HomeMy WebLinkAbout5-22-23 City Council Meeting Agenda PacketAGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 W. 29th Ave. Wheat Ridge CO May 22, 2023
6:30 pm
This meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting, and in person, at
7500 West 29th Avenue, Municipal Building. City Council members and City staff members will be physically present at the Municipal building for this meeting. The public may participate in these ways:
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CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Study Session Notes May 1, 2023
City Council Meeting Minutes May 8, 2023
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES
LGBTQ+ Pride Month
Safety Month
Recognition of WRHS Stem Team
Recognition of WRHS Swim Team
PUBLICS’ RIGHT TO SPEAK
a. Public may speak on any matter not on the Agenda for a maximum of 3 minutes
under Publics’ Right to Speak. Please speak up to be heard when directed by
the Mayor.
b. Members of the Public who wish to speak on a Public Hearing item or Decision, Resolution, or Motion may speak when directed by the Mayor at the conclusion of the staff report for that specific agenda item. c. Members of the Public may comment on any agenda item in writing by noon on the day of the meeting at www.WheatRidgeSpeaks.org. Comments made on Wheat Ridge Speaks are considered part of the public record.
CONSENT AGENDA
NONE PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
1. Council Bill No. 10-2023 – an ordinance amending Articles I and IV of Chapter 26 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning the City’s subdivision requirements, and making conforming amendments therewith
2. Council Bill No. 11-2023 – an ordinance vacating any interest held by the City in a portion of Simms Street, a Public Roadway
ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING
3. Council Bill No. 12-2023 – an ordinance amending Section 17-36 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to address the use of assisted mobility devices in conservation areas
4. Council Bill No. 13-2023 – an ordinance repealing and amending certain weapon offenses in Chapter 16 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws in response to U. S. Supreme Court
Case Law
DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS
5. Resolution No. 29-2023 – a resolution adopting the 2023 City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan
6. Resolution No. 30-2023 – a resolution approving a Public Art Donation Agreement and amending the Public Art Fund for costs associated with transportation and installation of the art piece
7. Resolution No. 31-2023 – a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2023 General Fund Budget to reflect the approval of a Supplemental Budget Appropriation in the amount of $76,398 for the addition of one full-time Housing Program Administrator
CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS
CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS
ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS
STUDY SESSION NOTES
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
Hybrid - Virtual Meeting
May 1, 2023
Mayor Starker called the Study Session to order at 6:30 p.m.
This meeting was conducted both as a virtual meeting and hybrid, where some members of the
Council or City staff were physically present at the Municipal building, and some members of the
public attended in person as well. A quorum of members (eight) of Council were present in Council
Chambers for this session.
Mayor Starker welcomed the Council, other elected officials, staff, guests and interested
citizens.
The Mayor also explained the virtual/hybrid meeting format, how citizens will have the
opportunity to be heard, and the procedures and policies to be followed.
Council members present: Scott Ohm, Judy Hutchinson, Leah Dozeman, Valerie Nosler
Beck, and Rachel Hultin (who joined virtually).
Councilmembers Hoppe, Stites, and Weaver excused themselves.
Also present: City Clerk, Steve Kirkpatrick, City Manager Patrick Goff; Director of
Community Development, Lauran Mikulak; Civil Engineer, Jordan Jefferies, PE; West
Metro Fire Chief, Don Lombardi; Will Wagenlander with RVi consultants and Jeff Snelling
with David Evans & Associates, also consultants; other staff and one interested resident.
Public’s Right to Speak
None tonight.
Note about Wheat Ridge Speaks:
Members of the public may visit the Wheat Ridge Speaks website and enter written comments of up to 1,000
words on any Council agenda item. The deadline for the public to submit comments is 12:00 Noon Mountain
Time on the day of a Council session so that Council members, other elected officials and City Staff have
time to review the comments before the meeting on Monday evening.
The City Clerk’s Office transcribes those Wheat Ridge Speaks comments into these minutes, placing each
comment along with the record for that agenda item.
No comments appeared in Wheat Ridge Speaks for this session of Council.
1. Update from West Metro Fire District
Issue
West Metro Fire Rescue is a full service, all hazard and rescue agency, headquartered in
Lakewood, Colorado. West Metro covers more than 108 square miles in two Colorado
counties and serves nearly 300,000 residents with crews at 17 fire stations staffed 24/7.
West Metro responds to an emergency every 12 minutes, averaging more than 41,000
calls annually.
Staff Reports
Chief Lombardi provided an update on West Metro Fire, one of just 301 accredited fire and
emergency services agencies in the world. West Metro is also ISO Class 1 certified – one
of just 114 agencies to achieve both accreditation and the top ISO rating. The rating is a
gauge of a fire agency’s ability to serve its residents and business owners and is awarded
based on a number of key factors including staffing, apparatus, training, 911
communications and water supply.
For business or homeowners in West Metro’s district, the Class 1 rating results in millions
of dollars in savings on property insurance. In April of 2016, Wheat Ridge Fire merged
with West Metro Fire Rescue.
Chief Lombardi spoke on the feasibility study where it concluded that the merger would
result in cost savings for taxpayers and more robust service for the cities of Wheat Ridge
and Edgewater. Voters officially approved the merger in October 2016. West Metro
generally serves Wheat Ridge south of Clear Creek.
Other items spoken about included:
• Peer Communities and National Standards
• Recommendations
• Next Steps
Councilmembers had questions and comments:
• Several CM thanked Chief Lombardi for his time and the update.
CM asked detailed questions about City policy options and how our policies impact our
interactions with West Metro Fire.
Another CM question concerned the danger from high winds and wildfires, and measures
West Metro Fire takes to mitigate that risk.
Can one of West Metro’s fire fighters afford to buy a home in Wheat Ridge? Chief
Lombardi gave a detailed answer, including the provisions in a recently negotiated labor
contract with West Metro Firefighters and EMT.
2. Youngfield Street Beautification Update
Issue
Renewal Wheat Ridge, the City’s urban renewal authority, issued bonds in the amount of
$37.5 million, in September 2021, for public improvement projects throughout the I-
70/Kipling Corridors Urban Renewal Plan area. Five million dollars from these bond funds
have been allocated for beautification of the Youngfield Corridor. Improvements to the
Youngfield Corridor is a priority project for those residents who participated in the Let’s
Talk Applewood Neighborhood program
On August 22, 2022, City Council awarded a contract to David Evans & Associates, Inc.
(“DEA”), a professional design firm, to refine the conceptual design and to provide
preliminary design, final design, and permitting for the Youngfield Beautification project
and the associated 32nd Ave Bike Lanes project.
Staff Reports
Civil Engineer, Jordan Jefferies provided City Council with an update on the Youngfield
Beautification project and gave CM the opportunity to provide feedback on the thematic
concepts that will inform the preliminary design.
The Youngfield Beautification project is focused on improving the aesthetics of the
Youngfield corridor from 30th Avenue to 40th Avenue, particularly in the area between
Youngfield and I-70. DEA1 had previously developed a design concept booklet for the City
as a part of a separate project in 2021.
Topics addressed in the update included:
• Project Scope
• Project Status & Public Engagement
• Next Steps
Mr. Jeffries explained that while this session is largely focused on updating the status of
the Youngfield Beautification project, the 32nd Bike Lanes project is another nearby project
under development with DEA1 as the design consultant. DEA’s scope on the 32nd Avenue
project is to develop final design plans to add much-needed bike lanes under I-70 to
provide a safer experience for bicyclists along the very popular 32nd Ave bike route. Bike
lanes that currently terminate just west of Xenon Street, will be extended west under I-70
to Zinnia St/Clear Creek Drive.
Councilmembers asked detailed questions about several topics, engaging in discussion
among themselves and with staff including:
• Several CM expressed their support for the staff recommendations.
• How will the construction impact traffic on Youngfield St.? Staff gave a detailed
reply.
• If there were funding for multimodal and sidewalks along Youngfield, would that be
along the east side of Youngfield. Again, staff provided details.
• Mr. Goff reported on a funding application for more improvements is in the queue
awaiting approval.
• Will CDOT cooperate with our efforts to complete the Plains to Mountains bicycle
route? Mr. Jefferies reported about why and how we will work closely with CDOT
directly and in conjunction with DEA1.
• Will the plans include lighting under overpasses, signals for pedestrians and
cyclists, and other safety protections? Staff gave a detailed answer.
1 DEA refers to David Evans and Associates, not the Federal agency with the same acronym.
• Staff is recommending that ongoing maintenance of these improvements should be
contracted with a local firm because the City does not have the resources to do it.
Consensus attained.
3. Staff Report(s)
Mr. Goff announced that the City received a Starburst Award for wise use of funding.
The City received a Program Excellence Award for our hotel licensing program from the
Colorado City and County Managers Association.
Elected Officials’ Report(s)
CM Nosler Beck again reminded us of the upcoming Willmore Davis alumni event.
CM Hutchinson announced a rummage sale this Saturday at the Active Adult Center.
CM Ohm recognized the parents and other volunteers who worked many hours to create
decorations, set-up the space and in doing so created a safe and attractive environment
for the Wheat Ridge High School After Prom Party on Saturday, April 29th. He particularly
emphasized the creativity and artistic flair they demonstrated in making scores of paper
flower decorations, many of them as large and 18” to 30” across.
CM Hultin reported that Local Work has launched an app that will allow you to learn more
about the City and its history. If you visit the site and download the app you will receive a
coupon good for purchases from a local business. Please, use it!
CM Dozeman reported that Local Works has a great local calendar of events. This
Wednesday, May 3 we will have a Farmers Market from 5 to 7 pm in the 5000 block of W.
29th. Ave.
Mayor Starker reported on a great groundbreaking for the project at 44th and Wadsworth.
Mayor Pro-Tem Stites will sit in for the Mayor at Coffee with the Mayor on May 13th.
(Coffee with the Mayor is scheduled monthly on the second Saturday.)
ADJOURNMENT
The Study Session adjourned at 7:49 pm.
APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL ON May 8, 2023.
_________________________________
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
_________________________________
Korey Stites, Mayor Pro-Tem
City Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 WEST 29TH AVENUE, MUNICIPAL BUILDING
May 8, 2023
Note: This meeting was conducted both as a virtual meeting and hybrid, where some members of the Council or City staff were physically present at the Municipal building, and some members of the public attended in person as well. Eight members of Council were present in Council Chambers for this session. Before calling the meeting to order, Mayor Starker stated the rules and procedures necessitated by this meeting format.
Mayor Starker called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:31 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS
Scott Ohm Rachel Hultin Amanda Weaver Korey Stites
Leah Dozeman (at 6:40 pm) Valerie Nosler Beck
CM Hutchinson and Janeece Hoppe excused themselves this evening.
Also, present: City Attorney Gerald Dahl; City Clerk, Steve Kirkpatrick; Chief of Police, Chris Murtha; Officer Alan Fisher, Officer Kylie Fisher; WR PD; Director of Comm. Development, Lauren Mikulak; Assistant City Manager, Marianne Schilling, Director of
Parks and Recreation, Karen O’Donnell, Director of Public Works, Maria D’Andrea;
other staff, guests and interested citizens.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Study Session Notes of April 17, 2023 and City Council Minutes of April 24, 2023 were approved as published
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Without objection or correction, the agenda stood as announced.
PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES
National Police Week (May 14 - May 20) and National Peace Officers Memorial Day
(May 15)
Mayor Starker read a proclamation declaring May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week of May 10-16 as National Police Week. Officer Alan
Fischer, who was the victim of life-threatening attack while on duty on April 13, 2022
acknowledged and accepted the proclamation on behalf of entire City of Wheat Ridge Police force. He commented on how the people of Wheat Ridge show strong support for our police force and how much the sworn officers appreciate that support.
National Public Works Week – May 21 to May 27
Mayor Starker proclaimed the week of May 22-27, 2023 National Public Works Week
Director of Public Works Maria D’Andrea responded with appreciative comments on behalf of the department. A number of the staff attended the session to accept the
proclamation’s gratitude for their dedication, professionalism and service.
PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO SPEAK
Patrick Quinn, 3995 Moore St., came to recognize the WRPD for their recent engagement with the citizens in the academy that they offered recently. He thoroughly
and completely enjoyed the experience and expressed his unreserved support for our
force.
Brett Kelley, 4095 Cody St. - Heard about some enforcement activities with respect to tree safety. He sees some inconsistencies in the enforcement of the safety triangle at intersections and the homeowners’ duty to trim foliage that blocks the triangle. He
expects more equality and fairness in the enforcement of these requirements going
forward than we see today.
Alma Carrillo, a staffer with Representative Brittany Pettersen’s office, called to invite her constituents to contact her office whenever the Congressmember might be of help.
Note about Wheat Ridge Speaks:
Members of the Public may visit the Wheat Ridge Speaks website and enter written
comments of up to 1,000 words on any Council agenda item. The deadline for citizens to submit comments is 12:00 Noon Mountain Time on the day of a Council session so that Council members, other elected officials and City Staff have time to review the comments before the meeting on Monday evening.
The City Clerk’s Office transcribes those Wheat Ridge Speaks comments into these
minutes, placing each comment along with the record for that agenda item, including items that address a public hearing (verbatim, if the comments do not contain lascivious language or unlawful hate speech).
One comment appeared in WR Speaks for tonight’s session:
Alma Carrillo ∙ May 8, 2023 ∙ 11:24am Hello, My name is Alma Carrillo. I am a representative from
Congresswoman Pettersen's office. If you have any issues with a Federal Agency please reach out to our
office. Our number is (303) 274- 7944. Or drop by at 550 S Wadsworth Blvd. Suite 400. Thank you!
Address: 550 S Wadsworth Blvd. Suite 400. Lakewood, 80226.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
1. Council Bill No. 07-2023 – An Ordinance approving the rezoning of property
located at 7890 W. 38th Avenue from Residential-Two (R-2) to Mixed Use-
Neighborhood (MU-N).
CM Weaver introduced Council Bill 07-2023
Issue
The applicant is requesting approval of a zone change from Residential-Two (R-2) to Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N) for property located at 7890 W. 38th Avenue. The
zone change will result in a zoning that allows for neighborhood serving uses and
provides a transitional buffer between the existing residential uses and commercial uses.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing following the staff presentation and ordered that that presentation be included in the public record. Without objections, it was so
ordered.
City Clerk Steve Kirkpatrick assigned Ordinance No. 1759.
Staff Presentation
Planner I Alayna Olivas-Loera gave a detailed presentation which included the background where the property is located on the southeast corner of W. 38th Avenue
and Allison Street. The property is zoned Residential-Two (R-2) and is situated as a transitional site between a commercial district and residential neighborhood. Adjacent properties to the west are also zoned R-2 and include single-unit and duplex homes in a well-established neighborhood. On all other sides of the subject property are higher intensity uses. The site is wrapped to the south and east by a Planned Commercial
Development (PCD) which includes a 4-story office building. Additional commercial uses are located further east, and across 38th Avenue to the north are medical office buildings and the Wilmore Center.
Other items included but were not limited to:
• Current Zoning: The current zone district, R-2, is a legacy zone district dating
back to 1972 and was established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low to moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with the residential character.
• Proposed Zoning: The applicant has stated they believe the zone change would
enable them to bring an invaluable and much needed service to the community, quality childcare, and that the ability to utilize the property and existing structure would allow them to improve the site and increase curb appeal.
Ms. Olivas-Loera finished by saying that these MU-N properties can serve as a
transition zone as properties gradually get smaller in size, and this property has the ability to serve the same transitional purpose. MU-N zoning is appropriate for this segment and particularly on this property given its size and its location and can act as a transition between the commercial uses immediately to the east, as well as the uses on Wadsworth Boulevard, and the neighborhood to the west.
Afterwards she stood by to answer any questions.
Public Comment
No citizens appeared in chambers to address this issue There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
Council Questions and comments
CM asked for clarification of who will be notified of these changes and how.
Motion by CM Weaver to approve Council Bill No. 07-2023 - an ordinance approving the rezoning of property located at 7890 W. 38th Avenue from Residential-Two (R-2) to Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N), on second reading, and that it takes effect 15 days
final publication, for the following reasons:
1. The Planning Commission has recommended approval of the rezoning after conducting a proper public hearing.
2. The proposed rezoning has been reviewed by the Community Development Department, which has forwarded its recommendation of approval.
3. The proposed rezoning has been found to comply with the review criteria in
Section 26-112 of the Code of Laws
Seconded by MPT Stites, motion carried 6-0.
CM Nosler Beck expressed her support for this Ordinance.
CM Dozeman recounted the history of the property. She also supports this proposed
Ordinance.
2. Council Bill No. 08-2023 – An Ordinance amending Section 26-115.e of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning requests for interpretation by the Board
of Adjustment.
CM Nosler Beck introduced Council Bill 08-2023
Issue
The proposed ordinance exempts deed-restricted affordable dwelling units from the parkland dedication or fee-in-lieu requirement established by Section 26-414 of the subdivision code. It also adds a definition of deed-restricted affordable dwelling units to Section 26-123 of the code.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Steve Kirkpatrick assigned Ordinance No. 1760.
Staff Presentation
Senior Planner, Scott Cutler presented to council where the current subdivision code parkland dedication requirements were established by Section 26-414 in 2014 and are
applied to all new residential projects within the City. Developers are either required to dedicate public parkland on site or pay a fee-in-lieu of dedication. Since most sites would only have small or impractical dedications, most developers are required to pay
the fee-in-lieu.
He stated that there are no exemptions or fee waivers for deed-restricted affordable housing projects, which are defined as units that have agreements recorded against the property limiting the rent or sales price of that unit based on income. For example, a 50-unit affordable housing apartment building would be required to pay $101,081 under the
current model, which is added to overall permit fees.
After his presentation, he stood by to answer questions.
Public Comment
No citizens appeared in chambers to address this issue. There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
Council Questions and comments
CM Hultin asked detailed questions of staff and the City Attorney regarding definitions of some of the terms and how residents will navigate through the process. Staff and Mr. Dahl gave a specific answer.
Motion by CM Nosler Beck to approve Council Bill No. 08-2023 - an ordinance
amending Article IV of Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning requirements for dedication of public parks and sites and making conforming amendments therewith, on second reading and that it take effect immediately upon adoption, seconded by CM Ohm, motion carried 6-0
3. Council Bill No. 09-2023 – An Ordinance approving the transfer of municipally-
owned properties along Wadsworth Boulevard and from adjacent streets
between 35th Avenue and Interstate 70 to the Colorado Department of
Transportation, on second reading, and that it takes effect upon adoption.
CM Hultin introduced Council Bill 09-2023
Issue
Wadsworth Boulevard is a state highway that is owned and maintained by the Colorado
Department of Transportation (CDOT). The City has completed the right-of-way
acquisition process for the Improve Wadsworth project. The next step is for Council to
approve the disposal or transfer of right-of-way to CDOT by ordinance.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Steve Kirkpatrick assigned Ordinance No. 1761.
Staff Presentation
Project Supervisor, Mark Westberg reviewed the background on this item where council discussed this subject in Study Session on September 21, 2020, staff updated Council
in a study session on the status of the ROW acquisitions, including eleven (11)
properties which had either stalled in negotiations or were trending towards stalled negotiations. Settlements were eventually reached on nine (9) of the properties.
The remaining two properties continued through the eminent domain process with the filings being made on the first property in November 2020. The trial for that property was
held in early February 2022 with the City’s valuation of the acquisition being upheld and no additional funds being awarded for damages.
The filings for the other property were made in February 2021 with that trial originally scheduled for late March 2022. While preparing for the trial, a mediation conference was held in mid-March 2022 during which the parties reached a mutual agreement on
the acquisition cost.
Mr. Westberg finished by stating that in order to simplify the transfer, a single deed has been prepared that includes the existing CDOT ROW and most of the acquired ROW along with the existing City ROW that will be transferred to CDOT. CDOT has reviewed the documents, has approved the form, and is awaiting this action by the City to accept
the ROW that is being transferred to them.
Public Comment
No citizens appeared in chambers to address this issue. There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
Council Questions and comments
Having recently studied this issue in Study Session, CM had no questions or comments.
Motion by CM Hultin to approve Council Bill No. 09-2023 - an ordinance approving the
transfer of municipally-owned properties along Wadsworth Boulevard and from adjacent
streets between 35th Avenue and Interstate 70 to the Colorado Department of
Transportation, on second reading, with an amendment to say, in the fourth line of the
motion adding, in Section 1, “as shown on the attached exhibit,” and that it takes effect
upon adoption, seconded by MPT Stites, motion carried 6-0.
During discussion of the motion CM Nosler Beck asked for assurance that safe
crossings for school children be maintained throughout planning and construction.
4. Resolution No. 23-2023 – A Resolution approving a major subdivision at 4600
Kipling Street in the Mixed-Use-Commercial (MU-C) zone district
CM Dozeman introduced Resolution 23-2023.
Issue
The applicant is requesting approval of a major subdivision on property zoned Mixed
Use – Commercial (MU-C) and located at 4600 Kipling Street, which consists of the
vacant land at the northeast corner of W. 44th Avenue and Kipling Street. The purpose
is to subdivide the property into two blocks and to plat two new public streets
Staff Presentation
Senior Planner, Scott Cutler presented to council the prior actions and background on the issue where in 2015, City Council approved a rezoning of the 12.5-acre property to MU-C, a zone district intended for major commercial corridors which encourages medium to high density mixed-use development. The site is part of a “mega block” that is bounded by Kipling Street on the west, W. 44th Avenue on the south, Independence
Street on the east, and the I-70 Frontage Road on the north. The City approved a Concept Plan for this site in January 2021, which is a requirement of the mixed-use code for sites over 10 acres.
The proposed subdivision plat divides the site into two blocks in accordance with the
Concept Plan. Two new full-width public streets are being dedicated, which is why this
application is considered a major subdivision. The two new streets, W. 45th Place and Jellison Street were requested to provide the start of a street grid within the mega-block and to provide high-quality public access into this large site.
Mr. Cutler wrapped up by stating that Right-of-way dedications will also be required
along Kipling Street and W. 44th Avenue for this subdivision to allow the construction of
public improvements along both frontages. Future streetscapes will consist of detached sidewalks, landscaped amenity zones, and street lighting. There are no sidewalks on Kipling Street currently, and a narrow, attached sidewalk along 44th Avenue; the subdivision allows the City to assess right-of-way conditions and require public
improvements.
Public Comment
Randy Kettelsen, 9950-9890 48th Avenue West, Owner of Kettelsen Campers in Wheat Ridge. As a neighboring property owner, he came to seek reassurances that his business will be not get locked out of access for ingress, egress, sewer, water and other necessary functions.
Council Questions and comments
CM Hultin thanked the speakers for their presentation. Then she asked some detailed questions about the site: sidewalks, trails along 32nd to 44th Avenues. She also asked about the status of a bus stop operated by RTD along the same right of way. Mr.
Westberg gave detailed answers, including the City cooperation with RTD. She also
expressed concerns about the potential congestion of pedestrian, cyclist and vehicular traffic; Mr. Westberg answered again.
CM Weaver asked further questions about street dead ends and connectivity using public access. Mr. Cutler called upon Jim Shipman, consultant on this project, who gave a detailed answer, including where utility connections will be placed.
CM Dozeman asked whether the site plans would be administrative or come back to
Council. Mr. Cutler indicated it will be administrative procedures.
Mayor Starker asked who would pay for the construction of additional streets in the event of future construction. Mr. Cutler gave a detailed answer.
Motion by CM Dozeman to approve Resolution No. 23-2023, a resolution approving a
major subdivision at 4600 Kipling Street in the Mixed Use – Commercial (MU-C) zone
district for the following reasons:
1. City Council has conducted a proper public hearing that meets all public notice requirements as required by Sections 26-109 and 26-407 of the Code of Laws. 2. The requested subdivision has been reviewed by the Planning Commission,
which has forwarded its recommendation of approval.
3. The subdivision plat has been found in compliance with the subdivision regulations in Article IV of Chapter 26 of the Code of Laws. 4. All agencies can provide services to the property with improvements installed at the developer’s expense.
And with the following conditions:
• A Subdivision Improvement Agreement shall be required to be recorded with the plat, outlining the developer’s and owner’s current and future obligations to construct public and on-site improvements to allow development to proceed.
• Future plats shall be required to create the necessary on-site easements within each block, to be coordinated with future development.
Seconded by CM Nosler Beck, motion carried 6-0.
ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING
5. Council Bill No. 10-2023 – An Ordinance amending Articles I and IV of Chapter
26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning the City’s subdivision
requirements.
CM Hultin introduced Council Bill 10-2023
Issue
The proposed ordinance makes necessary updates to Articles I and IV of Chapter 26 of
the code, specifically to modernize and clean up portions of the City’s subdivision
requirements. These updates include changing incorrect or outdated cross-references,
adding modern terminology, clarifying existing requirements, updating application
requirements, and removing sections of the code that conflict with the current
subdivision regulations. The ordinance clarifies when owners’ associations are required
and the obligation of those associations and clarifies requirements for drainage and
irrigation facilities.
Motion by CM Hultin to approve Council Bill 10-2023, an ordinance amending Articles I
and IV of Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning the City’s
subdivision requirements, on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for
Monday, May 22, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers
and that it take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication; seconded by CM Weaver,
motion carried 6-0.
6. Council Bill No. 11-2023 – An Ordinance approving the transfer of municipally-
owned properties along Wadsworth Boulevard and adjacent streets between 35th
Avenue and Interstate 70 to the Colorado Department of Transportation
CM Nosler Beck introduced Council Bill 11-2023
Issue
The City owns an isolated strip of real property as right-of-way (ROW) that is 24 feet by
165 feet located along the east side of 4455 Simms Street. When the property was
acquired by Jefferson County in 1955, it was intended as ROW for a future street
extension. Community Development has determined that the parcel does not serve a
public purpose because an extension of Simms Street is not practical at this location..
Motion by CM Nosler Beck to approve Council Bill 11-2023, an ordinance vacating any
interest held by the City in a portion of Simms Street, a public roadway, order it
published, public hearing set for Monday, May 22, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual
meeting and in City Council Chambers, and that it takes effect immediately after final
publication; seconded by CM Dozeman, motion carried 6-0.
DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS
7. Motion to approve appointment of representatives to the 2023 Community
Partners Grant Program Committee
MPT Stites introduced the Motion.
Issue
The purpose of creating the 2023 Community Partners Grant Program Committee is to
provide an additional opportunity for residents to participate in the budget process. This
committee gives residents the opportunity to weigh community needs with available
resources and provide recommendations to City Council.
Staff Presentation
Mr. Goff gave a brief presentation, related to the current Community Partners Grant
Program Committee has two returning members from the 2022 which will leave six
vacancies to fill. To fill the openings in each district, staff advertised for new committee
members on the city website, social media and through a press release.
Motion by MPT Stites to appoint the following five individuals to the 2023 Community
Partners Grant Programs Committee, term to expire after 2025 budget recommend-
dations are presented in 2024, seconded by CM Dozeman, motion caried 6-0:
Geneva Fox District I
Dan Grave District II
Stephanie Tanner District III
Diana Lopez District III Alexander Goldsmith District IV
CM Hultin thanked those just appointed and those continuing to serve for their
volunteerism for the benefit of the community.
8. Resolution No. 24-2023 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental
Agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation regarding
constructing a shared use path on the west side of Wadsworth Boulevard
between 32nd and 35th Avenues in the amount of $7,500,000
CM Weaver introduced Resolution 24-2023
Issue
In 2022, the City was awarded funding through the Denver Regional Council of
Governments Transportation Improvement Program to construct a shared path along
the west side of Wadsworth Boulevard between 32nd and 35th Avenues. In addition,
improvements at the intersection of 32nd Avenue are planned in cooperation with the
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) that were included in the funding. The
funding includes both federal and state funding.
CDOT administers the funding, so an intergovernmental agreement needs to be
executed that outlines the various parties’ responsibilities, summarizes the funding
sources, and details the requirements of the funding sources.
Staff Presentation
Project Supervisor, Mark Westberg presented to council the prior actions and
background on the issue where closing the gap in the bicycle and pedestrian path
along Wadsworth Boulevard between 32nd and 35th Avenues has been a high priority
for several years. City staff completed a conceptual design for an attached sidewalk
along the west side of Wadsworth a few years ago. A conceptual cost estimate of $1.6
million was prepare with that design. Steep grades at the Rocky Mountain Ditch
crossing make it challenging to keep the slopes for the sidewalk within American
Disability Act (ADA) guidelines. In addition, the need for property acquisition increases
the costs..
Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) issued a call for projects for an
amendment to the current Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) due to additional
federal and state funding being available, with an emphasis on multi-modal projects.
Since the $1 million that was allocated by Council was likely not going to adequately
fund the attached sidewalk project, staff chose this project as one of the three projects
to apply for TIP funding.
Due to the need to reconstruct the sidewalk ramps at the 32nd Avenue intersection, staff
reached out to CDOT to coordinate that effort and learned that CDOT was planning to
replace the traffic signals at that intersection. So, staff worked with CDOT to combine
the projects to increase the scope of their project using the grant funds. CDOT will be
contributing all of their allocated funding, $700,000 towards the local match, which
reduces the City’s share of the local match to $300,000.
Also discussed were items such as:
• The funding breakdown
• The Intergovernmental Agreement
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
CM Hultin thanked Mr. Westberg for his presentation. She then asked two specific,
technical questions, which Mr. Westberg answered in detail.
Motion by CM Weaver approving an intergovernmental agreement with the Colorado
Department of Transportation regarding constructing a shared use path on the west
side of Wadsworth Boulevard between 32nd and 35th Avenues in the amount of
$7,500,000., seconded by MPT Stites, motion carried 6-0.
CM Ohm expressed his thanks to all on Council and among staff who made this
possible. It is a great addition to the City.
9. Resolution No. 25-2023 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental
Agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation regarding
constructing bicycle facilities on 32nd Avenue between Xenon and Zinnia Streets
in the amount of $1,000,000
MPT Stites introduced Resolution 25-2023
Issue
In 2022, the City was awarded construction funding through the Denver Regional
Council of Governments Transportation Improvement Program to construct an
extension of bicycle lanes along 32nd Ave from Xenon Street, under I-70, west to Zinnia
St. The project will improve safety along the popular 32nd Ave bicycle route and provide
multimodal connections that are currently lacking under I-70. The funding includes
federal funding, including ARPA funds, which will only be used for the construction
phase of this project.
CDOT administers the funding, so an intergovernmental agreement needs to be
executed that outlines the various parties’ responsibilities, summarizes the funding
sources, and details the requirements of the funding sources.
Staff Presentation
Civil Engineer II, Jordan Jefferies presented to council the prior actions and background
on the issue where on August 22, 2022, Council awarded a design contract to David
Evans & Associates (DEA) for final design and environmental clearance for the 32nd
Avenue Bike Facilities project. The project does not require the acquisition of right-of-
way.
For the 32nd Ave Bike Facilities project, the City requested $890,000 in federal funding
for almost 90% of the estimated $1 million in construction costs. Whenever federal
funds are received for one or more phases of a project, all phases of the project must
follow the federal process, i.e., the entire project is federalized. The biggest impacts to
the non-construction phases are to the environmental and ROW phases with several
new tasks being added to the consultant’s scope of work. A couple of minor items are
also added to the design phase
Also discussed were items such as:
• The funding breakdown
• Proposed improvements
• Intergovernmental agreement with the CDOT
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
CM Ohm expressed some concern about the traffic flow and safety for families,
pedestrians and cyclists. Mr. Jefferies described the planning process to address these
flow and safety issues.
Motion by MPT Stites to approve Resolution No. 25-2023, a resolution approving an
intergovernmental agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation regarding
constructing bicycle facilities along 32nd Avenue between Xenon and Zinnia Streets in
the amount of $1,000,000, seconded by CM Hultin, motion carried 6-0.
10. Resolution No. 26-2023 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental
Agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation regarding
constructing a pedestrian bridge, plazas, and multi-use trail extending south from
the Wheat Ridge Ward Station in the amount of $9,650,000
CM Dozeman introduced Resolution 26-2023
Issue
In 2022, the City was awarded construction funding through the Denver Regional
Council of Governments Transportation Improvement Program to construct a pedestrian
bridge over the G Line tracks, plazas at either of the bridge, and a multi-use trail
extending south to the I-70 Frontage Road North. The funding includes federal funding,
including ARPA funds.
CDOT administers the funding, so an intergovernmental agreement needs to be
executed that outlines the various parties’ responsibilities, summarizes the funding
sources, and details the requirements of the funding sources
Staff Presentation
Project Supervisor, Mark Westberg presented to council the prior actions and
background on the issue where starting in in 2019, Council has acted several times
concerning the design and right-of-way (ROW) acquisition for the pedestrian bridge,
plazas, and trail projects which are collectively referred to as the Ward Station multi-
modal projects (Ward Station MM). These past Council actions have included approving
contracts and amendments for SEH to complete the construction plans and for HDR to
acquire the necessary ROW for the projects
There are mandatory environmental approvals requiring that an environmental
consultant be retained to prepare the reports that document the potential impacts that
the project may have on a variety of environmental resources. The reports, along with
the preliminary plans, will soon be submitted to CDOT for review and approval. In
addition, some tasks are required to obtain clearances, i.e. approvals, from the various
CDOT Specialty Units. The CDOT Specialties ensure that the federal process is being
followed and the federal funds are being spent appropriately..
Items also discussed were:
• The Federal funding and breakdowns
• The Intergovernmental agreement (IGA)
• Proposed Improvement
• Recommendations
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
Mayor Starker asked about the timeline for construction to begin and Mr. Westberg
presented a detailed timeline. The Mayor then asked about the budget adequacy and
again Mr. Westberg answered.
Motion by CM Dozeman to approve Resolution No. 26-2023, a resolution approving an
Intergovernmental Agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation
regarding constructing a pedestrian bridge, plazas, and multi-use trail extending south
from the Wheat Ridge Ward Station in the amount of $9,650,000, seconded by CM
Ohm, motion carried 6-0.
11. Resolution No. 27-2023 – A Resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2023 Renewal
Wheat Ridge Bond Fund Budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget
appropriation in the amount of $308,627 for the purpose of making a payment to
Xcel Energy to underground the existing overhead electric lines to allow for the
construction of the Wheat Ridge · Ward Station pedestrian bridge.
CM Hultin introduced Resolution 27-2023
Issue
In order to construct the pedestrian bridge over the G-Line tracks, the City needs Xcel
Energy to underground the existing overhead electric lines in the vicinity of the
proposed bridge. Xcel requires a deposit for the estimated cost of the undergrounding
work prior to beginning the design. Since the amount is over $75,000, Council needs to
approve the payment
Staff Presentation
Project Supervisor, Mark Westberg presented to council the prior actions and
background on the issue where Council has taken several actions related to advancing
the construction of a pedestrian bridge at the Wheat Ridge · Ward Station including
awarding consultant contracts for design and rights-of-way acquisition starting in 2019.
On August 22, 2022, Council approved making a similar deposit for $188,253.92 to
enable Xcel staff to start working on the project. A supplemental budget appropriation
from the Renewal Wheat Ridge Bond Fund (Fund 40) is required to supplement what
was budgeted in 2023. The 2023 budget was adopted before the scope of work
changed resulting in the need for a new deposit for a larger amount.
In January 2023, Xcel refunded $187,345.77 of the original deposit which has been
added to Fund 40 as revenue. Xcel kept $908.15 to cover their costs prior to the change
in design. The full amount of the new deposit needs to be added to the Fund 40 budget
to fully cover the expense.
Also discussed were items such as:
• The conceptual designs
• Availability of bond funds
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
CM Ohm asked for an explanation of an 800-foot requirement for the project imposed
by Xcel Energy, and Mr. Westberg gave a detailed answer.
The Mayor asked about re-connecting businesses and residences as the project work
gets done and Mr. Westberg gave an affirmative answer.
Motion by CM Hultin to approve Resolution No. 27-2023, a resolution amending the
Fiscal Year 2023 Renewal Wheat Ridge Bond Fund Budget to reflect the approval of a
supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $308,627 for the purpose of making
a payment to Xcel Energy to underground the existing overhead electric lines to allow
for the construction of the Wheat Ridge · Ward Station pedestrian bridge, seconded by
CM Dozeman, motion carried 6-0.
12. Motion to approve an appointment to the Planning Commission.
By tradition, Board & Commission appointments are introduced by each District’s senior
member and seconded by the junior member.
CM Stites introduced the motion.
Issue
On April 13, 2023, Melissa Antol from District III resigned from the Planning
Commission effective immediately. The vacancy was posted for a term of one week on
the City of Wheat Ridge web site and promoted through various channels from April 17
through April 24. Applications have been compiled for Council’s review so that the seat
can be filled.
Staff Presentation
City Manager, Patrick Goff stood by to answer questions.
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Motion by MPT Stites, seconded by CM Weaver, to appoint Patrick Quinn to the
Planning Commission, term to expire March 02, 2025, motion carried 6-0.
MPT Stites thanked Ms. Anatol for her service and Mr. Quinn for agreeing to volunteer
in this role.
13. Motion to award a contract and approve subsequent payment of $300,000 to
Mid-America Pool Renovation, Inc. for lap pool refinishing at the Wheat Ridge
Recreation Center.
CM Ohm introduced the Motion.
Issue
The lap pool surface finish at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center has reached the
manufacture recommendation for refinishing to maintain a safe aquatic environment.
The lap pool needs to have a refinishing product installed.
Staff Presentation
Karen O’Donnell presented a brief staff report explaining that the goal is to contract with
a qualified individual or firm to remove and demolish damaged existing lap pool finish
patching and repairs. Except for items or materials indicated to be reused, salvaged,
reinstalled, or otherwise indicated to remain the City's property, demolished materials
shall become the Contractor's property and shall be removed from the site with further
disposition at the Contractor's option. After the damaged finish is removed, the
Contractor will apply new finish as directed by the city.
Funds for this RFP are budgeted in the 2023 Conservation Trust Fund for $280,000.
Mid-America proposal came in at $300,000; additional CTF funds will be allocated to
complete this project. Mid-America was the sole bidder in the process..
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak
Council Questions and comments
There were none.
Motion by CM Ohm to award a contract and approve a subsequent payment of
$300,000 to Mid-America Pool Renovation, Inc for lap pool refinishing at the Wheat
Ridge Recreation Center, seconded by MPT Stites, motion carried 6-0.
CM Hultin expressed her happiness and support for this motion.
14. Resolution No. 28-2023 – a Resolution approving an amendment to an
agreement with the Wheat Ridge Sanitation District regarding Phase II of the
Improve Wadsworth Project.
CM Ohm introduced Resolution 28-2023.
Issue
An Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City and the Wheat Ridge
Sanitation District (District) was approved by City Council in February 2021 to replace
the District’s sanitary sewer mains and other facilities during Phase I of the Improve
Wadsworth Project. An amendment to this IGA is required to replace and upgrade the
District’s sanitary sewer facilities in Phase II of the Improve Wadsworth Project. The City
will be reimbursed by the District for its portion of the work
Staff Presentation
Director of Public Works, Maria D’Andrea and Project Supervisor, Mark Westberg
presented to council the prior actions and background on the issue where early in the
utility coordination process for the Improve Wadsworth Project, the District expressed
interest in replacing its facilities in Wadsworth. The District was interested in replacing
the aging facilities and increasing the size of the sanitary sewer mains to provide
additional capacity for the anticipated growth that is and will be occurring along the
Wadsworth Corridor.
Including the reconstruction of the District’s facilities in the overall Improve Wadsworth
Project has several advantages for CDOT, the City, and the District:
• Traffic impacts of replacing the aging District facilities are lessened by including
their work in the overall project due to having only one construction project.
• Construction coordination will be much easier with the City’s general contractor
supervising all work.
• The District does not have to pay for separate construction traffic control and to
remove or repair the existing pavement.
• The District avoids the cost of performing night work, since most utility work on
Wadsworth is limited to the overnight hour
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
There were none.
Motion by CM Ohm to approve Resolution No. 28-2023, a resolution approving an
amendment to an Agreement with the Wheat Ridge Sanitation District regarding Phase
II of the Improve Wadsworth Project, seconded by MPT Stites, motion carried 6-0.
CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS
Mr. Goff reported that unfortunately our grant application for homeless assistance was
not awarded in the first round, but may be later. WR submitted a joint grant proposal
with two other cities.
Lutheran Hospital has announced a naming process for the new hospital at Clear Creek
Crossing. Council will hear more about this at a future study session. CM Hultin asked
for more information in writing to help prepare.
The Action Center will hold a fund raiser in May 18th.
CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS
Nothing tonight
ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS
CM Nosler Beck again reminded all of the Wilmore Davis closing ceremonies and
celebration on May 10th. She also mentioned that the Jeffco School Board is starting to
discuss closures on middle and high schools. We need to continue to follow these
developments and show our faces at school board meetings. The WR Piranhas are in
training for the coming aquatic competition season.
CM Hultin congratulated WR High School swimmers for their accomplishments. On
June 1-4 the Jefferson County Library will have its annual sale of books. When you
look at the whole of what we discussed and acted upon tonight, she is grateful for our
phenomenal staff.
CM Ohm asked us to support our local neighborhood activities, especially for youth.
CM Dozeman the 54th Annual Carnation Festival this August is seeking volunteers,
sponsors and entries for the Parade. Thursday through Sunday August 11-14.
CM Weaver is grateful to live here!
MPT Stites attended the opening of the new facilities at Happiness Gardens. He is
excited to fill in for the Mayor this Saturday at 9 am at Vignola’s. If you can find it in WR,
buy it in WR.
Mayor Starker is excited for the projects we have approved tonight. He thanked MPT
Stites for substituting at Coffee with the Mayor while the Mayor attends a DRCOG
retreat. He recently attended the Arvada Wheat Ridge Ambassadors to Youth awards
dinner for youth living and going to school in Jeffco who have faced and overcome
various difficulties in life. Several were awarded scholarships for study in higher
education. He attended the Golden Ethics in Business Award luncheon and
congratulated Colorado First Foundation on their award for the Colorado non-profit of
the year.
He expressed his relief that SB 23-213 failed to pass in the Colorado legislature.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:32 pm.
APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL ON May 22, 2023
_________________________________
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
_________________________________
Korey Stites, Mayor Pro Tem
The preceding Minutes were prepared according to §47 of Robert’s Rules of Order, i.e.,
they contain a record of what was done at the meeting, not what was said by the
members.
PROCLAMATION LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH JUNE 2023
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge cherishes the value and dignity of each person and
appreciates the importance of equality and freedom; and
WHEREAS, all are welcome in the City of Wheat Ridge to live, work, play, and every family deserves a place to call home where they feel safe, happy, and supported by friends and neighbors; and
WHEREAS, the City denounces prejudice and unfair discrimination based on age, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, or physical attributes as an affront to our fundamental principles; and
WHEREAS, Pride month began on June 28,1969 on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall
Uprising in New York City after LGBTQ+ and allied friends rose and fought against the constant police harassment and discriminatory laws that have since been declared unconstitutional; and WHEREAS, we appreciate the cultural, civic, and economic contributions of the Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, plus (LGBTQ+) community which strengthen our social welfare; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative that every person in our community, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, feels valued, safe, empowered, and supported by their peers and community leaders; and
WHEREAS, despite being marginalized, LGBTQ+ people continue to celebrate authenticity, acceptance, and love. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of Wheat Ridge,
declare the month of June 2023 as,
LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH and urge residents to recognize the contributions made by members of the LGBTQ+ community and
to actively promote the principles of equality, liberty, and justice. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, on this 22nd day of May 2023. ___________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
PROCLAMATION WHEAT RIDGE SAFETY MONTH JUNE 2023
WHEREAS, National Safety Month focuses on reducing the leading causes of injury and death at work, on the roads and in our homes and communities and drawing attention to safe practices that will decrease the likelihood of accidents; and
WHEREAS, all community members deserve to live in communities that promote safe and
healthy living environments; and WHEREAS, safe communities require the cooperation of all levels of government, business, and industry employees, as well as the public; and
WHEREAS, through the support and observance of National Safety Month each year, employers are helping to reverse an increase in accidental injuries and deaths in the workplace; and
WHEREAS, the City supports safety efforts and has taken a pro-active stance in providing a
safe and healthy work environment for its employees by supporting the BESAFE safety committee; and WHEREAS, the City works to prevent accidental injuries by educating employees about safe
and healthy practices in the workplace through training and encouragement; and WHEREAS, the beginning of the summer season, traditionally a time of increased accidents and injuries, is an appropriate time to focus attention on risk management and prevention.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of Wheat Ridge
formally designate the month of June 2023 as, WHEAT RIDGE SAFETY MONTH
and urge all community members to establish and maintain safe practices in their homes, workplaces,
and communities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, on this 22nd day of May 2023.
___________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
ITEM NO: 1
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 10-2023 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
ARTICLES I AND IV OF CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS, CONCERNING THE CITY’S SUBDIVISION REQUIREMENTS, AND MAKING CONFORMING AMENDMENTS THEREWITH
PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (05/08/23) BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (05/22/23) RESOLUTIONS
QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
_____________________________
Community Development Director City Manager ISSUE: The proposed ordinance makes necessary updates to Articles I and IV of Chapter 26 of the code, specifically to modernize and clean up portions of the City’s subdivision requirements. These
updates include changing incorrect or outdated cross-references, adding modern terminology, clarifying existing requirements, updating application requirements, and removing sections of the code that conflict with the current subdivision regulations. The ordinance clarifies when owners’ associations are required and the obligation of those associations, and it clarifies requirements for
drainage and irrigation facilities.
PRIOR ACTION: This topic was discussed with City Council in a study session on February 6, 2023, at which time Council provided consensus for staff to proceed with a code amendment.
Planning Commission reviewed this ordinance at a public hearing held on April 20, 2023, and
recommended approval. A copy of the draft Planning Commission minutes is attached.
Council Action Form – Subdivision Code Cleanup May 22, 2023
Page 2
City Council approved this ordinance on first reading on May 8, 2023. A motion was made by Councilmember Hultin and seconded by Councilmember Weaver and was approved by a vote of
6 to 0.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The proposed ordinance is not expected to have a financial impact on the City.
BACKGROUND: The City’s subdivision requirements are found in Article IV of Chapter 26 and were last
comprehensively updated in 2014 when Ordinance 1547 repealed an older subdivision code and
replaced it with a new version. Since 2014, 125 subdivision applications have been processed by the City. This ordinance includes changes based on lessons learned and the need to clarify or provide greater detail about requirements in the code. The subdivision code has been periodically updated since 2014 as other ordinances have been adopted, but the code has not been reviewed in
whole since 2014. From time to time, staff recommends updating the zoning code as it relates to
lessons learned, updated policies and processes, and to clarify code language. This ordinance consists of several general cleanup parts, which are outlined below, and are based on the consensus of City Council:
• Property Merger Covenants & Consolidation Plats: Building codes prohibit construction of building on top of a lot line, so often a consolidation plat is used to merge lots under one ownership. A property merger covenant can fulfill the same goal and is discussed in Section 26-117.B and alluded to 26-120.B. This proposed ordinance clarifies when a property merger covenant can be used in lieu of a consolidation plat. East Wheat Ridge
has many properties originally platted in the late 1800s that consist of two or more lots that are individually 25 feet wide. This unique circumstance can be cleaned up through the use of a property merger covenant, but there needs to be more clarity as to the circumstances in which it can be deployed to hold the lots as one property of record (i.e. under one ownership and not able to be sold off separately). The property merger
covenant is a common tool for this situation in the metro area, which allows the lots to be held as one without the need for a consolidation plat which is a more expensive and time-consuming process. Codifying this allowance is more appropriate than relying upon a policy and will allow for easier processing of building permit applications of single-unit homes or duplexes for these specific conditions.
• Conflicting Provisions (Review Process): The current subdivision code requires public hearings for 4-5 lots (PC only) and 6+ lots (PC and CC), however 26-117.C says that any consolidation plat for multi-unit residential shall be reviewed by Planning Commission and City Council, regardless of the number of lots. This does not align with the current
subdivision requirements in Article IV and also has outdated references to Planned Building Group site plans being reviewed by City Council, which is incorrect. Because of this, the ordinance removes the entirety of Section 26-117.C. Not doing so in 2014 was an oversight, and this is an older code section that has not been enforced since the 2014 ordinance.
• Definition of a Tract: The review process of a subdivision currently depends on the size of the subdivision in terms of “lots or parcels.” Tracts are unbuildable portions of land
Council Action Form – Subdivision Code Cleanup May 22, 2023
Page 3
often used for detention ponds or open space, and it has been the City’s interpretation for many years that tracts are not considered buildable lots and do not count towards the
total. This ordinance clarifies the definition of tract in Section 26-404 such that tracts are
to be excluded from the total number of lots or parcels when determining the total number of lots/parcels involved in a subdivision. Adding this interpretation to the code is necessary as the code implies this but it is not clearly stated.
• Administrative Review for Some Consolidation Plats: For sites with existing or
completed site development, the ordinance proposes creating a narrow exception allowing consolidation plats of any number of lots to be reviewed administratively. These consolidation plats do not result in any new site development or pending development, and are intended only to establish legal descriptions, clean up title, or in some cases allow
each building on its site to be placed on its own lot. For example, the Spallone Replat
reviewed by the Commission and approved by City Council in 2021 involved 21 substandard lots of record being consolidated into 3 lots (for the 3 existing buildings on site and to clean up title work). The code required that plat to be reviewed by City Council despite it being a routine consolidation to clean up ownership issues. Because of
this, staff is recommending this exception only in cases similar to the Spallone site.
• Timing of Payment for Parkland Fees: The proposed ordinances updates 26-406.D.4 to state parkland dedication fees are due at time of building permit, not at time of recordation. This was missed during Ordinance 1693 which made the parkland fees due at time of building permit and needs to be updated.
• Application contents: The proposed ordinance updates the application requirements to clarify the following: o When HOA covenants should be provided for staff review; o Clarifying that staff assigns addresses to new buildings;
o Removal of requirement to show adjacent zoning on plat maps (as zoning can change over time resulting in plat maps that are inaccurate)
• Easements and tracts: The proposed ordinance refines requirements related to easements and tracts. This codifies standards that staff is already requiring of subdivisions and for
which a code basis would be helpful for negotiations with applicants:
o Update 26-411.G.2 to require stormwater detention facilities in subdivisions consisting of fee-simple lots (single-unit detached, duplex, or townhouse) to be placed in a tract owned and maintained by the HOA. This has been a policy of the City for the last few years to help prevent these ponds from being placed on a
single homeowner’s lot, and to require the HOA to maintain these common
elements. However, a specific code section will be helpful.
o Update 26-411.G.4 to reference emergency access easements as requested by the fire department. o Update 26-411.G.6, which already requires owners’ associations in some cases, to
include obligations of the HOA to maintain common area easements and tracts,
where required, in perpetuity. It is helpful to have a code basis to rely upon if a developer or HOA does not wish to set up an HOA or to have them maintain all common elements.
Council Action Form – Subdivision Code Cleanup May 22, 2023
Page 4
o Because of the increased references to HOAs, creating a new definition of “owners’ association” in 26-123 that covers HOAs, property owners’
associations, and metro districts.
• Internet: The code lists a variety of utility requirements for new subdivisions, and the proposed ordinance adds an overdue reference to the internet to Section 26-417.3.b.
City Council recently discussed an amendment to the subdivision review process at a study
session on April 17, 2023. Those changes will be advanced as a separate ordinance later this year. RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 10-2023, an ordinance amending Articles I and IV of Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning the City’s subdivision requirements
and making conforming amendments therewith, on second reading and that it takes effect fifteen
(15) days after final publication.” Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 10-2023, an ordinance amending Articles I and
IV of Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning the City’s subdivision requirements, and making conforming amendments therewith for the following reason(s): _______________________________________.”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Scott Cutler, Senior Planner Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 10-2023 2. Draft PC Meeting Minutes
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HULTIN COUNCIL BILL NO. 10
ORDINANCE NO. 1762 Series 2023 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLES I AND IV OF CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS, CONCERNING THE CITY’S
SUBDIVISION REQUIREMENTS, AND MAKING CONFORMING AMENDMENTS THEREWITH
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge is a home rule municipality having all powers conferred by Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City,
acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances for the
protection of the public health, safety, or welfare; and
WHEREAS, the Council recognizes that from time to time the City’s zoning Code needs to be updated to include modern terminology, update cross-references, remove conflicts within the Code, and to provide clarity to City staff and the public; and
WHEREAS, the Council recognizes that the City’s subdivision review
requirements should be contained within Article IV of Chapter 26 to the greatest extent feasible.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Section 26-117.B of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is hereby
amended as follows to provide clarity regarding property merger covenants and consolidation plats on nonconforming lots of record:
B. Property merger covenant. Nonconforming lots of record may be merged as a condition of a permit or other development approval by a property merger
covenant, IN LIEU OF A CONSOLIDATION PLAT. A property merger covenant may be used in the event that BY an owner of two (2) or more adjacent lots which contain an existing residential use OR ARE VACANT AND RESIDENTIALLY ZONED, PRIOR TO OBTAINING wishes to obtain a building permit for THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT: an accessory
structure on the property, or an addition to the existing structure, OR DEVELOPMENT OF ONE (1) NEW SINGLE-UNIT OR DUPLEX DWELLING AND CUSTOMARY ACCESSORY STRUCTURES.
The covenant shall ensure that the property be held as one (1) parcel and shall restrict any portion from being sold separately. The covenant shall be in a form
approved by the city attorney, recorded in the office of the Jefferson County Clerk
and Recorder, and shall run with the land. The community development director
ATTACHMENT 1
shall have the authority to execute any such covenant and release of the covenant on behalf of the city.
Section 2. Section 26-117.C of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is hereby amended as follows to be consistent with review requirements for subdivisions in Article IV of Chapter 26:
C. All consolidation plats for multi-unit dwelling development shall be accompanied by a site plan, as set forth by section 26-111. Such consolidation
plats, together with the site plan, shall be subject to review by the planning commission and city council following the same application procedures, notice requirements and approval procedures and standards for review as for a planned building group. The purpose of these provisions is to avoid the construction of overly large buildings which may negatively impact surrounding neighborhoods
by increasing traffic, creating congestion by ingress/egress points, obstructing
light and air and by making access for fire protection difficult, and to prevent construction of one (1) large building to avoid compliance with the subdivision regulations, and to encourage the construction of smaller buildings which could give opportunities for better design of setbacks, landscaping, parking, vehicular
and pedestrian circulation and drainage facilities.
Section 3. Section 26-120.B of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is hereby amended as follows to provide clarity regarding property merger covenants and consolidation plats on nonconforming lots of record:
B. Nonconforming lots of record. In any district in which single-unit dwellings are permitted, a single-unit dwelling and customary accessory buildings may be erected on any single lot of record, provided that the lot is in separate ownership and not of continuous frontage with other lots under the same ownership. This provision shall apply even though the lot fails to meet the requirements of the
district in which it is located for the area, width, or both; provided however that the requirements for the district for SETBACKS minimum yard dimensions and BUILDING lot coverage FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT shall be met.
If two (2) or more lots or combinations of lots and portions of lots with continuous frontage in single ownership are of record, and part or all of the lots do not meet
the requirements of the district in which they are located as to minimum area or
frontage or both, the lands shall be considered to be an undivided parcel and no portion of the parcel shall be sold or used in a manner which diminishes compliance with minimum lot width and area requirements. A PROPERTY MERGER COVENANT AS DESCRIBED IN SECTION 26-117.B SHALL BE
SUBMITTED AS PART OF A BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF SINGLE-UNIT OR DUPLEX DWELLINGS AND CUSTOMARY ACCESSORY BUILDINGS ON NONCONFORMING LOTS OF RECORD IN SINGLE OWNERSHIP.
Section 4. Section 26-123 (Definitions) of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is hereby amended as follows by adding the following definitions, in appropriate alphabetical order:
OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION. A COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION WHICH IS ORGANIZED WITHIN A DEVELOPMENT IN WHICH INDIVIDUAL OWNERS SHARE COMMON INTERESTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR COMMON AND/OR LIMITED PUBLIC OPEN SPACE, LANDSCAPING, TRACTS, OR FACILITIES AND WHICH SHALL HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO RAISE REVENUE AND OWN REAL
PROPERTY. OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION INCLUDES HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS, PROPERTY OWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS, AND SPECIAL DISTRICTS OR METROPOLITAN DISTRICTS.
OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION DECLARATION OR AGREEMENT. A DECLARATION OR AGREEMENT SIGNED BY OR ON BEHALF OF AN OWNERS’
ASSOCIATION FOR THE PURPOSES OF ESTABLISHING THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ASSOCIATION WITH RESPECT TO A DEVELOPMENT AND THE OWNERS AND REAL PROPERTY CONTAINED THEREIN.
Section 5. Section 26-404 (Definitions) of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is
hereby amended as follows:
Tract: A portion of land that is part of a subdivision which is designated for some purpose other than a building site or lot, sometimes known as an outlot. TRACTS ARE NOT COUNTED AS LOTS OR PARCELS WHEN DETERMINING THE NUMBER OF LOTS OR PARCELS INVOLVED IN A SUBDIVISION.
Section 6. Section 26-405.A of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, regarding types of plats, is amended with the insertion of a new subsection 3 and renumbering the section accordingly.
A. Administrative plat.
…
3. A CONSOLIDATION PLAT SUBMITTED FOR PROPERTIES CONTAINING EXISTING AND COMPLETED SITE DEVELOPMENT, FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF ELIMINATING UNNECESSARY LOT LINES, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF LOTS INVOLVED. THIS
SHALL NOT INCLUDE ANY CONSOLIDATION PLAT SUBMITTED FOR THE PURPOSE OF PREPARING THE SITE FOR DEVELOPMENT, UNLESS THAT CONSOLIDATION PLAT IS OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW.
Section 7. Section 26-406.D.4 of the Code, concerning when parkland fees in
lieu are due, is hereby amended as follows to comply with the requirements from Ordinance 1693:
4. Fees in lieu of parkland dedication, if required by section 26-414, shall be paid at time a recordable document is submitted PRIOR TO BUILDING PERMIT ISSUANCE.
Section 8. Section 26-410 of the Code, concerning application contents for subdivisions, is hereby amended as follows:
A. Application contents. A complete subdivision application shall include:
1. Complete and notarized application form.
2. Appropriate fee.
3. Proof of ownership, such as copies of deeds.
4. Written authorization from property owner(s) where an agent acts on behalf of the owner(s).
5. A written description of the request.
6. Mineral rights certification form, IF APPLICABLE.
7. Commitment for title insurance, if applicable.
8. Geodetic surveying requirements checklist, completed and signed by surveyor.
9. Closure sheet(s) for the exterior boundary and all individual lots, with the area rounded to the nearest square foot and acreage to four (4) decimal places.
10. Final plat. The application shall include the appropriate number of copies and electronic files, as determined at the pre-application conference. All final plats shall comply with C.R.S. Article 51, Title 38. All form and content requirements shall be met, as described below in subsections B. and C.
11. Supplemental reports. In addition to the information contained on the final plat
supportive information may be required in the format of hard copies, electronic
files, or both. These may include, but are not limited to:
a. Trip generation or traffic report;
b. Final drainage report and plan;
c. Grading, drainage, and erosion control plan;
d. Stormwater management plan (SWMP);
e. Stormwater operations and maintenance manual (O&M Manual);
f. Civil construction plans;
g. Subdivision improvement agreement or development covenant agreement;
h. Exhibit and deed for partial right-of-way dedications;
i. HomeoOwner's association declaration or agreement (REQUIRED IF COMMON ELEMENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE SUBDIVISION, TO BE DETERMINED BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT).
B. Form of final plat.
1. Maps of the subdivision plat shall be drawn at not less than a scale of one (1) inch equals one hundred (100) feet.
2. Outer dimensions of the map shall be twenty-four (24) inches by thirty-six (36) inches with the following minimum margins: at least one (1) inch along the top
and at least one-half (½) inch on the bottom and right sides.
3. Once a plat is approved, the plat shall be PRINTED ON MYLAR MEETING JEFFERSON COUNTY CLERK AND RECORDER REQUIREMENTS. photographically reproduced or computer plotted on four millimeter (0.004) thick mylar. No sticky-backs, transfer lettering, or labels shall be used on the
mylar. All signatures must be permanent black ink. No ball point pens shall be
used.
4. Maps of two (2) or more sheets shall be referenced to an index map placed on the first sheet and each sheet shall be numbered (e.g., sheet 1 of 3).
C. Content of final plat.
1. Project information.
a. Title of document. The title of the subdivision shall not duplicate another subdivision plat title in the records of the Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder's office.
b. A surveyed metes and bounds legal description of the platted boundary,
with section ties to two (2) section corners in conformance with city geodetic surveying requirements. Coordinates for all section corners, and quarter-section corners, and PHAC points used shall be consistent with the City of Wheat Ridge current city datum and are available from the engineering division.
c. Basis of bearing statement, consistent with current city datum.
d. Small scale location map, with north arrow and scale.
e. Name, address, and phone number of architect, engineer, or surveyor associated with the project.
f. Appropriate signature and certification blocks as determined by the
community development department, such as for owners, lenders, and city officials.
g. Signature and seal of the Colorado licensed professional land surveyor along with a statement that the survey was performed by him/her or under his/her direct responsibility, supervision, and checking, and in accordance
with all City of Wheat Ridge requirements and applicable Colorado Statutes, current revised edition, as amended.
h. Release of areas dedicated to public use by mortgage or lien holder.
i. Standard easement notes as determined by the community development department.
j. Dedicatory statement, if applicable.
k. Case history box with reference case numbers; and
l. Plat note in the form of, and if required by, Code section 26-421 declaring race or religion-based covenants on the subject property, if any, to be illegal and unenforceable.
2. Graphical information.
a. All items on the City of Wheat Ridge geodetic surveying requirements for final plats shall be adhered to and provided on the plat.
b. Graphical representation of property boundary consistent with legal description.
c. Lot areas and dimensions for each lot, tract, and parcel.
d. Accurate dimensions for all lines, angles, and curves used to describe boundaries, streets, alleys, easements, areas to be reserved for public use, and other important features.
i. Distance and bearings shall be on current city datum.
ii. All curves shall be circular arcs and shall be defined by all of the
following: the radius, central angle, arc length, chord length, and chord bearing.
iii. All dimensions, both linear and angular, are to be determined by an accurate control survey in the field which must balance and close
within a limit of at least one (1) in fifty thousand (50,000).
iv. No final plat showing plus, or minus dimensions will be approved.
v. Total area shall be rounded to the nearest square foot and acreage to four (4) decimal places.
e. Monument information, including:
i. A description of all monuments that mark the boundaries of the
property, both found and set, and a description of all control monuments used in conducting the survey.
ii. Right-of-way survey monuments shall be established per City of Wheat Ridge standard specifications for all new roadways or
relocation of existing roadways, at all new road right-of-way centerline
intersections, center of radius for cul-de-sacs, and at the end of the centerline for dead end streets. Right-of-way survey monuments may also be required at roadway centerline points of curvature, points of reverse or compound curvature, and points of tangency, as
determined by the engineering division.
iii. Coordinates for all control monuments used shall be consistent with the current city datum.
f. Identification of all proposed lots, blocks, and street names. Tentative
Aaddresses for each lot shall be provided by the city.
g. Identification of existing streets, alleys, parks, and other public facilities.
h. Identification of all easements within and abutting the subject property, including the purpose and dimensions. If any easement already of record cannot be definitely located, a statement of its existence and its recorded
reference shall appear on the plat title sheet.
i. Identification of adjacent property by subdivision name, lot, and block. If adjoining land is unplatted, it shall be identified as such.
j. Identification of zoning within and adjacent to subject property.
k. Identification of areas reserved for future public acquisition.
l. Extent of 100-year floodplain and floodway, if applicable.
m. Legend, north arrow, and scale (not to exceed one (1) inch = one hundred (100) feet).
Section 9. Section 26-411.G of the Code, concerning subdivision design, is
hereby amended as follows:
G. Easements AND TRACTS.
…
2. Drainage and irrigation facilities. All proposed on-site stormwater detention facilities shall lie within a stormwater detention easement. THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE CITY ENGINEER, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE THAT STORMWATER DETENTION FACILITIES SHALL BE PLACED IN AN UNBUILDABLE TRACT WHICH SHALL BE OWNED AND MAINTAINED IN PERPETUITY BY THE OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION. Where a
subdivision is traversed by an irrigation ditch or channel, natural creeks or
streams, an easement sufficient for drainage and to allow for maintenance of the ditch shall be provided. The width and location of this easement shall be approved by the controlling irrigation ditch company or lateral ditch users. When off-site detention, retention or conveyance is required, a
recorded easement from the affected off-site property owner is required at
the time of plat recordation.
…
4. Access. When it is required to have circulation between adjacent properties OR PROPERTIES WITHIN A SUBDIVISION, cross
access/ingress-egress easements AND EMERGENCY ACCESS
EASEMENTS IF REQUESTED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT shall be provided on the plat.
…
6. All easement areas shall be maintained by the underlying fee simple property owner or appropriate owners’ association. THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE THAT AN OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION BE ESTABLISHED TO MAINTAIN COMMON AREA EASEMENTS AND TRACTS IN PERPETUITY. All
improvements located in, on, over or under the easements shall be maintained by the applicable and/or designated agency. Other improvements provided by the fee simple property owner shall not interrupt nor in any way interfere with the designated and continued use of the easements and improvements located thereon. The city shall not be
responsible for maintenance of easements and/or improvements thereon, unless otherwise approved by the city councilCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR IN THE FORM OF A SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT OR DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT.
Section 10. Section 26-417.3.b of the Code, concerning utility requirements for
new subdivisions, is hereby amended as follows:
b. The following utilities shall be provided: …. iv. INTERNET, tTelephone, cable, and other similar utility services
Section 11. Severability, Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section,
subsection, or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 12. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days
after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 6 to 0 on this 8th day of May 2023, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wheat Ridge, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set
for May 22, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., as a virtual meeting and in the Council Chambers, 7500
West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this 22nd day of May 2023.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2023.
_______________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________ Stephen Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
Approved as to Form
_________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication: May 11, 2023 Second Publication: Effective Date:
Published:
Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
Planning Commission Minutes -1 –
April 20, 2023
PLANNING COMMISSION
Minutes of Meeting
April 20, 2023
1.CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair DISNEY at 6:31 p.m. This meeting was
held in person and virtually, using Zoom video-teleconferencing technology.
2.ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS
Commission Members Present:Kristine Disney
Daniel Larson
Janet Leo
Jonathan Schelke
Julianne Stern
Commission Members Absent: Jerry DiTullio
Will Kerns
Staff Members Present: Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director
Scott Cutler, Senior Planner
Rocky Macsalka, Civil Engineer II
Tammy Odean, Recording Secretary
3.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.APPROVE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
It was moved by Commissioner STERN and seconded by Commissioner LEO to
approve the order of the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.
5.APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 6, 2023
It was moved by Commissioner LARSON and seconded by Commissioner
SCHELKE to approve the minutes of April 6, 2023, as written. Motion carried 4-0-
1 with Commissioner LEO abstaining.
6.PUBLIC FORUM (This is the time for any person to speak on any subject not appearing
on the agenda.)
No one wished to speak at this time.
ATTACHMENT 2
Planning Commission Minutes - 4 –
April 20, 2023
3. Minor typographical corrections as required by the Engineering
Division shall be completed prior to plat recordation.
Motion carried 5-0.
B. Case No. ZOA-23-04: An ordinance amending Article I and IV of Chapter 26 of
the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning general modernization and cleanup of
the City’s subdivision requirements, and making conforming amendments
therewith.
Mr. Cutler gave a short presentation regarding the amendment.
Commissioner LEO asked if the code amendment would impact the perception or
difficulty of developing in Wheat Ridge.
Ms. Mikulak clarified that over the last 10-15 years that trend has shifted and most
developers are enjoying doing work in the City. She added that the majority of the
cleanup is fixing the code sections that are outdated and conflicting and therefore
the amendment may result in better customer service.
Commissioner STERN said she would like to hear more about the goal of
establishing HOAs.
Mr. Cutler explained there are not a lot of HOAs in the City and the pattern of new
development specifically with townhomes is there are more common amenity
spaces that the City is not going to take over ownership and that is when an HOA is
necessary to maintain the common infrastructure. Ms. Mikulak added that HOAs
have been required in the last 20 years or so for the maintenance of detention
ponds.
In response to a question about Metro Districts, Ms. Mikulak explained that a
Metro District is a special district that has authority under state statute and the City
has only 3 townhome projects that are in Metro Districts. She added it falls to the
decision of City Council to agree on a Metro District’s service plan in terms of how
the mill levy is assessed, which is a formal process. Mr. Cutler added, that for
HOAs, staff does not approve the covenants but reviews them to ensure that
maintenance obligations are covered.
Public Comment
No one wished to speak at this time.
Commissioner LARSON appreciates the work of staff and supports staff’s effort.
It was moved by Commissioner STERN and seconded by Commissioner LEO
to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amending Articles I and
Planning Commission Minutes - 5 –
April 20, 2023
IV of Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning general
modernization and cleanup of the City’s subdivision requirements, and
making conforming amendments therewith.
Motion carried 5-0.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Preview of Upcoming Code Amendments
Ms. Mikulak and Mr. Cutler gave a brief explanation of a few upcoming code
amendments including related to cleanup of the mixed-use code, daycare centers,
affordable housing parking requirements, utility underground requirements,
subdivision public notice/hearings and electric vehicle (EV) parking/charging.
B. Upcoming Dates
Ms. Mikulak mentioned there will not be a May 4 meeting but there will be cases
to be heard on May 18.
C. Project and Development Updates
Nothing at this time.
9. OLD BUSINESS
10. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved by Commissioner STERN and seconded by Commissioner LARSON
to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Motion carried 6-0.
__________________________ _______________________________
Jerry DiTullio, Chair Tammy Odean, Recording Secretary
ITEM NO: 2
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 11-2023 – AN ORDINANCE VACATING
ANY INTEREST HELD BY THE CITY IN A PORTION OF SIMMS STREET, A PUBLIC ROADWAY PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (05/08/2023) BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (05/22/2023)
RESOLUTIONS
QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
_______________________________ ______________________________ Community Development Director City Manager ISSUE:
The City owns an isolated strip of real property as right-of-way (ROW) that is 24 feet by 165 feet
located along the east side of 4455 Simms Street. When the property was acquired by Jefferson County in 1955, it was intended as ROW for a future street extension. Community Development has determined that the parcel does not serve a public purpose because an extension of Simms Street is not practical at this location.
PRIOR ACTION:
On May 8, 2023, City Council approved the ordinance on first reading. A motion was made by Councilmember Nosler Beck, seconded by Councilmember Dozeman and approved by a vote of 6 to 0.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None
BACKGROUND: A parcel of land that is 24 feet by 165 feet is identified as ROW in the Fightmaster Subdivision along the east side of 4455 Simms Street. In 1955, Jefferson County accepted a deed for the parcel, presumably as a ROW dedication for the west half of Simms Street if the street was extended north
of 44th Avenue. However, the deed didn’t specifically state that the parcel was ROW, so when the
City incorporated in 1969, the County officially retained ownership of the parcel. The latest plat of
Council Action Form – Simms Street Vacation May 22, 2023
Page 2
the Fightmaster Subdivision shows this parcel as ROW, but still under Jefferson County ownership.
In 2018, the property owner of 4455 Simms Street approached the City asking if the City could
vacate the parcel as ROW since the property owner has been continually using the parcel since the property was originally developed. However, with the parcel still under the County’s ownership, the City could not vacate the parcel without the County first transferring the ownership to the City.
The Board of County Commissioners competed this action on May 18, 2021, by adopting a
resolution authorizing the transfer of the parcel to the City by quitclaiming the parcel for ROW
purposes. The City has the quit claim deed and is ready to move forward with vacating the ROW to the owner of 4455 Simms Street.
Staff has evaluated the surrounding street network and has determined that this parcel does not have a public use as ROW. This is largely due to the subsequent buildout of the surrounding
developments and related streets that make an extension of Simms Street north of 44th Avenue
impractical.
With the determination that there is not a public need for the parcel as ROW, the parcel will be vacated, if approved by Council, to the adjacent property owner to the west at 4455 Simms Street as the former owner of the dedicated ROW.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Disposal of property, including right-of-way, is completed by ordinance. Staff recommends approval of the ordinance so that the ROW can be vacated, and the parcel transferred to the property owner at 4455 Simms Street.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Council Bill No. 11-2023, an ordinance vacating any interest held by the
City in a portion of Simms Street, a public roadway, on second reading, and that it takes effect immediately after final publication.” Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 11-2023, an ordinance vacating any interest held by the City in a portion of Simms Street, a public roadway, for the following reason(s) ______________________________________________________________________.”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Mark Westberg, Project Supervisor Steve Nguyen, Engineering Manager Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director Patrick Goff, City Manager
Council Action Form – Simms Street Vacation May 22, 2023
Page 3
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill 11-2023
a. Exhibit A - Jefferson County Commissioner’s Deed
2. Aerial with Parcels
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER NOSLER BECKCOUNCIL BILL NO. 11
ORDINANCE NO. 1763 Series 2023
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE VACATING ANY INTEREST HELD BY THE CITY IN A PORTION OF SIMMS STREET, A PUBLIC ROADWAY
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge holds public rights-of-way in trust for the
public and the landowners abutting such rights-of-way; and
WHEREAS, the City owns certain real property as right-of-way pursuant to conveyance to the City from Jefferson County via a Commissioners Deed dated July 3, 2021; (the Property”), and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority granted by C.R.S. §§ 31-15-702(1)(a)(I) and
43-2-301 et seq., the Council of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, has determined that
the nature and extent of the public use and the public interest to be served is such as to warrant the vacation of the Property; and
WHEREAS, the property to be vacated and which is the subject of this ordinance is more fully described on Exhibit A attached hereto and fully incorporated herein by this
reference; and
WHEREAS, no property abutting the Property will be left without an established public road or private-access easement connecting said land with another established public road.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Vacation. The following Property held as right-of-way by the City is hereby vacated, the same being no longer required for public use and the public
interest will be served by such vacation:
The West 24 feet of the East 25 feet of the North 165 feet of Lot 13, Lee Subdivision, according to the plat recorded at Book 2, Page 23A, Reception No. 35400, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado and the East one foot of the North 165 feet of Lot 13, Lee Subdivision, according to the plat recorded at Book 2, Page
23A, Reception No. 35400, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado.
Section 2. Reservation of Easements. The City hereby reserves an easement across the entirety of the Property for underground utilities of all types, for use by the City or by utility providers with City permission.
Section 3. Severability, Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section,
subsection, or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses
ATTACHMENT 1
shall not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 4. Recording. This Ordinance shall be filed for record with the office
of the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 6 to 0 on this 8th day of May 2023, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in
the City of Wheat Ridge, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for May 22, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this _____ day of ______________, 2023.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2023.
_________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________ Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
Approved as to Form
____________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication: May 11, 2023 Second Publication: Effective Date:
Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
Commissioner Kerr moved that the following Resolution be adopt d:
BEFORE-THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF THE COUNTY OF JEFFERSON
STATE OF COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. CC21-134
RE: Deputy County :Manager -Facilities Management -Commissioner's o-e d -City of Wheat Ridge for a Strip of Land Located East of 4455 Simms Street
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners finds that the strip of right-of-W:ay located eastofthe property at 4455 Simms Street, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, will not be useful or necessary to County functi_ons presently or in the futur for public projects; however, the -property being in the City of Wheat Ridge does serve a public purpose for the City;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the. BQard of County Commissioners hereby approves and authorfzes the conveyqnce o.f the certain right-of-way consisting of the strip of land adjacent to 4455 Simms Street to the City -of Wheat Ridge.
Commissioner Kraft-Tharp seconded the adoption-of the foreg·oing ResoJtjtion. The roll having been called, the-vote was as follows:
Commissioner Andy Kerr Aye Commiss:ioner Tracy Kraft-Tharp Aye Commissiqn_er l,.esley Dahl_kemper, Chairman Aye
The Resq.lution-was adopted by unanimous vote of the Board of County Commissioners-of the County of Jefferson, State of Colorado.
Dated: May 18, 2021
EXHIBIT A
_,
2021120970 8/16/2021 9:26 AM PGS 4 $0.00 DF $0.00 Bectronically Recorded Jefferson County, CO George P Stem, Cler'n: and Recorder TD1000 N
COMMISSIONER'S DEED (Transferring ROW) 1 ft'v jf.11\(!.,, TIDS COMMISSIONER'S DEED is made this day of .Iaty, 2021, between the COUNTY OF JEFFERSON, STATE OF COLORADO, a body politic and corporate (the "County"), whose legal address is 100 Jefferson County Parkway, Golden, Colorado 80419, and the CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, STA TE OF COLORADO, a home rule municipality , (the "Grantee") whose address is 7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033.
RECITALS
A.In 1955 the County accepted two deeds for property which is now located withinthe city limits of Wheat Ridge, one was a one foot strip ofland as described in the deed recorded at Book 899, Page 598 of the Jefferson County Real Property Records, and the second is an adjacent 24 foot strip ofland as described in the deed recorded at Book 899, Page 599 of the Jefferson County Real Property Records (collectively referred to herein after as the "1955 Deeds").
B.The 1955 Deeds do not specifically state the property was transferred for right ofway purposes, as a result, upon the incorporation of the City of Wheat Ridge in 1969, the property described in the 1955 Deeds remained under the ownership of the County.
C. Both the City of Wheat Ridge as evidenced by their designation of the property described in the 1955 Deeds as shown on the 2003 Fightmaster Subdivision recorded at Reception No. Fl693798 which describes the parcel as Simms Street, and the County believe the property was intended to be utilized for right-of-way purposes.
D. The Board of County Commissioners of the County of Jefferson, State of Colorado, did a a regular meeting of said Board held at the Administration and Courts Facility in said County on the 18th day of May, 2021, duly adopt and pass a resolution authorizing the quitclaim of the hereinafter described real property to Grantee for right-of-way purposes and did by said Resolution appoint and constitute the undersigned as Commissioner to quitclaim and execute a deed fur said real property to Grantee for and on behalf of the County, and did further authorize the undersigned to execute this d and to affix the seal of said County hereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, FORAND IN CONSIDERATION of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) and other gpod and valuable consideration, in hand paid by Grantee to the County, receipt of which is hereby confessed and acknowledged, the undersigned, acting as Commissioner aforesaid, dties by these presents remise, release, sell, and quitclaim unto Grantee, its successors and assigns all the right, title, interest, claim and demand which said County has in and to the real property situate, lying and being in the County of Jefferson, State of Colorado and described as follows:
The West 24 feet of the East 25 feet of the North 165 feet of Lot 13, Lee Subdivision, according to the plat recorded at Book 2, Page 23A, Reception No. 35400, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado. and
1 TMi7-2636
The East one foot of the North 165 feet of Lot 13, Lee Subdivision, according to the plat recorded at Book 2, Page 23A, Reception No. 35400, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado.
The parties acknowledge and agree that the square footage contained in this deed was erroneously included in Lot 2 of the Figbtmaster Subdivision recorded March 7, 2003 at Reception No. Fl 693798, and should have been excluded thereby reflecting that Lot 2 contains approximately 15,243 square feet.
TO HA VE AND TO HOLD the same, together with all and singular appurtenances and privileges thereunto belonging or in any way thereunto appertaining, and all the estate, right, title, interest and claim whatsoever of said County, either in law or equity.
[SEAL]
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0 l ':, • ·. :. :: I ..__-;. ••.. / l{, qj·• .. ····'i>O ..,,' Deputy Clerk & Record ,,,;; \\,,,
STATE OF COWRADO COUNTY OF JEFFERSON
COUN1Y OF JEFFERSON, STAT COL ..-mo
By __ _,......,,._ ________ Lesle I ahlkemper, Chairman Board of County Commissioners
J V/\l-The foregoing Commissioner's Deed was acknowledged before me this;).. 3 day of Jllly, 2021 by Lesley Dablkemper, Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Notary Public
[Additional Signature Page Follows]
2 lMl7-2636
DIANE KEATHLEY NOTARY PUBLIC STATE OF COLORADO NOTARY ID 20084025674 MY COMMISSION EXPIRES AUGUST 5, 2024
CONVEYED AND ACCEPTED FOR MUNICIPAL RIGHT OF WAY PURPOSES:
City ofWheat Ridge:
lM17-2636
Overall Aerial
ITEM NO: 3
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 12-2023 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
SECTION 17-36 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS TO ADDRESS THE USE OF ASSISTED MOBILITY DEVICES IN CONSERVATION AREAS
PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (05/22/2023) BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (06/12/2023) RESOLUTIONS
QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
___________________________ __________________________
Director of Parks & Recreation City Manager ISSUE: On July 11, 2022, City Council amended Section 17-52 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to permit the use of assisted mobility devices in conservation areas by persons with disabilities.
Subsequently, it was determined additional sections of the Code should have also been amended, as well, to address this same issue. This ordinance will amend Section 17-36 to address the use of mobility devises in conservation areas. PRIOR ACTION:
The current Section 17-36 of the Code titled “Conservation area” was adopted in 2004.
Section 17-52 of the Code titled “Vehicles” was updated on July 11, 2022, to allow for the use of assisted mobility devices in conservation areas.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Minor costs associated with updating signage, maps, posted rules and regulations, though this is
mostly complete. Depending upon the degree of use of the permitted assisted mobility devices,
some staff enforcement costs may be experienced.
Council Action Form – Assisted Mobility Devices May 22, 2023
Page 2
BACKGROUND: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requires public and private entities to make
reasonable accommodations to their facilities and programs in order to ensure that persons with
disabilities are able to access and use the same in substantially the same manner as other persons. Familiar examples are curb ramps for accommodating wheelchairs, reserved parking spaces and similar accessibility accommodations. Certain City trails have been posted “no bicycles,” where such use may be hazardous to other users or injurious to the trail itself. It has come to the attention
of Parks and Recreation staff that this restriction prevents some persons from accessing the trail
completely, as they have need of assisted mobility devices. This ordinance revises the relevant Code section to make an exception for assisted mobility devices for persons with disabilities. Staff will monitor use of the affected trails and adjust the policy as needed.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends adoption of the ordinance.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 12-2023, an ordinance amending Section 17-36 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to address the use of assisted mobility devices in conservation areas,
on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, June 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. as
a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers and that it takes effect 15 days after final publication.” Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 12-2023, an ordinance amending Section 17-36 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to address the use of assisted mobility devices in conservation areas for the following reason(s) ______________________________________.
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Karen O’Donnell, Parks and Recreation Director Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 12-2023
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ___________ COUNCIL BILL NO. 12
ORDINANCE NO. _________ Series 2023 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 17-36 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS TO ADDRESS THE USE OF MOBILITY DEVICES IN
CONSERVATION AREAS
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge (the “City”) is a home rule municipality having all powers conferred by Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances
for the protection of the public health, safety, or welfare; and
WHEREAS, the Council previously adopted Code Section 17-36 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the “Code”) concerning conservation areas; and
WHEREAS, the Council now wishes to further amend Section 17-36 of the Code to address the use of mobility devices for persons with disabilities.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Section 17-36 is amended to read:
Roller blades, roller skates, skateboards, and bicycles are not allowed in the conservation area, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MOBILITY DEVICES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES. Section 2. Severability, Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section,
subsection or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter. INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of ___ to ___ on this 22nd day of May 2023, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general
circulation in the City of Wheat Ridge, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for June 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
ATTACHMENT 1
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this 12th day of June 2023.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2023.
_________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________
Stephen Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
Approved as to Form
_________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication:
Second Publication:
Effective Date: Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
ITEM NO: 4
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 13-2023 - AN ORDINANCE REPEALING
AND AMENDING CERTAIN WEAPON OFFENSES IN
CHAPTER 16 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS IN RESPONSE TO U.S. SUPREME COURT CASE LAW PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (05/22/23)
BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (06/12/23) RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
_______________________________ ______________________________ City Attorney City Manager
ISSUE:
This ordinance will repeal Sections 16-84 and 16-87 and amend Section 16-89 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to conform with the recent Supreme Court ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen, concerning weapon offenses.
PRIOR ACTION:
Council first considered the ordinance during the April 10, 2023, special study session. FINANCIAL IMPACT: None.
BACKGROUND: In the Bruen decision, the Supreme Court chose to adopt the “historical tradition” test for the constitutionality of government firearm regulations. The burden now falls on a government to show there is a national historic tradition for a given firearm regulation, meaning a tradition
generally in place when the Second Amendment was ratified in 1791. In reaching its holding, the
Court also upheld the “sensitive places” doctrine, which permits a court to use analogies to
CAF – Weapons Offenses May 22, 2023
Page 2
“longstanding laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings to determine whether modern regulations are constitutionally permissible.”
The Court found that “[t]he Second Amendment's plain text thus presumptively guarantees [] a right to ‘bear’ arms in public for self-defense”. The Court reasoned that “Americans hazard greater danger outside the home than in it and that the text of the Second Amendment reflects that reality.” The Bruen Court held that the definition of “bear” naturally “encompasses public carry” of
firearms and that to confine to the “right to ‘bear’ arms to the home would nullify half of the
Second Amendment’s operative protections.” The net of the decision, as affecting the City’s regulation of the possession and public carrying of weapons by citizens, is that it is necessary to revise the City’s Code to reflect the “historical
tradition” and “sensitive places” doctrines. While the courts will certainly further define the
practical effect of the Supreme Court’s decision, in the meantime it is necessary to revise the Code on the basis of what we now know and can reasonably assume. In response to Bruen, the following code sections should be repealed or amended:
• Sec. 16-84. - Carrying, etc., illegal weapons. (Repealed)
• Sec. 16-87. - Carrying, etc., where intoxicants are sold. (Repealed)
• Sec. 16-89. - Deadly weapons on city property prohibited. (Amended) RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff, WRPD, and the City Attorney recommend approval.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Council Bill No. 13-2023, an ordinance repealing and amending certain weapon offenses in Chapter 16 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws in response to U.S Supreme Court case law, on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, June 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers and that it take effect upon
adoption.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 13-2023, an ordinance repealing and amending
certain weapon offenses in Chapter 16 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws in response to U.S Supreme Court case law, for the following reason(s) ________________. REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Gerald Dahl, City Attorney
Christopher Murtha, Chief of Police
Patrick Goff, City Manager
CAF – Weapons Offenses May 22, 2023
Page 3
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 13-2023
2. Memo from City Attorney’s Office, dated March 23, 2023
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ___________ COUNCIL BILL NO. 13
ORDINANCE NO. _________ Series 2023 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND AMENDING CERTAIN WEAPONS OFFENSES UNDER CHAPTER 16 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF
LAWS IN RESPONSE TO U.S. SUPREME COURT CASE LAW
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge (the “City”) is a home rule municipality having all powers conferred by Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances
for the protection of the public health, safety, or welfare; and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its opinion in N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, 142 S. Ct. 2111 (2022); and
WHEREAS, the Bruen Court significantly altered the state of Second Amendment Constitutional analysis by introducing the “historical tradition” test which
requires a governmental entity to justify a firearm regulation by showing such regulation is consistent with “the Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation;” and
WHEREAS, the Bruen Court recognized the validity of laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in “sensitive places” such as schools, government buildings, legislative assemblies, polling places, courthouses, and other analogous places; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that Sections 16-84 and 16-87 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the “Code”) concern neither historically traditional firearm restrictions nor “sensitive places” and are therefore no longer likely constitutional and should be repealed; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 18-12-214(c)(1) and 29-11.7-104 of the
Colorado Revised Statutes, the City has the authority to adopt and enforce ordinances that prohibit the concealed and open carrying of a firearm in a building or specific area within the City’s jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that it is necessary and desirable to prohibit open and concealed carrying of firearms in certain designated “sensitive locations” in order to
protect the safety of residents, visitors, and employees of the City; and
WHEREAS, the Council further finds that regulation of firearms in the areas identified in this ordinance is consistent with and analogous to longstanding historic laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools, government buildings, legislative assemblies, polling places, and courthouses.
ATTACHMENT 1
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Sections 16-84 and 16-87 of Article IV of Chapter 16 of the Code are hereby repealed and designated as “Reserved” as follows:
Sec. 16-84. - Carrying, etc., illegal weapons. RESERVED.
(a) It is unlawful for any person to knowingly carry, conceal or cause to be concealed in any vehicle or to use any blackjack, multifixed bladed stellate throwing
knife, or brass or metallic knuckles.
(b) Nothing in this section shall apply to peace officers or to members of the Armed Forces of the United States or the Colorado National Guard acting in the lawful discharge of their duties.
Sec. 16-87. - Carrying, etc., where intoxicants are sold. RESERVED.
(a) It is unlawful for any person to carry, conceal or display any dangerous or
deadly weapon while such person is on the premises of any establishment where malt, vinous or spirituous liquors are sold for consumption on the premises.
(b) The provisions of this section shall not apply to peace officers or any other person duly licensed or authorized under applicable state or federal law to carry such
weapon, nor to persons carrying such weapons in their place of business or having
control of the premises at the time of the act of carrying.
Section 2. Section 16-89 of the Code is hereby amended as follows:
Sec. 16-89. - Deadly weapons on city property prohibited.
(a) It is unlawful for any person other than a peace officer to carry, bring or
possess a deadly weapon upon city property.
(b) For purposes of this section "city property" means all GOVERNMENT buildings, facilities, real property, and portions, INCLUDING CITY-OWNED PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS, thereof:
(1) Owned in whole or in part by the city or in which the city has a
leasehold interest WHICH SERVE A GOVERNMENTAL PURPOSE, EXCEPT
FOR CITY RIGHTS-OF-WAY whether as lessor or lessee; and
(i) AS USED IN THIS SECTION (B)(1), “CITY RIGHTS-OF-WAY” MEANS ALL STREETS, ROADWAYS, SIDEWALKS, ALLEYS, DEDICATED TRAILS, AND ALL OTHER AREAS RESERVED FOR USE
BY THE PUBLIC, AS A MATTER OF RIGHT, FOR THE PURPOSE OF VEHICULAR OR PEDESTRIAN TRAVEL.
(2) Posted by the city with a sign at the public entrances notifying the public that the carrying of deadly weapons is prohibited on the property; AND
(c) The chief of police or his or her designee is authorized and directed to post
the public entrances of all city property with signs notifying the public that the carrying of
deadly weapons is prohibited, unless otherwise directed by formal action of the city council.
(d) Until such time as C.R.S. § 18-12-201 et seq. is repealed or amended, this section shall not apply to persons carrying concealed deadly weapons on city property
as authorized by a valid concealed carry permit except as otherwise provided under
subsection (e).
(e) It is unlawful for any person to carry, bring or possess a concealed deadly weapon, carried in accordance with a valid concealed carry permit, into any city building at which the city has installed permanent electronic weapons screening devices and
security personnel in accordance with C.R.S. § 18-12-214(4).
(f) IT IS UNLAWFUL TO CARRY, BRING OR POSSESS A DEADLY WEAPON WITHIN 500 FEET OF ANY POLLING LOCATION WITHIN THE CITY ON THE DAY OF AN ELECTION OR ANY PLACE WITHIN THE CITY OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED BY THE JEFFERSON COUNTY CLERK AND RECORDER FOR THE COUNTING OF
BALLOTS ON ANY DAY WHEN BALLOTS ARE BEING COUNTED OR FOR
CONDUCTING ACTIVITIES RELATED TO A FEDERAL, STATE, OR MUNICIPAL ELECTION. THIS PARAGRAPH DOES NOT APPLY TO A PERSON WHO CARRIES A FIREARM THAT THE PERSON OWNS ON THE PERSON’S PRIVATE PROPERTY THAT IS WITHIN THE 500-FOOT BUFFER ZONE OR WHILE TRAVELING DIRECTLY
BETWEEN THE PERSON’S PRIVATE PROPERTY AND A PLACE OUTSIDE THE
500-FOOT BUFFER ZONE.
Section 3. Severability, Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section, subsection, or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall
not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed. Section 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of ___ to ___ on this 22nd day of May 2023, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wheat Ridge, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for June 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th
Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this _____ day of ______________, 2023.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2023.
Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST:
Stephen Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
Approved as to Form
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: Second Publication:
Effective Date: Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
710 Kipling Street, Suite 300 Lakewood, Colorado 80215 Main 303.493.6670 Fax 303.945.7960
To: Mayor Bud Starker and Wheat Ridge City Council From: Gerald Dahl and Nicholas Klein, City Attorney’s office
Date: March 23, 2023 Re: City firearm regulations after Bruen decision
Background Council may recall that at the regular Council meeting held on December 12, 2022, a concerned citizen testified during public comment that Sections 16-84, 16-87, 16-89, and 17-53 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the “Code”) are in part or wholly invalid based on the recent United States
Supreme Court ruling in N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen. 142 S. Ct. 2111 (2022). Our
office analyzed these claims and are recommending text amendments to the Code to ensure its continued constitutionality. The Bruen Decision
In the Bruen decision, the Supreme Court chose to adopt the “historical tradition” test for the constitutionality of government firearm regulations. The burden now falls on a government to show there is a national historic tradition for a given firearm regulation, meaning a tradition in place when the Second Amendment was ratified in 1791. In reaching its holding, the Court also
upheld the “sensitive places” doctrine, which permits a court to use analogies to “longstanding
laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings to determine whether modern regulations are constitutionally permissible.” The Court found that the “[t]he Second Amendment's plain text thus presumptively
guarantees [] a right to ‘bear’ arms in public for self-defense”. Id. at 2135. The Court reasoned
that “Americans hazard greater danger outside the home than in it and that the text of the Second Amendment reflects that reality.” Id. The Bruen Court held that the definition of “bear” naturally “encompasses public carry” of firearms and that to confine to the “right to ‘bear’ arms to the home would nullify half of the Second Amendment’s operative protections.” Id. at 2134–35.
The net of the decision, as affecting the City’s regulation of the possession and public carrying of weapons by citizens, is that it is necessary to revise the City’s Code to reflect the “historical tradition” and “sensitive places” doctrines. While the courts will certainly further define
ATTACHMENT 2
Bruen as Applied to the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws April 3, 2023 the practical effect of the Supreme Court’s decision, in the meantime it is necessary to make revisions to the Code on the basis of what we now know and can reasonably assume. Sec. 16-84. - Carrying, etc., illegal weapons. The weapons described in Code Section 16-84(a) are protected by the Second Amendment
because they are a modern instrument used to facilitate armed self-defense. It is quite clear that a vehicle is not a “sensitive place” as defined by Bruen or other case law. Further, it would be difficult for the City to argue that the regulation of weapons within someone’s vehicle is a part of the Nation’s historical tradition of the regulation of arms. Therefore, this regulation is likely unconstitutional under Bruen and should be repealed.
Sec. 16-86. - Brandishing, etc., deadly weapons (in a public place). This Code section is constitutional under Bruen, and we are not recommending any
changes at this time. The Bruen Court specifically noted that there is a historical tradition of
regulating the carrying of arms “in a manner likely to terrorize others.” In fact, the Court found that historic common-law offenses of “affray” or going armed to “the terror of the people” “imposed some limits on firearm carry that did not impair the right of the general population to peaceable public carry.” However, the Court found that the mere carry of a firearm in public is not
enough to “terrify” people; there must be an overt act which would terrify the public. So long as
the City enforces the Code section with the understanding that the mere possession of a firearm is not enough to “terrify,” the Code section will remain constitutional. Sec. 16-87. - Carrying, etc., where intoxicants are sold.
This code section is invalid under Bruen, and we are recommending it be repealed There is no case law from any jurisdiction suggesting that premises in which alcohol is sold is a “sensitive place.” Further, the Nation’s historic tradition will show a rich history of the carrying of firearms in businesses that serve alcohol, at the time of the adoption of the Second Amendment. A court
following Bruen may also find that the need for self-defense is especially heightened in an environment where intoxicated people are present. With this being said, private business may continue to forbid the carrying of firearms within their establishment, although the City may not impose such a ban itself. While there is no question that separating firearms and alcohol is good public policy, the Bruen decision precludes the City from doing so, and it will be left to private
business action. Sec. 16-89. - Deadly weapons on [all] city property prohibited. & Sec. 17-53. – Weapons (prohibited in City park and recreation areas).
Bruen as Applied to the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws April 3, 2023 These code sections are combined for discussion because of the natural interplay between them. Under Bruen and the “sensitive place” doctrine, it is constitutional for the City to prohibit the carrying of firearms within government buildings. The prohibition of the carrying of firearms on all City-owned real property and portions thereof may be overbroad; a court may find that only City owned property which serves a governmental purpose is a “sensitive place,” however, our
Office believes the prohibition on the carrying of firearms is a defensible position under the case law. If challenged, it would be the City’s burden to show that it is within the Nation’s historical
tradition to prohibit the carry of weapons in public parks. Our office feels it is a defensible policy
decision to prohibit the carrying of weapons in public parks. While a court may strike down such a regulation, there is a much smaller chance of such a regulation being held invalid under Bruen compared to the Code sections we recommend repealing. Therefore, we recommend the attached text amendments to Code Section 16-89, but do not recommend any amendments to Code Section
17-53.
Conclusion The Supreme Court in Bruen significantly altered the state of Second Amendment
constitutional analysis. In response to Bruen, our office recommends the adoption of the attached
draft ordinance to insulate the City from future legal challenges to the constitutionality of its Code sections concerning the public carrying of firearms.
ITEM NO: 5
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: RESOLUTION NO. 29-2023 – A RESOLUTION ADOPTING
THE 2023 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING
RESOLUTIONS
QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
_________ ____________________________ Director of Parks & Recreation City Manager ISSUE:
Over the past year, LoganSimpson 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. With the unanimous approval of the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Commission, the plan is now ready for formal adoption by City Council.
PRIOR ACTION: City Council approved a contract in the amount of $100,000 for LoganSimpson’s consulting services on March 28, 2022.
Stakeholder interviews, including conversations with City Council members, were conducted in
July of 2022.
Preliminary findings were shared with City Council at a study session on January 23, 2023.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: LoganSimpson’s contract to facilitate the Open Space Management Plan process was awarded in March of 2022 in the amount of $100,000.
Council Action Form – Adoption of Open Space Management Plan May 22, 2023
Page 2
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. Community and stakeholder input provided a foundation for identifying recommendations and
concepts to carry forward in developing the final plan. Taylor Broyhill, with LoganSimpson, met
with the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Commission at various points throughout the process: July 18, 2022 (listening), November 16, 2022 (preliminary recommendations), and April 19, 2023 (draft plan review).
Taylor Broyhill, Associate Planner with LoganSimpson, will present final recommendations to
City Council at the meeting on May 22, 2023.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends the adoption of the 2023 City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Resolution No. 29-2023, a resolution adopting the 2023 City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan.” Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 29-2023, a resolution adopting the 2023 City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan for the following reason(s) __________________.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Karen A. O’Donnell, Director of Parks & Recreation
Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 29-2023
2. Open Space Management Plan Adoption Draft
3. Open Space Management Plan Appendices 4. PowerPoint Presentation
ATTACHMENT 1
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. 29 Series of 2023
TITLE: A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 2023 CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge adopted an Open Space Management Plan in 2002; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City of Wheat Ridge, when necessary, to undertake review of existing documents and update these documents; and
WHEREAS, the consultant to the Parks and Recreation Department, in conjunction with a technical advisory committee, has produced a plan which was reviewed with the Parks and Recreation Commission; and
WHEREAS, recommendations from residents, staff, elected officials,
stakeholders, and Parks and Recreation Commission members have been incorporated into the plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, as follows:
1. The City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge hereby adopts the 2023 City ofWheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan attached as EXHIBIT A.
2. The 2023 Open Space Management Plan shall supersede the 2002 Open
Space Management Plan.
DONE AND RESOLVED this 22nd day of May 2023.
________________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
City of Wheat Ridge
Open Space
Management Plan
May 2023
EXHIBIT A
PREPARED BY:
Prepared For:
City Of Wheat Ridge Parks And Recreation Department; Parks, Forestry, And Open Space Division
Jana McKenzie, FASLA, LEED-AP; Principal
Taylor Broyhill, AICP; Associate Planner & Project Manager
Andrew Newman, Senior Biologist
Dan Arseneau, PLA; Landscape Architect
Matthew Little, GIS Technician
Julie Capp, Biologist and Environmental Planner
with support from
Scott Belonger, PE
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
CITY COUNCIL
Bud Starker, Mayor Judy Hutchinson, District I Janeece Hoppe, District I Rachel Hultin, District II Scott Ohm, District II Amanda Weaver, District III Korey Stites, Mayor Pro Tem, District III Valerie Nosler Beck, District IV Leah Dozeman, District IV
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Cambria Rollo, Chair, District I Ralph Habben, District I Karen Stanley, District II Catherine Rooney, District III Catherine Samaniuk District II Kathy Koniz, District III Pat Cervera, District IV Patrick Quinn District III John Route, District II (former member)
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Karen O’Donnell, CPRE; Parks and Recreation Director Brandon Altenburg, CPRP; Grant and Special Project Administrator Danielle Moore, Marketing Specialist
Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division Benny Paiz; Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Manager Andrew McDonald; Forestry and Open Space Supervisor Susan Bennett, CIG; Environmental Interpreter
Steve Leyba, Open Space Operations John Slattery; PWM I Kelsey Carter, Operations Support Technician
SPECIAL THANKS to the following departments and organizations who contributed their time, expertise, and knowledge to the development of this plan: Wheat Ridge Communications, Wheat Ridge Community Development and Engineering, Wheat Ridge Police Community Services Team, Wheat Ridge Homeless Navigator, Jefferson County Open Space, Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan, and Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team.
THANK YOU to the hundreds of Wheat Ridge residents who contributed their ideas, feedback, and support to this plan.
For thousands of years, indigenous people cared for the lands that now comprise the city’s open space. This Open Space Management Plan seeks to not only conserve and manage these lands for future generations, but to acknowledge the past and honor indigenous peoples’ history, culture, legacy of stewardship, and long-standing relationships with the Wheat Ridge landscape by continuing to conserve the land and the natural communities that inhabit the city’s open space to the best of the Division’s capabilities.
SPECIAL FEATURES
EXHIBIT 01: PEAKS TO PLAINS STATE TRAIL 39
EXHIBIT 02: KIPLING CROSSING ANALYSIS 85
EXHIBIT 03: MEETING THE MOMENT: HOMELESSNESS IN PUBLIC SPACES 87
CASE STUDY 01: CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 88
CASE STUDY 02: OPEN SPACE MAINTENANCE WORK PROGRAM 89
EXHIBIT 04: BEAVER MANAGEMENT 95
EXHIBIT 05: TABOR LAKE TRAIL AND RESTORATION 97
CASE STUDY 03: BALANCING RECREATION & SHORELINE HEALTH 99
EXHIBIT 06: WEST LAKE CONSERVATION TRAIL EXPANSION AND SOCIAL TRAIL RECLAMATION 101
EXHIBIT 07: CLEAR CREEK TRAIL OFF-STREET ALIGNMENT 102
CASE STUDY 04: TRAIL-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT 111
MAPS
MAP 01: REGIONAL CONTEXT 13
MAP 02: WHEAT RIDGE GREENBELT 15
MAP 03: PEAKS TO PLAINS TRAIL 38
MAP 04: GREENBELT PLANNING AND MAINTENANCE SECTIONS 49
MAP 05: SECTION 1- COORS TO YOUNGFIELD 50
MAP 06: SECTION 2 - YOUNGFIELD TO PROSPECT 52
MAP 07: SECTION 3 - PROSPECT TO KIPLING EAST 54
MAP 08: SECTION 4 - KIPLING EAST TO ANDERSON PARK 56
MAP 09: SECTION 5 - ANDERSON TO JOHNSON PARK 58
MAP 10: SECTION 6 - JOHNSON TO CREEKSIDE PARK 60
MAP 11: SECTION 7 - CREEKSIDE TO HARLAN STREET 62
MAP 12: LEWIS MEADOWS 64
MAP 13: RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ZONES 81
MAP 14: RIPARIAN AND HABITAT RESTORATION PROJECTS 93
MAP 15: PROPOSED TRAIL CONNECTIONS AND TRAILHEADS 103
CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: FOUNDATION ..........................................................6
PURPOSE 8
PLANNING PROCESS 8
OPEN SPACE VISION 9
IMPORTANCE OF OPEN SPACE 10
REGIONAL CONTEXT 12
COMMUNITY PROFILE AND HISTORY 14
OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE PRINCIPLES 20
RELEVANT PLANS AND STUDIES 22
CHAPTER 2: EXISTING CONDITIONS .................................26
CLIMATE AND CLIMATE CHANGE 28
NATURAL RESOURCES 28
RECREATION RESOURCES 36
OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES 48
CHAPTER 3: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ........................66
STAGE 1: LISTENING TO THE COMMUNITY 69
STAGE 2: PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS AND ALTERNATIVES 72
STAGE 3: DRAFT PLAN ENGAGEMENT 75
CHAPTER 4: MANAGEMENT PLAN ........................................76
ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT 78
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ZONES 80
PLAN GOALS 82
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS BY GOAL 84
CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION .............................................114
PLAN MONITORING AND UPDATES 116
LAND ACQUISITION 117
OPERATIONS AND STAFF CAPACITY 118
PROJECT PRIORITIZATION 120
CAPITAL PROJECT PRIORITIES AND COSTS 122
IMPLEMENTATION PHASING 123
FUNDING ANALYSIS 124
ACRONYMS
AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act
BFE Base Flood Elevation
CDOT Colorado Department of Transportation
CDPHE Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
CNHP Colorado Natural Heritage Program
CPTED Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
CPW Colorado Parks and Wildlife
CTF Conservation Trust Fund
GOCO Great Outdoors Colorado
JCOS Jefferson County Open Space
LWCF Land and Water Conservation Fund
MHFD Mile High Flood District
P2P Peaks to Plains Trail
PFOS Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division
PHB Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
City of Wheat Ridge6
Purpose
Planning Process
Plan Vision
Importance of Open Space
Regional Context
Community Profile & History
Management and Maintenance Principles
Relevant Plans and Studies
FOUNDATION
CHAPTER 1:
Open Space Management Plan 7
City of Wheat Ridge8
This plan updates the city’s first open space management plan, adopted in 2002. The purpose
of this plan is to establish a framework for priorities and provide specific management
direction for natural, scenic, and recreational resources within the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt,
Lewis Meadows, and any future open space acquisitions. The Wheat Ridge Open Space
Management Plan seeks to balance outdoor recreation use with the protection, enhancement,
and effective management of natural resources for long-term sustainability and stewardship.
Emphasis is placed on habitat values that sustain the function and connectivity of the natural
landscape while providing for a high-quality visitor experience to the city’s open spaces
and the Clear Creek Trail. Implementation of the Plan will assist the Wheat Ridge Parks and
Recreation Department, and notably, the Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division (PFOS) in
its efforts to conserve, enhance, and manage these areas for present and future generations.
PURPOSE PLANNING
PROCESS
A biophilic city is a green city, a city with abundant nature and natural systems
that are visible and accessible to urbanites. It is certainly about physical conditions
and urban design—parks, green features, urban wildlife, walkable environments—
but it is also about the spirit of a place, its emotional commitment and concern
about nature and other forms of life, its interest and curiosity about nature, which
can be expressed in the budget priorities of the local government as well as in the
lifestyles of its citizens.*
* Beatley, Timothy. 2011. Biophilic Cities: Integrating Nature into Urban Design and Planning. Island Press.
BIOPHILIC CITIES
Open Space Management Plan 9
OPEN SPACE 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
natural ecosystems.
City of Wheat Ridge10
Protected open space provides a multitude of benefits for ecosystems, wildlife, and human
society*:
*Brown, JD and Helen Santiago Fink. 2022. Planning for Biophilic Cities. American Planning Association, PAS report 602
Nature and biodiversity. Cities remain hosts to significant biological richness despite urban development. Through open space
planning and management, cities can
conserve and enhance unique ecosystems, facilitate wildlife connectivity across the
urban landscape, and inspire personal
connections to the larger living world.
Nature and health. Contact with nature improves baseline physical and mental
health through the prevention of chronic
health problems such as obesity, anxiety, depression, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Long term studies identify that
proximity to parks and greenspace has a
direct effect on levels of physical activity and better health outcomes. Individuals
with access to nature have less mental
distress, less anxiety and depression, greater well-being, and healthier cortisol profiles.
Nature and resilience. Open space
conservation aids in resiliency by fostering
social and landscape resilience in the face of consequences of climate change, natural
disasters, economic uncertainty, and
various other shocks and stresses that cities experience and will face with greater severity in the future. Direct resiliency benefits
include reduced urban temperatures, flood and stormwater control, and improved air and water quality. More indirect resiliency
benefits include improved social cohesion
and pro-social behavior. Accessible, safe, and healthy open spaces can be the social
glue that helps bring communities together.
Nature and public safety. The presence of nature has a documented effect of reducing aggression and crimes associated with
increased aggression. Two explanations are
the positive psychological influence of time spent in nature to support recovery from
mental fatigue, and increased community
cohesion and its resulting positive influence on community trust and bonding.
Nature and economic prosperity. Open
space planning and land management
support sustainable infrastructure in the form of nature-based solutions
for stormwater, carbon sequestration,
flood control, and clean air that will not depreciate over time like traditional gray infrastructure alternatives. Open space and
low-impact recreation infrastructure, such
as trails, increases property values, supports commercial vibrancy, and fosters a happy
and healthy workforce.
10
IMPORTANCE OF OPEN SPACE
Open Space Management Plan 11
City of Wheat Ridge12
Wheat Ridge occupies 9.5 square miles in Jefferson County, primarily comprised of urban and suburban development that is strategically positioned adjacent to Interstate 70 between the state capital and the Rocky Mountains. The city is partially named for the prominent natural ridge that traverses the area.
Wheat Ridge is a home rule city that operates under the council-manager form of government. The city has eight City Council members representing four districts. The city’s Parks and Recreation Commission also includes representatives from each of the four districts.
Clear Creek bisects the city as it extends east toward its eventual confluence with the South Platte River. The City of Golden and Coors Brewing are located upstream on Clear Creek while the cities of Arvada and Denver are located downstream, north and east of Wheat Ridge. Wheat Ridge is a participating jurisdiction in the Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan that aims to maintain a consistent dialogue between major land managers and water users within the watershed including municipalities, agricultural uses, industry, environmental, and recreation user groups who have a significant interest in the health of Clear Creek.
REGIONAL CONTEXT
Open Space Management Plan 13
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MAP 01: REGIONAL CONTEXT
City of Wheat Ridge14
COMMUNITY PROFILE AND HISTORY
Wheat Ridge is home to 33,000 residents, with a median age of 45.8. The city is predominantly white with a significant Latinx population
that comprises 23% of the population. Over 46% of residents possess a college degree. Forty-eight percent of homes are owner-occupied, a 3% decrease since 2010. The median household income is $73,231, compared to the state median of $80,184. The Colorado School of Mines is located nearby and has been a reliable partner for research and
engineering studies related to the Clear Creek and the Clear Creek Trail. Wheat Ridge manages approximately 373 acres of open space within the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt and Lewis Meadows properties.
The Greenbelt encompasses the Clear Creek riparian corridor and floodplain as the creek flows from west to east through the city to its
eventual confluence with the South Platte River. The city’s segment of the Clear Creek Trail extends for seven miles within the Greenbelt along Clear Creek providing a major recreation destination and commuter corridor for cyclists.
HISTORY OF OPEN SPACE IN WHEAT RIDGE
The Clear Creek plain within and around modern-day Wheat Ridge once comprised the ancestral lands of the Oceti Sakowin (Sioux), Cheyenne, and Ute nations prior to displacement by European-American settlers in the mid 1800s. Other nations including the Apache, Arapaho, and Shoshone also used Clear Creek as a passageway.
Clear Creek was a fur trapping and trading corridor in the 1840s until gold was discovered in nearby Arvada in 1850. Arapahoe Bar located in Clear Creek within Wheat Ridge is a popular location where gold panning is still allowed. By 1860, gold prospectors had moved west into the foothills and mountains, abandoning their operations in the plains, but not before contaminating Clear Creek with mine tailings and mill effluent carrying heavy metals and chemicals.
The Clear Creek valley in and around present-day Wheat Ridge quickly became the breadbasket of Colorado, contributing
in part to the city’s name. Irrigation ditches were constructed to support the burgeoning agricultural economy of the region. Many of the 50+ ditches that were established along Clear Creek prior to Colorado statehood branched from the creek in or near the Greenbelt open space.
In the 1920s, gravel and sand mining operations sprung up along Clear Creek in Wheat Ridge. Tabor, West, Bass, and Prospect Lakes are remnants of former gravel pits. Residential and commercial development adjacent to Clear Creek was limited due to the industrial land uses, allowing for the establishment of three parks and recreation districts that now comprise the Greenbelt.
Soon after Wheat Ridge incorporated 1969, efforts to construct a trail within the contiguous open space now known as the Greenbelt were successful and thus the Clear Creek Trail was established.
Source: Wheat Ridge Parks And Recreation 2021 Annual Report
Open Space Management Plan 15
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In 1972, residents of Jefferson County approved a one-half cent sales tax to raise money for open space purchases. Voters altered the plan in 1987 to allow funds to be used for the development of parks and recreation facilities.
In 2000, the City of Wheat Ridge purchased
land it was leasing around Tabor Lake
and between Miller Street and Youngfield
Street from the Coors Brewing Company,
adding this land to the Greenbelt while
Coors retained water storage rights in the
lake. Improvements to Interstates 70 and
76 resulted in additional lands and funding
to extend the Greenbelt and trail east from
Johnson Park to the city boundaries.
East of Wadsworth Boulevard, Wheat Ridge
manages the trail even though it crosses
through the City of Arvada. Partnerships
with Arvada, the City and County of Denver,
Jeffco Open Space, and the Colorado
Department of Transportation (CDOT) have
been essential to managing the trail as it
traverses multiple land managers between
Johnson Park and Creekside Park at the I-70,
I-76, and Wadsworth interchange.
Lewis Meadows is situated along Lena Gulch
(currently managed by Denver Water). Lena
Gulch flows through Lewis Meadows and
empties into Clear Creek within the city’s
Greenbelt.
The Greenbelt, Lewis Meadows, and P2P are
managed by the Parks, Forestry, and Open
Space Division of the Wheat Ridge Parks and
Recreation Department.
City of Wheat Ridge16
WHEAT RIDGE GREENBELT
The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt is the larger of Wheat Ridge’s two open space properties, stretching five miles along Clear Creek and consisting of more than 300 acres. The Greenbelt is bounded on the west by the new Clear Creek Crossing development on Youngfield Street, on the east by Harlan Street, and on the north and south by various residential and commercial properties. The Greenbelt is located within the 100-year floodplain of Clear Creek, where the elevation varies from 5,450 to 5,280 feet. The Greenbelt is generally flat with a gradual slope from southwest to northeast and is surrounded by development, which immediately abuts its borders.
Since the City of Wheat Ridge’s incorporation in August 1969, the Parks, Forestry and Open Space Division of the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Department has managed the city’s open space land, striving to balance conservation with often heavy recreational use. The Wheat Ridge portion of the Clear Creek Trail has become a valuable open space amenity for Wheat Ridge residents, providing opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and nature experiences. Simultaneous to supporting various forms of self-directed recreation, the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt provides habitat for a wide array of native wildlife and vegetative species, including
federally threatened species.
Natural Resource Value
The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt provides an important wildlife corridor and habitat for a wide range of vegetative and wildlife species. In terms of vegetation, remnant examples of naturally occurring riparian communities include the plains cottonwood/chokecherry riparian woodland type and the plains cottonwood/western snowberry riparian woodland type. In addition to these important riparian communities, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) includes the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt in its Prospect Park Potential Conservation Area that supports the globally rare Ute ladies’-Tresses Orchid. This Potential Conservation Area also may contain the only known occurrence of a species of earthstar fungus that was discovered during the CNHP biological inventory in 2000. In addition to important vegetation communities and vegetative species, the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt and Lewis Meadows provide important habitat for a number of wildlife species such as great blue heron, red-tailed hawk, red fox, beavers, grassland songbirds, and various migratory waterfowl.
Area Overview and Surrounding Land Uses
The Greenbelt is truly an oasis within the west Denver metro region that is almost entirely built out over decades of development. There is no transition from residential and commercial development to conserved lands which presents unique
challenges for resource conservation and land management, but also allows the Clear Creek Trail and Greenbelt to be easily accessible by seven different trailheads along its five-mile stretch, among many additional neighborhood access points. New access to the trail and Greenbelt are in progress as redevelopment occurs within the city.
While the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt properties have historically been hayed, cropped, and grazed, much of it has remained free from residential, commercial, and non-mining industrial development, although such land uses have occurred and continue to occur in close proximity.
Clear Creek Crossing and Lutheran Hospital anchor development along the Greenbelt at the western end near one of two locations where the Clear Creek Trail crosses underneath I-70. In addition to relatively dense single-family and multi-family residential on the south side of the Greenbelt, most of the city’s parks and recreation facilities are located immediately adjacent to Greenbelt properties and serve as trailheads. Land uses along the north side of the Greenbelt include a higher concentration of commercial uses interspersed with residential neighborhoods off of 44th Avenue.
Open Space Management Plan 17
Property Ownership
The City of Wheat Ridge owns the majority of parcels that comprise the Greenbelt in fee title. A handful of parcels that contribute to the intact riparian corridor and natural aesthetic of the Greenbelt are owned by semi-public entities such as Prospect Recreation and Park District, Jefferson County, Jeffco Housing Corporation, and Northwest Lakewood Sanitation District, which owns the Miller Street Trailhead parcel. Several private residential properties include the riparian corridor and extend to or across Clear Creek. These floodplain areas of the residential lots are undeveloped and present as contiguous Greenbelt lands.
In some locations, property records have become unclear after decades of real estate transactions and conflicting surveys. This leads to occasional disagreement with adjacent property owners and maintenance challenges for staff. The east end of the Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail present their own complex ownership challenges where the trail extends below the I-70 and I-76 interchange within CDOT right-of-way and crosses into the City of Arvada. In this location, the city manages the trail, but must coordinate with CDOT and Arvada for maintenance and law enforcement, and any future improvements to Otis Street Trailhead.
Ownership related to water bodies within the Greenbelt is equally complicated. Coors Brewing retains water storage rights in Tabor and Prospect Lakes. The City owns the creek bottom within the Greenbelt, but does not
own Clear Creek, furthering complicating management decisions related to public access.
Visitor Demographics and Use Patterns
Most visitors to the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt come to engage in self-directed recreation on the Clear Creek Trail, conservation trails, fishing at the Greenbelt lakes, or nature observation. Clear Creek Trail users return regularly and frequently to the Greenbelt, with most (58%) visitors reporting that they have used the Trail multiple times per week within the last year, according to a Trail User Survey conducted in October 2022. While most Greenbelt visitors are there to use the trail, respondents to a community-wide questionnaire conducted for this plan indicated that the natural setting of the trail is the most important benefit that the Greenbelt provides. Respondents also demonstrated overwhelming support for maintaining the Greenbelt as wildlife habitat and protecting water quality of Clear Creek.
Visitors most frequently access the Greenbelt by driving their personal vehicle to Anderson Park. Ninety-three percent of trail users are white and represent a range of age groups when visiting the Greenbelt. According to the online questionnaire, the most commonly cited barrier to visiting the Greenbelt is safety concerns related to people experiencing homelessness (49%). For detailed results of the community-wide questionnaire, trail user survey, and other public engagement efforts, see Appendix A.
City of Wheat Ridge18
Open Space Management Plan 19
LEWIS MEADOWS
The ten-acre Lewis Meadows is located southwest of the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt just off of 34th Avenue and is surrounded entirely by private residential homes. Lewis Meadows is situated within the 100-year floodplain of Lena Gulch and became designated open space in 1972 when residents from Jefferson County approved a one-half cent sales tax to fund open space purchases. The meadow is managed as a natural area for habitat protection and conservation purposes as the
primary management objective.
Natural Resource Value
Lewis Meadows features stands of mixed cottonwood, mixed shrub, and mesic grasses and is a popular area for dog walking. Lewis Meadows serves as a floodplain park, receiving overflows of Lena Gulch, which traverses the middle of the site.
Area Overview and Surrounding Land Uses
Situated in the southeast corner of Wheat Ridge, Lewis Meadows is nestled within the Applewood Villages neighborhood and is surrounded by single-family residential homes. There is no formal trailhead for parking, thus the primary visitors to Lewis Meadows are residents of the surrounding neighborhood. The meadow is encircled by a soft surface crusher fines walking loop. In the summer, the city hosts goats at Lewis Meadows as part of a grazing program to efficiently and cost-effectively maintain vegetation.
Property Ownership
Lewis Meadows open space is comprised of four parcels. The primary, largest parcel was purchased with funding from the Jeffco Open Space tax and continues to be owned by Jefferson County. Over time, the city has acquired adjacent parcels that follow Lena Gulch in an effort to purchase flood prone lands within the Lena Gulch floodplain. The entire Lewis Meadows open space is managed by the City of Wheat Ridge.
Visitor Use Patterns
Due to its secluded nature, 69% of respondents to the first public questionnaire never visit Lewis Meadows. In fact, a significant number of respondents to the pubic questionnaire were not aware of Lewis Meadows or did not know its location. Those who do visit Lewis Meadows go there to walk and observe nature. Due to the low volume of visitors, many residents of the surrounding neighborhood use the meadow as an off-leash dog park contrary to city leash laws for open space.
City of Wheat Ridge20
OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT AND
MAINTENANCE PRINCIPLES
The Wheat Ridge Parks, Forestry, and Open Space (PFOS) Division manages the natural resources throughout the city’s open space system by maintaining, restoring, and conserving native ecosystems, managing recreational uses, and educating the public. Staff are committed to working cooperatively with other agencies, research institutions, and citizen interest groups in the management of natural resources and recreational use of the city’s open space.
OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
Ecosystem Management. An ecosystem approach to natural resource management attempts to manage and maintain fundamental ecological processes as well as individual species and features. It
identifies factors that might interfere with the natural processes or threaten the balance of elements, with the goal of maintaining natural abundance, diversity, and the ecological integrity of plants and animals.
Balancing Restoration with Human Use and Public Safety. Balance
the need for restoration with the need for human use and public safety.
Natural Resource Inventories and Surveys. Complete inventories of plants, animals, and soil testing are to be completed and updated based on field studies and management needs.
Cooperation and Collaboration. Working in cooperation with other agencies and citizens, minimize the impact of human development such as noise, light, water pollution trends or flows, toxic substances, threats to scenic views, threats to sensitive species, pesticides, and fire hazards.
Migratory Animal Management. Ensure the preservation and enhancement of habitat critical to migratory species. Related actions shall include:
• Upgrade water quality where possible
• Cooperation in population monitoring and data gathering for the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CPW
• Preserve wildlife corridors within the city’s boundaries
OPEN SPACE MAINTENANCE PRINCIPLES
It is the intent of the PFOS Division to limit maintenance activities to only those actions that are necessary to conserve the natural state of open space lands while ensuring public health and safety.
Some maintenance activities require timing considerations, such as performing trail work during periods of low recreational use or outside of sensitive breeding or nesting seasons. The PFOS Division follows established guidelines for maintaining open space lands and assets related to:
• Vegetation and mowing
• Trail maintenance
• Drainage areas
• Fire fuel mitigation
• Wildlife
• Hydrologic features
• Visitor impacts (litter, graffiti, vandalism, camping)
Open Space Management Plan 21
City of Wheat Ridge22
RELEVANT PLANS AND STUDIES
Wheat Ridge Open Space Management Plan (2002)
• 2002 assessment of existing conditions and framework for the protection of natural, scenic, and passive recreational resources for the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt, Lewis Meadows, and future open space acquisitions.
• Goals developed with City staff focus on natural resources, community and partnerships, education, and recreation.
• Objectives and recommended actions fall into several categories: vegetation; wetland and riparian areas; water resources; wildlife; threatened, endangered and rare species; environmental education and outreach; and visitor use, recreation, trails, and signage.
• Due to rapidly changing population and demographics of the Front Range and the availability of new land management financial tools, the plan is intended to be dynamic and regularly updated and revised.
• Management zones distinguish between areas more suited for resource protection or restoration and areas more suited for visitor use.
• Additional staff dedicated to on-the-ground management identified as necessary to plan implementation.
Colorado School of Mines Tabor Lake Trail Plan (2022)
• For a proposed trail at Tabor Lake in the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt open space area, a combined concrete and crusher fines trail is suggested as the best trail design based on accessibility, cost, design feasibility, safety, nature preservation, and community input.
• Trail design intends to address major erosion issues in area, fulfill ADA and create areas for safe lake shore visitor access.
• Suggests erosion mitigation in the project area by installing culverts or a drainage system that does not drain to Tabor Lake.
• Project predicted to have no effect on rookery and cormorant nesting due to distance between project and island.
• A bird blind will also be installed, with a location suggested based on feasibility, view quality of the cormorant rookery, and surrounding aesthetic. Each category was weighted based on community input, with view quality and surrounding aesthetic being the most important.
• A picnic table area will also be installed, with a location suggested based on safety, feasibility, disturbance of the cormorant rookery, surrounding aesthetic, and erosion control contribution, with safety and feasibility considered the most important aspects.
• Lake access point locations are being explored, as are the impacts of collocating access points with the bird blind or picnic table area.
Jefferson County Trails Plan (2020)
• Identifies strategies for improving trail conditions and providing convenient, equitable access to the outdoors for all
• Public Priority #1: Develop more local trails to area destinations
• Public Priority #2: Create more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors close to home
• Public Priority #3: Increase safety on trails and at crossings
• Goal #1: Improve connectivity across the region
• Goal #2: Increase equitable access
• Goal #3: Create safer experiences
Open Space Management Plan 23
Colorado School of Mines Greenbelt Erosion Control Plan (2022)
• Proposes solutions for erosion issues in a 0.4 mile stretch of Clear Creek Trail in the City of Wheat Ridge, which mitigate safety and accessibility issues associated with concrete, fencing, and slopes down to the retention pond and creek.
• Recommendation #1: install a system of retaining walls with weep holes for drainage.
• Recommendation #2: plant native vegetation and backfill the retention pond slope for slope stability.
• Recommendation #3: incorporate a cross slope on the trail for water removal.
• Project budget estimated at approximately $5.3 million with an approximate 2-month construction timeline.
• The trail would need to be shut down during construction, requiring construction of the tiered retaining walls to occur in spring or fall to minimize impact to visitors.
• Analyzes performance, budget, and scheduling risks, and suggests risk
mitigations.
Wheat Ridge Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (2010)
• Presents a framework for a comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian network in Wheat Ridge
• The previous phase of the Master Plan creation consisted of an inventory of existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities and identification of future routes based on input from the public and City staff. Inventory is included in the document.
• Includes inventories origins and destinations, regional routes, and potential funding sources for plan implementation.
• Evaluates and prioritizes proposed routes and identifies specific facility types for each
• Develops and recommends multi-modal typical roadway cross-sections.
• Aside from the Clear Creek Trail, the existing bicycle and pedestrian network in the City is sparse and discontinuous, as are sidewalks along the arterial and collector roadway system.
• Recommendation #1: Require bicycle and pedestrian level of service calculations for conceptual designs of all roadway improvement projects (before and after the subject improvements).
• Recommendation #2: Complete conceptual level corridor designs for the top-ranking bicycle
and pedestrian corridors.
Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2015)
• Master Plan based on staff and community input as well as research and analysis of Wheat Ridge’s existing parks and recreation system.
• Indoor recreation facilities at the Recreation Center and several park sites are in need of updating and expansion to meet increasing public demands, and there is significant interest in additional trails and trail system connectivity.
• Maintaining growth at a sustainable rate is a key component of the Master Plan to ensure that development does not outstrip the City’s ability to generate resources required to operate and maintain the park and recreation system.
• Five recommended goals and strategies fall into several focuses: recreation, existing facilities and level of service, maintenance, and finances. Goals are also given a priority level.
• Provides inventory of existing facilities and level of service, with the Greenbelt and recreation center having the highest demand by the public.
• Provides list of failing components identified during site assessments with recommendations to meet public expectations.
City of Wheat Ridge24
Wheat Ridge Urban Forestry Maintenance & Management Program Guide (2020)
• Program Guide updated in 2020 providing a 20-year framework for achieving urban forestry maintenance, public engagement, and administrative goals.
• Goal #1: maintain community trees at optimum levels of stocking, health, age and species diversity, and ensure trees are appropriate for the site.
• Goal #2: engage with the public through raising awareness and encouraging involvement in the active management of community trees.
• Goal #3: develop, maintain, and enforce community forestry goals and recommendations through funding and action.
• Objectives are included for each goal to act as measurements towards goal progress.
• Recommended actions are also included for each goal intended to ensure overall goals are met.
Forthcoming Plans (2023)
• 44th Avenue Sub-area Plan
• Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan
• Peaks to Plains Trail – Plains Section Strategic Plan
Other relevant Plans
• Wheat Ridge Weed Management Plan (2003)
• Wheat Ridge Wildfire Management Plan (2003)
• Wheat Ridge Comprehensive Plan (2009)
• Prospect Lake Water Quality Report (2018)
• Wheat Ridge Open Space Biological Inventory (2010)
• Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Signage Inventory (2021)
• Wheat Ridge ADA Transition Plan (2019)
• Wheat Ridge Strategic Action Plan (2019)
• Wheat Ridge Historic & Cultural Resource Management Plan (2021)
• Wheat Ridge Public Art Management Plan (2014)
• Wheat Ridge Economic Development Strategic Plan (2009)
Open Space Management Plan 25
City of Wheat Ridge26
Climate and Climate Change
Natural Resources
Recreation Resources
Opportunities and Challenges
EXISTING CONDITIONS
CHAPTER 2:
Open Space Management Plan 27
City of Wheat Ridge28
CLIMATE AND CLIMATE CHANGE
* Western Regional Climate Center At The Desert Research Institute;
The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt is located along the western edge of the Great Prairie and thus has highly variable weather. The climate is semi-arid with a strong seasonal variation in temperature, abundant sunshine, and relatively low precipitation. High temperatures average between 82-89°F between June and August, and low temperatures average between 17-25°F between November and March. Winters are cold but are characterized by significant temperature swings. Average rainfall in the vicinity of Wheat Ridge open space is about 18.64 inches per year. January is the driest month and May the wettest month. Average annual snowfall is approximately 82 inches, with average annual snow depth of one inch.*
Climate change presents a variety of threats to the natural environment, such as reducing snow cover and the changing availability of water, prolonged drought conditions that are conducive to the invasion and spread of non-native species, pests, and catastrophic wildfire, habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation for plants and wildlife, and the resultant loss of biodiversity. Protecting native plants and animals is best guaranteed through habitat conservation and restoration. The recommendations of this plan include land management, conservation, and recreation management actions to mitigate impacts from climate change and other threats to the environment.. Climate change challenges will continue to change
terrestrial and aquatic conditions within the Clear Creek corridor in the future. Warmer temperatures and changes in the amount and timing of snow may drastically change the landscape within the Greenbelt and Clear Creek corridor. Snow is melting earlier in the spring, and as temperatures rise, surface waters and the plants and animals that depend upon them are particularly vulnerable to changes in temperature and moisture. Ever-changing climatic conditions will make predicting resource trends increasingly challenging. As climate change compounds impacts on natural resources, data used to predict future conditions may become increasingly more uncertain.
NATURAL RESOURCES
SOILS
Soil in the Greenbelt and Lewis Meadows was produced by the action of soil-forming processes on parent rock or alluvium that was accumulated through erosion and deposition. The Greenbelt is within the natural floodplain of Clear Creek and Lewis Meadows is within the natural floodplain of Lena Gulch. Therefore, most of the soils in the Wheat Ridge open space areas are at moderate risk of periodic flooding and high water tables.
Soils are a determining factor in selecting and planting vegetation and constructing trails,
and they are the substrate that is manipulated for planting, storing and transmitting water, and supporting diverse plant communities. Good soil conditions exist when water, air, plant roots, and microorganisms are able to move freely through and within the root zone of the soil. Because soil characteristics vary across any landscape, it is important to know the soil characteristics of the property. Prior to revegetation of upland areas, a thorough soil analysis should be conducted. Specific soils mapped by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service include Alda loam, Alda-Niwot Complex, Torrifulvents, and
Ustic Torriorthents. Detailed descriptions of each soil type are provided below.
Alda Loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes. This is a deep, somewhat poorly drained soil on alluvial valley floors, low terraces, and floodplains. Permeability of Alda soil is moderate and available water capacity is low. Water and wind erosion are low hazards. A seasonal water table is at a depth of 24 to 36 inches in spring and summer. This soil is occasionally flooded for brief periods in spring and summer.
Open Space Management Plan 29
Alda-Niwot Complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes. The areas of this complex are on alluvial valley floors abandoned meander belts, and low terraces. The Alda soil is deep and somewhat poorly drained. Permeability is moderate and available water capacity is low. Water and wind erosion are low hazards where soil is exposed to these elements. A seasonal high water table is at a depth of 24 to 36 inches in spring and summer. The Niwot soil is deep and somewhat poorly drained. Permeability is moderate and available water capacity is low. A seasonal high water table is 6 to 18 inches deep in spring and summer. This complex is subject to occasional flooding in spring and summer.
Torrifluvents, 0 to 3 percent slopes. Torrifluvents are the dominant soil type in the Greenbelt. These soils are gravelly, deep, excessively drained, and underlie most of the flat floodplain areas within the Greenbelt. They are easily eroded and depleted, and have poor water holding capabilities. Runoff is slow, and water erosion is a severe hazard. These soils are subject to occasional flooding in spring and summer.
Ustic Rorriothents, 15 to 50 percent slopes. Ustic Rorriothents are loamy soils that are found on slopes adjacent to Clear Creek. These are shallow to deep, well-drained soils on eroded, active hill slopes adjacent to drainages. Permeability of these soils is moderate to slow, and the available water capacity ranges from low to high. These soils underlie the ridge south of Clear Creek along the eastern portion of the Greenbelt. Runoff is rapid and water erosion is a severe hazard.See the USDA’s web soil survey to learn more: https://websoilsurvey.Nrcs.Usda.Gov/app/websoilsurvey.Aspx
City of Wheat Ridge30
HYDROLOGIC FEATURES
Clear Creek
* 2014 Upper Clear Creek Watershed Plan; Clear Creek Consultants and Matrix Design Group
Clear Creek is located in the north-central front range of Colorado within the South Platte River Basin. It flows from west to east extending from the Continental Divide 45 miles west of Wheat Ridge in western Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties to the confluence with the South Platte River in Denver. The upper Clear Creek watershed lies within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. As such, a large portion of the watershed is relatively undisturbed by human development. Sport fishing for salmonids (e.g., trout) occurs in upper reaches of the drainage.
Water quality has historically been degraded by mine drainage and industrial uses within central and lower portions of the watershed. Beginning with railroads, the Clear Creek corridor has been extensively developed for transportation including U.S. Highways 6 and 40 with Interstate Highway 70 constructed along Clear Creek in the 1960’s. Communities and towns were developed along Clear Creek originally to serve the mining industry. Contamination from past mining and milling operations and natural mineralization is a significant issue in upper Clear Creek upstream from Wheat Ridge. Historically, several segments of upper Clear Creek were impaired by trace metals (cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc) that exceeded the standards established
to protect aquatic life.* Additionally, Clear Creek is a conduit for surface water flows and stormwater drainage that often carries oils, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides that further degrade water quality.
Section 303d of the Clean Water Act lists Clear Creek as having the following impairments: E. coli, sediment, temperature, and ammonia (CDPHE WQCC 2018a). Water quality testing of Clear Creek has not been conducted by Wheat Ridge and is a recommendation of this plan.
Clear Creek has a bedrock and boulder channel for most of its course through the mountains. On entering the plains, Clear Creek remains a single thread channel. Its substrate grades from cobble to gravel to sand as gradient decreases.
Clear Creek is generally a gaining stream, with flows increasing with distance downstream in proportion to drainage area. Lower elevation portions of the watershed have lower precipitation amounts and therefore a lower watershed yield. Flows in Clear Creek can be impacted by droughts due to low winter snow accumulation. Stream flow conditions are highly variable in Wheat Ridge due to upstream water diversions for drinking water ,as well as source water for the Loveland Ski Area, Molson-Coors Brewing Company, Xcel Energy, and several ditch companies. Today, Clear Creek is highly channelized and largely isolated from its natural floodplain.
Open Space Management Plan 31
Lena Gulch
Lena Gulch flows from Clear Creek south to the Maple Grove Reservoir through the middle of Lewis Meadows, which is located within the floodplain of the gulch.
Irrigation Ditches
Irrigation is essential to support most agriculture in Colorado’s dry climate. Among the first irrigation water rights are those on the Lee and Baugh Ditch, which now irrigates Prospect Park. Other early ditches include Slater, Brown and Baugh, and Oulette and Wadsworth. Each of these ditches flows out of the north side of Clear Creek in or near Wheat Ridge. The Risdon Ditch flows from the south side of Clear Creek through the Greenbelt.
Lakes
The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt is home to four lakes that are remnants of earlier gravel mining operations: Wes Lake, Bass Lake, Tabor Lake, and Prospect Lake. Today these lakes provide habitat for wildlife including waterfowl and numerous freshwater fish species. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) periodically stocks them with warm water sport fish such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and perch.
City of Wheat Ridge32
HABITAT TYPES
Dominant habitat types are profiled below; however, site-specific habitat mapping was not conducted for this planning effort. Details can be found in the city’s most recent biological resources inventory completed by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program in 2000. Chapter Four of this plan recommends updating the biological resources inventory of the city’s open space lands.
Factors affecting plant communities, habitat characteristics, and habitat condition include natural disturbances, soil types, topography, hydrology, wildlife interactions, invasion by non-native plant species, land use, and land management. Although the Greenbelt may appear to be in a “natural” state, indicators of disturbance include: historical gravel mining, channelization of Clear Creek, historic livestock grazing, invasive, non-native plant species infestations, and heavy recreational use.
In the arid climate and highly developed metropolitan area, Clear Creek and the Greenbelt form an urban riparian corridor that natural attracts a variety of wildlife species, many of which are dependent on wetlands for all or part of their life cycles.
Riparian areas, even naturally fragmented areas, can form corridors that link many different habitat types and wildlife populations along the drainage gradient they occupy.
Wetland
Wetlands are located throughout the
Greenbelt within the floodplain of Clear Creek and around the lakes. Detailed wetland delineation has not been performed for the study area. The wetlands that are shown on maps are general locations and will need for detailed mapping to be conducted prior to construction of any facilities. Wetland vegetation is dominated by cattails (Typha spp.) in the wetter portions, while the edges support a mixture of herbaceous and woody species. Herbaceous species include smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) that provides suitable habitat for the federal candidate species, monarch butterfly. The Bass Lake wetlands area is home to more than 100 species of migratory birds making it one of the top birding spots in the Denver metropolitan area.
Open Waters/Lakes
The four lakes and associated wetlands provide foraging, resting, and breeding habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. A wide variety of avian species inhabit the lake areas and wetlands including double-crested cormorants, heron, and mallard among many others. Tabor Lake is home to a colonial nesting island inhabited by double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), great blue heron (Ardea herodias), and mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). Mammalian predators such as red fox (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon (Procyon lotor), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) may also occasionally forage in these areas.
Freshwater Aquatic
Clear Creek provides habitat for numerous fish, amphibian, reptile, and invertebrate species. Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) have historically been documented in Clear Creek through Wheat Ridge, although trout populations are significantly larger upstream. Representative amphibian and reptile species observed in this habitat include common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina), western painted turtle (Chrysemys picta), gartersnakes (Thamnophis spp.), western chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata), and American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). A wide variety of aquatic invertebrates inhabit the area around Clear Creek and serve as prey and pollinators in the ecosystem.
Grass and Forb Dominated
A cover of grass and forb species dominates this vegetation community. Some individual trees and shrubs may be present, but they are a minor component of the total cover. Several areas of this community type in Wheat Ridge’s open space have been previously disturbed and planted with introduced pasture grasses.
Shrub Dominated
A cover of shrubby species dominates this type of community assemblage. Grass and forbs may be present beneath the shrub canopy. Individual trees may also be present but do not account for a significant portion
of the total cover.
Open Space Management Plan 33
Cottonwood Gallery / Willow and River Riparian
Tree species dominate the cover in this vegetation community type. An understory of woody shrubs and an herbaceous ground cover are often present beneath the canopy. Native and non-native cottonwood (Populus spp.) species dominate the floodplain areas near Clear Creek. Also present in the canopy along the floodplain are other non-native trees such as Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia). According to the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership 2016), plains riparian habitat (e.g., cottonwood/willow gallery) comprises only three percent of Colorado’s land area, but has a disproportionately high species richness and density of breeding birds.
Representative avian species utilizing this habitat include Bullock’s oriole (Icterus bullockii), black-billed magpie (Pica hudsonia), northern flicker (Colaptes
auratus), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), house wren (Troglodytes aedon), American robin (Turdus migratorius). Raptors such as, Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), and American kestrel (Falco sparverius) have been documented in the Greenbelt. This habitat type also provides potential nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), although no bald or golden eagles or their nests were documented during field reconnaissance in the summer of 2022.
In addition to the species described above, this habitat system provides dispersal migratory corridors for mammals.
Representative mammal species that are typical in this habitat include beaver (Castor canadensis), American mink (Neovison vison), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon (Procyon lotor), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), coyote (Canis latrans), and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Vegetation associated with irrigation ditches also provides a small about of habitat, cover, and connectivity for wildlife movement in an urban environment.
In upland areas, other species replace cottonwoods. Cottonwood-dominated areas may consist of large, widely spaced older cottonwoods with a grassy understory (gallery forest), or may be dominated by dense stands of smaller and younger trees with no significant understory vegetation (riparian forest). Typically the riparian forest areas are dominated by non-native willow species (Salix xpp.).
City of Wheat Ridge34
SENSITIVE SPECIES
Ute Ladies’-Tresses
The Ute ladies’-tresses orchid (Spiranthes diluvialis) is a rare, perennial species endemic to the western United States in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and, historically, in eastern Nevada. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the orchid as threatened in 1992.
The orchid is found within a two-mile linear range within the Greenbelt and is part of a larger riparian/floodplain community complex. The orchid has been known to exist in the area since 1981. The most recent comprehensive survey and inventory of Ute Ladies’-Tresses was conducted in 2010 by Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) biologists and documented the orchid in seven of the previous 18 locations where the orchid was present in 2000. Since then, PFOS staff have conducted periodic surveys. Chapter Four of this plan recommends conducting a new detailed survey to update the inventory and inform the development of a species management plan. There is a critical need for detailed continual integrated management in order to prevent further loss of orchid populations within the Greenbelt. The continued viability of Ute ladies’-tresses orchid along the Greenbelt hinges on the integration of water management, vegetation management, recreation management, and a sound monitoring program.
Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse
Wetlands, combined with the dry landscapes that are adjacent to them, are prime habitat for the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei), a federally-listed threatened species. Typical habitat for Preble’s meadow jumping mouse is comprised of well-developed plains riparian vegetation with adjacent, relatively undisturbed grassland communities and a nearby water source, such as Clear Creek. These riparian areas include a relatively dense combination of grasses, forbs, and shrubs. The wetland seeps and riparian areas along the Creek provide suitable habitat conditions for this subspecies. A site-specific survey to determine the presence of this subspecies was conducted in 2000 during the city’s most recent biological inventory. No individuals were captured or documented, despite habitat
conditions that would support this species.
Bald Eagles
The Greenbelt provides suitable nesting, foraging, and roosting habitat for bald eagles. Eagles have been sighted in the area, however, no eagles or nests were documented during the 2022 field reconnaissance of the Greenbelt. This plan recommends conducting a raptor nest inventory with subsequent monitoring over a period of several months.
Earthstar
A seemingly rare species of earthstar fungi was documented in the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt during the CNHP survey in 2000. Earthstars belong to a group of fungi called Gasteromycetes, or “stomach fungi.” Their fruiting bodies are a stomach-shaped sacs filled with dry spores. They locate directly on the ground or on rotten wood. The earthstar recently documented in the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt is thus far known worldwide only from this location.
Open Space Management Plan 35
Credit: Nathan Peterson, Center for Biological Diversity
City of Wheat Ridge36
RECREATION RESOURCES
TRAILS
Clear Creek Trail
* 2022 Clear Creek Trail User Survey
Soon after the city incorporated in 1969, efforts to construct a trail within the contiguous open space now known as the Greenbelt were successful and thus the Clear Creek Trail was established.
Today, the Clear Creek Trail is a regional multi-use trail connecting Golden to Denver. Seven miles of the Trail traverse the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. The trail follows Clear Creek for most of the way through the city’s
Greenbelt. In 2007, the Clear Creek Trail Received “National Recreation Designation” for the section within the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt.
Visitors access the trail via seven trailheads
and multiple neighborhood access points. Additional access is being developed such as a multi-use path connection from the east side of Wadsworth Boulevard that is being constructed in conjunction with CDOT’s
expansion of the roadway. The trail is also a popular commuting route for cyclists because it provides a safe and direct off-street connection to multiple destinations within Golden, Wheat Ridge, and Denver. In
recent years, trail visitation has increased dramatically resulting in a corresponding increase in complaints of user conflicts between pedestrians, dog walkers, and cyclists.
Property Ownership
The Clear Creek Trail is located within the city’s Greenbelt and therefore is subject to the same nuances of property ownership
that are documented in the previous section on the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. The city owns the majority of parcels that comprise the Greenbelt and trail site. However, in some locations, property records are unclear
after decades of real estate transactions and conflicting surveys. There are a few locations where the trail may cross private property without easements in place. Chapter four of this plan recommends
procuring professional survey services to confirm ownership or locations where the city should secure formal easements.
The east end of the Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail present their own ownership
challenges where the trail extends below the I-70 and I-76 interchange within CDOT right-of-way and crosses into the City of Arvada. In this location, the city continues to manage the trail, but must coordinate with
CDOT and Arvada for maintenance and law enforcement, and any future improvements to Otis Street Trailhead.
Trail User Profile
Half of all visitors to the Clear Creek Trail live in Wheat Ridge, while half live outside of city limits within one mile of the trail. The
majority of trail users visit the trail because it is close to where they live.
Ninety-three percent of trail users are white and represent a broad range of age groups when visiting the trail.* Eighty-eight percent
of trail visitors are over age 35 according to the Trail User Survey conducted in October 2022 as part of this planning process.
The average trail user visits alone on a Saturday, Sunday, or Monday and travels
to the trail in a personal vehicle, although many others (37%) walk or bike to the trail. The vast majority of visitors walk or run between 1-3 miles. Anderson Park is the most frequently used trailhead and
most visitors start and end their trip along the trail somewhere between Youngfield Street and Anderson Park. Trail users return regularly and frequently, with most (58%) visitors reporting that they have used the
Clear Creek Trail multiple times per week in the last year. See Chapter 3: Community Engagement and Appendix A for detailed results of the Trail User Survey.
Open Space Management Plan 37
CLEAR CREEK TRAILQUICK FACTS
TOTAL MILES: 16
WHEAT RIDGE MILES: 7 SURFACE: 8 – 10ft. concrete TRAILHEADS: 7 USERS: Pedestrians, cyclists, mobility devices, equestrians
City of Wheat Ridge38
MAP 03: PEAKS TO PLAINS TRAIL
Peaks to Plains
Trail (65 Miles)
CITY AND
COUNTY
OF DENVER
South Platte
Greenway
(28 Miles)
6
ARVADA
BOULDER
WHEAT RIDGE
WINTER PARK
ADAMS COUNTY
ARAPAHOE
COUNTY
BOULDER
COUNTY
CLEAR CREEK
COUNTY
DOUGLAS
COUNTY
GILPIN COUNTYGRAND COUNTY
JEFFERSON
COUNTY
PARK COUNTY
SUMMIT COUNTY
WELD COUNTY
BLACK HAWK
BRECKENRIDGE
DILLON
FRASER
GEORGETOWN
GOLDEN
GRANBY
IDAHO SPRINGS
LAKEWOOD
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Disclaimer: This information/map is the property of theJefferson County Open Space Program (JCOS), Jefferson County, Colorado and is copyrighted material. Reproduction,manipulation or distribution of this product is prohibitedwithout the prior written consent of JCOS staff. JeffersonCounty does not warrant the completeness, accuracy, orcorrectness of this product, its use for any purpose, andshall not be liable for damages of any kind arising from useof the product or for any errors or inaccuracies.
Peaks to Plains Trail
Data Sources: Jeffco Open Space, Jeffco ITS, USGS, NHD,CDOT
Trail Corridor Collaborative
^_Denver
0 52.5
Miles
Scale is 1:198,000 when printed at 11"x17"
Last Revised 12/1/2020
ÜPeaks to Plains Trail (65 Miles)
South Platte Greenway (28 Miles)
Mountains
(35.5 Miles)
Plains
(16 Miles)
Canyon
(13.5 Miles)
Mountains (35.5 Miles)
Plains (16 Miles)
Canyon (13.5 Miles)
City of Arvada
City of Golden
City of Lakewood
City of Wheat Ridge
Other City or Town
Public Land
Apex Park & Recreation District
Prospect Recreation & Park District
Open Space Management Plan 39
EXHIBIT 01:
PEAKS TO PLAINS STATE TRAIL
The Peaks to Plains (P2P) Trail is a 65-mile trail of regional and statewide significance that will serve the over three million Denver metro region residents of the largest urban population center in Colorado. The P2P will connect four counties and seven cities, with an elevation change of
over one mile from the Continental Divide at Loveland Pass to the South
Platte Greenway in Adams County.
For the purpose of local planning and collaboration, the P2P Trail is organized into three sections – Plains, Canyon and Mountains. The Plains Collaborative is responsible for the section between Golden and the
South Platte Trail, including the City of Wheat Ridge.
Within Wheat Ridge, the existing Clear Creek Trail will be designated as a section of the P2P Trail and co-branded with wayfinding signage.
To learn more about the P2P visit, https://www.jeffco.us/3792/Peaks-to-Plains-Trail
City of Wheat Ridge40
Conservation Trail
The city maintains a crusher fines Conservation Trail that diverges from the Clear Creek Trail at West Lake and extends east for 1.5 miles to Miller Street Trailhead. The Conservation Trail provides hikers and nature-seekers with a quiet, more secluded hiking experience along the south side of Clear Creek and around Bass Lake. Only hiking and mobility devices are permitted on the Conservation Trail to limit impacts to the surrounding habitat.
On the south side of Bass Lake, the Conservation Trail transitions to an elevated boardwalk through the Bass Lake Wetlands. This area is home to more than 100 species of migratory birds and is a top birding destination in the Denver metro area. The 550-foot long boardwalk features an ADA accessible bird blind near the southeast corner of Bass Lake and additional observation platforms making it an ideal location for wildlife observation and photography.
Open Space Management Plan 41
Social Trails
A significant network of ad hoc social trails established over time by pedestrians exists within the Greenbelt. These trails are created when hikers repeatedly travel over the same path and establish a trail by trampling vegetation. Social trails are often the result of pedestrians seeking the most efficient route to a destination. In the case of the Greenbelt, they are established in pursuit of creek access and hiking experiences in a more natural, backcountry setting.
The area south of West Lake and along the Conservation Trail are two locations where a network of social trails have developed. These trails are not part of the city’s official trail system and are not maintained by PFOS staff. In some cases, social trails are innocuous and serve a clear purpose, but in many locations, these trails endanger sensitive habitat, cause erosion, and can lead to the spread of invasive species.
City of Wheat Ridge42
WATER BASED RECREATION
* 2014 Upper Clear Creek Watershed Plan; Clear Creek Consultants and Matrix Design Group
Clear Creek
Clear Creek is the centerpiece of the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. The Greenbelt is near the base of Clear Creek’s alluvial outwash from the mountains, where the stream historically began a more meandering course through a broad floodplain. Today, Clear Creek is highly channelized and largely isolated from its original floodplain. Fed by cold water from high alpine lakes and streams, Clear Creek provides habitat for limited populations of brown and rainbow trout, which makes it a popular destination for anglers. However, Clear Creek serves as a conduit for surface water flows and stormwater drainage which significantly reduces overall water quality from its natural condition.
Clear Creek is used extensively for wading, fishing, and small-scale recreational placer mining such as at Arapahoe Bar. From its headwaters to Golden, Clear Creek and its tributaries are classified for Class 1 Recreation and meeting the standards that have been established to protect that use.*
Although entering Clear Creek within Wheat Ridge is not an officially permitted recreational use within the city, certain locations within the Greenbelt are popular destinations for summertime wading, such as the area locally known as “The Beach” near Anderson Park.
CLEAR CREEKQUICK FACTS TOTAL LENGTH: 66 miles
WHEAT RIDGE MILES: 5 PERMITTED USES: Fishing and wildlife viewing
Open Space Management Plan 43
West Lake
As its name suggests, West Lake is the western-most within the Greenbelt. Non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks, and fishing are permitted activities in West Lake. Swimming is not permitted in any of the city’s lakes. The south end of the lake is historically characterized by wetlands, but in drier years a network of social trails have been established by curious Greenbelt explorers.
WEST LAKEQUICK FACTS
APPROX. AREA: 21 acres
SHORELINE DISTANCE: 4,365 LF
PERMITTED USES: Non-motorized watercraft, fishing, wildlife viewing
City of Wheat Ridge44
Bass Lake
Bass Lake is the premier fishing lake within the Greenbelt and is periodically stocked by CPW with warm water sport fish such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and perch. The 550-foot-long Bass Lake Boardwalk along the south end of the lake is equipped with ADA compliant wildlife observation platforms and a bird blind, providing a peaceful escape and ideal location for birding and photography.
BASS LAKE
QUICK FACTS
APPROX. AREA: 5 acres
SHORELINE DISTANCE: 1,956 LF
PERMITTED USES: Sport fishing and wildlife viewing
Open Space Management Plan 45
Prospect Lake
Prospect Lake is the eastern-most lake along the Greenbelt and located at Prospect Park. Like Tabor Lake, Prospect Lake was purchased from Coors Brewing who maintains water impoundment rights and therefore influences how the lake and water are used.
In the summer of 2022, a severe blue-green algae bloom was observed in Prospect Lake resulting in fish-kill of large species like catfish and carp. The city mitigated the algae bloom by supplementing the lake with fresh water and has developed a lake management plan to prevent this occurrence in the future at all city lakes.
PROSPECT LAKE
QUICK FACTS
APPROX. AREA: 11 acres
SHORELINE DISTANCE: 2,881 LF
PERMITTED USES: Non-motorized watercraft, wildlife viewing
City of Wheat Ridge46
Tabor Lake
In 2000, Wheat Ridge purchased land it was leasing around Tabor Lake from Coors Brewing Company, adding this land to the Greenbelt while Coors retained water storage rights in the lake. Tabor Lake is the city’s largest lake and a popular destination for wildlife viewing due to the significant nesting island located in the center of the Lake. The nesting island has provided important habitat for herons and other waterfowl, and in recent years has been colonized by cormorants. Conditions of the island habitat are severely degraded and the city prohibits non-motorized watercraft in the lake during nesting season from March through mid-August.
The city is currently seeking funding to implement a plan to establish a trail that circumnavigates the lake. This project will formalize existing social trails that have developed around the lake and provide direct multi-use path connection from 44th Avenue to the Clear Creek Trail along the west side of the lake. The other 2/3 of the trail that will encircle the lake will be constructed of crusher fines and be limited to hiking and pedestrian use only to limit impacts to sensitive birding habitat.
TABOR LAKEQUICK FACTS
APPROX. AREA:
25 acres
SHORELINE DISTANCE: 4,389 LF
PERMITTED USES:
Seasonal non-
motorized watercraft,
sport fishing, wildlife
viewing
Open Space Management Plan 47
City of Wheat Ridge48
OPPORTUNITIES AND
CHALLENGES
During the summer of 2022, a team consisting of landscape architects, biologists, trail engineers, and open space planners conducted a series of site visits throughout the Greenbelt, Clear Creek Trail, and Lewis Meadows. The findings of the site visits and subsequent analysis are documented in the following map and photo series as opportunities and challenges. The Greenbelt is divided into seven planning and maintenance sections. This section is organized accordingly. Analysis of Lewis Meadows follows the Greenbelt analysis.
Open Space Management Plan 49
MAP 04: GREENBELT PLANNING AND MAINTENANCE SECTIONS
City of Wheat Ridge50
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Section 1: Coors to Youngfield (pink zone)
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Open Space Management Plan 51
GREENBELT SECTION 1 COORS TO YOUNGFIELD TRAILHEAD
Resource degradation due to informal shortcut path..
OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunity to establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail in all feasible areas.
Opportunity to provide consistent trail character by working with Jefferson Co. to replace chain link fence on north side with post & wire that matches south side.
Opportunity to develop safe creek access in conjunction with bank stabilization per recommendations of School of Mines study.
Potential recreation access to ponds for residents of adjacent new multifamily development.
Future Connection to Lutheran Hospital and new multifamily residential
CHALLENGES
Informal shortcut path contributes to natural resource degradation.
Erosion on both sides of trail; undermining of trail surface.
Continued management of gold panning activities to minimize erosion and litter.
Low/minimal shoulder.
Tree limbs limit sight distance.
Trail pinch point due to culvert and railings.
Encampment area for people experiencing homelessness.
Trail pinch point (8ft. wide) due to culvert and railings.
1
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3
4
1
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Tree limbs limit sight distance. 5
Trail pinch point due to culvert and railings.6Erosion on both sides of trail.
People experiencing homelessness encampment.Develop safe creek access in conjunction with bank stabilization .3 Management of gold panning activities to minimize erosion and litter.
Potential recreation access to ponds. 4 Low/minimal shoulder.Trail pinch point due to culvert and railings.
Establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail
Replace chain link fence on north side to match south side.
5
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City of Wheat Ridge52
Section 2: Youngfield to Prospect Park (red zone)
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GREENBELT SECTION 2 YOUNGFIELD TRAILHEAD TO PROSPECT PARK
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Open Space Management Plan 53
GREENBELT SECTION 2 YOUNGFIELD TRAILHEAD TO PROSPECT PARK
Re-establish wetland and promote health of cotton-wood gallery.
OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunity to formalize new conservation trail system; revegetate other social trails.
Opportunity to amenitize ponds with fishing decks and boat launch.
Potential to partner with Youngfield Business Plaza to provide overflow parking site for trail access on weekends.
Opportunity to re-establish wetland and promote health of cottonwood gallery.
Possible partnership to provide public trail connection when school is not in session.
Catalyze redevelopment to provide new trailhead.
44th Ave. Subarea Plan recommends Van Gordon Street improvements for bike/ped connectivity.
Continue ongoing efforts to establish natural surface trail around Tabor Lake.
44th Ave. Plan recommends Tabor Street improvements to establish north/south bike/ped connection.
Catalyze redevelopment of vacant parcels to develop small trailhead and bike/ped access from 44th Ave.
Potential seasonal overbank flooding restoration to support health of riparian canopy; balance with public safety on trail.
CHALLENGES
User safety conflict due to steep grade in excess of 15% and limited sight distance.
Weekend overcrowding at Youngfield Trailhead.
Public access encroaches on milkweed and Monarch butterfly habitat.
Public access encroaches on endangered Utes Ladies Tresses Orchids
Boardwalk not designed to accommodate bikes as mobility devices.
Need for center line striping at trail and bridge intersection.
Evergreens in declining health; further assess tree and soil conditions.
Bare ground creates conditions for erosion and diminishes user experience.
Habitat & tree stabilization needed for deteriorating cormorant nesting site.
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9 Public access encroaches on endangered Utes Ladies Tresses Orchids12
Boardwalk not designed to accommodate bikes as mobility devices13 Ongoing efforts to establish natural surface trail around Tabor Lake.13
Need for center line striping at trail and bridge intersection.
Opportunity to amenitize ponds with fishing decks and boat launch.7 User safety conflict due to steep grade and limited sight distance.
Partner with Youngfield Business Plaza to provide overflow parking site for trail access.8 Weekend overcrowding at Youngfield Trailhead.Habitat & tree stabilization needed for deteriorating cormorant nesting site.
14
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16
Sparse or non-existent tree canopy over Clear Creek degrades aquatic habitat.
Poor water quality/aquatic habitat.
Sharp curve: need for center line striping
Open parking lot frontage along trail; need for access management.
Hazardous tree abuts trail near curve.
Limited sight distance in S-curve.
18
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Formalize new conservation trail system; revegetate other social trails.6
9
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City of Wheat Ridge54
Section 3: Prospect Park to Kipling East (black zone)
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Open Space Management Plan 55
GREENBELT SECTION 3 PROSPECT PARK TO KIPLING EAST TRAILHEAD
CHALLENGES
Improvements needed at Miller St. Trailhead including ADA space; relocated or improved bike parking.
Lack of directional wayfinding.
Seasonal flooding and nuisance drainage issues.
Improve visibility of directional wayfinding at intersection and along Recreation Center parking lot.
Kipling crossing is indirect & inefficient for trail users resulting in unsafe highway crossings; consider feasibility study to evaluate underpass or at-grade crossing improvements.
Sharp corner; limited sight.
PEH encampment area: limited visibility from street or trailhead.
Vehicle encroachment on trail; consider wheel stops or offset trail location.
OPPORTUNITIES
44th Ave. Subarea Plan recommends street improvements for bike/ped connection on Parfet St.
Opportunity to formalize neighborhood access; reconfigure trail to achieve ADA-compliant slope; revegetate other social access trails.
Catalyze future development for new trail connection and trailhead along Lena Gulch.
Consider opportunity for pump track along Greenbelt.
Opportunity to establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail.
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Lack of directional wayfinding.Sharp corner; limited sight.29
Vehicle encroachment on trail;31Seasonal flooding and nuisance drainage issues.
Establish parallel natural surface trail on both sides of paved trail.21 Improve visibility of directional wayfinding at intersection
Improvements needed at Miller St. Trailhead Kipling crossing is indirect & inefficient for trail users resulting in unsafe highway crossings.
Formalize neighborhood access; reconfigure trail to achieve ADA-compliant slope.
Consider opportunity for pump track along Green-belt.
18
20
25
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28 24
City of Wheat Ridge56
Section 4: Kipling East to Anderson Park (green zone)
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Open Space Management Plan 57
GREENBELT SECTION 4 KIPLING EAST TO ANDERSON PARK
OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunity for small trailhead or parallel parking with trail access on City property at Iris St.
44th Ave. Subarea plan recommends formalizing and establishing ADA-compliant public access on Hoyt Ct.
Potential alternative trail connection.
Consider formalizing legal public creek access.
Consider seasonal overbank flooding restoration to support riparian canopy health.
CHALLENGES
Limited sight distance in curve; consider center line striping.
Narrow sidewalk width does not safely accommodate the frequent use by residents to access the trail.
Narrow width, angle points, existing retaining walls, and drainage problems create safety and potential for user conflicts.
22
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Limited sight distance in curve.
Narrow sidewalk width does not safely accommodate the frequent use for trail access.Establish ADA-compliant public access on Hoyt Ct.
Narrow width, angle points, existing retaining walls, and drainage problems create safety and potential for user conflicts.
Consider formalizing legal public creek access.
Trailhead or parallel parking with trail access on City property at Iris St.
32
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City of Wheat Ridge58
Section 5: Anderson Park to Johnson Park (yellow zone)
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Johnson Park
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Open Space Management Plan 59
GREENBELT SECTION 5 ANDERSON PARK TO JOHNSON PARK
OPPORTUNITIES
Potential for future trail connection.
Opportunity for future small trailhead at Boyd’s Crossing Park.
Opportunity to amenitize this area and revegetate streambank in conjunction with potential floodway excavation.
Opportunity for revegetation or seasonal wetland creation.
Potential trail connection, in conjunction with redevelopment to provide north/south connectivity under I-70.
CHALLENGES
PEH encampment area results in litter and degradation of natural area
Very steep slope presents challenges to neighborhood connectivity to trail cost-prohibitive access.
Continue wildfire fuel mitigation.
Pinch point due to trail curve and railing pinch point.
PEH encampment area resulting in litter and resource degradation.
Dangerous entrance/exit onto Wadsworth from Johnson Park; often icy in the winter due to flooding.
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Pinch point due to trail curve and railing pinch point.
Dangerous entrance/exit onto Wadsworth from Johnson Park;
Steep slope presents challenges to neighborhood connectivity
Continue wildfire fuel mitigation.
Future small trailhead at Boyd’s Crossing Park.
Opportunity to amenitize this area and revegetate streambank.
28
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City of Wheat Ridge60
Section 6: Johnson Park to Creekside Park (blue zone)
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Open Space Management Plan 61
GREENBELT SECTION 6 JOHNSON PARK TO CREEKSIDE PARK
OPPORTUNITIES
Road improvements & JCOS grant will enable establishment of ADA-compliant connection from east side of Wadsworth.
Pursue opportunity to amend City boundaries so that complete length of trail maintained by Wheat Ridge is within City boundaries.
Build upon funded drainage and trail upgrade with additional Otis St. trailhead improvements.
CHALLENGES
Drainage issues will require slope improvements to correct.
PEH encampments under I-70, limited visibility of the trail from street, and lack of lighting result in trail user safety concerns.
Existing concrete obstructions limit usable width beneath the bridge; consider removal.
32
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41
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Limited visibility of the trail from street and lack of lighting result in trail user safety concerns.
Existing concrete obstructions limit usable width beneath the bridge; consider removal.
Implement additional Otis St. trailhead improvements.
Drainage issues will require slope improvements.
Road improvements & JCOS grant will establish connection from east side of Wadsworth.
Amend City boundaries so trail maintained by Wheat Ridge is within City boundaries.42
43
32
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City of Wheat Ridge62
Section 7: Creekside Park to Harlan Street (brown zone)
44
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Open Space Management Plan 63
GREENBELT SECTION 7 CREEKSIDE PARK TO HARLAN STREET
OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunity to improve wayfinding that directs users to north section of trail via Gray St.
Potential future off-street alignment option.
CHALLENGES
Degraded water quality in Clear Creek; former WWTP and runoff from materials plant on north side of creek.35
36
44
Degraded water quality in Clear Creek; former WWTP and runoff from materials plant on north side of creek.
Opportunity to improve wayfinding that directs users to north section of trail via Gray St.35
Potential future off-street alignment option.36 44
City of Wheat Ridge64
45 46
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Open Space Management Plan 65
LEWIS MEADOWS LEWIS MEADOWS
OPPORTUNITIES
Potential future trail alignment along Lena Gulch.
Consider future opportunity to excavate creek to get houses out of the floodplain.
CHALLENGES
Lewis Meadows often used as off-leash dog park contrary to management objectives for the property.
Neighborhood concern regarding wildfire fuel accumulation.
37
38
45
Neighborhood concern regarding wildfire fuel accumulation.
Potential future trail alignment along Lena Gulch.37
Consider future opportunity to excavate creek to get houses out of the floodplain.38
46
Lewis Meadows often used as off-leash dog park contrary to management objectives for the property.45
46
City of Wheat Ridge66
Summary of Community Input:
Stage 1: Listening to the Community
Stage 2: Preliminary Recommendations & Alternatives
Stage 3: Draft Plan Engagement
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
CHAPTER 3:
Open Space Management Plan 67
City of Wheat Ridge68
Purposeful and sincere outreach was critical to cultivating public trust, gaining a thorough understanding of community needs, and building a sense of ownership and support for implementation of this plan. The development of the Open Space Management Plan included multiple opportunities for residents, advocates, and community leaders to engage and provide input. Knowledge gained through this process was critical to developing a plan that will effectively guide management of the city’s open space and trail system through 2033 and beyond.
Over the course of the planning process, the project team engaged the Wheat Ridge community through a variety of methods in-person and online. The following pages summarize results from three phases of community engagement. Detailed engagement results can be found in Appendix A.
2022
STAGE 1: LISTENING
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STAGE 3: DRAFT PLAN
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PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT TIMELINE
Open Space Management Plan 69
STAGE 1: LISTENING TO THE COMMUNITY
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
»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
City of Wheat Ridge70
Over the course of the summer, the project team engaged the Wheat Ridge community through a variety of methods including in-person and online engagement opportunities, highlighted below.
CITY COUNCIL AND
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 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 were fruitful in identifying other 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. 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 (8/12/22) 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.
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 diving deeper into 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.
Open Space Management Plan 71
EMERGING THEMES
Six key themes emerged consistently throughout all engagement events
»Proactive Stewardship. Preserving and improving healthy wildlife habitat and riparian areas of the Greenbelt.
»Access & Connectivity. Develop new or enhance existing trail access points to improve connectivity and relieve overcrowding of existing trailheads. 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.
»Safety. Primary threats to the perception of safety include the presence of people experiencing homelessness and conflicts or potential conflicts between different user groups.
»Trail Etiquette. Need for courtesy and proper trail etiquette between different user groups. This is primarily a user-education and enforcement challenge.
»Trail Character. Invest in signage, interactive educational interpretation, trailside amenities and facilities.
»Partnerships. Leverage regional partnerships within the Clear Creek watershed and with adjacent municipalities to provide a coordinated approach to trail improvements and a consistent user experience in terms of maintenance and trail character. Partnerships will also greatly expand the City’s competitive advantage for grant funding.
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STAGE 2: PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS AND
ALTERNATIVES
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 purpose of these conversations was to solicit feedback and understand the 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 221
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Over the course of the fall, the project team engaged the community 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.
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.
Open House attendees review maps, leave comments, and discuss preliminary recommendations with PFOS staff.
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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
A series of three online maps presented the 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.
Approximately 580
members of the Wheat Ridge
Community were engaged
through this planning process.
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STAGE 3:
DRAFT PLAN
ENGAGEMENT
The final series of opportunities allowed participants to review and provide feedback on the draft plan through an in-person open house event and online review.
DRAFT PLAN OPEN HOUSE
The launch of the online review period coincided with a community-wide open house held on March 30, 2023 at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center. As
the final public engagement event, the open house presented attendees with an overview of plan highlights, featured a project prioritization activity, and celebrated the result of the planning year-long process: a comprehensive Open Space Management
Plan that sets the direction for the next 10 years of open space and trails in Wheat Ridge. Seven members of the community participated in the open house.
ONLINE REVIEW
On March 17, 2023, the draft plan was published for public review through the What’s Up Wheat Ridge project website. Community members commented directly on the plan using an online tool. In addition to adding their own comments, residents could also review other comments and indicate their agreement or disagreement to create an interactive digital community dialogue. The draft plan was viewed 640 times! Six members of the community submitted a total of 13 comments through the online tool.
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Adaptive Management
Resource Management Zones
Plan Goals
Recommended Actions by Goal
MANAGEMENT PLAN
CHAPTER 4:
Open Space Management Plan 77
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ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT
* Williams, B.K., R.C. Szaro, and C.D.. Shapiro. 2009. Adaptive Management: The U.S. Department of the Interior Technical Guide. Adaptive Management Working Group, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, DC. Available: https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/uploads/TechGuide-WebOptimized-2.pdf
Wheat Ridge PFOS uses an adaptive management framework to achieve its open space goals and increase restoration success for the benefit of the long-term health of open space lands. An adaptive management approach provides a process for decision-making and action under uncertain conditions based on the best available science, and re-evaluating and adjusting decisions as more information is acquired. It is a flexible approach that recognizes uncertainties, considers multiple possible solutions, and allows for adjustments in the field. This iterative and interactive approach aims to identify opportunities for more efficient open space management, so that Wheat Ridge can adopt context-specific practices while reducing maintenance expenses and responding to potential stressors before they become major issues. Adaptive management can reduce uncertainty associated with management actions, provide long-term savings, and improve conservation and management effectiveness.*
Open spaces are complex ecosystems influenced by natural processes and human activity. Strategies to restore and maintain open space systems should seek to address all the factors that affect the health of the land and ecosystem. Adaptive open space management is structured around a cycle of planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, adjustment, and reporting. Once land managers develop a baseline understanding of how objectives for open space areas are being achieved and the effectiveness of current strategies, new information gathered from monitoring is used to evaluate the situation and the results, followed by the development of new solutions as needed. New solutions and strategies are then implemented, monitored, and the cycle begins again. It is important to document and report results to establish a record of strategies that are successful and strategies that are not. This cycle provides flexibility in open space management, allowing adaptation in response to new goals and challenges.
Open Space Management Plan 79
Step 1. Plan
Conduct baseline inventories and develop objectives for open space management. The adaptive management process begins with inventory of open spaces and identification of desired outcomes and milestones specific to the Resource Management Zones identified in the next section of this plan. The general objective is protection and enhancement of natural, scenic, and recreational resources.
Step 2. Implement
Utilize land management strategies to achieve open space objectives. PFOS can implement effective management strategies based on the characteristics of each Resource Management Zone to achieve objectives through thoughtful land stewardship and sustainable land management.
Step 3. Monitor
Collect data to measure progress toward open space objectives. Monitoring is vital in assessing the progress of open space conservation, maintenance, and enhancement. Monitoring efforts are guided by, each of the stated goals and actions of this plan. One strategy for reducing monitoring costs is to involve residents (i.e., citizen scientists) to assist in monitoring efforts. Recommendations for citizen science programs are included in the Recommended Actions section of this chapter.
Step 4. Evaluate
Assess monitoring data to evaluate progress toward open space objectives based on defined criteria or targets that measure the success of management efforts. Evaluate and document results to establish a record of strategies that are successful and unsuccessful.
Step 5. Adjust/Adapt
Modify planning and policies based on the evaluation of data so improve achievement of open space objectives. Adaptation allows PFOS staff to adjust their plans and policies to improve the performance of open space areas based on data. This is the time to redesign or reconsider management approaches based on new findings.
Flexibility is an important component of adaptive management. Potential responses to the results of the previous steps will include a range of options such as: additional monitoring, research, consultation with experts, revising goals and success criteria, and/or an active intervention (such as invasive species removal).
Step 6. Report
The adaptive management framework is an iterative cycle of planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment, which requires effective reporting. With this understanding, the city’s open spaces should be inventoried and monitored on a rolling schedule at least once every three years according to the Planning and Maintenance Sections and Lewis Meadows identified in Chapter 2. Areas of known habitat degradation and high levels of recreational use should be prioritized for monitoring and reporting.
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RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ZONES
In an effort to balance resource protection with recreational use, the PFOS Division manages open space according to four Resource Management Zones. The zones distinguish between areas more suitable for resource protection or restoration and areas where higher levels of recreation use and visitation are acceptable. Significant factors influencing the management zones include:
»The protection of valuable wildlife habitat and migration corridor along Clear Creek
»The protection of the federally threatened and sensitive species
»Delineation of the Potential Conservation Area by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program
»Restoration potential for upland and riparian habitat
»Location of existing structures and infrastructure
»Locations of significant recreational uses
Based on these factors, the Resource Management Zones are defined accordingly:
People Intensive Zone. The People Intensive Zone is delineated with the objective of concentrating visitor infrastructure including parking, restrooms, and picnic facilities in one area. Management. Activities in the zone should concentrate on outreach and on mitigating user conflicts.
Active Natural Zone. The Active Natural Zone encompasses the paved Clear Creek Trail, riparian areas on the north side of Clear Creek, the lakes, and the lake margins within the Greenbelt. This zone best represents the delicate balance of conservation and recreation. Recreation resources coexist in conservation areas such as Tabor Lake. As such, this zone provides significant opportunity for education and interpretation of natural resources, restoration efforts, and responsible recreation.
Passive Natural Zone. The Passive Natural Zone includes areas along the Greenbelt restricted to passive recreational activities. These areas have strong potential for restoration and a high potential for public education and interpretation due to high visibility along the Clear Creek Trail.
Conservation Zone. The Conservation Zone encompasses an area on the south side of Clear Creek that extends from Kipling Street west approximately 2.5 miles to the city’s western boundary (but does not includes Youngfield Trailhead). This zone includes Lewis Meadows and has the highest value for flora and fauna when viewed at both the community and landscape level. Recreational uses should be restricted to designated trails. All trailheads and access points should include education, interpretation, and regulatory information. Significant effort should be made to reclaim and revegetate social trails in this zone.
Open Space Management Plan 81
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Arapahoe Bar
Youngfield
Trailhead Prospect
Park Miller St.
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KiplingWest Trailhead
Kipling EastTrailhead
Anderson Park
Johnson Park
Otis St.
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Creekside
Park
Lewis Meadows
MAP 13: RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ZONES
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PLAN GOALS
The six equally-important goals listed below guide the PFOS Division’s management and enhancement of the city’s open space assets and support realization of the Vision stated in Chapter 1. Each goal is supported by specific
actions for meeting or making substantial progress toward achieving the goal.
[PS] Prioritize Safety to address real or perceived threats to health, well-being, and security of
open space and trail visitors
[LP] Leverage partnerships within the Clear Creek watershed, adjacent municipalities, community
organizations, and volunteer groups to provide a coordinated approach to management,
maintenance, stewardship, and consistent user experience.
[AC] Expand access & connectivity to the Clear Creek Trail as the backbone of the city, connecting
neighborhoods to each other, to nature, outdoor experiences, and community destinations.
[SC] Practice proactive stewardship, conservation, and adaptive resource management
for healthy habitat and riparian areas.
[EC] Enhance visitor experience & trail character by investing in amenities and facilities.
[EI] Educate, inform, and inspire all user groups to practice trail etiquette, respect the natural
environment, and obey regulations through an understanding of management practices.
Open Space Management Plan 83
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RECOMMENDED ACTIONS BY GOAL
Recommended Actions are organized according to each of the six Goals and provide specific direction for achieving the stated Goal. Actions are supported by maps, case studies, concept plans, and schematics that provide an example, illustration, or resource that may prove helpful in implementing the action. Actions associated with land acquisition and operations are contained in Chapter 5: Implementation.
GOAL (PS): PRIORITIZE SAFETY TO ADDRESS REAL OR PERCEIVED THREATS TO HEALTH, WELL-BEING, AND SECURITY OF OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL VISITORS.
General Paved Trail Improvements
PS.1 As a short-term solution, install post and rail (or similar) fencing for safety along the ~.4 mile stretch where the trail is undermined by erosion near Arapahoe Bar.
PS.2 Continue working with the Colorado School of Mines or licensed engineer to further design and implement the Clear Creek Erosion Mitigation Proposal for the ~.4 mile stretch of eroding trail near Arapahoe Bar.
PS.3 Install security lighting at all underpasses, minimizing light trespass and impact to nearby habitat.
PS.4 Work with Police Department to develop an emergency response location system.
PS.5 If the opportunity presents, work with CDOT to include trail underpass at Kipling Street if the vehicular bridge over Clear Creek is
replaced in the future.
PS.6 Pursue a feasibility and traffic study at the Kipling crossing that includes bike and pedestrian crossing counts to determine appropriateness of installing a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon or signalized solution.
PS.7 Ensure that phone numbers for law enforcement agencies are posted on Greenbelt and trail signage.
Open Space Management Plan
Throughout the planning process, there has been consistent community support for identifying a solution to the inconvenient alignment of the trail crossing at Kipling Street. Currently, the trail takes travelers south for approximately half a mile – enough of an inconvenience that it encourages unsafe behavior as trail users frequently take the most direct route straight across Kipling Street despite the lack of crossing infrastructure.
While a detailed feasibility study conducted is necessary to fully determine the most appropriate recommendation for this crossing, the planning team conducted a preliminary evaluation and determined the following:
• Grade-separated crossings (under or overpass) are not feasible due to significant constraints imposed by floodplain regulations and proximity to Lena Gulch. Infrastructure required for an under or overpass would raise base flood elevation (BFE ) within the 100-year floodplain, an impact that would be allowed by the Colorado Water Conservation Board.
• An at-grade crossing is the most feasible option; specifically, a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB )(also known as a HAWK signal). This signal is activated trail users and flashes red to stop traffic. A conceptual diagram of this potential treatment is illustrated here. Installation of a PHB in this location would facilitate a safe surface crossing while minimizing potential conflict points between trail users and vehicles while minimizing delays to traffic.
Alternatively, the city could consider fully signalizing the intersection and converting the existing right-in, right-out driveway at the Kipling West Trailhead into a full-access driveway. A more complete evaluation and comparison of the crossing options is provided in Appendix C: Kipling Crossing Memorandum.
Any modification to the traffic pattern will require a detailed study by a traffic engineer that includes user counts to document the number of pedestrians and cyclists crossing Kipling at this location via the existing underpass and crossing directly over the street between the Kipling West Trailhead to the trail on the east side of Kipling. Any assessment should involve the CDOT Region 1 engineer.
EXHIBIT 02:
KIPLING CROSSING ANALYSIS
85
City of Wheat Ridge86
User Conflicts
PS.8 Establish parallel natural surface trail for walking or hiking on both sides of the Clear Creek Trail where feasible.
PS.9 Improve trail section near I-70 and Youngfield trailhead: regrade to begin descent further east to achieve a gentler grade that reduces cyclists’ speed before the turn; widen the trail under I-70 to reduce potential for user conflict; trim overhanging tree branches that obscure sight lines.
PS.10 Add center line striping and warning strips at bridge and street intersections, underpasses, and sharp turns.
PS.11 Widen narrow sections of trail to 10ft. with 2ft. shoulders per the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities.
PS.12 Establish designated trail access points from parking at Prospect Park using vegetation as barriers, designated walkways, or fencing.
PS.13 Pursue improvement of tight turn at the north end of the trail bridge at the Kipling East trailhead to improve sight lines and safety of turning radius for bicycles and mobility devices.
People Experiencing Homelessness
PS.14 Continue collaborating with the city’s Homelessness Navigator to connect those in parks who are experiencing homelessness to available resources, services for permanent housing, and the Severe Weather Shelter Network.
PS.15 Conduct safety and education training for Parks, Forestry, and Open Space (PFOS) staff on outreach techniques, crisis intervention, and Mental Health First Aid.
PS.16 Allow access to restroom facilities during the day. New restroom facilities or replacement/retrofit of existing facilities should incorporate design best practices according to Community Policing through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles.
PS.17 Continue working with the Police Department’s Community Services Team and rangers to enforce regulations and address issues or disturbances that are beyond the capacity of PFOS staff or create dangerous situations. Support hiring for new ranger positions and active patrol of the Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail.
PS.18 Explore the potential to pilot a workforce program that employs people experiencing homelessness to assist with maintenance of Clear Creek Trail and Greenbelt.
Open Space Management Plan
The crisis of homelessness plays out in public spaces across the Front Range and is highly visible in the city’s Greenbelt. Safety concerns and other impacts related to people experiencing homelessness were cited frequently by city staff and the community throughout the public engagement process.
The National Recreation and Parks Association states that “Homelessness across the United States continues to be a serious social and public health issue; one that is often an outcome of deeper societal problems, such as the lack of economic opportunity, the high cost of housing, lack of access to quality healthcare, systemic racism, domestic violence, and substance use and mental health disorder.” Recent challenges, such as the corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic and rising inflation/cost of living, compound conditions for housing instability for millions of U.S. residents.
As front-line service providers, park, recreation, and open space agencies are faced with the decision of how to address community members experiencing homelessness. Many agencies across the country are providing for basic needs (food, hygiene facilities) and connection to other assistance networks. However, homeless assistance is not within the primary mission scope for most park, recreation, open space, and trail agencies. Much of the necessary work involves competency that lies outside of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department current offerings and mission. At the same time, significant financial and operational burden has been placed on the Department and PFOS Division because of increased maintenance, sanitation, and management that does fall within the purview of their service delivery.
While homelessness is a complex nationwide issue that no single park or open space agency can solve, localized solutions can make a difference. The key is to identify strategies that align with the mission and capacity of the agency to realistically pursue. Parks agencies and the PFOS Division should focus on elements within their control such as:
• Coordination and cooperation with partner agencies and jurisdictions
• Programs within the Department’s purview (e.g., workforce/maintenance worker programs)
• Staff training on communication strategies and interactions with people experiencing homelessness
• Communications and messaging around homelessness that combats biases and does not promulgate misinformation
• Empathy for fellow humans experiencing tremendous difficulty
EXHIBIT 03: MEETING THE MOMENT:
HOMELESSNESS IN PUBLIC SPACES
87
Public restrooms that are designed using the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
can be an effective way to meet community needs by deterring vandalism and inappropriate behavior. This will lead to reduced maintenance costs and improved user experience for the public. Well-designed restrooms create dignified spaces for people and encourage a reciprocity of
respect for the amenities that cities provide. The Portland, Oregon’s Portland Loo is a well-known example of public restroom design and location that employs CPTED principles.
City of Wheat Ridge88
CASE STUDY 01: CRIME PREVENTION
THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
Credit: https://portlandloo.com/gallery/
Open Space Management Plan
The City of Lakewood Community Resources Department is
currently piloting a work program for People Experiencing Homelessness. The Department contracts with Denver-based nonprofit Bayaud Enterprises to administer the program and provide support services for program participants as they transition into the workforce. In Lakewood, program
participants perform maintenance work and fire fuel mitigation. Workers pay is $20 per hour and includes the cost for Bayaud to provide program oversight and management. Lakewood Community Resources staff report that the program has been successful thus far. The City of Boulder
has also recently conducted a similar pilot program.
CASE STUDY 02: OPEN SPACE
MAINTENANCE WORK PROGRAM
89
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GOAL (SC): PRACTICE PROACTIVE STEWARDSHIP, CONSERVATION, AND ADAPTIVE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT FOR HEALTHY HABITAT AND RIPARIAN AREAS.
General Actions
SC.1 Work with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program and Nature Conservancy, or an environmental consulting firm, to update the 2000 Wheat Ridge Open Space Biological Inventory.
SC.2 Support efforts of the Planning Department to amend the development code to incorporate biophilic development provisions related to improving biodiversity, bird-friendly structures, dark skies, green roofs, green streets, habitat protection, native species, and/or urban canopy.
Embrace the need for native species diversity for the sake of
humans and nonhumans alike; reverse wherever possible losses in
species biodiversity, native habitat, and ecological connectivity;
and envision cities as landscapes where biodiversity can coexist,
regenerate, and even flourish with urban density. This requires
considerations for how biodiversity is managed on city owned and
managed lands, as well as private property. *
* Brown, JD and Helen Santiago Fink. 2022. Planning for Biophilic Cities. American Planning Association, PAS report 602.
“
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Open Space Management Plan 91Open Space Management Plan 91
Vegetation
Noxious weed and invasive species management
SC.3 Continue implementation and update of the Wheat Ridge Open Space Weed Management Plan; increase weed control as budget allows.
SC.4 Implement cultural weed management techniques by re-establishing all disturbed vegetation through seeding or planting of native materials.
SC.5 Continue trimming and thinning of vegetation in strategic areas to reduce wildfire fuel mitigation, illegal camping opportunities, and icing on the trail. When identifying sites, avoid thinning over Clear Creek so as not to reduce shade that lowers water temperatures for aquatic species in the summertime.
SC.6 Investigate large areas of duckweed in Clear Creek. Determine whether it is detrimental or beneficial.
SC.7 Regularly clean maintenance equipment to wash away seeds from noxious weeds and invasive species, ideally between use in
different locations within the Greenbelt.
SC.8 Minimize ground disturbance and soil compaction resulting from construction and maintenance activities by limiting heavy equipment trips and turnaround sites.
SC.9 Reclaim disturbed areas immediately to reduce the chance of weed infestation.
SC.10 Reduce the spread of noxious weeds along trails during mowing operations by mowing prior to seed maturation.
SC.11 Require contractors to comply with preventative measures to limit spread of noxious weed and invasive species.
SC.12 Continue to seek funding for weed control through the Colorado Weed Management Grants, CPW, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and other aligning programs.
SC.13 Survey and document noxious weeds and invasive species every three years.
SC.14 Annually survey trail margins for weed infestations.
SC.15 Develop and adopt a noxious weed control ordinance.
SC.16 Continuously monitor the city’s lakes for Eurasian Watermilfoil.
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Revegetation and Restoration
SC.17 Continue and increase native tree and shrub planting programs as budget allows.
SC.18 Target revegetation efforts with native trees and shrubs in areas of greatest need in the as identified on Map 14, Riparian and Habitat Restoration Projects, including:
»South bank of Tabor Lake
»Tree cover over Clear Creek to cool water temperatures for aquatic species in the Lakes area of the Greenbelt
»North and south banks of Clear Creek between Anderson and Johnson Parks.
SC.19 Document the PFOS Division’s current successful practices to develop a formal planting and maintenance program to establish native riparian trees and facilitate efficient removal of hazard trees from Clear Creek.
Sensitive Species
SC.20 Coordinate with Colorado Natural Heritage Program to conduct a new survey of Ute Ladies Tresses Orchid and develop a protection and management plan for the species that includes monitoring transects and permanent photo points for annual comparison. Consider closing areas to public access if necessary.
SC.21 Coordinate with Colorado Natural Heritage Program to inventory earthstar fungus and develop a protection and management program for the species.
SC.22 Re-establish and/or promote wetland health along the southern margin of West Lake and promote health of Cottonwood gallery on south side of West Lake.
SC.23 Assess evergreen tree health and soil conditions on the south side of the Clear Creek Trail and east of Bass Lake. Apply treatment or remove and replace trees that are not likely to recover.
SC.24 Establish a protocol for annually assessing and documenting changes to wetlands and riparian corridors and their functions through vegetation surveys, visual assessments, and photographs.
Key Resource:
Colorado State University
Cottonwood Management
Quick Guide
Open Space Management Plan 93
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SC. 38
SC. 23
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Proposed Riparian Area Restoration & Habitat Preservation
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MAP 14: RIPARIAN AND HABITAT RESTORATION PROJECTS
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Wildfire Prevention
SC.25 Continue implementing and regularly updating the Wheat Ridge Open Space Wildfire Management Plan.
SC.26 Explore the use of prescribed burns to preserve or enhance wetland and riparian plant community diversity.
Wildlife
SC.27 Continue implementation of and update the Open Space Wildlife Management Plan.
SC.28 Develop a species management plan for beavers in coordination with CPW.
SC.29 Leave dead or decaying trees that are not hazardous to provide aquatic and wildlife habitat.
SC.30 Conduct system-wide surveys, using consistent protocols each year, on a rolling basis for mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. (E.g., survey mammals & birds in year 1, fish and invertebrates in year 2, reptiles and amphibians in year 3 until completing the cycle. Then start again.)
SC.31 Initiate an annual Greenbelt butterfly census during host-plant blooming that incorporates public participation.
SC.32 Support enforcement of the city ordinance that prohibits feeding wildlife.
SC.33 Continue supporting the Police Department in implementation of their Coyote Management Plan.
Sensitive Species
SC.34 Maintain an up-to-date list of federally listed and candidate endangered species in Colorado.
SC.35 Monitor wetlands known to support or that may support breeding amphibian populations.
SC.36 Continue habitat enhancement programs, including constructing artificial habitat for species of concern. Identify opportunities to assist with integrated pest management (e.g., bat roosts to help control mosquito populations).
SC.37 Conduct a raptor nest inventory during leaf-off and subsequent activity monitoring during nesting season (March 15 through July 31).
SC.38 Improve bird habitat at the Tabor Lake colonial nesting island and the West Lake beach area.
SC.39 Continue seasonal closures to protect sensitive species such as waterbirds and raptors during courting and nesting.
Open Space Management Plan
1. Assess the impact: document the extent of dam building and any associated flooding, as well as the impact on vegetation, water quality,
and wildlife.
2. Determine management goals: For example, control beaver populations, reduce the impact of dam building, or provide habitat for beavers while minimizing their impact on other species.
3. Consider non-lethal options: Non-lethal management options, such as
installing beaver deceivers or flow devices, can be effective in controlling the impact of beaver dam building. These devices allow water to flow through the dam, reducing the risk of flooding and preserving the benefits of the dam for other species.
4. Implement habitat management: Habitat management techniques,
such as removing trees that are prone to being damaged by beavers, can reduce the impact of beaver populations. By providing alternative sources of food and materials, you can discourage beavers from damming streams and rivers. Identify areas where it is appropriate to allow beaver dams to remain and create or re-establish wetlands.
5. Monitor and evaluate: Regularly monitor the beaver populations and their impact on the natural area. Evaluate the effectiveness of management actions and make changes as necessary.
6. Collaborate with stakeholders: Collaborate with local communities, land managers, and other stakeholders to develop a management plan
that meets the needs of both the beavers and the natural area.
EXHIBIT 04: BEAVER MANAGEMENT
95
Beavers are important ecosystem engineers that can have both positive and negative impacts on a natural area.
Credit: Tom Koerner USFWS
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Hydrologic Features
Lakes
Water Quality
SC.40 Implement the recently developed Lake Management Plan to improve water quality. Regularly evaluate and update the plan.
SC.41 Develop a water quality monitoring program for the city’s lakes.
SC.42 Develop public advisement program for algae bloom management.
SC.43 Establish the baseline bathymetry of each of the city’s lakes.
SC.44 Work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) Division of Wildlife Research to regularly receive fish survey data or conduct fish surveys of each lake if needed.
SC.45 Explore options to increase the amount of surface runoff that discharges into the lakes by connecting to nearby storm sewer systems and ditches.
Recreation Management
SC.46 Reduce erosion and habitat degradation along banks through access management by constructing fishing piers at Bass Lake and West Lake at popular fishing locations away from sensitive species habitat. Restore and promote vegetation along banks through selective, rotating closures.
SC.47 Reduce erosion and habitat degradation along banks through access management by constructing a non-motorized boat launch ramp for paddlers in West Lake. Restore and promote vegetation along banks through selective, rotating closures.
SC.48 Install boat washing station at Youngfield Trailhead and other popular trailheads for non-motorized boating to reduce transfer of invasive aquatic species.
SC.49 Continue seasonal closure of Tabor Lake to boaters during avian nesting.
Open Space Management Plan
EXHIBIT 05: TABOR LAKE
TRAIL AND RESTORATION
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Tabor Lake encapsulates the opportunity to balance recreation with conservation and restoration. This illustration brings to life improvements that are envisioned with the planned perimeter trail and the opportunity to revegetate the banks immediately following trail construction (a strategy that can be replicated elsewhere within the Greenbelt). The addition of the perimeter trail provides a venue for interpreting the importance of the lake habitat and restoration efforts. Increase in visitation from the new trail will need to be balanced with equal investment in restoration to maintain environmental quality and protect vulnerable habitat such as the colonial waterbird nesting island in the center of Tabor Lake.
City of Wheat Ridge98
Clear Creek
SC.50 Work with Mile High Flood District to acquire basic flood hydrology data for Clear Creek from their 2016 study, including but not limited to, flood magnitude vs. frequency data for both snowmelt and rainfall events; mean low water levels; and mean high water levels.
SC.51 Coordinate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on any projects that may disturb wetlands to determine any permitting requirements for jurisdictional wetlands.
SC.52 Avoid disturbances to the existing wetland and riparian areas on the City’s open space, and conduct wetland surveys and delineations when disturbance is necessary. When wetland disturbance is necessary, consult with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for permitting requirements. Wetland disturbance is defined as dredging or the placement of fill material within a wetland or below the Ordinary High-Water Mark within a stream channel.
Water Quality
SC.53 Develop a water quality monitoring program for Clear Creek.
SC.54 Maintain integrity of natural drainages and stormwater systems, through regular inspection, debris removal, and cleanout as necessary.
SC.55 Enforce against violations of water quality regulations such as pollution point or area sources, and unmitigated surface erosion and sedimentation.
SC.56 Work with the Community Development and Public Works Departments to further require and incentivize stormwater runoff control best practices in new development projects and construction zones. Restore and promote vegetation along banks through selective, rotating closures.
Recreation Management
SC.57 Pursue additional study to address legality (ownership and liability) and water quality concerns related to allowing and facilitating public access into Clear Creek for recreation.
SC.58 Establish fencing priorities to protect other wetland and riparian areas susceptible to visitor use disturbance.
SC.59 Revegetation of stream bank areas adjacent to the Denver Blue Formation near Anderson Park .
SC.60 Temporarily restrict access to degraded stream banks and restore with native vegetation. Restore and promote vegetation along banks through selective, rotating closures.
Open Space Management Plan 99
CASE STUDY 03:
BALANCING RECREATION & SHORELINE HEALTH
Fossil Creek Reservoir Bird Observation & Fishing Pier
Non-motorized boat launch Recommendations for recreation management at the city’s lakes include construction of a designated fishing pier and construction of a non-motorized boat ramp or dock. While these amenities would provide an improved user experience, their primary purpose is to minimize uncontrolled human impact to the shoreline of lakes where fishing and non-motorized watercraft are currently permitted such as Bass Lake (fishing) and West Lake (non-motorized boating and paddling). Limiting water access to singular locations with the appropriate infrastructure mitigates shoreline erosion due to the steepness of the banks. This recommendation originated in the 2002 Open Space Management Plan as a strategy for protecting sensitive species from trampling by anglers and other visitors seeking to access the water.
City of Wheat Ridge100
Streambank Stabilization
SC.61 Avoid mowing riparian buffer along stream bank and drainages to encourage shoreline vegetation and bank stabilization.
SC.62 Continue working with the Colorado School of Mines or engage an environmental consultant to analyze areas of streambank degradation and erosion to develop a specific restoration plan appropriate for each degraded site. To the extent feasible, restrict the use of physical streambank protective measures only where necessary to conform with the existing corridor, or to protect existing infrastructure.
SC.63 Consult with MHFD to study the feasibility of restoring Clear Creek as a natural stream. Encourage restoration by maintaining shallow, stable base-flow channels with wide, vegetated floodplains to mimic natural streams. Stream and floodplain management strategies should anticipate a certain amount of streambank instability, while the stream re-establishes an equilibrium regime and meander pattern.
Floodplain
SC.64 Work with MHFD to enact projects in the Clear Creek Master Plan that both remove developed properties from the floodplain and restore, enhance, or enlarge natural areas along the channel.
SC.65 Restore seasonal overbank flooding to support health of riparian canopy while balancing safety of trail users near Prospect and Anderson Parks north of 44th Avenue. Coordinate with MHFD planned improvements to the existing encasement downstream from this location to take place in 2025.
SC.66 Construct wetland area to seasonally inundate the south bank of Clear Creek Between Anderson and Johnson Parks; immediately north of 44th Avenue.
SC.67 Re-establish natural or seminatural hydrology of the floodplain to establish stronger connection between Clear Creek and its floodplain.
If necessary and feasible, remove any existing artificial levees, or areas of artificial fill, along the stream or within the natural floodplain.
Conservation Trail & Social Trails
SC.68 Extend the Conservation trail south and west of West Lake to Youngfield Trailhead as suggested in Exhibit 06, West Lake Conservation Trail Expansion and Social Trail Reclamation. Revegetate and reclaim all other social trails to limit human impact to a single corridor that avoids wetlands and habitat of sensitive species such as the Monarch butterfly and other sensitive flora. Partner with adjacent property owners, such as the RV dealership, to explore opportunities for shared site improvements and revegetation.
SC.69 Inventory and evaluate all social trails within the Greenbelt to identify candidate trails for formalization; reclaim and revegetate all other social trail, especially those located in or near wetlands, sensitive habitats, or in weed-infested areas.
Open Space Management Plan 101
EXHIBIT 06: WEST LAKE CONSERVATION TRAIL
EXPANSION AND SOCIAL TRAIL RECLAMATION
This plan recommends targeted formalization of beneficial social trails and aggressive reclamation of all others – a strategy supported by the community as one of the top future actions that the city should take within the Greenbelt, according to the community-wide online questionnaire.
West Lake is a prime location to implement this approach, as illustrated in the concept here. Social trails weave through wetlands and areas that provide habitat to sensitive species, such as the Monarch butterfly. However, the popularity of this area presents an opportunity to establish an extension of the city’s Conservation Trail, acknowledging that many Greenbelt visitors desire a more natural or backcountry walking experience and visitor access the area will likely continue regardless of city intervention.
While this concept improves the recreation experience of the Greenbelt, it is intended to better protect natural resources from human impact by restricting access to a single trail corridor and protecting sensitive habitat areas.
City of Wheat Ridge102
GOAL (AC): EXPAND ACCESS & CONNECTIVITY TO THE CLEAR CREEK TRAIL AS THE BACKBONE OF THE CITY, CONNECTING NEIGHBORHOODS TO EACH OTHER, TO
NATURE, OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES, AND COMMUNITY DESTINATIONS.
New Trails and Connections
AC.1 Support re-establishment of trail connection and new paved trails internal to the Clear Creek Crossing development and Lutheran Medical Center.
AC.2 Explore alignment and feasibility of a trail that ties into the larger community trail system to the Wheat Ridge Historic Park.
AC.3 Support the development of the Tabor Lake perimeter trail for low-impact recreational use such as walking running, and birding. Incorporate recommendations and findings from the Tabor Lake Trail Study for design and multi-use path connection to 44th avenue via Van Gordon Street.
AC.4 Support city efforts to improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities along Tabor Street as suggested in the 44th Avenue Subarea Plan.
AC.5 As ditches, such as Lena Gulch, are abandoned, evaluate opportunity for City acquisition for future trail corridors and open space.
AC.6 As a short-term solution, improve clarity of trail direction at the Harlan Street terminus by improving visibility and frequency of directional signs as trail users approach the intersection and navigate the neighborhood bikeway.
AC.7 Work with City and County of Denver and Arvada to construct an off-street connection between the Clear Creek Trail terminus at Harlan Street and under 52nd Avenue where the trail continues north as identified in the 2019 City of Arvada Clear Creek Corridor Plan.
AC.8 Support city efforts to improve formalize the Clear Creek Trail connection at Hoyt Court as suggested in the 44th Avenue Subarea Plan and improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities at this location.
The City of Arvada’s 2019 Clear Creek Corridor Plan identifies an off-street connection from Harlan Street to the north side of 52nd Avenue as an a key opportunity area and major priority of the Arvada
community. The plan provides detailed alignment and trail character recommendations as well as cost estimates for construction. The City of Wheat Ridge should work with Arvada to implement this recommendation.
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ARVADA BICYCLE MASTER PLAN
Bicycle Facility ToolboxThe City anticipates using seven different bikeway facility types to build the Proposed Bicycle Network. The facility types, described below, should be applied in Arvada using best practice standards such as those developed by the %QIVMGER%WWSGMEXMSRSJ7XEXI,MKL[E]ERH8VERWTSVXEXMSR3JƤGMEPW %%7,83
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SidepathsSidepaths are bi-directional paved routes for bicyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized uses. Sidepaths are often located parallel to existing streets within the right-of-way, particularly those that are of higher speed and volume. Due to the proximity to the road, sidepaths may not be appropriate where there are lots of driveways/side street access. All access point crossings must be carefully designed.
Appropriate Context: Arterials
Existing Arvada Examples: Wadsworth Bypass
Separated Bike Lanes
Separated bike lanes are bicycle facilities that are physically separated from both the street and sidewalk. Vertical separation can provide physical separation from motor vehicles using curbs, planters, or on-street parking. The separation increases the comfort, thereby reducing XLIXVEJƤGWXVIWW7ITEVEXIHFMOIPERIWGERFISRIHMVIGXMSREPSRIEGLside of the street, or bi-directional on one side of the street.
Appropriate Context: Collector streets, arterials
Existing Arvada Examples: Oberon Road (note that this facility is not a standard separated bike lane)
Trails
A shared-use path or trail can be located along a road right-of-way or in an independent right-of-way such as a stream valley, greenway, along a utility corridor, or an abandoned railroad corridor.
Appropriate Context: Parks, greenways, utility corridors, abandoned railroad corridors
Existing Arvada Examples: Ralston Creek Trail, Little Dry Creek Trail
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
TRAIL CREEK CROSSING
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STRIPED TRAIL CROSSINGAT 52ND AVENUE PER 2018 DENVER MOVES: PEDESTRIANS & TRAILS PLAN (INTERIM CONDITION)
OPEN SPACE RESTORATIONPROPOSED ACQUISITION OF INDUSTRIAL USE FOR FUTURE OPEN SPACE
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OPPORTUNITY SITE #1 52nd Avenue and Clear Creek Trail Links
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Opportunity Site #1: 52nd Avenue and Clear Creek Trail Links - Recommended Improvements Map
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Lewis Meadows
Open Space Management Plan 103
MAP 15: PROPOSED TRAIL CONNECTIONS AND TRAILHEADS
City of Wheat Ridge104
Trailheads and Access Points
Existing Access
AC.9 Pursue bicycle/pedestrian and accessibility improvements to existing Clear Creek Trail access on Parfet Street. Consider adding sharrows to the street and paving the connection for mobility devices and reduced maintenance.
AC.10 Pursue bicycle/pedestrian and accessibility improvements to existing Clear Creek Trail access on Garrison Street. Consider adding sharrows to the street and paving the connection for mobility devices and reduced maintenance.
AC.11 Improve and maintain existing neighborhood access at Oak Street and 41st Place by removing stairs and reconfiguring trail to achieve ADA-compliant slope; revegetate other social access trails.
AC.12 Improve access at Hoyt Street for ADA compliance by replacing existing stairs with a ramp similar to Hoyt Court.
AC.13 Support efforts to improve ADA compliance of trail connection at the 44th Avenue bridge as suggested in the 44th Avenue Subarea Plan.
AC.14 Establish small trailhead at Boyd’s Crossing Park by adding parking, trail signs, and amenities.
AC.15 Improve Miller Street Trailhead with ADA parking and bicycle parking.
AC.16 Work with Arvada and CDOT to share costs for improving Otis Street Trailhead with paved parking, reconfigured fencing for easier trail access, and trailhead amenities.
New Access
AC.17 Work with property and business owners of the Youngfield Business Plaza to explore potential partnership for a weekend overflow trailhead with formalized public access.
AC.18 Consider Kullerstrand Elementary site as potential trailhead location as the property is repurposed.
AC.19 Establish small trailhead on city property at Iris Street.
AC.20 As opportunity presents, pursue easement for north-south trail connection under I-70 on Carr Street as property along 48th Avenue redevelops.
AC.21 Expand management and maintenance responsibilities to include the new Wadsworth Trail connection.
Open Space Management Plan 105
City of Wheat Ridge106
GOAL (EI): EDUCATE, INFORM, AND INSPIRE ALL USER GROUPS TO PRACTICE TRAIL ETIQUETTE, RESPECT THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, AND OBEY REGULATIONS
THROUGH AN UNDERSTANDING OF MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.
Signs and Installations
Wayfinding and Regulatory
EI.1 Build upon recommendations of the 2021 Sign Inventory and Recommendations and the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt and the Peaks to Plains Trail Signage Moodboard to develop a comprehensive wayfinding plan, prepared by a design firm that specializes in such plans. The plan should include design specifications for a sign family incorporating the Peaks to Plains brand. The new sign system should replace current signs by consolidating Wheat Ridge Greenbelt, Clear Creek Trail, and Peaks to Plains branding in a singular, clear, and cohesive system as illustrated in the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt & Peaks to Plains Trail Signage Moodboard. Include overpass street identification in the sign family.
EI.2 Begin implementation of wayfinding immediately as funding allows and as current signs reach the end of their useful life. Consider cost savings in production and installation by replacing all instances of a sign type at one time (e.g., replace all regulatory signs at the same time rather than piecemeal).
EI.3 Provide trailhead signs that explain ADA compliant features including trail length, width, surface, and slope characteristics of each trail segment.
Education and Interpretation
EI.4 Identify locations for new, creative and compelling interpretive kiosks or interactive installations to engage trail users on topics such as responsible recreation, environmental education, Leave No Trace principles, trailside fitness, historical sites and events, preventing spread of invasive species, etc.
Key Resource:
P2P & WRG Moodboard
and Report
Open Space Management Plan 107
Messaging Campaigns
EI.5 Develop educational, visually compelling, and creative multi-media messaging campaigns to address pertinent Greenbelt visitor and trail user issues.
EI.6 Revise any printed and digital materials, including the city website, that convey the location of the federally listed endangered Ute Ladies Tresses Orchid.
Programs
EI.7 Formalize outreach program to assist homeowners with appropriate landscaping, which avoids invasive species.
EI.8 Develop Citizen Science initiatives to support staff with additional capacity to complete wildlife surveys, butterfly counts, inventory invasive species, monitor habitat health, and assess public impacts.
EI.9 Develop a program for staff-guided and self-guided nature walks and birding excursions for the public
EI.10 Consider developing a Greenbelt Ambassador program in which volunteers are trained to answer questions and offer information to Greenbelt and trail visitors on common Greenbelt issues and questions.
EI.11 Establish an environmental education center within an existing Parks and Recreation facility near the Greenbelt that interprets Greenbelt ecology and related subjects.
Regulatory Review
EI.12 Review current permit requirements for organized groups visiting the city’s parks, open space, and trails to ensure appropriate size threshold for triggering the permit and update as needed. Require participation in the city’s Leave No Trace program.
EI.13 Review and update parks, open space, and trails regulations on a regular basis to ensure alignment with best management practices, community values, and the recommendations of this plan.
Messaging Topics
»Stay designated trail to prevent habitat degradation
»Leash laws, trail etiquette, and waste removal for dog walkers
»Cyclist speed limit, proper passing etiquette, and yield hierarchy
»Importance of cleaning watercraft to avoid spread of invasive species
»Educate anglers about aquatic invasive species and the vectors for spreading
»Remind equestrians to move waste from trail; use weed-free forage or pelletized feed before and while visiting the Greenbelt
»Wetland functions and benefits
»Impacts of stormwater drainage on Clear Creek water quality
»Living with wildlife
»Native plant alternatives to invasive ornamental plants
»Litter pick up
City of Wheat Ridge108
GOAL (EC): ENHANCE VISITOR EXPERIENCE & TRAIL CHARACTER BY INVESTING IN AMENITIES AND FACILITIES.
Amenities
EC.1 Include pedestrian and bicycle amenities and furnishings such as seating, informational kiosks, waste receptacles, bike parking, and repair stands at formalized entry points to the Greenbelt.
EC.2 Identify locations to increase frequency of available restrooms and water bottle refill stations along the Clear Creek Trail.
EC.3 Identify locations to increase frequency of dog waste collection stations along the Clear Creek Trail.
EC.4 Support ongoing efforts to assess the historic barn at the Recreation Center to evaluate feasibility of conversion into a trailside amenity. If viable for future use, conduct further public outreach to determine preferred uses.
EC.5 Improve Johnson Park as a destination for trail users and close to non-maintenance vehicles rather than investing in driveway and drainage improvements needed to keep public vehicle access open.
Maintenance
EC.6 Continue trash and litter removal within the Greenbelt.
EC.7 Continue offering community yard-debris disposal days to reduce illegal dumping of yard and garden waste in the Greenbelt.
EC.8 Maintain a two-foot mowed shoulder on both sides of the Clear Creek Trail where possible.
EC.9 Trim vegetation that obscures sight lines for trail users on a weekly basis as needed with special focus on ingress/egress locations, turns, curves, grade changes, underpasses, bridge and street intersections.
EC.10 Continue snow removal operations, as needed, on the Clear Creek Trail to maintain the corridor for active transportation commuters.
EC.11 Address graffiti immediately to discourage further vandalism.
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Built Environment
EC.12 Protect open space and trails through regulatory processes such as development review, land dedications, transfers of development rights, and sensitive site design that encourages compact development and minimizes environmental impacts.
EC.13 Work with the Economic Development, Community Development, and Public Works Departments to support Trail-oriented Development and redevelopment that activates site and building orientation toward the trail corridor and prioritizes publicly oriented uses on ground floors that provide a destination for trail users and support alternative transportation via the Clear Creek Trail . Consider joint maintenance agreements with trail-adjacent businesses for facilities and improvements that serve trail traffic such as bike racks, trash receptacles, lighting, and business wayfinding signs.
Johnson Park Trailhead
In addition to safety issues due to limited sight distance at the driveway location on Wadsworth, the Johnson Park Trailhead is often closed due to persistent ice and flooding. Maintaining the driveway surface so it can be opened and safe is a challenge for city staff.
City of Wheat Ridge110
Trail Standards
EC.14 Adopt the following standards and specifications, as Department policy, for trail types within the City to provide for consistency in maintenance and user experience for each trail type.
Trail Type Function & Uses Tread Width Corridor Width Clearance Grade Signs
Regional Trails
Regional Trails accommodate the greatest number of users and are the major spines in the trail network, providing connections to adjacent communities and key destinations. Regional Trails should paved to provide a stable and durable surface, and often have double-loaded parallel attached or detached crusher fines trails.
Minimum 10ft. Paved with 2ft. Shoulders; Preferred 12ft. Paved with 4ft. Parallel crusher fines
30ft.12ft. Vertical; 3ft. Shoulders
ADA accessible at 5% with 8.3% maximum grade if necessary; 2% cross-slope
Regulatory, wayfinding, interpretive, mile or confidence markers
Collector or Neighborhood Trails
Collector Trails connect neighborhoods to Regional Trails and other destinations. Collector Trails are typically 8 feet wide, paved to provide a stable and durable surface, and may have a parallel attached or detached crusher fines trail.
8ft. Paved with 3ft. Parallel crusher fines 20ft. 10ft. Vertical; 2ft. Shoulders
ADA accessible at 5% with 8.3% maximum grade if necessary; 2% cross-slope
Regulatory, wayfinding, confidence markers
Conservation Trail
The Wheat Ridge Conservation Trail system is comprised of Single-use Singletrack Trails located in more back-country or natural settings within the Greenbelt or around the city's lakes. Conservation Trails are either a natural surface or crusher fines for pedestrians and mobility devices only.
3-4ft. Natural surface; crusher fines, and relatively flat
8ft.8ft. Vertical; 1.5ft. Shoulders
ADA accessible at 5% with 8.3% maximum grade if necessary; 2% cross-slope
Regulatory, wayfinding at intersections, confidence markers and interpretative kiosks in key locations
Regional Trail Neighborhood Trail Conservation Trail
Open Space Management Plan 111
CASE STUDY 04: TRAIL-ORIENTED
DEVELOPMENT
Trail-Oriented Development refers to site development & architectural standards that activate building orientation toward the trail with features such as:
»Direct pedestrian connectivity
»Windows
»Pedestrian-scale entrances
»Landscaping
»Pedestrian-scale lighting
»Signage that addresses the trail
»Bike parking
»Trail-facing public art or murals
»Seating
»Screening that is no more than 50% opaque to provide for safety and security
City of Wheat Ridge112
GOAL (LP): LEVERAGE PARTNERSHIPS WITHIN THE CLEAR CREEK WATERSHED, ADJACENT MUNICIPALITIES, COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS, AND VOLUNTEER
GROUPS TO PROVIDE A COORDINATED APPROACH TO MANAGEMENT, MAINTENANCE,
STEWARDSHIP, AND CONSISTENT USER EXPERIENCE.
Adjacent Trail Managers
LP.1 Work with Arvada to adjust city boundaries so trail segments managed by Wheat Ridge are fully within the city’s jurisdiction.
LP.2 Coordinate wildlife surveys and studies with Jeffco Open Space and other agencies, such as the Audubon Society, to share data and resources. Maintain database of results.
Private Property owners
LP.3 Actively involve Greenbelt-adjacent property owners in implementation of this plan.
LP.4 Work with Greenbelt-adjacent property owners to educate on the impacts and prevent inefficient use of fertilizer or pesticides adjacent to Clear Creek and Lena Gulch.
LP.5 Work with ditch companies to implement wetland Best Management Practices to minimize adverse natural resource impacts.
LP.6 Determine maintenance responsibility for various irrigation ditches including Lee and Baugh, Lane, Brown and Baugh, and Oulette ditches.
LP.7 Work with neighboring landowners to execute habitat enhancement projects.
LP.8 Formalize any verbal management agreements with Greenbelt-adjacent property owners through a written agreement.
Peak to Plains Collaborative
LP.9 Continue participating in the Peaks to Plains Collaborative and support implementation of the strategic plan in Wheat Ridge by adopting a co-branded sign system on the Clear Creek Trail.
Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan
LP.10 Continue actively participating in the Clear Creek Integrated Watershed Management Plan to:
»Document and understand needs and issues related to environmental, recreational, and consumptive uses of land and water in the watershed.
»Monitor land use upstream of the City’s open space for negative impacts to the water quality of Clear Creek in Wheat Ridge.
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»Understand how impacts to Clear Creek within the Greenbelt affect water quality downstream.
»Contribute to local and regional efforts to improve water quality of Clear Creek.
»Prepare a Watershed Master Plan in accordance with FEMA guidelines to provide guidance in protecting/enhancing the natural and beneficial functions of floodplains while also strengthening protection of properties from flooding.
Community Organizations
LP.11 Partner with local committees and organizations; such local scout programs, service clubs and advocacy organizations; to establish volunteer-based program to assist with open space maintenance in support of City staff operations.
»Continue existing program for tree care.
»Expand to include an invasive plant species/noxious weed management program.
»Expand to include a beaver management program.
LP.12 Develop an Adopt-a-Trail program to facilitate volunteer litter collection by community organizations, businesses, and individuals once per month.
Indigenous Communities
LP.13 Work with area Tribes and other Sovereign Nations to correctly interpret, honor and provide access to sacred lands and ceremonial sites within Wheat Ridge Open Space.
Other Public Agencies
LP.14 Continue to work closely with Urban Drainage and Flood Control as needed on projects with the city’s Public Works department.
LP.15 Consult with CPW on significant habitat enhancement projects.
LP.16 Review utility easements within open space areas and ensure that maintenance provisions do not compromise management goals and objectives.
LP.17 Continue working with CDOT to improve Otis Street Trailhead and manage the Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail where it crosses CDOT land or right-of-way under I-70.
LP.18 Support the open space protection programs of other agencies, land trusts, and organizations in the County by leveraging open space funds and jointly acquiring properties as appropriate as was done to establish Lewis Meadows.
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Plan Monitoring and Updates
Land Acquisition
Operations and Staff Capacity
Project Prioritization
Capital Project Priorities and Costs
Implementation Phasing
Funding Analysis
IMPLEMENTATION
CHAPTER 5:
Open Space Management Plan 115
City of Wheat Ridge116
The Open Space Management Plan provides a wide-ranging framework of management strategies and recommendations to guide decision-making across multiple levels of community action from City government to partnerships with allied state agencies and civic organizations. The true impact of this plan will come from diligent and consistent efforts toward accomplishing the actions identified in the plan to achieve and sustain the community’s vision for open space and the Clear Creek Trail.
This chapter addresses critical topics for plan implementation, operations, project prioritization and phasing, and funding.
PLAN MONITORING
AND UPDATES
Planning for continued success of city’s open space program is an ongoing practice. PFOS staff should review progress on plan implementation each year when developing the department’s annual report, budget, and capital improvement plan.
Staff should regularly monitor progress toward achieving the plan’s goals and track implementation. A full plan update should occur every 10 years to reflect completed actions, respond to new opportunities, identify solutions to unanticipated challenges, and keep current on technological innovations and the emergence of new best-practices in open space and trail management.
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LAND ACQUISITION
Acquiring open space in Wheat Ridge is increasingly challenging due to several factors:
»Scarcity of available land that meets conservation values
»High cost and competition
»Increasing demand (and associated management costs) for outdoor recreation
»Limited staff capacity and funding for ongoing maintenance
Despite these challenges, the city continues to invest in the enhancement of the Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail as major contributors to quality of life in Wheat Ridge, a source of pride for residents, and a destination for enriching outdoor experiences in the Denver metro area. The recommendations of this plan reflect the reality of limited open space acquisition opportunities by primarily directing action toward restoration of existing open space lands and improvements to the Clear Creek Trail and connectivity as identified in Chapter 4: Management Plan. However, the city can position itself to take advantage of acquisition opportunities as they arise and effectively manage the existing open space lands by taking the following actions:
LM.1 Amend Administrative Policy #601-01 (Appendix D) to include meeting the recommendations of the Open Space Management Plan as a criterion for considering land acquisition.
LM.2 Evaluate opportunities for acquiring new open space, that meets the City’s conservation values, as property develops.
LM.3 As opportunities present, acquire land for establishing new trailheads, access points, or trail connections, as identified on Map 15, Proposed Trail Connections and Trailheads, especially properties that are located within the floodplain.
LM.4 Procure an accurate boundary survey of the entire Wheat Ridge Greenbelt to identify locations where additional study and action is needed.
LM.5 Participate in citywide comprehensive planning and small area planning efforts to ensure alignment with the OSMP.
City of Wheat Ridge118
OPERATIONS AND STAFF CAPACITY
Currently, the PFOS Division is comprised of 26 staff members including the Division Manager, Forestry and Open Space Supervisor, and Environmental Interpreter. Division staff includes 12 maintenance workers, two of which are dedicated specifically to open space. PFOS resource specialists work on a variety of projects related to land acquisitions, natural resource conservation, recreation planning, open space management, lake management, and volunteer coordination. The PFOS Division is also supported by staff from other Parks and Recreation Divisions on tasks such as grant procurement, special projects, community outreach, and communications.
Seasonally, the PFOS division receives support from the Community Services Division of the Wheat Ridge Police Department who provide 1.5 FTE rangers to patrol the Greenbelt and trail from April to as late as December, depending on weather. The Community Services Division aims to staff three Greenbelt rangers each season but has experienced significant challenges in hiring and retaining rangers in recent years. The Division plans to extend the duration of the ranger employment period or establish the position as a year-round employee.
Volunteers also play a special role in supporting open space management operations. The PFOS Division currently manages a Greenbelt tree stewardship program and organizes multiple volunteer days for tree care and litter clean-up each year. Additionally, the Division frequently partners with community organizations on special projects.
The Department completed an operations audit in March 2023 that evaluated staff capacity. The Division is currently staffed appropriately to meet operational demands. However, as trail miles expand, additional open space is acquired, recreational visitation continues to grow, and/or new programs are implemented, staff capacity should be monitored and increased as needed to ensure that the PFOS division has the resources necessary to effectively maintain and monitor open space, manage visitor use, and complete necessary restoration work within the Greenbelt.
Specific actions related to PFOS operations and staffing are recommended to ensure that the Division continues to function at a high level by making management decisions informed by the best available visitor use data:
OS.1 Continue to ensure appropriate staffing levels to provide safe and well-maintained open space and trails for high quality experiences.
OS.2 Conduct trail user counts at key access points and locations along the Clear Creek Trail to quantify user volume that will facilitate informed decisions on locations for amenities and demonstrate need when seeking grant funding. Differentiate between user-types.
OS.3 Conduct Greenbelt and trail visitor intercept surveys every few years between May and October to track changes in use, travel modes, perception of quality, identify emerging visitor needs, impact of new wayfinding system and interpretation/messaging campaigns.
OS.4 Track annual progress on completed actions of this plan and report results as part of the Parks and Recreation Department’s Annual Report.
Open Space Management Plan 119
City of Wheat Ridge120
PROJECT PRIORITIZATION
To prioritize projects that best meet the needs of the community despite limited funding sources, the following criteria are proposed for project evaluation. The criteria are grouped according to four overarching categories: Financial Viability, Immediate Need, Benefit-driven and Opportunity-driven. All projects should demonstrate financial viability prior to inception. Projects that address immediate public health and safety needs, code compliance, and Federal and State requirements should take precedence over other choices. It is also critical to address deferred maintenance needs to provide a high quality and safe arts, parks and recreation system. As funding and resources become available, or as citizen needs evolve, prioritization may change in response to new opportunities, constraints or community preferences.
FINANCIAL VIABILITY
All projects must demonstrate that funding is available for both
capital and long-term operations and maintenance costs. The City should not take on a project that it cannot afford to maintain.
IMMEDIATE NEED
Health, Safety, Welfare And Regulatory Compliance
Does the project involve upgrades that will bring a site or facility into compliance with codes and regulations (such as ADA), and improve the health, safety, and welfare of users.
Protect Existing Investments
The project is necessary to protect the City’s current investment in facilities including lifecycle replacement and maintenance or enhancements to existing parks, trails and facilities.
BENEFIT-DRIVEN
Projects that meet the parkland and amenity needs of the community,
preserve important resources and sites, advance other community goals, complete a partially developed project, reduces long-term maintenance costs to the community, and/or serve as a potential catalyst for economic development.
Satisfies Unmet Need
Does the project satisfy urgent parks and recreation needs within the community? Does the project help to address a recreation facility/amenity shortage or unmet need?
Community Significance
Does the project or site provide benefits to many people within the community? Does the project or site contribute to the broader city vision and community goals, such as economic development, increased tourism, environmental sustainability and non-motorized connectivity?
Community Balance
Does the project contribute to the balance of needs across the community, such as geographic equity, and providing for unmet needs of segments of the population? The land or the project is located in a park or amenity-deficient area.
Completing Current Projects
Does the project help to complete ongoing phases of current projects that have yet to be finished? Completion realizes full benefit of the
project.
Long-Term Maintenance Cost
Are the future ongoing maintenance costs funded and proportionate to the benefit that the community receives? Will the project be built in a way that minimizes long-term maintenance costs and/or generates revenue and offset maintenance costs?
Economic Revitalization
Potential for project to serve as a catalyst for other investment.
Open Space Management Plan 121
OPPORTUNITY-DRIVEN
Projects that can leverage resources and offer partnership opportunities, are easy to implement, or can reduce costs by combining into a larger project,
Partnerships For Funding
Does the project leverage available partnership or grant opportunities for funding (e.g., GOCO, CPW, CDOT, School District, County, private, etc.)
Ability To Leverage Resources
Are other projects occurring on or near the site that can be leveraged?
Ease Of Implementation
Does the project capitalize on opportunities that are easily implemented (e.g., low cost project with large gains, available property, etc.)?
Economy Of Scale
Does implementing several projects or portions of projects simultaneously save money or time (e.g., bulk purchase of materials, more efficient management, lower mobilization costs, etc.)?
City of Wheat Ridge122
HIGH PRIORITY PROJECTS
Action IDs Project Names
PS.2 Erosion Mitigation/Streambank Stabilization near Araphoe Bar
PS.3 Trail Underpass Lighting
PS.6 Kipling Crossing Feasibility Study with trail user counts
SC.18; SC.23 Evergreen Assessment and Native Tree Plantings
SC.66 Wetland Restoration/Overbank Flooding near Prospect, Anderson, Johnson Park
SC.68 West Lake Conservation Trail Expansion and Social Trail Reclamation
AC.9; AC.10; AC.11; AC.12 Improve Existing Connections: Parfet, Garrison, Oak, and Hoyt Street
AC. 15; AC. 16; EC.6 Improve Existing Trailheads at Miller St., Otis St, and Johnson Park
CAPITAL PROJECT PRIORITIES AND COSTS
Thirty-nine individual projects have been identified through this planning process as a result of community input, professional evaluation of existing site and facility conditions, and an understanding of best practices in open space and trail management. Projects include capital investment in facilities and amenities, restoration and habitat enhancement, and additional detailed planning and design work. These projects were first identified by the community through the plan’s public engagement efforts and then workshopped with PFOS staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission to evaluate costs, feasibility, and how each project meets the community’s needs through the prioritization criteria detailed in the previous section.
Eight priorities are identified below, however this plan acknowledges that priorities can and should be re-evaluated annually as needs and opportunities shift. The project prioritization criteria equip staff, appointed and elected officials, and their community partners with a framework for reconsidering priorities each year as the Parks and Recreation Department and PFOS Division develop their annual work plans.
These projects have not yet been approved for funding, but should be considered for inclusion in the city’s Annual Capital Improvement Plan. Funding sources for new projects are identified in the next section. Full cost estimates and details for all 39 projects can be found in Appendix B. Locations of projects are identified on the recommendations maps in Chapter 4: Management Plan.
Open Space Management Plan 123
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PS.1 AC. 21 PS. 4 PS.2 PS.14 SC. 56
PS.3 EI.1 PS. 9 PS.5 PS.16 SC.61
PS.6 EI.2 PS.11 SC.45 PS.17 SC.64
PS.7 EI.3 PS.12 SC.62 SC.2 EC.6
PS.8 EI.4 PS.13 SC. 67 SC.3 EC.7
PS.10 EI.5 SC.18 AC.5 SC.4 EC.8
PS.15 EI.6 SC.22 AC.7 SC.5 EC.9
PS.16 EI.7 SC.43 AC.11 SC.7 EC.10
PS.18 EI.8 SC.46 AC.13 SC.8 EC.11
SC.1 EI.9 SC.47 AC.20 SC.9 EC.12
SC.6 EI.10 SC.48 EI.11 SC.10 EC.13
SC.15 EI.12 SC.57 SC.11 LP.2
SC.19 EI.13 SC.59 SC.12 LP.3
SC.20 EC.1 SC.63 SC.13 LP.4
SC.21 EC.2 SC.68 SC.14 LP.5
SC.24 EC.3 AC.2 SC.16 LP.7
SC.28 EC.14 AC.4 SC.17 LP.9
SC.31 LP.1 AC.8 SC.27 LP.10
SC.37 LP. 6 AC.9 SC.29 LP.11
SC.38 LP.8 AC.10 SC.30 LP.13
SC. 41 LP. 12 AC.12 SC.32 LP.14
SC.42 LM.1 AC.14 SC.33 LP.15
SC.50 LM.4 AC.15 SC.34 LP.16
SC.53 AC.16 SC.35 LP.17
SC. 58 AC.18 SC.36 LP.18
SC.60 AC.19 SC.39 LM.2
SC.65 EC.4 SC.40 LM.5
SC.66 EC.5 SC.44 OS.1
SC.69 SC.49 OS.2
AC.1 SC.51 OS.3
AC.3 SC.52 OS.4
AC.6 SC.54
AC.17 SC.55
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IMPLEMENTATION
PHASING
Plan implementation is an incremental process. Some recommendations can be executed in a relatively short period of time. Other recommendations are long-term in nature and will take years of concentrated effort to achieve. Many recommended actions will depend on future staffing levels and capacity, funding, and partnerships. PFOS will work with other city departments, public land managers, and other civic organizations to identify action items that can be achieved collaboratively.
The recommendation timeframe refers to the amount of time, in years, within which each action item should be implemented. Recommendations are categorized as either short term, mid-term, long term, or ongoing.
»Short-term: achievable in less than five years
»Mid-term: achievable in 5-10 years
»Long-term: may take more than 10 years
»Ongoing: Continuous efforts
City of Wheat Ridge124
FUNDING ANALYSIS
CURRENT FUNDING
Currently the city receives allocated funds through the Jefferson County Open Space
sales tax (.5%) and the state Conservation Trust Fund (CTF), which is supported by Colorado Lottery proceeds. These two funds support the majority of Open Space staff, maintenance, and capital projects. In
2022, Jefferson County Open Space sales tax generated $1,550,000 in revenue for the city while the CTF resulted in $350,000 in revenue. In 2023, the Conservation Trust Fund is projected to generate $320,000 and
Jeffco Open Space Sales Tax will generate $1,400,000 – a combined reduction of $180,000.
FUNDING FOR THE FUTURE
The Wheat Ridge community demonstrated many desired outcomes throughout the OSMP planning process. Therefore, successful implementation of the plan will require additional funding and partnerships. Open space acquisition and outdoor recreation management revenues across Colorado are commonly derived from these primary sources: a municipality’s General Fund, locally approved sales tax or bond revenues, and the CTF and Great Outdoors Colorado grants. The General Fund and sales tax or bond revenues serve to leverage grants, which typically require matching funds. Other grant sources across a variety of industries like health and tourism may also be available on a limited basis.
Given the projected reduction in funding from the CTF and Jeffco Open Space Sales tax, and the identification of several new capital projects in this plan, the PFOS division will need to seek additional funding to sustain operations and realize capital improvement projects. Funding sources could include the following:
Conservation Trust Fund
CTF distributes state lottery proceeds to Colorado communities and has historically been a stable funding source, although proceed amounts may vary from year to year. The city should continue to leverage this reliable funding source for projects.
Grants
The grant market continues to grow every year, but it is not a stable or predictable source of revenue. The Parks and Recreation Department regularly pursues and has been successful in securing grants for open space
and trail projects. Viable grants are available from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO ), American Walks (active transportation), CPW, Colorado Department of Public Health and Equity, Colorado Water Conservation
Board, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF ) which the Division is applying for to fund the Tabor Lake Trail. The Parks and Recreation Department’s special projects and grants administrators are essential to
the Department’s successful pursuit of grant funding. Matching dollars are required for most federal grants and many state grants. Even when matching funds are not required,
including a percentage match often provides a competitive advantage by demonstrating that the city is invested in project success.
JCOS Trails Partnership Grant Program
Jeffco Open Space operates a competitive grant program that funds $3 million per year, over five years, in trail construction projects for area partners. There are two
years remaining in the current program (2023 -2024). Jeffco Open Space can elect to continue the program and could expand eligibility to include projects other than trails. The grant provides a 25% match for local
projects and 50% for regional connections like the Clear Creek Trail. Wheat Ridge has received funds through this program for three consecutive years for trail projects and should continue to leverage this partnership
and funding source to implement projects identified in this plan.
Special Option Sales Tax (Bond Referendum)
One of the reliable potential funding sources employed by many Front Range communities is a dedicated sales tax. Sales taxes are a relatively predictable revenue stream compared to grants and other sources which often vary significantly year to year, or can become non-existent. Sales tax funds can be bonded to generate immediate funding. General obligation bonds are sold to investors and repaid with sales taxes that are dedicated specifically to their repayment. Issuing bonds with projected sales tax revenue allows a community to
Open Space Management Plan 125
start planning, designing, and constructing projects prior to receiving all sales tax revenues required to cover project costs and therefore avoiding increased future project costs due to inflation The sales tax that funds projects, as well as the ability to issue bonds for projects, must be approved via a ballot measure by Wheat Ridge voters.
Friends Groups
These groups are formed to raise money typically for a single focus purpose that could include a trail or program that will benefit the community as a whole and their special interest. Friends groups strengthen community support and value for specific parks or facilities, and leverage the work and scope of PFOS services through stewardship, volunteer hours, fundraising and advocacy.
Interlocal Agreements
Interlocal Agreements involve contractual relationships between two or more local units of government and/or between a local unit of government and a non-profit organization for the joint usage/development of trails, trailheads, or park improvements.
Lodging Tax
House Bill 22-1117 signed into law in March 2022 allows proceeds from a local marketing district’s marketing and promotion tax and lodging tax to now be used for:
»Workforce housing & childcare
»Facilitating and enhancing visitor experiences; and
»Capital expenditures related to facilitating and enhancing visitor experiences
The legislation allows local governments to let voters decide how to allocate up to 90% of lodging tax funds to areas outside of tourism marketing.
The purpose of this bill is to help alleviate some of the major issues that cities with tourism economies are facing: shortage of workforce housing, childcare, and as it relates to this plan, outdoor recreation resources (natural and constructed) being overwhelmed with record visitation.
Allocating a portion of lodging tax for capital expenditures to facilitate and enhance the visitor experience could be used to leverage grant funds for improvements to regional assets like the Clear Creek Trail, its trailheads, the surrounding Greenbelt. Outdoor Recreation investments that enhance the visitor experience typically also improve quality of life for residents.
A. Detailed Community Engagement Results
B. Project Cost Matrix
C. Memo: Clear Creek Trail Crossing at Kipling Street Analysis
D. Administrative Policy #601-01: Land Acquisition
APPENDICES:
City of Wheat Ridge Open Space Management PlanATTACHMENT 2
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
APPENDIX A: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT RESULTS
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
APPENDIX A: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT RESULTS
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!!!!
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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.
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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.
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Comment
ID Date posted Type Comment
9528 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:45pm Comment spell out PLA
9529 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:45pm remove extra logan simpson and otak text?
9628 03/21/2023 ‐ 5:45pm Suggested Revision
This sentence disappears.
9636 03/27/2023 ‐ 4:21pm Suggested Revision
I would like to hear how W.R. plans to artificially irrigate and control undesirable weeds in areas that will be
disturbed by building the trail and then re‐seeded or re‐planted with vegetation. In other areas of the
greenbelt where the banks of the creek have been disturbed (ie Urban Drainage's "water fall" on the creek
just south ballfields) desirable vegetation never re‐established itself along the North bank of the creek,
despite repeated re‐seeding. Those areas received neither artificial irrigation or control of invasive weeds.
Now these previously disturbed areas are covered almost exclusively by tall non‐native annual weeds. It
would be sad to see this happen at Tabor Lake. I would like to hear how the city plans to avoid this outcome
at Tabor Lake. The planned trail sounds like a lovely idea, but I don't like what I anticipate will be unintended
consequences to the ground around the trail.
9627 03/21/2023 ‐ 12:05pm Comment Formal access point would be great at this location.
9626 03/21/2023 ‐ 12:05pm Comment Would love to have an access point in this location.
9625 03/21/2023 ‐ 12:04pm Comment 27. Additional access point would be great!
9695 03/31/2023 ‐ 10:20pm Comment
Residents to the east of the creek here have difficult access to the trail‐‐ we have to go across the very
narrow sidewalk on the 44th Ave bridge next to traffic that goes way too fast. It would be great to have
access to the greenbelt from the east side, or a safer/more comfortable connection across the creek than
along 44th.
9533 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:48pm add 22 for consistency
9535 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:50pm Could this be hyperlinked?
9637 03/27/2023 ‐ 4:46pm Comment
Because we live immediately adjacent to the area being considered for accessibility improvement, please
remember to keep us in the loop concerning any changes to the status quo. You can contact us via emails,
mailings or in‐person visits. Thanks! Tom and Elizabeth , 4255 Parfet St., 80033.
9536 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:52pm Restart at 1?
9537 03/17/2023 ‐ 3:53pm reduce spacing after this heading style
Draft Plan Comment
# of stickers
Kipling Crossing Traffic Study with user counts 10
Improve Existing Connections: Parfet, Garrison, Oak, & Hoyt 9
Trail Underpass Lighting 6
Wetland Restoration/Overbank Flooding near Prospect, Anderson, Johnson Park 5
Improve Existing Trailheads: Miller St., Otis St, Johnson Park 3
Evergreen Assessment and Native Tree Plantings 3
Erosion Mitigation/Streambank Stabilization near Araphoe Bar 2
West Lake Conservation Trail Expansion & Reclamation 1
Public Prioritization Results (Open House 3/30/23)
Action ID Project Name Start Point End Point Type Estimated Cost
AC.3 Tabor Lake Trail1
Combination 8ft. Concrete (CCT to Van
Gordon St.) and 8ft. Crusher Fines (Van Gordon
St. to Tabor Street)
$700,000 ‐ $800,000
AC.5 Lena Gulch Trail2 Lewis Meadows Wheat Ridge Recreation Center 10ft. Concrete; approx. 2 bridges; approx. 4
street surface crossings $3,000,000 ‐ $5,000,000
AC.7 Harlan Off‐street Trail Alignment3 Eastern terminus of existing CCT/P2P at
Harlan St.CCT/P2P terminus at 52nd Ave
10ft. Concrete; two 200ft. Bridges; Gray St.
Wayfinding improvements; 52nd St.
underpass; relocate utilities
$3,000,000 ‐ $6,000,000
AC.18 Kullerstrand Connection2 Terminus of existing paved path on
Kullerstrand property boundary at Greenbelt Existing Conservation Trail 4ft. Crusher Fines; 4in. depth with retaining
wall $100,000 to $150,000
AC.20 Carr Street Connection2 44th Avenue Existing Clear Creek/P2P Trail 10ft. Concrete; does not include easement
acquisition $350,000 ‐ $500,000
SC.68 West Lake Conservation Trail Expansion2 Youngfield Trailhead; trail extends south of
West Lake and adjacent wetlands Existing Conservation Trail 4ft. Crusher Fines; 4in. Depth;$120,000 ‐ $160,000
Action ID Estimated Cost
AC.14 $165,000 ‐ $185,000
AC.15 $10,000 ‐ $14,000
AC.16 $155,000 ‐ $175,000
AC.19 $115,000 ‐ $135,000
EC.6 $170,000 ‐ $190,000
Action ID Estimated Cost
AC.9 $40,000 ‐ $60,000
AC.10 $40,000 ‐ $60,000
AC.11 $650,000 ‐ $900,000
AC.12 $65,000 ‐ $90,000
AC.13 $800,000 ‐ $1,200,000
TRAILHEADS
Miller Street Trailhead Improvements Miller Street Trailhead; south side of Clear Creek
Otis Street Trailhead Improvements2
Parfet Street Access Improvements2
Hoyt Street Access Improvements2
Johnson Park Improvements & Closure to Vehicles2
Iris Street Trailhead2
Johnson Park trailhead; west of Wadsworth Blvd.
Boyd's Crossing Trailhead2 Boyd's Crossing Park; Everett St. & 46th Ave.
Project Name
15 paved & striped 90‐degree parking spaces with paved access to
existing trail; trailhead plaza with sign & bench
13 paved and striped 90‐degree parking spaces with dead‐end
turnaround; new fencing, trailhead amentities
Install sharrows on Parfet St. and pave connection to improve
accessibility
Replace stairs with ADA‐compliant ramp simliar to Hoyt Ct.
Remove stairs and replace with concrete path. Steep cross slope will
require extensive retaining walls to achieve ADA‐compliant slope.
Project Name DetailsLocation
Oak Street Access Improvements2
ACCESS POINTS
Garrison Street Improvements2
South end of Iris Street; city property adjacent to exsiting greebelt access
Otis Street Trailhead between I‐70 and 48th Ave.
Parfet Street existing Greenbelt access
Hoyt Street existing Greenbelt access
Oak Street & 41st Place existing Greenbelt access
Trailside benches, bike rack, ADA compliant creek observation
platform with interpretation
North side of 44th Ave. vehicluar bridge over Clear Creek Replace stairs with paved connection to trail; extensive ramp distance
to ADA‐compliant grade
Location Details
Circumnavigates Tabor Lake
Wheat Ridge Open Space Project Matrix
TRAILS
Estimates of Probable Cost
Add 22 paved & striped 90‐degree parking spaces along Everett St; re‐
establish concrete sidewalk; trailhead sign
Garrison Street Install sharrows on Garrison St. to guide cyclists toward CCT
connection
ADA paved parking space & regulatory signage; new, relocated
bicycle rack
44th Avenue ADA‐Compliant Ramp2
APPENDIX B: PROJECT COST MATRIX
Action ID Estimated Cost
PS.1 $540,000 to $1.2M
PS.2 $2,200,000
PS.3 $25,000 ‐ $40,000
PS.8 $3.11/sq. ft. ($28/sq. yd)
PS.9 $500,000 ‐ $700,000
PS.11 $50/LF ‐ $250/LF
PS. 13 $5,000 ‐ $10,000
Action ID Estimated Cost
SC.46 $75,000 ‐ $150,000
SC.47 $75000 ‐ $95,000
Action ID Estimated Cost
LM.4 $69,000 + $1,000 per title
commitment
EI.1 $20,000 ‐ $65,000
EC.5 $30,000
PS.6 $50,000 ‐ $150,000
Trail Widening All narrow sections of CCT/P2P, where feasible Widen to AASHTO standards: 10ft. paved with 2ft. Shoulders; cost
will be impacted by need for retaining walls
Safety Railing at Undermined Trail Areas2 Near Arapahoe Bar where CCT/P2P is undermined by erosion of creek bank Approximately 2,150 LF of thickened concrete edge with side‐
mounted railing; cost will be impacted by complexity & style of railing
Bank Stabilization and creek access on north side of CCT4
Fishing Pier
Youngfield trail reconfiguration2
Install parallel crusher fines on both sides of paved path; 4ft. Width &
4in. Depth
Regrade to reduce grade; widen the trail under I‐70
Elevated deck supported by reinforced pilings; accommodates ~10
persons; railing designed to accommodate fishing; interpretative
signs; ADA‐compliant
Tiered series of concrete retaining walls with central staircase from
trail to creek.
Corridor‐wide where feasible on both sides of CCT/P2P
RECREATION MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE
SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS TO EXISTING TRAIL (CCT/P2P)
Turn Radius at Kipling East Bridge Kipling East Trailhead
Youngfield Trailhead west under I‐70
Bass Lake and/or West Lake
Expand turn radius at north end of trail bridge
Location Details
North of Clear Creek Crossing development; West of I‐I70 & Arapahoe Bar
Wayfinding Sign System Plan for CCT/P2P Entire Trail Corridor & Access Points
Combines recommendations of existing sign plans; includes design
specifications for wayfinding sign family; identifies specific locations
for each sign type
Assessment of historic barn Recreation Center Structural assessment by architect or engineer to determine safety &
suitability for conversion to trailside amenity
Traffic Study with trail‐user crossing counts Kipling Crossing
Detailed study prepared by traffic engineer to determine trail‐
crossing volume and confirm appropriate treatment for bike/ped
crossing
Non‐motorized watercraft launch ramp and dock West Lake Access ramp and dock; grading and footers
Project Name Location Details
PLANNING & ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Boundary Survey Entire Greenbelt Records research, drafting, and fieldwork
Underpass Lighting All trail underpasses
Security lighting that minimizes light trespass outside of the
underpass; Includes, construction management, inflation, and
contingencies
Project Name Location Details
Project Name
Parallel Pedestrian Path
Action ID Estimated Cost
SC.18 $4,000 ‐ $6,000
SC.18 $35,000 ‐ $55,000
SC.18 $15,000 ‐ $35,000
SC.23 $1,000 ‐ $3,000
SC.37 $20,000 ‐ $40,000
SC.38 $15,000 ‐ $35,000
SC.66 $75,000 ‐ $95000
SC.66 $75,000 ‐ $95000
SC.67 $75,000 ‐ $95000
SC.68 $25,000 ‐ $45,000
1Based on Estimates by JR Engineering
2Includes mobilization, design, survey, geotech, construction administration, and contingencies
3Basedon estimate from Arvada Clear Creek Corridor Plan; Opportunity Site #1
4Based on Colorado School of Mines Student Preliminary Analysis and Design Report
West Lake Social Trail Reclamation & Revegetation South and east of West Lake Consolidation & revegetation of 4 acres of social trails; Screening of
adjacent lot with native trees
Project Name Location Details
Tree plantings over Clear Creek to encourage cooler water temperatures
Revegetate south bank of Tabor Lake & north bank of Clear Creek South bank of Tabor Lake to north bank of Clear Creek on both sides of paved trail
(Management Zone 2/Red Zone)
Revegtation of 4.5 acres with native trees, grass and shrub cover;
includes materials and labor
RESTORATION
Material and labor for 8 tree plantings 3" DBH
Restore seasonal overbank flooding to support health of riparian canopy; balance with public
safety of trail users North bank of Clear Creek on southside of Prospect Park; east of parking lot
Construct wetland area to seasonally inundate the south bank of Clear Creek Between Anderson and Johnson Parks; immediately north of 44th Avenue
(Management Zone 5/Yellow Zone).
Detailed site plan (~2.5 acres) design, materials, and labor for
streambank modifications
Raptor nest inventory during leaf‐off and subsequently during nesting season Entire Greenbelt
3 initial survey days by 2 biologists; field map preparation; 4 days of
follow‐up surveying of inventoried nests during breeding to
determine occupancy & productivity. Includes technical report and
geodatabase delivery
Restore seasonal overbank flooding to support health of riparian canopy; balance with public
safety of trail users South bank of Clear Creek south of Anderson Park Detailed site plan (~1.5 acres) design, materials, and labor for
streambank modifications
Replant native trees and shrubs in non‐vegetated areas on north and south banks of Clear Creek Between Anderson and Johnson Parks; immediately north of 44th Avenue
(Management Zone 5/Yellow Zone).
Assumes a mix native grass and shrub seeding and some tree
plantings over 10 acres; includes materials and labor
North of West and Bass Lakes (Management Zone 2/Red Zone)
Detailed site plan (~2.5 acres) design, materials, and labor for
streambank modifications
One day of arborist evaluation of approx. 6‐acre area
Habitat stabilization of colonial waterbird nesting island Tabor Lake Bracing & physical supports for existing trees + new tree plantings;
manual labor (hand digging) included
Assessment of evergreen health and soil conditions East of Bass Lake
Memorandum
To: Taylor Broyhill - Logan Simpson
From: Scott Belonger, PE / Sagar Onta, PE, PTOE - Otak
Copies:
Date: January 17, 2023
Subject: City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St.
Project No.: 20593
Background
The Clear Creek Greenbelt crossing of Kipling St. has been identified as an area of potential
improvement on the greenbelt. Currently, the Greenbelt crosses Kipling St. at an underpass at Lena
Gulch, approximately 2300 feet to the south of Clear Creek. To utilize this underpass, greenbelt users
must follow a convoluted route, over ½ mile in length of out of the direction of travel. As a result, some
greenbelt users cross Kipling St. at-grade adjacent to the Kipling West Trailhead at an undesignated and
unsafe crossing location. An alternative crossing treatment should be sought to eliminate the current out
of direction travel required and the associated safety concerns with crossing at an undesignated crossing
location to reduce out of direction travel.
Crossing Treatment Considerations
Various alternative crossing treatments have been considered in this location. The limited right of way
width, close proximity to private / commercial properties and the adjacent floodplains/floodways of Clear
Creek and Lena Gulch make this site challenging to implement grade separated crossing improvements.
We assume that purchasing or condemnation of the adjacent commercial properties would not be
pursued. Any of the proposed crossing treatments must be located within the 250’ zone along Kipling St.
between the existing bridge over Clear Creek and the first private property to the south.
1.Pedestrian Underpass
The trail elevation for an underpass is typically set at 11’-13’ below the roadway grade to allow a
minimum of 8.5’ vertical clearance for the trail and the structure and pavement section above.
Considering that distance to the streambed of Lena Gulch is less than 8’ below the roadway grade in this
location, the trail elevation at the underpass would be set 3’-5’ below the streambed. This would require
significant floodwalls and waterproofing to keep the greenway dry, even in low flow conditions. Also, this
area is entirely within the regulatory floodplain and (Zone AE) and floodway of Clear Creek and Lena
Gulch. Due to the close proximity of Lena Gulch, any additional structures or floodwalls within the
floodway are expected to cause a rise in the base flood elevation (BFE) at the adjacent insurable
structures, which would not be allowed by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB).
371 Centennial Parkway, Suite 210 | Louisville, CO 80027 | Phone 303.444.2073 | otak.com
APPENDIX C: CLEAR CREEK TRAIL CROSSING AT KIPLING ANALYSIS
Page 2 of 6
City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St. January 17, 2023
The trail elevation would be 15’ below the elevation of the adjacent greenbelt bridge over Clear Creek.
This would require a 300’ ramp between the underpass and bridge to provide an accessible (5% or less)
connection. Providing a 300’ ramp in this tight area would require structures that would likely impact the
BFE.
For these reasons, an underpass does not appear to be feasible in this location.
2. Pedestrian Overpass
A pedestrian overpass would require a minimum of 17.5’ vertical clearance over the roadway.
Considering an expected 2.5’ structure depth, the trail elevation would be 20’ above the roadway. This
would require approach ramps of over 400’ in length at each side of the roadway. Considering that this
area is entirely within the regulatory 100-year floodplain (Zone AE) and floodway, the structures/ramping
required would likely cause a rise in the BFE. Also, similar to the underpass, there simply is not enough
space to provide a 400’ user-friendly ramp between the crossing location and the existing trail bridge over
Clear Creek on the east side of Kipling St.
For these reasons, an overpass does not appear to be feasible in this location.
3. At-Grade Crossing Improvements
Considering the challenges of this site, a grade-separated crossing does not appear to be feasible.
Another option for safe pedestrian crossing is an at-grade crossing on Kipling Street, which is also a state
highway (SH 391). The evaluation of at-grade crossing at the location was conducted based on the
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Pedestrian Crossing Installation Guide 2021. Table C1
Criteria for Pedestrian Crossing Treatments at Uncontrolled Location of the Guide shows appropriate
crossing types based on roadway average daily traffic (ADT), posted speed limit, and roadway
configuration (see Attachment A).
Kipling Street, in the vicinity of the proposed location of the at-grade crossing, is a four-lane roadway
without raised median and a posted speed limit of 40 mph. The closest traffic count station (Station ID
105509) on Kipling Street is located north of 38th Avenue, which recorded an annual ADT of 35,000
vehicles per day (vpd) based on data collected in September 2021. Using these criteria, Table C1
recommends using treatment D, which is to “install marked crosswalk with enhanced signs, pedestrian
activated Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFBs), and geometric improvements to increase visibility
of pedestrians and reduce exposure”.
Table C1 also states that the criteria presented in the table is “intended as a general minimum.
Engineering judgment should be used on a case-by-case basis. Prevailing speed may be used if
significantly different than posted speed.” The annual ADT of 35,000 vpd on Kipling Street is considerably
higher than the upper limit of >15,000 vpd presented in Table C1. Furthermore, the ½ mile distance
between existing traffic signals on Kipling Street on either side of the proposed crossing location and the
straight alignment of the roadway at the location, allow for the prevailing driving speed to be higher than
the posted speed limit. For these reasons, we recommend the use of treatment E of Table C1 at the
proposed crossing location, which provides higher degree of safety treatments. Specifically, treatment E
states that “if pedestrian volume meets warrants, consider a pedestrian hybrid beacon, pedestrian traffic
signal or grade separated crossing.”
o:\project\20500\20593\05 documents\reports\kipling crossing memo_final-2023-01-17.docx
Page 3 of 6
City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St. January 17, 2023
We evaluated each of the three treatment options listed under treatment E. As stated above in this
memorandum, a grade separated crossing does not appear to be feasible at the location.
3.1. Pedestrian Traffic Signal
Treatment E lists pedestrian traffic signal as one of the potential treatments at the location. A pedestrian
traffic signal is a regular traffic signal with pedestrian signal heads that meets Warrant 4 Pedestrian
Volume of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Chapter 4C Traffic Control Signal
Needs Studies. The pedestrian volume warrant includes the following criteria:
•Signalized intersection with substantial pedestrian volume (100 or more for each of any 4 hours,
or 190 or more during any 1 hour), and
•There are less than 60 gaps per hour in the major street traffic stream of adequate length for
pedestrians to cross during the same period when the pedestrian volume criterion is satisfied.
In order to evaluate if this treatment meets the warrant criteria listed above, pedestrian crossing volume
and traffic counts on Kipling Street are required. Currently, there are no formal pedestrian crossing
treatments at the proposed location. As such, a more detailed traffic study is required to determine the
anticipated pedestrian crossing volume at the location. The study will likely need to count the volume of
pedestrians and bicycles using the existing underpass at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, located
approximately 1,200 feet south on Kipling Street, and any informal pedestrian crossing currently
occurring in and around the proposed crossing location. A judgment by an engineer will be required to
determine the proportion of the existing crossing volume at these locations anticipated to use the
proposed crossing. In addition, traffic count on Kipling Street would be needed to determine the number
and size of gaps in the vehicle platoon.
3.2. Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
Treatment E lists pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) as the third possible treatment at the location. Chapter
4F Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon of the MUTCD provides Figure 4F-2 Guidelines for the Installation of
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons on High-Speed Roadways (>35 mph), which is also presented in the CDOT
Pedestrian Crossing Treatment Guide, 2021. The figure shows that a PHB may be installed at location
with a minimum of 20 pedestrians per hour, crossing the major street.
Similar to the pedestrian traffic signal assessment, due to the lack of existing crossing, a traffic study is
required to determine the anticipated pedestrian volume at the proposed crossing location. Furthermore,
the traffic study should determine whether a pedestrian traffic signal or a PHB is appropriate at the
location, which will depend on the anticipated pedestrian volume, driver expectation and location of
existing driveways.
Both the pedestrian traffic signal and the PHB would require a traffic signal coordination plan with
adjacent existing signals on Kipling Street. The signal coordination plan will balance need to reduce
vehicle delays on Kipling Street and the wait-times for trail users using the proposed at-grade crossing.
3.3. Location of At-Grade Crossing
The location of the proposed at-grade crossing is determined by the user-friendliness of the location,
directness of the route, presence of existing driveways, access control of the driveways, and the ADA
compliance requirements of the location when taking into consideration the grade difference between the
trail bridge and Kipling Street.
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Page 4 of 6
City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St. January 17, 2023
There are no driveways on the east side of Kipling Street from the Clear Creek bridge to W 41st Avenue.
However, there are several driveways to the south of the bridge on the west side of Kipling Street. A right-
in/right-out (RIRO) driveway access to the Greenbelt Open Space parking lot is located approximately
125 feet to the south of the bridge. In addition, there are two driveways that provide access to the strip
mall located south of the RIRO driveway. The north driveway is located approximately 60 feet south of the
RIRO driveway and the south driveway is located approximately 110 feet from the north driveway. Given
these driveway locations, the ideal location for the at-grade crossing is between the Clear Creek bridge
and the RIRO driveway or at the RIRO driveway.
Option 1: PHB, north of the RIRO Driveway
The MUTCD recommends that a PHB should be located at least 100’ from existing driveways. Given that
the RIRO driveway is approximately 125' from the Clear Creek bridge, compliance with MUTCD will place
the at-grade crossing just south of the Clear Creek bridge. However, an at-grade crossing at this location
will not meet ADA requirements because of the proximity of the location from the trail bridge and the
elevation difference between the trail bridge and the west curb of Kipling Street.
In order to comply with ADA, the proposed PHB would need to be located approximately 30’ north of the
RIRO driveway. While this location will not meet the 100’ from driveway guidance of the MUTCD, the
proximity of the PHB to the RIRO driveway is not expected to cause major safety concerns, as there are
no left-in or left-out movements from the driveway. Furthermore, given the presence of the wide median at
the location, it may be feasible to design the crossing as a two-stage crossing, which will reduce delay for
vehicles on Kipling Street. Figure 1 shows the conceptual design of PHB at this location.
Typical costs for a PHB are in the range of $230,000 to $250,000, not including the cost of the civil work to
build the median at the location.
Option 2: Pedestrian traffic signal at the RIRO Driveway
Another treatment option is to install a traffic signal with pedestrian signal heads at the RIRO driveway.
The installation of the traffic signal will convert the RIRO driveway into a full-access driveway, which will
benefit the access to the parking lot. However, the increased vehicle access to the parking lot has
negative impact on the safety of the pedestrians as it increases the number of conflict points for
pedestrians from turning vehicles, compared to a PHB. Furthermore, due to long crossing distance, delay
for vehicles on Kipling Street is likely to be significant.
Typical costs for a pedestrian signal are in the range of $250,000 to $280,000.
Recommendation
Options 1 or 2 appear to be feasible and would provide a significant improvement to the Clear Creek
Greenbelt by improving the directness of the route and reduce crossings at currently undesignated
locations. We recommend conducting a traffic study to determine which of the two options should be
implemented at the location. The traffic study should collect data and use sound engineering judgement
to estimate the number of pedestrians per hour that will use the treatment. A higher pedestrian use
estimate generally favors installation of a pedestrian traffic signal, while a lower pedestrian use favors
PHB. However, as previously stated, a PHB is generally safer than a pedestrian signal due to lower
number of conflict points and generally costs slightly less than a traffic signal. Hence, we feel that Option
1 (PHB) may be the more appropriate solution for this location.
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City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St. January 17, 2023
o:\project\20500\20593\05 documents\reports\kipling crossing memo_final-2023-01-17.docx
Figure 1. Conceptual Design of At-Grade Crossing with PHB
Page 6 of 6
City of Wheat Ridge – Clear Creek Greenbelt Crossing at Kipling St. January 17, 2023
o:\project\20500\20593\05 documents\reports\kipling crossing memo_final-2023-01-17.docx
Attachment A
APPENDIX D: POLICY 601-01: LAND ACQUISITION
City of Wheat Ridge
Open Space
Management Plan
May 2023
ATTACHMENT 4
PURPOSE & PROCESS
•Update 2002 Open Space Management Plan
•Balance recreation use with resource protection
•Strategies for long-term sustainability and stewardship
•10 to 15-year planning horizon
•12-month planning process
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: STAGE 1
Listening to the Community
•City Council & Stakeholder Interviews
•PRC Listening Session
•Carnation Festival Pop-up Engagement
•Online Questionnaire
•Virtual Public Workshop
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: STAGE 2
Alternatives & Prelim. Recommendations
•Joint Open House with 44th Avenue Sub-Area Plan
•PRC Workshop
•Virtual Community Focus Groups
•Online Interactive Maps
•Trail User Survey
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: STAGE 3
Draft Plan
•Open House (March 30)
•Online Review
ADD A FOOTER
RIPARIAN & HABITAT
RESTORATION
TABOR LAKE
CONSERVATION
TRAIL EXPANSION
AND
SOCIAL TRAIL
RECLAMATION
PROPOSED TRAIL CONNECTIONS &
TRAILHEADS
KIPLING PEDESTRIAN HYBRID
BEACON
RESOURCEMANAGEMENTZONES
1.People Intensive
2.Active Natural
3.Passive Natural
4.Conservation
PRIORITY PROJECTS
QUESTIONS?
THANK YOU
ITEM NO: 6
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: RESOLUTION NO. 30-2023 – A RESOLUTION APPROVING
A PUBLIC ART DONATION AGREEMENT WITH KARIN SCHELKE AND THE USE OF PUBLIC ART FUNDS FOR COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSPORTATION AND INSTALLATION OF THE ART PIECE
PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING RESOLUTIONS
QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
______________ _____________________________
Director of Parks & Recreation City Manager ISSUE: Karin Schelke, a Wheat Ridge resident, is donating a piece of public art, valued at $25,000, to the City of Wheat Ridge. The piece is titled “Dancing Pony” by artist Kevin Box and will be
installed at Prospect Park. Staff is requesting approval of a donation agreement with Ms. Schelke and approval to utilize the City’s Public Art Fund to pay for the transportation and installation of the art piece, as well as a small plaque.
PRIOR ACTION:
None FINANCIAL IMPACT: If approved, the City will agree to pay for transportation of the selected art piece from the Aerena Gallery in Napa, California, as well as installation at Prospect Park and a plaque identifying the
piece of art and honoring the generous donation. The exact costs are unknown at this time and
cannot be identified until the specific art piece is purchased.
Council Action Form – Public Art Donation May 22, 2023
Page 2
BACKGROUND: Resident Karin Schelke reached out to Parks and Recreation Director O’Donnell, expressing
interest in making a public art donation. As per the City’s Public Art Management Plan, Director
O’Donnell asked Ms. Schelke to submit a proposal including details on the art piece and artist.
A Public Art Donation Committee was convened, based on requirements detailed in the Public Art Management Plan. Members of this committee included: Melinda Valentini (local artist), Mark Ruote (City staff representative), Kathleen Martell (Cultural Commission representative),
and Guy Nahmiach (community member). Karin Schelke presented her proposal to the
committee on May 1, 2023. The committee unanimously agreed to advance the proposal to the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission for approval. The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission reviewed and approved the proposal unanimously on May 10, 2023.
Ms. Schelke choose the pony statue created by Kevin Box because of the connection to
agriculture and farming in Wheat Ridge and the historical and current practice of horse riding in
Wheat Ridge. She was open to the art piece being installed in any park in Wheat Ridge, as long as children visited the space. The Public Art Management Plan identified several high priority areas, most of which now have art pieces or have funding dedicated for future art pieces. Prospect Park stood out to the Public Art Donation Committee as an identified high priority
location with no existing art and would certainly be visited by youth in the community.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends the approval of the public art donation agreement and use of the Public Art Fund for costs associated with the transportation and installation of the art piece.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Resolution No. 30-2023, a resolution approving a public art donation agreement with Karen Schelke and the use of Public Art Funds for costs associated with the transportation and installation of the art piece.”
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 30-2023, a resolution approving a public art donation agreement with Karen Schelke and the use of Public Art Funds for costs associated with the transportation and installation of the art piece for the following reason(s)
__________________.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Karen A. O’Donnell, Director of Parks & Recreation Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 30-2023 a. Exhibit 1 - Artwork Donation Agreement 2. PowerPoint Presentation
ATTACHMENT 1
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. 30 Series of 2023 TITLE: A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PUBLIC ART DONATION AGREEMENT WITH KARIN SCHELKE AND THE USE OF
PUBLIC ART FUNDS FOR COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSPORTATION AND INSTALLATION OF THE ART PIECE
WHEREAS, Wheat Ridge resident Karin Schelke expressed interest in donating a piece of art from Kevin Box Studios to the City of Wheat Ridge; and
WHEREAS, the Public Art Donation Committee and the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission unanimously agreed to support the donation proposal; and WHEREAS, the City does not have funds budgeted for this proposal, but does have adequate funding available in the City’s Public Art Fund to cover the costs
associated with transportation and installation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, as follows:
Section 1. Agreement Approved An agreement with Karin Schelke, EXHIBIT 1, is approved to accept a public art donation from artist Kevin Box, not to exceed $25,000. DONE AND RESOLVED this 22nd day of May 2023. ________________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
ARTWORK DONATION AGREEMENT
THIS ARTWORK DONATION AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 22nd day
of May 2023 between Karin Schelke, whose address is 2902 Eaton Street, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, 80214 (“Donor”) and the City of Wheat Ridge, a Colorado municipal corporation, whose address is 7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge Colorado (“the City”).
WHEREAS, pursuant to C.R.S. § 31-15-101(1)(d), the City possesses the authority to
acquire and hold real and personal property, including the authority to accept gifts of donated property; and WHEREAS, the City Council, on behalf of the City pursuant to Charter Section 16.2 has
authority to accept or refuse bequests, gifts and donations of real and personal property; and
WHEREAS, Donor is the owner of an artwork generally described as set forth in Exhibit A (the “Artwork”), attached hereto; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority set forth above, Donor desires to donate and the
City desires to accept the donation of the Artwork; and WHEREAS, Donor and the City desire to memorialize such donation through this Agreement and the terms set forth herein.
NOW THEREFORE, THE PARTIES AGREE AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Donation of Property. Donor does hereby agree to donate the Artwork to the City for no consideration.
Section 2. Name and Use of Artwork. The City agrees to name the Artwork based on the artist’s recommendation and to locate the same in the City’s Prospect Park. The City will affix a plaque on or adjacent to the Artwork identifying the name of the Donor and the fact of the donation. The City may at any time alter the location of the Artwork in its sole discretion.
Section 3. Public Purpose. The City agrees that the Artwork shall be used for public park purposes, including all uses incidental thereto, and upon installation of the same, shall be solely responsible for its maintenance.
Section 4. Transaction Costs. The City shall pay all costs of transport and installation of the
Artwork. Section 5. Taxes. The Donor has represented to the City that the value of the Artwork is approximately $25,000. Donor shall be and remain responsible for any tax consequences of this
donation. The City shall reasonably cooperate in confirming the fact and date of the donation,
but in no event shall be responsible for communication with any state or federal agency with respect to the donation, the same being Donor’s sole responsibility.
EXHIBIT 1
2
DONOR:
By:
ATTEST:
Name & Title: STATE OF COLORADO
COUNTY OF _________________ Subscribed and sworn to before me on _________________,2023, by ________________, as Donor.
WITNESS MY HAND AND OFFICIAL SEAL.
Notary Public My commission expires:
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
By: Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST:
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
The exact piece cannot be identified until the donation is approved by City Council. The donor will select from available inventory within her budget ($25,000) at that time, as approved by the Public Art Donation Committee and the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission. Examples:
4
The art will be installed at Prospect Park, identified in 2013 as a high priority location for art by the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission (specifically called out in the Public Art Management Plan). This was approved by the Public Art Donation Committee and the Cultural Commission.
PUBLIC ART DONATION
Wheat Ridge City Council
May 22, 2023
ATTACHMENT 2
Process
•Resident, Karin Schelke, emailed Parks & Recreation Director O’Donnell
•Upon request, Karin created and shared her proposal
•A Public Art Donation Committee was formed
•Members: Melinda Valentini (local artist), Mark Ruote (City staff rep), Kathleen Martell
(Cultural Commission rep), and Guy Nahmiach (community member)
•Public Art Donation Committee met May 1, 2023 –unanimously approved
•Cultural Commission reviewed and unanimously approved on May 10, 2023
•Proposed Location: Prospect Park
EXAMPLES OF KEVIN BOX’S ART
Action Requested
•Approve public art donation agreement with Karin Schelke
•Approve the use of the Wheat Ridge Public Art Fund for transportation and
installation of the art piece
Questions?
ITEM NO: 7
DATE: May 22, 2023 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
TITLE: RESOLUTION NO. 31-2023 – A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2023 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL
BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $76,398
FOR THE ADDITION OF ONE FULL-TIME HOUSING
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO
_______________________________ ______________________________ Community Development Director City Manager ISSUE: City Council adopted the Affordable Housing Strategy and Action Plan (“Action Plan”) on January 9, 2023, to address one of the city and state’s most pressing issues. The Action Plan prioritizes hiring at least one new staff person to implement the action plan and manage the City’s affordable
housing fund and associated programs. The City does not currently have the staff expertise or capacity to implement the action plan in contrast to peer cities that have similar positions. PRIOR ACTION: The Affordable Housing Strategy and Action plan was adopted by resolution on January 9, 2023.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The position has been classified as exempt grade 240 in the City’s 2023 pay plan. This is commensurate with the work of a Senior Planner. The position’s pay range is $87,690 to $131,350. Assuming a starting rate close to the middle of the grade and inclusive of FICA,
Council Action Form – Housing Staff Budget Supplemental May 22, 2023
Page 2
Medicare, pension, and benefits, the cost for a full year is estimated at $136,795. Technology needs for a new position are estimated at $8,000. For 2023, and inclusive of technology needs,
the addition of this position in total will require a supplemental budget appropriation of $76,398. BACKGROUND: Addressing housing affordability in Wheat Ridge requires new programs with significant management responsibilities and actions to produce and preserve affordable housing units. There
is a growing number of state and federal funding sources and programs related to affordable
housing. If Wheat Ridge is going to address this issue, the City needs at least one housing staff person to manage and administer such programs and capitalize on state and federal funding and programs at an opportune time. The City does not have any such staff in contrast to peer cities (e.g., Golden, Arvada, Erie) that have hired specialized housing staff in recent years.
The Housing Program Administrator would be in the Community Development Department and focus on addressing the City’s growing affordability gap by implementing the Action Plan and other housing affordability issues, including but not limited to:
• Managing the Wheat Ridge Housing Fund that City Council approved on January 9, 2023;
• Developing and managing the Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing Program (NOAH) that would offer grants for upgrading multi-unit residential properties in
exchange for deed-restricted affordable rents;
• Developing and managing the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program that would require deed-restricted affordable housing units on many projects;
• Acting as liaison to the Wheat Ridge Housing Authority (and supporting a potential
expansion or modification of this body’s role);
• Forming partnerships to facilitate outcomes with affordable housing developers like Foothills Regional Housing; and
• Capitalizing on funding opportunities for the City through various federal and state
programs, including Proposition 123 that was recently approved by Colorado voters that will provide several hundred million dollars to local governments for affordable housing starting in 2023 as dedicated state income tax revenue.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the supplemental budget request and additional FTE request. This request is being presented now rather than wait for the 2024 budget cycle due to the urgency and opportunity around this issue. In order to be eligible for Proposition 123 funds
available in July, the City must commit to increasing its supply of affordable housing to the state
by November 2023. The City also continues to see an uptick in applications and interest in residential projects, including redevelopment of existing multi-unit rental properties – representing a slowly shrinking window for the City to have a significant positive impact on housing affordability.
Council Action Form – Housing Staff Budget Supplemental May 22, 2023
Page 3
RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution No. 31-2023, a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2023 General
Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of
$76,398 for the addition of one full-time Housing Program Administrator.” Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 31-2023, a resolution amending the Fiscal Year
2023 General Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $76,398 for the addition of one full-time Housing Program Administrator for the following reason(s)___________________________________.”
REPORT PREPARED AND REVIEWED BY:
Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director Jeff Hirt, Senior Neighborhood Planner Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution No. 31-2023
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 31
Series of 2023 TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2023 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $76,398 FOR THE ADDITION OF ONE FULL-TIME HOUSING PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge has learned through recent community engagement that housing affordability and housing choice are among the City’s most significant issues; and WHEREAS, City Council adopted the Wheat Ridge Affordable Housing Strategy and
Action Plan (“Action Plan”) on January 9, 2023; and WHEREAS, new policies and programs to implement the Action Plan will require additional staff resources; and WHEREAS, the Action Plan recommends hiring a housing staff person as an essential step towards addressing housing affordability in Wheat Ridge; and WHEREAS, a housing expert will better position the City to take advantage of state and federal programs and funds related to affordable housing; and WHEREAS, the Wheat Ridge Charter requires that amendments to the budget be affected by the City Council adopting a resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Wheat Ridge City Council that: Section 1. A transfer of $61,558 is approved from the General Fund undesignated reserves to account 01-121-600-602
Section 2. A transfer of $6,840 is approved from the General Fund undesignated reserves to account 01-610-600-626 Section 3. A transfer of $8,000 is approved from the General Fund undesignated reserves to account 01-117-800-809
DONE AND RESOLVED this 22nd day of May 2023.
Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST:
Steve Kirkpatrick, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT 1