (some of my favorite places to relax) inaccesisble 38 portions of the clear creek trail just east of wheat ridge and administered by CDOT has many health and safety concerns. 46 I don't feel excluded. I think this question meant to ask "If you selected Strongly Agree or Mostly Agree" 48 I do not feel excluded 49 My daughter was chased on the greenbelt on her bike - by someone on a bike who was trying to catch her. It was toward evening but not dark. Perhaps there should be safety stations or alarms? I don't know but I don't let anyone down there now unless it is blazing day and busy. 60 parks are accessible and I do not feel excluded 65 All folks I have met in the parks and greenbelt have been nothing but friendly and engaging. 68 lack of safety due to to homeless / mentally ill persons I am planning to leave Wheat Ridge due to these concerns 69 I wouldn't feel as safe after dark or alone in more isolated parts of the parks and trails. I generally bring my dog running with me when I am alone as added security. 74 I have no trouble accessing the parks that I go to: Anderson and Prospect Park. 88 Living in district 2 -there is no safe easy access to clear creek trail or to a public park...We need to cross 44th or brave Wadsworth --hence we drive 91 All signage is in English, which I speak/read. I do not feel excluded for religious reasons (I am not religious). I do not feel excluded for gender reasons (I am cisgender). 93 I've lived in wheat ridge for almost ten years and i've never even heard of most of these open spaces. the biggest issue accessing them is the city lacks an overall biking infrastructure that feels safe ResponseID Response 96 I didn't select "Mostly agree" or "Strongly disagree", but I do want to highlight the lack of direct tunnel or bridge for where Clear Creek Trail meets Kipling. I live right near there and there are a LOT of people who cross Kipling rather than going down to the tunnel near the rec center. On the weekends it creates a significant traffic hazard. I don't think it's a signage problem, I think people just strongly prefer a more direct route. There really needs to be a bridge or tunnel over/under Kipling where the trail meets it as there are at virtually every other trail/street intersection. 97 NA 101 Strongly disagreeing with the last two prompts doesn't really require an explanation, as this is what the majority of your responses will be. It's the minority who will benefit from you hearing their explanation. Same goes for strongly agreeing with the first and second prompt. I would elaborate on my "neutral" response for the third prompt -- although we do have pretty good access to open space and trails in general in Wheat Ridge, there are many locations where access to the Clear Creek trail/greenbelt could be improved. We need even more interconnection between sidewalks/streets and the trail. The more small dirt connecting paths, the better. There are some locations, such as between Youngfield and Kipling, where the southern access is very limited due to private property. Maybe we can forge some relationships with these private land owners for some tiny dirt access paths for the public to circumnavigate their massive multi-million dollar estates to access public open space lands? 104 I dont feel there is easy access from my home to the green belt. I mostly drive to get access. At one point there was talk of adding access along Lena gulch. That would be amazing n provide easy walking or biking access for many if it connected to green belt from Chester Portsmouth park. I feel welcome at all the parks etc. 106 I live very near Anderson Park, so access is easy.... 107 I do not live in Wheat Ridge, so I do not have easy access - I have to drive. 108 I have no physical trouble accessing parks & don't have any issues feeling excluded 111 I bike a lot and want to use trails for pleasure and commuting. Getting to a trail on a bike is impossible without competing with heavy traffic, i.e. Youngfield trailhead. 112 I am able to access relatively easily and I don't feel excluded (but I am a white English-speaking male). 113 There is no access from my neighborhood even though it backs up to Clear Creek (I'm on Brentwood). ResponseID Response 118 Access to Parks and Open Space in Wheat Ridge is highly restricted, and limited. If the major corridors can't safely provide connections for slow- speed mobility users, then neighborhood access is critical. 120 I love off of 29th and Benton. There aren't any trail near us. Closest open space is The Richard's-Hart Estate. 123 The trail is not safe. Homeless, speedy bikes, narrow pass points, blind corners, Ebikes going too fast, bikes traveling in groups. 126 No issues for either 135 I don't have problems or concerns accessing trails. 136 The only real safe option to access the clear creek trail and the parks along it are by driving, to bike I have to either bike down the deathtrap that is Youngfield or Kipling. A safe bike route needs to be created to connect 32nd to the Clear Creek 137 Need a safer access point to Johnson Park from the neighborhood on the ridge directly above the park. 144 The Otis Trailhead is hidden from public view. Though I use this trailhead, I am never comfortable heading down the hill unsure of who I may encounter. 146 I feel included in parks and programs. 148 I'm lucky to feel comfortable and open outside and in the community. 151 While the area I live has convenient access if you have a vehicle, it does not have good access for bicycle or pedestrians on foot. There are no dedicated bike lanes on 38th ave or Youngfield to safely access the Youngfield lot on a bike, there are sidewalks but it would make the walk quite long from my neighborhood. Additionally going east on 38th there are no bike lanes to safely bicycle to access points further down the trail. And again, walking would add an extra hour or more so not accessible unless you have a vehicle. I want to add that I mostly feel safe on the trails, but I do sometimes feel unsafe at the level of homeless people using the facilities or parking in the lots. I never go alone, I always have my dog with me or a friend or my husband. 153 Clear Creek Trail from Otis - Wadsworth does not feel safe. There isn't a great safe direct way to get to the Otis trail head from Panorama Park area via foot/bike 156 I have no physical disabilities and as "an old white lady" I am in the majority and experience the privilege my race and age give me. ResponseID Response 161 The trails are accessible from major roads...44th, 38th ...with the exception of Wadsworth. The park at Wadsworth is difficult to get into due to traffic on Wad and the sharp turn required....no sidewalks on Wadsworth 162 johnson park not too accessable 163 I don't have any physical or other barrier to keep me from open spaces 173 I live just south of 38th. It is very difficult to access the Clear Creek Trail without driving. We have to walk all the way to Youngfield or Kipling then walk on those very unpleasant roads. The needs to be access to Clear Creek Trail from 38th between Youngfield and Kipling. Maybe the old trail behind the Elementary school or north of Parfet? 176 I don't have physical trouble accessing parks and I don't feel excluded. 178 As an able white male english speaker etc. I have no problems with physical access or feeling excluded. Hence my personal Strongly Disagree on these questions. However, I am not speaking for others 179 I don't have any physical trouble accessing any parks as I have a vehicle and a bike to get to trails. I also don't feel excluded from being able to use the parks, programs or facilities. 182 As a female, I do not feel safe walking in the open spaces on the green belt alone. Ive been approached by people experiencing homelessness and acting strangely and aggressively. I am only comfortable walking with my husband or a companion. It isn't a safe place for anyone vulnerable to walk alone. That is unfortunate as we all have a right to enjoy open space. 184 I wish there was an access point at 44th and Tabor. When I don't have a vehicle, I use that access point from the other side of tabor so I have to cross 44th. It can be dangerous. I know I could walk to prospect but I don't like walking down 44th. 186 Years ago I rode my horses on the Greenbelt on a daily basis. My daughter and I walked or roller skated almost daily also. We started seeing streakers and homeless and people who caused us alarm so stopped these activities. There used to be one homeless man in Wheat Ridge that we ran into all the time. His name was Bernard and he was harmless and always polite. Not so today. The homeless are aggressive and threatening. I never saw a park ranger on the greenbelt even years back and I'm sure they have even a less visible presence in today's culture of fewer employees. Today I would never walk or ride the greenbelt due to the homeless living back in there. If I could carry my gun ...maybe. But we all know only the criminals and homeless have weapons in public areas today. ResponseID Response 188 Being a white male that is fluent in English, I do not feel at all excluded from anything park related. 189 I don't have trouble accessing the parks nor do I feel discriminated against. 190 I never feel excluded. 202 Gender and age can be a factor when I'm on my own 205 I live in the city's urban core, and non-car access to open space is problematic due to heavy traffic and areas that are not pedestrian or bike friendly. Sidewalks are narrow and up against the street. Tree lawns would be welcome buffers between car traffic and people. It would also be useful to plot more walkable, green corridors between parks for people and wildlife. 207 I have two big dogs. No issue with the homeless. 210 I don't necessarily have trouble reaching the Clear Creek Trail, it's 2.5 miles from my house on roads and I try to avoid road cycling out of a concern for my safety. The painted sharrows and stripes don't do anything for safety. Drivers are fast an impatient these days, so cyclists need all the protection we can get. What could be interesting is to convert some N/S streets that lead to trail heads to one way (for autos) leaving more room for human scale active transportation. My big wish would be seeing the Rocky Mountain Ditch converted to trails that go East/West then we have another option to gain access to trails w/o getting on surface roads. 211 On 32nd and kipling, so just a tad farther away and don't feel comfortable riding my bike on Kipling. If there were back roads/ trails to get me access, that would be ideal. Some of the transient/ homeless population due to the proximity to i70 can feel unsafe at times 212 My access is out our backyard. In all my years in WR the gender, religion etc has not been or seen in our parks. 219 I don't feel any exclusion from activities. 226 Age 229 I feel all the parks are open to everyone....i've not experienced any form of exclusion in any of the parks... 233 As an avid cyclist, I specifically chose to buy a house with easy access to Clear Creek Trail with convenient access to open space. I've witnessed more homeless camps along the creek popping up over the years, creating more trash. Not sure what the solution is, but it needs to be addressed. ResponseID Response 235 Homeless 239 I can physically access our parks without feeling excluded. The access to open space from my home is close, but our largest open space, Clear Creek, is lacking safe and pleasant walking access points for the neighborhood along 38th unless you have property right against the open space. Those on 38th and surrounding neighborhood should not need to drive to trailhead. There needs to be more direct access for the community. 245 I live near 38th & Harlan. The only way I can bike to Clear Creek is west on 35th & then north on Pierce. I have been almost hit multiple times on Pierce, mostly from 38th north. It would be nice to have bike lanes marked all the way up to 48th Avenue. 248 I wish it were easier to bike to our parks. 249 Anderson park -prospect park lots of people experiencing homelessness 250 No physical issues. I don't feel excluded from anything; I just go. 252 I do not have trouble accessing parks and as a person I generally feel welcome. I DO NOT feel my dogs are welcome, so I don't go. I travel to Golden, that has dedicated open spaces for dogs to be off leash. 254 I feel included and have no trouble accessing the parks. ResponseID Response Item Overall Rank Rank Distribution Score No. of Rankings Opportunities to enjoy the natural environment 1 2,633 164 Protect wildlife habitat 2 2,339 157 Protect water quality of Clear Creek 3 2,322 155 Healthy lifestyle 4 2,273 158 Beautiful scenery 5 2,019 154 Observe wildlife 6 1,790 145 Creek/water access 7 1,749 136 Opportunities for solitude 8 1,694 153 Natural surface trails 9 1,627 141 Non-motorized transportation connections 10 1,491 136 Community pride & quality of life 11 1,451 141 Self-directed, unprogrammed recreation 12 1,429 139 Paved Trails 13 1,365 142 Buffers between neighborhoods 14 896 125 Opportunities to learn 15 892 125 Picknicking 16 849 128 Gathering space for groups 17 797 128 13. Please rank the importance of each open space and trails benefit listed below. Safe routes to school 18 797 119 Places to go fishing 19 539 119 Item Overall Rank Rank Distribution Score No. of Rankings Lowest Rank Highest Rank Most Important Somewhat Important Neutral Less Important Not at all Important Responses Water Resource Management (i.e.,protect quality of Clear Creek) Count Row % 128 73.6% 42 24.1% 4 2.3% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 174 Ecosystem management(e.g., maintaining vegetation, restoring habitat) Count Row % 138 79.3% 32 18.4% 4 2.3% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 174 Wildfire Fuel Reduction Count Row % 78 45.1% 67 38.7% 21 12.1% 7 4.0% 0 0.0% 173 Recreation Management (e.g., reducing user conflicts or overcrowding) Count Row % 60 34.5% 86 49.4% 21 12.1% 6 3.4% 1 0.6% 174 Facilities Maintenance (e.g., providing and maintaining restrooms, trash, shelters, etc.) Count Row % 78 44.8% 78 44.8% 12 6.9% 5 2.9% 1 0.6% 174 14. How important are the following services? Parking Maintenance (e.g., addressing limited parking, enforcing on illegally parked vehicles) Count Row % 32 18.5% 73 42.2% 41 23.7% 22 12.7% 5 2.9% 173 Trail Maintenance (e.g., fixing erosion problems, removing vegetation from trails) Count Row % 77 44.3% 77 44.3% 15 8.6% 5 2.9% 0 0.0% 174 Signage and Information (e.g., installing trailhead kiosks, creating brochures) Count Row % 23 13.2% 61 35.1% 48 27.6% 35 20.1% 7 4.0% 174 Accessibility for Mobility Devices or Users with Disabilities Count Row % 43 24.7% 68 39.1% 50 28.7% 10 5.7% 3 1.7% 174 Totals Total Responses 174 Most Important Somewhat Important Neutral Less Important Not at all Important Responses Very well Somewhat well Neutral Poor Very Poor Responses Water Resource Management (i.e.,protect quality of Clear Creek) Count Row % 27 15.5% 74 42.5% 59 33.9% 9 5.2% 5 2.9% 174 Ecosystem management(e.g., maintaining vegetation, restoring habitat) Count Row % 31 17.8% 91 52.3% 39 22.4% 13 7.5% 0 0.0% 174 Wildfire Fuel Reduction Count Row % 12 6.9% 56 32.2% 92 52.9% 9 5.2% 5 2.9% 174 Recreation Management (e.g., reducing user conflicts or overcrowding) Count Row % 13 7.5% 68 39.1% 74 42.5% 16 9.2% 3 1.7% 174 Facilities Maintenance (e.g., providing and maintaining restrooms, trash, shelters, etc.) Count Row % 29 16.7% 72 41.4% 50 28.7% 20 11.5% 3 1.7% 174 Parking Maintenance (e.g., addressing limited parking, enforcing on illegally parked vehicles) Count Row % 14 8.0% 61 35.1% 84 48.3% 14 8.0% 1 0.6% 174 Trail Maintenance (e.g., fixing erosion problems, removing vegetation from trails) Count Row % 28 16.1% 101 58.0% 32 18.4% 12 6.9% 1 0.6% 174 15. How well do you believe the City of Wheat Ridge is providing these services? Signage and Information (e.g., installing trailhead kiosks, creating brochures) Count Row % 28 16.1% 74 42.5% 60 34.5% 9 5.2% 3 1.7% 174 Accessibility for Mobility Devices or Users with Disabilities Count Row % 20 11.5% 53 30.5% 95 54.6% 5 2.9% 1 0.6% 174 Totals Total Responses 174 Very well Somewhat well Neutral Poor Very Poor Responses 16. Select the top FIVE future actions the City of Wheat Ridge could take to improve its open space and trails network. Percent Continue to maintain current trail facilities Increase connectivity and trail access in underserved areas of the City, where? (write in) Increase winter maintenance of trails Address safety concerns, where? (W rite in) Address conflicts between users such as: pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, dog-walkers, etc. Improve trail lighting and visibility for nighttime use Develop new bike park facility or pump track near the trail Public art installations Improve inclusion services or accessibility to programs and facilities Provide educational opportunities through signage and interactive elements Formalize and maintain some of the natural surface social trails while reducing and revegetating others as appropriate for conservation Allow legal access to Clear Creek for wading, swimming, fishing, tubing, paddling Construct new trailheads on Clear Creek Trail Preserve habitat and water quality by limiting public access Improve trail signage and wayfinding Other - Write In (Required) 0 80 Value Percent Responses Continue to maintain current trail facilities 78.7%133 Increase connectivity and trail access in underserved areas of the City, where? (write in) 24.3%41 Increase winter maintenance of trails 26.0%44 Address safety concerns, where? (Write in)34.3%58 Address conflicts between users such as: pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, dog-walkers, etc. 40.8%69 Improve trail lighting and visibility for nighttime use 26.0%44 Develop new bike park facility or pump track near the trail 25.4%43 Public art installations 13.6%23 Improve inclusion services or accessibility to programs and facilities 8.9%15 Provide educational opportunities through signage and interactive elements 17.2%29 Formalize and maintain some of the natural surface social trails while reducing and revegetating others as appropriate for conservation 55.6%94 Allow legal access to Clear Creek for wading, swimming, fishing, tubing, paddling 26.6%45 Construct new trailheads on Clear Creek Trail 21.9%37 Preserve habitat and water quality by limiting public access 30.2%51 Improve trail signage and wayfinding 16.0%27 Other - Write In (Required)11.8%20 Increase connectivity and trail access in underserved areas of the City, where? (write in)Count 32nd to the Creek on the west side of town. Youngfield, Kipling, Wadsworth, etc..1 Totals 34 Access from south of the creek to more open space 1 Along Lena Gulch 1 Applewood (32nd- 20th// kipling - youngfield)1 Applewood community along 38th b/w Youngfield & Kipling 1 Area just north of Lutheran is close to CC trail but doesn't have access unless you cross the river at 44th Ave, which isn't a pleasant pedestrian experience 1 Bel Air neighborhood. We need a park!1 Bel-Air/Melrose area via Bike or foot 1 Bike access to Clear Creek trail from Applewood.1 Connection points all over 1 East Wheat Ridge (32nd, 35th, 38th and Sheridan)1 East Wheat Ridge - just off 38th avenue 1 East Wheat Ridge to CCT 1 East Wheatridge connectivity to creek side park 1 Everywhere!1 From Youngfield to Kipling, there is a big gap in access to the Clear Creek trail/greenbelt from the south. 1 Improve bike/ pedestrian access, Otis trailhead 1 Kullerstrand 1 Leppla Manor 1 Miller st crossing 44th 1 More bicycle friendly access points- working together to create more bicycle lanes & routes throughout the city near access points especially. 1 Near youngfield behind the office park where they seem to camp long term.1 Increase connectivity and trail access in underserved areas of the City, where? (write in)Count Totals 34 Neighborhoods along 38th on the north and south side. There is no easy way to get to clear creek path and 38th is a super unsafe street to walk and bike. 1 Not around Tabor Lake as it will bring in more people from the truck stop. New soon to be apts. at Tabor Lake can enter park at Youngfield and prospect. Don't encourage entrance in neighborhoods. 1 Not sure. But wherever people are underserved.1 Southeast WR 1 Throughout 1 Wadsworth and 38th/44th 1 We need a sidewalk on 38th ave 1 bike lanes in more places 1 greenbelt 1 off of Wadsworth 1 sdf 1 with Arvada for access to public transport 1 Totals 34 Increase connectivity and trail access in underserved areas of the City, where? (write in)Count Address safety concerns, where? (Write in)Count Homeless 2 Accessing trail heads on CCT from areas further away 1 Address homeless camping in parks and clear Creek trail 1 Along clear creek trail 1 Between Kipling and 44th 1 Broken glass, limbs and debris on trails, continue to prevent homeless camps 1 Clear Creek Otis to Kipling 1 Totals 54 Clear Creek between Otis and Wadsworth 1 Clear Creek homeless 1 Clear creek 1 Clear creek homeless 1 Creekside- Johnson homeless 1 Cyclists use Clear Creek trail at high speeds making the trail unsafe for other users. 1 East end, transient population issues near 70 1 Eastern miles of trail are falling apart.1 Frequent homeless population monitoring along clear creek, west end 1 Fruitdale park 1 Get the perverts and homeless in the greenbelt controlled 1 Homeless camp removal 1 Homeless camps and their trash between Anderson park and Otis trailhead.1 Homeless encampments near Johnson Park and in the south West areas of prospect park. 1 Homeless people along the creek 1 Homeless/trash/biohazard clean up (particualrly thicket off of oak st.) and the south side of clear creek between kipling and youngsfield. Also people with dogs regularly disobey the leash rule and that creates hazards for pedestrians and those on horseback. 1 Homelessness 1 Homelessness 1 Homelessness Anderson & prospect parks 1 Address safety concerns, where? (Write in)Count Totals 54 Homelessness on greenbelt 1 Hotels, homeless 1 Johnson Park 1 Johnson Park,1 Kipling. The 6 block detour to cross at Kipling doesn't work. It floods and people aren't interested in such a large detour in the interest of protecting the flow of traffic. 1 Near Kipling 1 Off-leash dogs and their owners 1 Otis Trailhead 1 Overpass at Kipling for clear creek trail 1 Prospect Park 1 Prospect park area and trail between Kipling and Youngfield 1 Restroom facilities at Prospect Park, Anderson Park- presence of homelessness 1 Unhoused population trash and hazardous waste between Otis and Anderson 1 all 1 along the creek 1 between kipling and youngfield - esp towards youngfield, but in the middle too - and around the parks. It does not feel safe as a woman. 1 clear creek trail past harlan 1 homeless anywhere 1 homeless campers in the summer on the trail head by 44th 1 homeless in Anderson and prospect parks 1 homeless/illegal camping 1 Address safety concerns, where? (Write in)Count Totals 54 homelessness, used drug paraphernalia, trash 1 just west of Kipling; southwest of Prospect Park in woods south of creek 1 persons experiencing homelessness; off leash dogs 1 safe, more direct, and cleaner walking access to Clear Creek from 38th and Youngfield 1 sdf 1 throughout Clear Creek 1 Totals 54 Address safety concerns, where? (Write in)Count Other - Write In (Required)Count Add direct connection to Clear Creek Trail via bridge/tunnel over/under Kipling rather than looping down past Rec Center 1 Add trails on both sides of the river for loop walking.1 Create cleaner, better maintained restrooms at Anderson Park. The portable restrooms are not a long term solution. 1 Dog friendly areas 1 Emphasize health of vegetation in the greenbelt. Weed control.1 Keep people from letting their dogs run off leash through Crown Hill Park and other wild areas. People frequently let their dogs run through wild animal habitat without consideration or consequence. 1 Maintain toilet access, and cleanliness 1 More and better restroom facilities - very poor compared to Jeffco maintained facilities 1 Provide Disc Golf Course 1 Purchase the massive, underutilized private property located directly across Clear Creek from Prospect Park. Make it public land. 1 Remove dead/dying trees and stumps 1 Totals 20 When new hospital opens the trail use will grow!! An exciting time for visitors and patients to get outside. 1 balance habitat quality along with access 1 control the speed of cyclists who create a very dangerous situation for people walking dogs or with baby carriages 1 decent rest rooms 1 discourage nighttime use and water access 1 enforce leash rules for dog owners 1 increase patrols for compliance (illegal camping, dogs off leash, etc.)1 lead onsite wildlife and plant education programs 1 remove invasive weeds and poison hemlock, preserve old trees and native plants 1 Totals 20 Other - Write In (Required)Count Very Supportive Somewhat Supportive Not Sure Not Supportive Responses Drones Count Row % 14 8.3% 22 13.0% 39 23.1% 94 55.6% 169 Bikes on conservation trails Count Row % 28 16.6% 42 24.9% 31 18.3% 68 40.2% 169 Electric bikes (E-bikes)on paved pathways Count Row % 48 28.4% 55 32.5% 24 14.2% 42 24.9% 169 Dedicated dog parks/off- leash areas Count Row % 71 42.0% 61 36.1% 14 8.3% 23 13.6% 169 Commercial non-motorized concessionaires (e.g., equipment rental) Count Row % 17 10.1% 47 27.8% 62 36.7% 43 25.4% 169 Food trucks/vendors at trailheads and access points Count Row % 53 31.4% 56 33.1% 21 12.4% 39 23.1% 169 Access to Clear Creek for paddling or tubing Count Row % 47 27.8% 61 36.1% 30 17.8% 31 18.3% 169 Totals Total Responses 169 17. Please indicate your level of support for allowing and regulating the following emerging outdoor recreation trends in Wheat Ridge open spaces and trails. ResponseID Response 3 I support separation of uses that tend to conflict with one another. I support law/regulation/code enforcement in the greenbelt and other parks; Wheat Ridge should have a robust, professional, empowered "park ranger" force. Wheat Ridge should devote more resources to park maintenance and, only as warranted by citizen values, enhancement. 6 You're doing great! Keep up the good work. 10 Would love to see areas like Golden has with access to the water. Would love to see improvements at Anderson Park. 12 Just that open space and nature access and preservation is very important to the health of individuals and the community. I am glad that protecting these spaces is important to Wheat Wheat Ridge and I encourage as much recreational open space as possible. 18. What are we missing? What else would you like to share about open space and trails in the City of Wheat Ridge? 18 Open space and trails should be for low-impact and more conservation- oriented uses. No drones, no bike parks, no night time lighting, no off-leash dog parks, no tubing, etc. All of these uses have a detrimental impact on birds and wildlife as well as quiet and solitude. Plus they create a huge maintenance problem and workload for the city. Tubing and water access create trash, erosion, water safety issues. Tons of dog poop plus liability issues and dog owner conflicts - who needs that. If you want to see an overused Clear Creek, take a look at Golden. A huge maintenance workload in Golden to keep up with trash, provide restrooms, damage to vegetation and erosion, etc. make Clear Creek a sacrifice zone. Don't want that here in Wheat Ridge. Needs to be a balance. We have/need developed parks and less developed, more natural spaces. Let's keep it that way. Just maintain and improve existing open space and natural areas to control erosion and social trails/uses, control wildfire threat (keeping the homeless out will go a long way for that), eliminate non-compatible uses, keep areas safe, address any conflicts between users, promote native plants and trees, etc. Don't need trailheads jammed with food vendors, loud music, trash, tube rentals, etc. Keep those types of activities to more developed and traditional parks like Discovery, Anderson, Prospect, The Green on 38th etc. that have or will have ballfields, playgrounds, large picnic areas, a stage, etc. Limit trails and develop around Tabor lake to protect nesting birds and prohibit motorized remote control boats on Tabor Lake, Bass Lake, other open space lakes. In order to preserve the quality of Wheat Ridge's open spaces, certain activities need to be prohibited. There is a need for natural spaces, quiet, solitude, wildlife. Too many people, activities, too much noise, too much trash are not an improvement. Green Mountain (Lakewood Park) is another example of what we don't want. That park/open space has been completely taken over by mountain bikes. I won't go there anymore to walk, look at wildflowers, bird watch, etc. You have to constantly step off the trail for bikers (even though they are supposed to yield to you). Many of them are just going way to fast downhill and it is dangerous for pedestrians, horses - a real safety issue. So this is a prime example of how multi-use, over development has not worked and has driven away other users and created major maintenance issues (trail ruts and erosion is bad at Green Mountain and mud season creates another issue with determining and enforcing trail closures). Same thing could happen with other uses - not just mountain bikes. So more uses and users is not usually not a good thing in my experience. 25 Get rid of the homeless people and their camps/trash. I do not feel proud of our community when it is trashed by people that don't care about their surroundings. 30 better maintenance of Clear Creek trails from Anderson Park to Marshall Street 32 Stop trying to destroy Wheat Ridge with making our parks and trails common ResponseID Response 33 Junk removal near Creekside park. Some of this junk may be in other entities, but reflects on Wheat Ridge, so working with other entities would be beneficial. More wildflower seeding along trail. 36 I didn't know of several lakes and parks until taking this survey. I also am unable to find them on a map. Information of what's available and what activities can be done at each place would be extremely helpful. 37 The space along clear creek between kipling and youngsfield is one if the only true riparian woodlands in the metro area. Denver has s bad habit or overdeveloping and neglecting its waterways. The top priority her shoudl be ti conserve natyre and allow people to experience unaltered land. Keep it natural, keep it maintained, keep it clean… just keep a light hand. You dont kniw how hard it is to find solace in nature around here and thats why i live in this neighborhood. Please keep it that way. 38 We are on Clear Creek Trail weekly. Please keep it clean and safe. A center stripe on the pavement with signs saying, 'Keep Right Except to Pass' might clear up some conflicts. 41 Improvements to the kipling bike trail crossing. Would like to see it similar to the Wadsworth underpass. 46 More areas for children's recreation - specifically splash pads, really large play structure, etc. a park modeled after Ralston Central Park in Arvada would be wonderful. 49 The safety is number 1. Without that I don't care. I want my kids to be able to go there and explore as kids do without having to be scared about being chased. It did not used to be like this. 54 Thank you for the great job clearing snow in the winter on the trail. The greenbelt is a gem. Looking forward to the disc golf course I would like to see better biking infrastructure throughout the city not just at the parks. 59 Continue the conservation natural resource protection ... This is the only City controlled perpetually protected place reserved for wildlife and their habitats and native plants ecosystems. (rare plants habitats are still thriving with these open space areas.) Do not expand on human centric activities or hours they can occur within the open spaces. Find places for these more intensive higher impact human facilities activities to occur in the other City of County hardened dedicated parks and recreation facilities. 60 Nothing 68 safe quiet place to walk ResponseID Response 72 Need more and better restroom facilities. This is a major weakness. Also need to something about homeless camping, lighting fires and leaving garbage around. Have had some unpleasant encounters on the unpaved trails and by the creek. SCARY 73 keep it natural - does not need more development but good maintenance - I have used these trails since 1975 and do not want to lose the naturalness that exists here. Not more development or organized events 86 Definitely more access with protected bike lanes, routes that go north south. Lower speed limit on young field. 91 Is there some way to allow for a crossing at Kipling other than through the tunnel by WRRC? My kids are not quite big enough to handle that extra distance sometimes, so we end up driving to the Kipling West Trailhead, which feels like a waste of gas because that's so close to our house. 93 A trail map would be helpful educating people on how to access existing spaces with existing bike routes 96 The trail entrance at the end of 41st Ave. west of the Rec Center is under- utilized and would be a FANTASTIC place for an 18-hole disc golf course. The varied terrain would seriously make it better than any other course around. Anyone who visits the Johnny Roberts course in Arvada can attest to how much traffic this pulls in for local businesses (including mine my friends')! 97 Improved gathering and recreational opportunities. Please refer to the City of Golden. 101 Concerning question 17 -- bikes on conservation trails are a non-issue and do not necessarily cause damage or harm. E-bikes should be allowed on paved paths as a very viable alternative to automobile commuting (pretty sure they already are anyway). More dedicated dog parks/off leash areas would be great, there is absolutely demand for it from the public and it reduces illegal off-leash use. 103 1 . Create better restrooms that are clean and safe 2. Share park calendar with the community so they know when interesting events are occurring -- ie the Italian Car Show, Corvette meeting, etc. 3. Fix drainage issue at steps under Clear Creek bridge next to Anderson Park. 4. If lights are installed for night use which is nice -- need to make sure the trails are safe and that homelessness is well managed. 5. Enforce overnight camping rules at parks. 104 With climate change and the excessive heat we are experiencing possibly opening parks earlier in the day and later in the evening might be necessary n helpful in the near future. Lighting would be a concern if evening hours were permitted n safety, of course. ResponseID Response 110 Keep them natural and quiet. City is already so busy and loud. With new hospital and housing out west, let's see how the trail traffic is before trying to encourage more and different types of traffic. 111 Bike paths that support commuting to shopping, work, Light Rail. Wheat Ridge seems to only consider increasing capacity for automobiles. There is little interest in encouraging residents to find alternative commuting possibilities. 113 I just don't know much about many of these facilities, especially the lakes and meadows. I would like to see demonstration gardens with native plants, a tree inventory, and to understand more about historic preservation and places that should be preserved. 123 In parts of the trails near Prospect Park there are designed rock placements designed to safely get close to the flow. East of Kipling could use the same treatments. 126 I like the separation of bikes and walkers east from Youngfield. I generally avoid the paved trails because the bikes are going too fast and do not announce their presence. 132 Goose poop at Prospect? Haven't used the Park for that very reason! 138 More police patrols 143 E bikes need some attention, due to the speeds they can travel and a lot of riders are new without good bike handling skills. This will become a bigger safety issue as e-bikes get more popular 146 This is great. Very comprehensive 147 Clear Creek Trail between Wads and Sheridan is the WORST part of all of the trail and an embarrassment for WR. Cleaning up the area, repaving the trail, adding lights, clearing erosion and ice in winter, and signage would be a great thing. 150 I love the Clear Creek and am grateful it's not far from my home in NW Denver. Excited to see what becomes of all open space in the forthcoming years. ResponseID Response 151 I am curious about the last question (17) and would want to provide more feedback on those various emerging recreation opportunities. For ex, allowing E-bikes on paved pathways could be great for commuting, but would open a lot of doors to issues around the many different kinds of users on the paths. Same goes for opening up clear creek for paddling or tubing, that would increase the number of users dramatically and ultimately change a lot about the current use of the trail in Wheat Ridge (I personally would not want the overcrowded use like you find in Golden on a summer afternoon). On the flip side I can see how it could generate more business and people coming to our city and be a positive in that regard. I hope there is more opportunity to provide feedback on those future items. 152 There is already established tubing in Golden. I like the more rustic, less used sections of the creek in Wheat Ridge. 156 My concern with food trucks/vendors at trailheads is the management of trash. There is already a problem with plastic bags, cups, bottles, aluminum cans and paper trash getting into Clear Creek. People take food and drink down near the creek or to picnic areas near the creek to consume and then leave the containers. Sometimes this is inadvertent because a wind comes along and blows the plastic or paper trash so that it is difficult to retrieve. I don't think that more trash cans will solve this problem: People often like to go and sit in quiet areas along the creek to eat and drink where it's not practical to have trash cans. I think the better solution is coffee, sandwich or ice cream shops on private property near but not in parks or trail heads so that people would, hopefully, eat and drink and leave their trash there. 172 Drones detract from the birds and getting away from the urban landscape n the clear creek trail. 173 Please allow a trail connection from south of 38th to the clear creek trail between Youngfield and Kipling 176 the greenbelt, trails, and wildlife viewing are reasons I elected to live in Wheat Ridge. I am grateful for the trails and access to nature the city provides. These things improve my quality of life every day. 177 I am fortunate to have access to the Clear Creek trail from my neighborhood and use it to bike commute daily to Golden. I want the city to consider increasing accessibly on a trail that is already heavily used. If there are more users how will capacity and safe use be communicated? 182 It can be hard to share the trail with cyclists. Maybe a lane dedicated to peds and another dedicated for bikes. 184 Bike park would be sick! ResponseID Response 186 I think we'd all feel much more secure and safe using the WR Greenbelt if we could see even a small increase in security. It's apparent that little is being done to keep the homeless out of parking areas or public businesses in town, and it looks like nothing at all is being done to protect those using the Greenbelt. If I didn't have a big and very protective dog I'd never go near the Greenbelt. You have homeless living under bridges, in camps back in the underbrush, approaching and begging from people who just want a peaceful experience in nature. But there are no patrols riding bikes or horse back on the trails or even close by to offer help to anyone. Oh sure, you occasionally see a truck driving along the paved sidewalks with park workers picking up trash, but never any real help or protection, if it was needed. All we ever hear is that there aren't enough police to even patrol our streets, so how can you spare any to keep the Greenbelt safe. I, for one, do not plan to use the WR Greenbelt again. I used to love the Greenbelt and felt my daughter was safe playing in it and I never ever felt unsafe even walking alone. I considered it a little piece of heaven right in the middle of the city. Now it is a haven for the homeless with no police presence or any kind of protection for people who just want some peace. 187 Connectivity would be most important to me. I know adding bike lanes and sidewalks, and improving bike / pedestrian safety would be a large, citywide effort. But as a parent, I would love to bike on the Clear Creek trail with my kids but we can't bring all our bikes in the car so we need to be able to ride from our house (near 32nd and Teller). The bike lane on Pierce is inconsistent and the bike lane along 32nd between Wads and Kipling is so narrow it is dangerous. 188 Let's use the permanent toilets at Anderson park rather than the temporary toilets that have been setup for the past 2 years. 195 I think e-bikes are a great idea on paved pathways-- that gives a lot more people access to the trails. However, I think you'd just want to include a speed limit. The e-bikes themselves aren't an issue; but people going too fast, whether on e-bikes or regular ones, increase user conflicts. 197 No loitering, no camping, keep homeless away. Better trash removal education 198 Speed limits and limited access (paved trails only) for ebikes. Emergency call boxes on clear creek trails. Keep things in their natural state as much as possible. Limit nighttime lighting/lighted areas for bird health. 200 Better crossing over roads for clear creek trail. Kipling specifically 204 Provide a disc golf course. Disc golf is one of the fastest growing sports and has a very low cost of entry to play which offers a great outside activity for families from all economic status. The greenbelt also offers a unique ecosystem where, if designed well, Wheat Ridge could easily offer one of the premier disc golf courses in the metro area. ResponseID Response 205 A comprehensive plan that seeks to unify the various parks and trails is very forward-thinking and needed. I appreciate that the City is undertaking this endeavor which will improve the quality of life for all the residents. 207 We really need separate trails for bikes and dog walking. If the trails were mowed for walkers along the edge it would give you someplace to go when the bikes fly by. It can be very dangerous walking two dogs. 210 Convert the Rocky Mountain Ditch to trails!!! 212 Erosion on the lake shores. The electric bikes/scooters etc are here to stay. Some type of regulation is needed. Also gas powered scooters are seen at least from Prospect to Youngfield. We have had prostitutes from truck stop.Help the remaining wildlife from dogs off leases. 217 I'd like to see a return of healthy coyote and fox populations at crown hill and more water staying in the lake. It was disheartening to see the lake so empty this spring and summer. 218 I think you do a fine job. I don't actually see you as the root of my biggest issues, mainly non-motorized connectivity to the trails via city streets and the Kipling detour on clear creek. If you could have a bigger voice in those decisions, I think it would help the overall system. 233 Overall, the open space trail network is great in Wheat Ridge. Improving connectivity between areas with more bikes lanes/safer bike routes would be nice. 236 More access to clear creek trail especially off of Wadsworth. Hopefully this will be improved by the current construction project. 244 Need decent rest rooms. Not porta potties forever! 245 Trails along the Rocky Mountain ditch system would be awesome 252 Regular trail clean up and trash collection is a must. Maybe organizing community participation days. More trash collection stations would benefit user participation. I often would pick up trash as I walk but there is rarely a spot to deposit it. ResponseID Response 19. Where is your primary residence? (Select one) 92% City of Wheat Ridge (city limits) 92% City of Wheat Ridge (city limits) 4% Neighboring city4% Neighboring city 2% Jefferson County (unincorporated) 2% Jefferson County (unincorporated) 2% Other - Write In (Required)2% Other - Write In (Required) Value Percent Responses City of Wheat Ridge (city limits)91.6%152 Neighboring city 4.2%7 Jefferson County (unincorporated)2.4%4 Other - Write In (Required)1.8%3 Totals: 166 Other - Write In (Required)Count Broomfield 1 Centennial, Arapahoe County 1 lived in WR for many years but am in neighboring city now 1 Totals 3 20. What is your relationship with City of Wheat Ridge? (Select all that apply) Percent I live in Wheat Ridge I work in Wheat Ridge I recreate in Wheat Ridge 0 20 40 60 80 100 Value Percent Responses I live in Wheat Ridge 92.0%149 I work in Wheat Ridge 19.1%31 I recreate in Wheat Ridge 68.5%111 21. What is your preferred language for communications? (Select one) 100% English100% English Value Percent Responses English 100.0%162 Totals: 162 Other - Write In (Required)Count Totals 0 22. Which of the following best describes your race? 93% White93% White 3% Asian3% Asian 1% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 1% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 2% American Indian or Alaska Native 2% American Indian or Alaska Native 1% Other - Write In1% Other - Write In Value Percent Responses White 93.1%148 Asian 2.5%4 Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 1.3%2 American Indian or Alaska Native 1.9%3 Other - Write In 1.3%2 Totals: 159 Other - Write In Count American 1 Totals 1 23. Do you identify as Latinx? 2% Yes2% Yes 98% No98% No Value Percent Responses Yes 1.9%3 No 98.1%152 Totals: 155 24. What age groups does your household represent? (Select all that apply) Percent Under age 5: Ages 5-9: Ages 10-14: Ages 15-19: Ages 20-24: Ages 25-34: Ages 35-44: Ages 45-54: Ages 55-64: Ages 65-74: Ages 75-84: 0 10 20 30 40 Value Percent Responses Under age 5:14.6%23 Ages 5-9:10.2%16 Ages 10-14:4.5%7 Ages 15-19:2.5%4 Ages 20-24:1.9%3 Ages 25-34:19.7%31 Ages 35-44:35.7%56 Ages 45-54:17.8%28 Ages 55-64:12.7%20 Ages 65-74:21.7%34 Ages 75-84:5.1%8 OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY STAGE 2: PRELIM. RECOMMENDATIONS Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 1 JANUARY 4, 2023 OVERVIEW The second stage of stakeholder and community engagement for the City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan, the Alternatives & Preliminary Recommendations stage, took place from September through December 2022. This stage of outreach included opportunities that engaged a total of 221 Wheat Ridge community members. The PFOS Division and planning team utilized a variety of engagement tools to gather valuable feedback from community stakeholders regarding their experiences, challenges, opportunities, and values related to Wheat Ridge Open Space and the Clear Creek Trail (segment of the Peaks to Plains Trail). The purpose of these conversations was to: •Stimulate community-wide awareness of the planning effort •Solicit candid feedback from a broad cross-section of the Wheat Ridge community, including residents and visitors to the City’s open spaces •Review and indicate level of support for preliminary recommendations and proposed concepts NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS BY EVENT Joint Open House 35 Trail User Survey 168 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting 7 Virtual Community Focus Group 6 Online Interactive Maps 5 TOTAL (during this stage) 221 Number Engaged During Stage 1 346 GRAND TOTAL 567 PROCESS & MILESTONES ATTACHMENT 2 Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 2 METHODOLOGY Over the course of the fall, the project team engaged Wheat Ridge stakeholders through a variety of methods including in-person and online engagement opportunities, highlighted below. JOINT OPEN HOUSE A joint open house event with the 44th Avenue Subarea Plan was held on September 27, 2022 at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center in the evening. Participants reviewed preliminary recommendations maps and big ideas related to trails and trailheads; riparian restoration and habitat protection; and general greenbelt and trail-corridor wide improvements. Attendees signaled their support for preliminary recommendations by placing a sticker dot next to the concepts they felt were most important. Participants also had the opportunity to submit new ideas and feedback through written comments or in one-on-one discussions with PFOS staff and the planning consultant. Open House attendees review maps, leave comments, and discuss preliminary recommendations with PFOS staff. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 3 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING At their November meeting, Parks and Recreation Commissioners received a project update, including preliminary recommendations. Commissioners provided feedback on key concepts and ideas. VIRTUAL COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUP A virtual public workshop was held on November 30, 2022 to engage in a deeper exploration of draft preliminary recommendations. The discussion focused on notable concepts that received mixed community support at the open house. Participants volunteered new ideas for consideration and shared concerns and observations with the planning team. The virtual format provided a convenient engagement opportunity for community members who are unable to attend in-person events. Six (6) members of the public participated in the virtual workshop. ONLINE INTERACTIVE MAPS Rather than conducting an additional online questionnaire, a series of three online maps presented the same information from the in-person open house in a digital format. The interactive maps were hosted on the project website via What’s Up Wheat Ridge. Maps included preliminary recommendations for trails and trailheads; riparian restoration and habitat protection; and general greenbelt and trail-corridor wide improvements. Visitors to the site could learn more by clicking on information icons in the location of each proposed recommendation. Users were instructed to place their own pins and leave comments on the proposed ideas or add new ideas to the map. In total, 18 pins were placed through the online mapping activity. Despite lower interaction with the maps, the site was visited by 44 unique visitors, indicating that maps served an informational/educational purpose. TRAIL USER SURVEY An online Trail User Survey launched on October 14th and was open to data collection for one month. The purpose of the survey was to capture data on trail users and their experience during, or shortly after, their visit to the Clear Creek/Peaks to Plains Trail within Wheat Ridge to produce a snapshot of user demographics, habits, and perceptions at a single point in time. The survey was deployed via QR codes on temporary signs placed along the trail and at all trailheads and major access points. A total of 124 complete responses plus 44 partial responses were collected for a total of 168 survey responses. Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 4 RESULTS: KEY POINTS & TAKEWAYS A high-level executive summary of the key points and takeaways from each engagement event is provided below. Key takeaways that emerged consistently across all events are highlighted in call-out boxes on the right. For additional details, see the complete engagement results at the end of this document. JOINT OPEN HOUSE • Importance of invasive species management • Considerations for managing beaver population • Off-leash dogs are a serious issue • Top-rated recommendations: 1. Conduct feasibility study for crossing at Kipling 2. Establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail 3. Install security lighting at all underpasses 4. Evaluate feasibility of converting barn at Recreation Center into a trailside amenity and destination PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING • Strong support for strategies that separate user groups, such as parallel natural surface trail for walking/hiking only • Support for targeted formalization of certain social trails and reclamation of others • Mixed support for limited recreational access to Clear Creek. VIRTUAL COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUP • Mixed support for limited recreational access to Clear Creek: o Acknowledge that people enter the creek and there is a need for trash receptacles and signage o Water quality concerns; monitoring needed to ensure safety • Support for amenitizing lakes where appropriate and feasible to minimize erosion and mitigate human impact around perimeter of lakes: o Fishing dock or pier at Bass Lake o Paddle-access/non-motorized boat launch at West Lake • Other concerns: beaver damage to trees; streambank erosion ONLINE INTERACTIVE MAPS Proposed Areas of Riparian and Habitat Restoration • Support for recommendations to improve health of riparian canopy and establish new canopy cover • Support for seasonal overbank flooding in targeted locations • Support for targeted formalization of social trails and reclamation of other social trails Broad Support • Habitat and riparian restoration • Parallel natural surface walking/hiking trails adjacent to paved CCT • Considering alternatives to the Kipling Crossing • Targeted formalization of certain social trails, and reclamation of others Mixed / Limited Support • Formalized recreational access to Clear Creek in targeted locations • Amenitizing recreational use of lakes to manage access, erosion, & impacts • Mountain Bike Pump Track in the Greenbelt Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 5 Potential Trailheads and Trail Connections • Kipling crossing needs a solution • Improve Otis Street trailhead entrance for cyclists and pedestrians • Support for future consideration of Lena Gulch trail • Support for considering ADA improvements to trail connection at the 44th Avenue bridge • Support for bike/ped connection from 44th Avenue to Tabor Lake General Preliminary Recommendations • Discourage major active recreation amenities within the Greenbelt, such as a mountain bike pump track and boating in the lakes. • Support for fishing pier or deck at Bass Lake to minimize human intrusion and erosion along the shoreline, by concentrating activity in one location. • Fully support further study of Kipling crossing TRAIL USER SURVEY • Half of all visitors to the Clear Creek/Peaks to Plains Trail within Wheat Ridge actually live outside of Wheat Ridge, however, the majority of respondents visit the trail because it is close to where they live (61%), signaling that half of all trail users are likely from neighboring cities. • According to these survey results, the “typical” trail visitor: o Visits on a Saturday, Sunday, Monday (51%) o Visits alone (65%) o Travels by personal vehicle to the trail (59%) o Walks or runs (84%) 1-3 miles (51%) • Strong majority of trail users (75%) report an excellent or very good experience on the trail • Majority of respondents did not feel the trail was too crowded at the time of their visit (69%) • Management areas or amenities that may need improvement include: o Enforcement of rules o Availability of restrooms o Availability of drinking water o Seating along the trail • The most frequently experienced conflict was cyclists exceeding a safe speed limit (noted by 44% of respondents) Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 6 COMPLETE ENGAGEMENT NOTES AND RESULTS JOINT OPEN HOUSE Vegetation and Habitat • Entrance to Lewis Meadows needs to be attractive—not a weed patch (as it is now). Plant native plants or low-growing grasses. Xeriscape plantings—some do not require water (other than rain). Entrance off Union and on Swadley. Even small bushes (Potentilla) Black-Eyed Susans, Cosmos. • Use beavers to restore wetland areas. Great for other wildlife, low tech, inexpensive. Lots going on right now with using beavers’ natural engineering skills and beaver dam analogs. CO has a beaver working group if you’re interested in more info. Lots of ways to co-exist with beavers. • If possible, restore the land adjacent to Prospect Park in between the businesses (the Dog Hotel and the vacant lot) to integrate into the park/wildlife space. • Love the attention to habitat… if you build it, they will come Safety • If on foot trying to get from one side of Kipling to the other on the greenway it takes ~10 min of walking along Kipling, where cars are FLYING down the road. With kids wanting to run or bike from one section to the next, this is an absolutely terrifying experience. Maybe divert the trail from Clear Creek to underpass & back to creek instead of relying on dangerous routes in close proximity to vehicular traffic >45mph o Van Gordon trailhead BAD idea… truck stop too close? • Getting to and from the trail system when on foot or using a bike feels perilous when crossing 44th and other major thoroughfares, if possible working w/ traffic engineering to add traffic easing measures like roundabouts would be great! • Visual cues for signaling trail underpass at Kipling. Bring visibility to the trail • The trail east of Kipling has too many blind curves. Look at making second trail perhaps south of the river Potential Trails and Trailheads • It is well-maintained. Could a trail be plowed in winter (snow) o “Yes! Agree!” • Off-leash dogs is out of control—not a dog park. People have been jumped on and bitten. There seems to be no patrolling of the park. Dog waste not picked up. Need to go to dog park if they want to be off- leash. o Agree. Require fees for dogs to help pay for poop pick up! Yuck! • Provide e-bike access for all for all trail improvements—I’m 83 years old and don’t have the energy to pedal the road bike any longer! • Parallel trails! Wonderful idea—softer walking surfaces vs paved bike trails. (Don’t need to widen paved trail • Trailheads #3 – Please try to make access from Kullerstrand a reality • Trailheads #20 to #11 – Please evaluate the feasibility of a Lena Gulch Trail. Would help increased school age traffic to Prospect Valley Elementary • Trailheads #11 – Please evaluate the feasibility of a 38th tunnel for Lena Gulch Trail. This would help alleviate stress for Rec Center and Everitt bike commuters with 38th Kipling L-hand turn lane o [in another color] Study and preliminary design for 38th West (Youngfield to Kipling) to begin in 2023 • 44th Avenue plan: Pedestrian bridge @ 44th • Hoyt Court (#13) access better than Iris Street for parking Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 7 Amenities • Identify potential open spaces for bicycle trails (natural surface mountain biking) and bicycle skill parks, as well as areas parallel to the clear creek path for alternate paths and trails for mountain bike use—wood features, rock gardens, etc. • Need a few benches. Crown Hill has benches, and it is open space. We could have several in different spots. • Gold panning days once per year in Wheat Ridge • Nice to have goats at Lewis Meadows during summer months. • Any lighting installed on/in greenbelt or trail needs to be sensitive to wildlife habitat. See International Dark Sky Association guidance and Softlights Foundation. Fully shielded LEDs, full cutoff for incandescent <2200k o And sound impacts to wildlife Water • Algae/H2O quality issues in creek between Youngfield and Miller St. • What about restoring water quality in Clear Creek? (reduce algae) Monitor for fishing • This area has a lot of bird activity—boating is not a good idea. Also not deep enough in many/most areas so shoreline will be degraded • No motorized boats: Keeps birds away. • Rafting happens—is it legal/supported by Wheat Ridge? • Take some of the tubers from Golden to Wheat Ridge. Golden is overflowing with tubers! • Agree Golden is overrun and beat to death with tubers. But I don’t want the same in Wheat Ridge. No $ in it and Wheat Ridge gets stuck with all the trash, maintenance, trail damage, etc. POTENTIAL RECOMMENDATIONS & ALTERNATIVES Community Votes A. Establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail 11 B. Develop safe creek access in conjunction with bank stabilization 6 C. Reconfigure trail to reduce grade and widen paved trail width 2 D. Install improved signage near trailheads to educate users on rules and trail etiquette 7 E. Add fishing decks and boat launch access for paddlers 6 F. Establish new conservation trail system; reclaim and revegetate other social trails 7 G. Partner with Youngfield Business Plaza to provide weekend overflow parking for trail access 2 H. Potential trailhead site if school property is repurposed in the future 4 I. Add center line stripe and warning strips at bridge intersections, underpasses, & sharp turns 6 J. Establish designated trail access points from parking lot to reduce user conflicts 2 K. Invest in interactive educational interpretation, signage, and amenities 4 L. Improve Miller St. Trailhead with ADA parking and improved bicycle parking 7 M. Consider location for pump track within the Greenbelt 6 Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 8 N. Evaluate feasibility of converting barn at Recreation Center into a trailside amenity and destination 8 O. Conduct feasibility study for separate underpass or at grade crossing at Kipling West 13 P. Establish access to Clear Creek for wading or swimming 8 Q. Install security lighting at all underpasses 10 R. Provide trail amenities and revegetate streambank 4 S. Convert Johnson Park to trail-access only and close to non-maintenance vehicles 4 T. Work with Arvada to adjust city boundaries so trail is within Wheat Ridge jurisdiction 6 U. Invest in additional Otis St. Trailhead improvements and amenities 3 V. Widen narrow sections of trail to 10ft. with 2ft. shoulders per industry standards 5 W. Improve wayfinding and directional signage along trail; incorporate Peaks to Plains brand 6 Other: (write in below): Manage invasive weeds 1 Other: (write in below): Birding 1 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION LISTENING SESSION • Priority is separating cyclists and pedestrians with parallel natural surface trail • Limited commissioner support for limited recreation access into Clear Creek • Other commissioners voiced concern about impacts like what Golden deals with and concerns about liability of tubers and low water bridges • Support targeted formalization of social trails and reclamation of others VIRTUAL COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUP • Beaver population is severely damaging trees • Invasive species need to be aggressively managed • Streambank erosion is a threat to health of Clear Creek • People use the creek at the beach, but there is no trash can, no picnic tables, no signage, etc. • The quality of the water can be a concern (e. coli). The City would need to have a monitoring plan in place • Support for recreation amenities at the lakes IF it helps prevent erosion and results in better managed access to lakes Could minimize spread of invasive species • Develop educational program for paddlers/boaters about cleaning their boat of invasive species like zebra mussels. • Include a boat washing station • Need to include signs for equestrians to shovel poop off the trail Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 9 ONLINE INTERACTIVE MAPS Proposed Areas of Riparian and Habitat Restoration • Support for seasonal overbank flooding to support health of riparian canopy on south side of Creek at SE corner of Prospect Lake: I think this is a great idea. There are a ton on non-native invasive species weeds in this area. Most are annuals which pull all of the moisture out of the soil making it difficult for anything else to grow there. • Consider additional tree plantings in this area between north side of the trail and the baseball fields [at Prospect Park]. • Support for formalizing social trail on west bank of West Lake: Agree it would be nice to better maintain this social trail so it's easier to follow and safer. • Support for formalizing social trail south/southwest of West Lake: Agree it would be nice to more clearly delineate the trails in this area, they're pretty braided right now. • Complete the social /non-paved trail here [on the south side of the creek south of Anderson Park] on more stable / higher ground - it gets flooded during certain times of the year and is always a little precarious in one spot. • Real bad poison ivy in here [between creek and trail, east side of Anderson Park] - would be great to get some goats in there or something to remove it! • What is the Johnson to Anderson Park Loop and how do we get it?! This is currently closed off by homeowners' fences, but if it's supposed to be a trail, let's do this!! • This neighborhood [Brentwood & Balsam Streets, 46th/47thAvenues] currently doesn't have access to the Greenbelt despite being right there... maybe there's a way to make one? • [Otis Street Trailhead] is a pretty terrible access if you're not in a car - there should be a sidewalk or protected lane or something for walkers/cyclists. Potential Trailheads and Trail Connections • I do have a concern with this crossing at Kipling. A 7-block detour is too excessive and, therefore, encourages people to cross Kipling at their own risk. • Otis Street entrance should be improved for bikes and peds - feels like a car-only entrance right now. • Suggest adding an entrance for this neighborhood: Brentwood & Balsam Streets, 46th/47thAvenues. • Fully support making this [44th Avenue bridge and trail-access] ADA compliant! Also, this bridge needs to be made more pedestrian friendly - the pedestrian crossings are too narrow to even pass someone. • Support for future trail along Lena Gulch: Love this idea! • Agree there should be a good connection here [from northwest corner of Tabor Lake to 44th Avenue) General Preliminary Recommendations • A mountain bike pump track does not align with the goals and mission of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan as follows: Low impact recreational opportunities in a natural setting; provide and maintain a balance between wildlife and habitat protection and passive recreational opportunities; management of these areas should emphasize the conservation and restoration of the natural ecosystems. A mountain bike pump track belongs elsewhere - not in the Greenbelt. • Would fishing only be allowed from the deck if it is built? This could possibly minimize erosion and damage to the shoreline vegetation from fishing anywhere around the lake. Discarded fishing line and debris creates huge problems for wildlife and especially waterfowl so this is a concern if a fishing deck would promote/allow more fishing than currently. Not in favor of allowing paddling or any type of human activity on the lake even if non-motorized. How would/could it be controlled and monitored? Once Open Space & Trail Management Plan | Engagement Summary: Prelim. Recommendations Page 10 activities like this are allowed, it is hard to control, monitor and even stop if they are detrimental. Also potential to harm and disturb wildlife especially waterfowl and especially during migration. Again, don't think allowing paddlers complies with the mission and goals of the Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan to protect wildlife, conserve natural ecosystems, etc. • Fully support [further study of Kipling crossing]! Should be as close to creek as possible. Report for Wheat Ridge Trail User Survey Completion Rate:73.8% Complete 124 Partial 44 Totals: 168 Response Counts 1 1. What day of the week are you visiting? 15% Monday 17% Tuesday 13% Wednesday 12% Thursday 8% Friday 18% Saturday 18% Sunday Value Percent Responses Monday 14.6%22 Tuesday 17.2%26 Wednesday 12.6%19 Thursday 11.9%18 Friday 7.9%12 Saturday 17.9%27 Sunday 17.9%27 Totals: 151 2 2. What time of day are you visiting? 17% Early Morning (before 9:00 a.m.) 29% Mid-Morning (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) 27% Mid-Afternoon (12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.) 26% Late Afternoon (3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) 1% Evening (After 6:00 p.m.) Value Percent Responses Early Morning (before 9:00 a.m.)17.0%25 Mid-Morning (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)28.6%42 Mid-Afternoon (12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.)27.2%40 Late Afternoon (3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.)25.9%38 Evening (After 6:00 p.m.)1.4%2 Totals: 147 3 3. How many people are in your group today? 65% 1 27% 2 6% 3 1% 4 1% 5 or more Value Percent Responses 1 65.3%96 2 26.5%39 3 6.1%9 4 0.7%1 5 or more 1.4%2 Totals: 147 4 4. Where are you starting your trip or visit today? (See map to indicate numbered sections of the greenbelt). 2% Lewis Meadows 3% Section 1 (Coors to Youngfield) 21% Section 2 (Youngfield to Prospect Park) 31% Section 3 (Prospect Park to Kipling St.) 23% Section 4 (Kipling St. to Anderson Park) 4% Section 5 (Anderson Park to Wadsworth) 8% Section 6 (Wadsworth to Creekside Park) 4% Section 7 (Creekside Park to Harlan St.) 4% Outside of Wheat Ridge 5 Value Percent Responses Lewis Meadows 2.0%3 Section 1 (Coors to Youngfield)3.4%5 Section 2 (Youngfield to Prospect Park)21.1%31 Section 3 (Prospect Park to Kipling St.)30.6%45 Section 4 (Kipling St. to Anderson Park)23.1%34 Section 5 (Anderson Park to Wadsworth)4.1%6 Section 6 (Wadsworth to Creekside Park)7.5%11 Section 7 (Creekside Park to Harlan St.)4.1%6 Outside of Wheat Ridge 4.1%6 Totals: 147 6 5. Where are you ending your trip or visit today? (See map to indicate numbered sections of the greenbelt). 1% Lewis Meadows 3% Section 1 (Coors to Youngfield) 26% Section 2 (Youngfield to Prospect Park) 27% Section 3 (Prospect Park to Kipling St.) 19% Section 4 (Kipling St. to Anderson Park) 5% Section 5 (Anderson Park to Wadsworth) 8% Section 6 (Wadsworth to Creekside Park) 5% Section 7 (Creekside Park to Harlan St.) 6% Outside of Wheat Ridge 7 Value Percent Responses Lewis Meadows 1.4%2 Section 1 (Coors to Youngfield)3.4%5 Section 2 (Youngfield to Prospect Park)26.0%38 Section 3 (Prospect Park to Kipling St.)27.4%40 Section 4 (Kipling St. to Anderson Park)19.2%28 Section 5 (Anderson Park to Wadsworth)4.8%7 Section 6 (Wadsworth to Creekside Park)7.5%11 Section 7 (Creekside Park to Harlan St.)4.8%7 Outside of Wheat Ridge 5.5%8 Totals: 146 8 6. How often have you visited this location in the past 12 months? 1% First time 58% Multiple times per week 30% A few times per month 11% Occasionally or seasonally Value Percent Responses First time 1.4%2 Multiple times per week 57.8%85 A few times per month 29.9%44 Occasionally or seasonally 10.9%16 Totals: 147 9 7. How did you get to the trail today? 59% Personal vehicle 27% Walk or Run 10% Bike 3% E-bike 1% Horse Value Percent Responses Personal vehicle 59.2%87 Walk or Run 27.2%40 Bike 10.2%15 E-bike 2.7%4 Horse 0.7%1 Totals: 147 Other - Write In Count Totals 0 10 8. What is your method of travel on the trail today? 84% Walk or Run 13% Bike 2% E-bike 1% Other - Write In Value Percent Responses Walk or Run 83.7%123 Bike 12.9%19 E-bike 2.0%3 Other - Write In 1.4%2 Totals: 147 Other - Write In Count Goat walk 1 Walk with dog 1 Totals 2 11 9. How far are you going or did you go today (one way)? 3% Less than 1/2 mile 17% 1/2 to 1 mile 51% 1 to 3 miles 13% 3 to 5 miles 16% More than 5 miles Value Percent Responses Less than 1/2 mile 3.4%5 1/2 to 1 mile 17.1%25 1 to 3 miles 50.7%74 3 to 5 miles 13.0%19 More than 5 miles 15.8%23 Totals: 146 12 10. Why did you choose to begin your trip in this location? Percent No ​particular ​reason Gold ​panning Close to ​where I ​live Access to ​restrooms Most ​pleasant ​portion of ​the ​greenbelt ​or trail It has ​features I ​am ​interested ​in (wildlife ​observation, ​loop trail, ​creek ​access, ​etc.) It is safer ​than other ​locations Less ​crowded It’s part of ​my ​commute 0 20 40 60 80 Value Percent Responses No particular reason 8.9%13 Gold panning 0.7%1 Close to where I live 60.3%88 Access to restrooms 4.8%7 Most pleasant portion of the greenbelt or trail 24.7%36 It has features I am interested in (wildlife observation, loop trail, creek access, etc.) 27.4%40 It is safer than other locations 3.4%5 Less crowded 6.8%10 It’s part of my commute 5.5%8 13 11. Rate your overall experience on the trail today. 2% Terrible 6% Fair 18% Good 32% Very Good 43% Excellent Value Percent Responses Terrible 2.1%3 Fair 5.6%8 Good 17.5%25 Very Good 31.5%45 Excellent 43.4%62 Totals: 143 14 12. Was the trail or greenbelt crowded today? 1% Very Crowded 9% Moderately Crowded 21% Slightly Crowded 69% Not Crowded Value Percent Responses Very Crowded 1.4%2 Moderately Crowded 9.1%13 Slightly Crowded 21.0%30 Not Crowded 68.5%98 Totals: 143 15 13. Did you experience any conflicts or issues today? (Select all that you encountered.) Percent Bicyclists ​exceeding ​safe ​speed ​limitThreatening ​behavior ​from other ​trail usersOffensive ​or ​inappropriate ​behavior ​from other ​trail users Dogs not ​under ​control by ​owner Unpleasant ​wildlife ​encounters Trail ​obstruction ​(tree ​branches, ​trail ​damage, ​ice, etc.) Larger ​groups ​occupying ​entire ​width of ​trailUnpleasant ​encounters ​with ​equestrian ​users 0 10 20 30 40 50 Value Percent Responses Bicyclists exceeding safe speed limit 43.6%58 Threatening behavior from other trail users 3.0%4 Offensive or inappropriate behavior from other trail users 9.8%13 Dogs not under control by owner 19.5%26 Unpleasant wildlife encounters 3.0%4 Trail obstruction (tree branches, trail damage, ice, etc.)23.3%31 Larger groups occupying entire width of trail 12.0%16 Unpleasant encounters with equestrian users 5.3%7 16 Poor Adequate Good Excellent No Opinon Responses Safety Count Row % 5 3.5% 23 16.2% 50 35.2% 60 42.3% 4 2.8% 142 Enforcement of rules Count Row % 21 15.0% 32 22.9% 39 27.9% 14 10.0% 34 24.3% 140 Maintenance Count Row % 6 4.2% 23 16.2% 53 37.3% 59 41.5% 1 0.7% 142 Trail Width Count Row % 5 3.5% 18 12.7% 50 35.2% 68 47.9% 1 0.7% 142 Trail Surface Count Row % 4 2.9% 17 12.2% 55 39.6% 61 43.9% 2 1.4% 139 Wayfinding/ Information Signs Count Row % 4 2.8% 28 19.7% 53 37.3% 43 30.3% 14 9.9% 142 Restrooms Count Row % 27 19.4% 31 22.3% 16 11.5% 7 5.0% 58 41.7% 139 Natural Landscape Count Row % 2 1.4% 8 5.6% 36 25.4% 96 67.6% 0 0.0% 142 Erosion Control Count Row % 7 4.9% 19 13.4% 57 40.1% 41 28.9% 18 12.7% 142 Creek Water Quality Count Row % 18 12.8% 21 14.9% 37 26.2% 31 22.0% 34 24.1% 141 Lake Water Quality Count Row % 16 11.4% 13 9.3% 31 22.1% 18 12.9% 62 44.3% 140 14. How would you rate the quality of the following along the Greenbelt or Clear Creek Trail in Wheat Ridge? 17 Drinking Water Availability Count Row % 51 35.9% 17 12.0% 4 2.8% 5 3.5% 65 45.8% 142 Parking Availability Count Row % 4 2.8% 16 11.3% 52 36.9% 41 29.1% 28 19.9% 141 Access for People with Mobility Challenges Count Row % 4 2.8% 11 7.7% 29 20.4% 18 12.7% 80 56.3% 142 Benches/Seating Count Row % 19 13.4% 33 23.2% 40 28.2% 15 10.6% 35 24.6% 142 Totals Total Responses 142 Poor Adequate Good Excellent No Opinon Responses 18 15. Do you live in the City of Wheat Ridge? 50% Yes50% No Value Percent Responses Yes 50.4%63 No 49.6%62 Totals: 125 19 16. What age groups are represented in your group today? Percent Ages 0-9 Ages 10- ​19: Ages 20- ​34: Ages 35- ​54: Ages 55- ​74: Ages 75+: 0 10 20 30 40 50 Value Percent Responses Ages 0-9 3.2%4 Ages 10-19:2.4%3 Ages 20-34:14.4%18 Ages 35-54:42.4%53 Ages 55-74:44.8%56 Ages 75+:6.4%8 20 ResponseID Response 11 The trail maintenance workers from the city do an excellent job of keeping things clean. If I ever see homeless camps they don't stay around very long which makes me feel safer. 12 There is illegal camping gping on everywhere but Wheat Ridge won't do anything about it. Laws not being enforced. Shopping carts, garbage, and encampment detract from Clear Creek trail! 13 The trails and river are beautiful however they are are becoming filthy. There haven't been poop bags in the dispensers for over a month so there is dog waste everywhere. There needs to be a serious clean up of the river and dirt side trails (a volunteer event?). Unfortunately the beavers are destroying all of the large beautiful old trees as well as the young ones. Major, major damage. Many of the trees have wire protection but many don't and the beavers target them. It would take very little effort and money to stop the destruction and I have literally used my own time and resources to wrap some trees that were being destroyed. The trees are an important part of Wheat Ridge and the reason people live here. I think many people would volunteer with these things if they were organized. 16 There's a bad sharp area of the trail - with metal poking out just west of the Otis trailhead. It would be nice to pave over that I also think that Walmart should be razed and the area around Rhoda lake should be connected to the green belt and Berkeley lake 17 A lot of homeless reside on the clear creek trail leaving mounds of trash at times and can feel unsafe. 18 Please fix the damaged portion of the path just west of wadsworth. It is where there is supposed to be under path drainage - but has completely eroded the trail. It is very dangerous. 21 Overall the city is doing pretty good job of keeping the trail okay. I'd like to see holes in the fence between Otis and Wadsworth fixed. There must not be weekend patrols because that's when I usually encounter campers. Golden has good signage along Clear Creek to better explain to cyclists how to behave regarding pedestrians. Some cyclists are just plain rude and that's not the city's fault but maybe better signs would help. If you have some spare change this section could definitely use some improvements. Drainage, path width, smoothing of joint displacements… 22 Bicycle riders are rude and ride to fast. Think they are king of the rode and you are supposed to yield to them because you are in there way and you are slowing down there time. 17. Are there any other comments you would like to share? 21 23 It's been very sad to see the increase of invasive weeds and grasses by people.continually walking off trail. The back side of the trail has more people breaking the no bikes rule, which in my opinion was one of the draws to the back side. I've lived here and walked on this trail daily for 14 years. 24 Something needs to be done about the algae poison in the lake at Prospect Park. That is disgraceful. There are a lot of downed trees branches and weeds throughout the park system that need to be addressed, chopped out, trimmed or collected. The number of bicycles speeding on the trail is also a problem for those of us that are walking and especially with our dogs. 25 Prospect Park is our favorite local place to go. It's a treasure! 26 One of my favorite trails I gave been on in the metro area. My dog loves it too. We like the smaller dirt paths off the main ones. But there is evidence of people camping in some spots. 27 Question 13 need a "no problems encountered" option. I had none but had to select an option. Also, ebikes need to be addressed. I am highly in favor of ony class 1 ebikes on the trail. Class 2 riders have a higher tendancy to be dangerous. 28 Amazing park! Would love to walk with an expert and talk about the foliage! 30 I love the dirt path for walkers only - nice to have separate routes for bikes and pedestrians for a bit! 31 The stretch between Kipling and I-70 is wonderful and well-maintained and the only problem ever is the lady who lets her horse poop everywhere. 33 E-Bikes routinely exceed the 15 mph speed limit along with a few road bike enthusiasts. Like to see some enforcement occasionally. I love the trail. 34 Question 13 required a response but I did not have any negative experiences today. The survey needs to be modified to include a "no issue" option. I live in Arvada about 1 mile from the greenbelt so I bike there several days a week. 36 The boardwalk is great. The single-track trails by creek and through forest are great. From past use, bikes and pedestrian conflict can use mediation. Stock the lakes with catchables (if possible). Biggest issue in any park is getting dog owners to take thier poop treasure bags with them. Nobody wants to see poop bags all over. Leave no trace people. 37 I've always wanted to see a park bench placed West of Kipling Street, though I didn't walk along that section today. Right where there already is a log in place next to a lovely bend in the creek. ResponseID Response 22 38 Bicyclists are dangerous and go at dangerous speeds and there isn't any regulation on how fast they can go. 41 Cyclist are very rude. Don't call out when passing. Traveling too fast. Confrontational. Homeless population out of control. Many campsites esp near youngfield and near wadsworth. 44 I had no difficulty or negative encounters on the trail today 45 Wish there was more frequent trash control under the bridges and in the creek. Always visible trash floating/trapped in the water. Understand that is a difficult issue to address and there are underlying causes that don't have easy solutions. 48 It was tough to live so close to the construction of the new fields when that was going on but it looked nice when it was done. However there has been minimal use, poor upkeep and the areas that were landscaped do not get maintained and became overgrown with weeds. The fields and the park were barely mowed this summer and this year I'm guessing were watered by reclaimed water which smells terrible and causes great displeasure not only when I'm walking on the trail during watering times but the odor travels to the house and makes being outside my home unpleasant as well. The fields are poorly irrigated making a large swamp area as well as a part of the sidewalk that stays wet during the summer and icy in the winter! 49 Had an accident with a one-wheel board rider about 3 weeks ago. He was going fast, on his phone, and came around a bend on my side of the trail. Having no brakes, he clipped by rear axle on my bike. I managed to stay up, he crashed into a wood fence. Dont know what can be done, but those things are rather dangerous due to lack of brakes and the younger folks who ride them tend to go way too fast 50 I like to walk the unpaved trails to avoid bicyclists but in the past I've encountered them off their trail, which I find very annoying. The trails are not mountain bike trails. 51 Love the trail on it everyday, it would be great to have more bike pump/repair stations. Also this is totally in related but the city should add a dog park 52 There was no option on the question for negative encounters for none ResponseID Response 23 53 E bikes and scooters in excess of 30 mph and reckless driving. Imagine getting hit by someone doing in excess of 30 mph. Professional football players with all their protective gear don't collide at these speeds, they are fit, expecting collisions and they have lots of protective gear. I am not particularly fit, don't have ANY protective gear at all. One of the electric vehicles was in excess of 40 mph, another swerved around a slower bicycle and barley missed my wife who was on foot. Speed Control on the trails could use some enforcement, someone is going to get hurt, the speed differential and narrow trails are not compatible. The speeds of some of these e-machines is equal to internal combustion powered mini-bikes, scooters and these vehicles are NOT allowed on your trails. 55 I didn't experience anything unpleasant, but that wasn't an option for that question, please add that option. I love the trails. I appreciate the trash cans along the trail. 56 There is a portion of the trail that bikes are NOT allowed on but, of course, ADA mobility devices are allowed. A gentleman rides his bike (not any kind of ADA mobility device) on that portion. It should be clarified that regular bikes are not allowed. On the sections that bikes are allowed, bikes regularly go well over the posted speed, do not provide any warning when passing. They feel they have the right of way and deliberately come close to hitting people. This happens EVERY TIME I am on this trail. 58 I love this trail and I am happy that sometimes I can see wildlife during my walk. I don't want to change anything. We should live in symbiosis with nature. Let's us not destroy wildlife's environment for our (people) comfort and laziness. 59 Nope 62 My experience was negatively impacted by cyclists not calling out before they passed me from behind. I feel like this problem is getting worse so maybe wider path would help cyclists and walk/runners coexist better. I'm a cyclist and I love this trail so I understand why there are so many bikes but it's unpleasant to walk for that reason. 64 The e-bikes are very dangerous. They speed; many people drive erratically. Gangs are starting to use them. The bikes are big and heavy and represent a major danger. They should not be allowed on the path. They are really motorcycles with an electric motor. Drivers don't even pretend to be peddling anymore. 65 Please don't tear down beaver dam 66 Trail users should be reminded to pick up their trash. I found several trash on my path which I took care of. ResponseID Response 24 67 Conflicts question needs to have "None" as an option, I was forced to choose something when I had no problems. 68 We did not have any issues on the trail but I had to select something to move forward with the survey. We did pass a guy who didn't smile at us ;) maybe add an N/A to this question. We love this trail and come every week with our dog sometimes twice a week. 74 Love the natural surface opportunities on the south side between Kipling and Youngfield. Seems like you have some interpretive opportunities along the raised boardwalk (water works, plant/animal species) 75 We love and value the Clear Creek Trail! Great job! I did not encounter bad behavior on the trail, but that question requires you to leave an answer. My only complaint is that sometimes dog owners will leave their poop bags by the side of the trail. 77 Bikes seen using the no bike allowed dirt trail 78 Have seen numerous bikes on non-bike trail and bikes on bike path are not announcing themselves and speeding. It's a great space and happy it's here. It's also very difficult to cross 54th to get into the park on foot. 79 Survey is flawed. Question 13 forced me to select an issue that I did not encounter, but my biggest complaint is the city of Wheat Ridge trucks that drive along the path. In general I'm opposed to more development/management of the open space. It is perfect the way it is. Leave it alone, the natural beauty is what makes the open space so enjoyable. Thanks for asking. 80 Trail is nice but the trash and debris under the underpasses, especially Wads is horrendous and has been for months. At this point it is a safety issue and the city should address it 81 We would like to see some enforcement regarding electric scooters/bikes on dirt trails. Very dangerous to everyone. 84 I never go west of Kipling although I would love to, because the crossing at Kipling is so inconvenient. It's tedious to have to go so far south just to catch up with the trail again. Please consider putting in a bridge under Kipling around 43rd. 85 Would love better access from Clear creek trail to the ward road light rail. Thanks Wheat Ridge! 89 A lot of campers (rv and tents) at Anderson park. All throughout the day. And sometimes at night. Campsite near wads as well. ResponseID Response 25 93 The painted murals are ridiculous and have proven very slick with any degree of moisture! 94 I love the pedestrian-only side of the trail, but almost daily now a 30ish year old white guy (and never the same guy) decides it's his RIGHT to ride his bike on that side. I hate walking the bike side because of fast electric bikes. We need 3 lanes: 1 for fast bikes, 1 for recreational bikes, and 1 for walkers. 96 Saw a tent set up just off the trail today. Am super bummed the prospect area is STILL NOT FINISHED!! it's 6 months past the timeline we were given. Also the question about behaviors you encountered on the trail should have the option to skip or have a "none of these" or "other" option. I entered one that did not occur because it wouldn't let me go on without entering something. 99 I love that there is a good mix of paved and natural trails. It would be nice if you for animal walkers for there to be a crossing under Kipling without going south to the rec center on Kipling. The traffic is loud and frightening to my animal, so the current route south on Kipling over the bridge then a little more south is hard. Otherwise this really is a great trail! 100 I walk the Greenbelt 3 to 5 times a weeks. I live right off 44th and absolutely love the fact that I can "escape" the city with a 5 minute walk from my front door. It is never very busy during the weekdays and feels like a well kept secret compared to so many other trails in the metro area. My one complaint is people with their digs off leash. I walk my dog on her leash and have other dogs more than half of the time I am there come running up to us. My dog is a sweet heart and none of the dog other dogs have even been aggressive, but I've seen good dogs snap because of unknown reasons. I usually walk the non paved trails between Kipling and the 2 ponds/lakes to the west and this is where the unleashed dogs are. There are no signs in these areas (which I do like, it helps keep the natural beauty). I don't know how you can solve this problem, but I would sure appreciate it. I work on the opposite side of town, on Cherry Creek. I walk that almost daily and rarely see dogs off leash there (it happens, but far less competitively). And they have signs at every entry point about dogs on leash. Also, it is far less of a problem, but there are cyclists on the south side of the creek often as well. Thank you for your time! 102 Several people had dogs off leash. There was a homeless tent on the trail. ResponseID Response 26 103 I personally think wheat ridge does a great job in maintaining the trail. Today was a fascinating mix of people using the trail. Multiple reactive dogs who were under control by their people enjoying the day mixed with the family who hauled their kids bikes down the stairs off oak street in order to run while the kids rode bikes on the pedestrian only trail, to a large group of tandem cyclists in Halloween garb with excellent trail etiquete, who had to deal with the idiot who's dog was off leash meandering all over the bike trail. I know it's difficult to police the trail and that wheat ridge does try, I just wish a small percentage of users had more respect for the open space and others sharing it. 105 We love this trail. We lived in Wheat Ridge for 5 years very close to Anderson Park and loved the creek so much; however we recently moved. We will continue to return. 106 Wish there were more water fountains or off leash dog spots 107 One of the few wooded parks in the area. Enjoy access down to creek 108 This is my second time completing this survey. New things encountered I wanted to point out. Tent camper on trail multiple days well hidden by vegetation. Creek has more trash that usual. Lime scooters at Harlan - one for multiple days 109 Bikes constantly speed and weave in and out of pedestrians without stopping or slowing. Only about half signal. I am hard of hearing and worry about getting hit. 110 Today is October 30 and there was a tent set up on the north side of the river yellow and blue between Prospect Park and Young via I think there needs to be a little more patrolling the area for these items 111 Please put up better/more signage to keep bikers off gravel trails. And an off leash dog park would be nice 112 I didn't experience any conflicts, but the survey didn't have a "Not Applicable" option. 113 Need to fix broken paving between Wads. and Sheridan. 114 There was a question which required an answer but none of the choices where to say that I did NOT experience an issue. So it was a bad survey. 115 Have always loved Prospect Park. ResponseID Response 27 116 Today I encountered a tent set up on one of the single track trails I often walk along. This made me feel unsafe as I didn't know if someone was inside. I detoured around the tent in an effort to feel safe. Also, there was a group (about 8 individuals) on motorized scooters and hoverboards that were traveling quite fast. Two of them really sped up near me in what looked like an effort to catch up with their friends. They were traveling at an unsafe speed given the number of pedestrians and dogs on the path. 117 None really 118 Question 13 required a response in order for me to continue. Did not have issues today but gave issues I have encountered in the past. 119 I had no conflicts on the trail today. Your question doesn't have a respose for "no troubles". 121 Lots of homeless camps and piles of clothes on the trail. 122 A garbage can on the south side of the bridge would be nice . First bridge east of kipling . You have plenty of them at prospect . 123 Nice facility I love going  for a jog or a long walk. 124 My partner lives in Wheatridge so I ride it quite a bit. Appreciate the trail. Really like the art - being painted on the trail. My only complaint are the homeless encampments and people on the trail. But it's a great amenity 125 Thank you for all the work you guys do. Really appreciate it 128 More dogs need to be kept on leash I walk my goats and almost every other time I'm out here they get chased by a dog 129 this park is great for birding. I'm the fall when the leaves are yellow or changed colors they are beautiful. the creek/water next to the trail is clear & really relaxing to sit & listen to. 130 Question 13 requires at least one conflict be picked. I encountered no issues. Love the trail. True gem in the city. Shame so much development was done through the decades. Could be a treasure had people planned ahead. For example, south side of 44th is trashy developments. Nice to see it all removed! (Dream I know). Otherwise, awesome paved trail I'll cycle more next year (just moved here). And love the gravel trails with cyclists. And take a more casual walk. 133 Need more benches on the pedestrian trail. 134 I would love to see a fitness trail installed. I use the picnic tables to engage in several workouts, but a real fitness trail would be great!!!! ResponseID Response 28 135 Lately there have been many homeless people staying and trashing the Green Belt. 136 I love going for rides on the bike path and it's generally lovely. It's nice to be safe from cars and in nature. Today, there was lots of leaves down which can make it slick, but usually it's in good shape. There was also a a skate boarder going fast down the wrong side of the path in a curvy section with blindspots. Sometimes, groups of walkers or bikers do this also, so my only suggestions are to clear for seasonal hazards such as leaves and snow and to paint a line down the middle and/ or put up signage asking people to stay to the right. 138 The lack of bathrooms along the trail is unfortunate. I can't be the only person forced to pee in the woods in my morning walks. 139 A lot of horse droppings on the trail that stay for weeks 140 I didn't have any problem on the trail but didn't see that as an option so just put bike exceeding speed limit. No bike problem. My concern is w the extras trails that have been made by people accessing the creek. I wonder if this is harmful for erosion and wildlife or perhaps too difficult to police. Thank you 141 Maybe adding a bike lane. Hard to walk dogs with so many bikes flying by. 145 I know it's hard, but trash and debris from camping is unsightly! 146 The biggest hazard to anyone on the trail are blind corners. People are unaware that around the corner there may be a someone else coming at full speed on a bike or electrical bike also unaware. I have seen just about every situation, except the one I will see tomorrow LOL. I use bell and so far I am having a safe ride. Of course slowing down and sharing the trail safely is the best . I like to compete against my self so I have to watch my speed and stay safe. 147 I have stayed in my house for 36 years because I love walking the Gr. 148 Your survey requires I answer a question about difficulties or problems encountered, but I had no issues today. 149 We live nearby and walk our dog along the creek on a regular basis. We love this neighborhood and don't want to see a whole lot of anything changed. 150 I didn't really experience any conflicts today but the survey made me pick one. I really like this trail but I do have some safety concerns in some of the more wooded and less traffic areas. The trail is a very nice feature to have in the Denver area and I really appreciate how accessible it is. ResponseID Response 29 151 People are so disrespectful with their dogs off leash. They cannot seem to wrap their tiny little brains around the fact they don't own the trail, we don't care if their dog is friendly and not every dog wants to be run up to by a loose dog. Someone else was letting their dog play in the creek - thanks for disrupting the ducks and have fun with the diarrhea your dog is getting from giardia. 153 There was sooooo much dog poop along the trail and Bass Lake 154 Many rocks and tripping hazards for my 92 year old grandma. 155 Trails are well maintained, we just need more! REALLY need an underpass on Kipling in line with the path! If we want to lead on clean transportation (bikes, scooters, ebikes, and walking), we've got to make the infrastructure tho support it! 156 I wish the lake level could be kept higher (not Bass lake, the one next to it, West Lake?) Multiple off leash dogs, worry that they drive away wildlife, owners don't seem to care. Would appreciate more signage about bicycles not allowed on soft service trail (south side of clear creek) 157 Love the Clear Creek trail! Generally a safe and beautiful multiuse path 159 I had to wrap another tree today to stop the beavers from destroying it. It took me 5 minutes and $10 for fence to save a tree that was 25 feet in circumference and has taken decades to grow. Why is the city not doing something about this? Why am I having to do it? The tree is literally 20 feet from the trail and next to the river. Access for the city is easy. I understand the beavers "belong" to the state but the city can save these trees by wrapping them in fence. 161 Litter at miller trailhead is always an issue. We pick it up. 162 Love this park. Been walking it for years. No other park like it. 165 First thing I saw when I left the parking lot was a tent in plain view of park patrol if they drove by the area around the W 41st Ave parking area & the bridge across the creek 166 A footbridge is needed over creek inlet on footpath just east of Anderson park- water is too deep to use for many months. Rest rooms need to reopen! 167 Cyclists are very rude and inconsiderate, they ride much too fast on the trail, and do not obey the rules or trail norms. They treat walkers/runners as an inconvenience. 168 The question about conflicts on this form doesn't have a "none" option. ResponseID Response 30 January 23, 2023 OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN City Council Study Session ATTACHMENT 3 TONIGHT’S AGENDA 1.Planning Process Update 2.Recap: Community Engagement 3.Plan Vision & Goals 4.Community Preferences & Prelim. Recommendations 5.Next Steps PLAN PURPOSE •Update 2002 Open Space Management Plan •Balance recreation use with resource protection •Strategies for long-term sustainability and stewardship •10-year planning horizon LEWIS MEADOWS PROCESS PROCESS PROCESS WE ARE HERE ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY LISTENING Constituent Interviews Pop-up Engagement Booth at Carnation Festival Parks & Recreation Commission Work Session Online Questionnaire Virtual Public Meeting Trail -user Intercept Survey PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS Open House: Preliminary Ideas & Alternatives Online Interactive Maps Parks & Recreation Commission Work Session Virtual Community Focus Group City Council Study Session (Tonight) DRAFT PLAN •Public Review & Comment •Invite Tribal Contacts to Review •Presentation to Parks & Recreation Commission •Presentation to City Council ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY LISTENING Constituent Interviews Pop-up Engagement Booth at Carnation Festival Parks & Recreation Commission Work Session Online Questionnaire Virtual Public Meeting Trail -user Intercept Survey TOTAL ENGAGEMENT: 346 community members ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS Open House: Preliminary Ideas & Alternatives Online Interactive Maps Parks & Recreation Commission Work Session Virtual Community Focus Group City Council Study Session (Tonight) TOTAL ENGAGEMENT: 221 community members Joint Open House with 44th Ave. Subarea Plan PLAN VISION The Wheat Ridge community envisions a future where open space is stewarded as a wondrous, wild, and renewing sanctuary for present and future generations of plant, animal, and human communities. Wheat Ridge open space balances recreation with conservation and restoration of the surrounding natural ecosystem. PLAN VISION »Practice proactive stewardship, conservation, and adaptive resource management »Expand access and connectivity »Prioritize safety »Educate, inform, and inspire »Enhance visitor experience and trail character »Leverage partnerships OVERARCHING GOALS ALTERNATIVES & PRELIM. RECOMMENDATIONS RIPARIAN & HABITAT RESTORATION BROAD SUPPORT FOR: »Habitat and riparian restoration »Targeted formalization of certain social trails; reclamation of others »Limit active recreation facilities TABOR LAKE CONSERVATION TRAIL EXPANSION AND SOCIAL TRAIL RECLAMATION TRAILHEADS & TRAIL CONNECTIONS BROAD SUPPORT FOR: »Parallel natural surface pedestrian trail adjacent to paved trail »Additional Bicycle & Pedestrian Access Points »Future trail along Lena Gulch GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS BROAD SUPPORT FOR: »Detailed study of potential solutions for Kipling crossing »Lighting at underpasses »Evaluating feasibility of converting barn into trail amenity MIXED SUPPORT FOR: »Formalized recreational access to Clear Creek in targeted locations »Amenitizing recreational use of lakes »manage access, limit erosion & shoreline habitat impacts Recommendation: »Pursue detailed feasibility study by traffic PE for Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon or traffic signal, determined by trail-user counts user counts to anticipate crossing volume. KIPLING CROSSING Treatment Feasible?Key Determinants Underpass No Floodplain Regulations & Proximity to Lena Gulch Overpass No Floodplain Regulations & Proximity to Lena Gulch Traffic Signal Yes; requires further study High threshold required for trail crossing volume PHB Yes; requires further study Low threshold required for trail crossing volume NEXT STEPS »Finalize Recommendations »Project Prioritization with staff & PRC -FEBRUARY »Draft Plan for Public Review -MARCH »PRC Recommendation to Council –APRIL »City Council Considers Plan for Adoption -MAY QUESTIONS/DISCUSSION THANK YOU