HomeMy WebLinkAbout20002257 RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE SAINT VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS MASTER PLAN AND
CONFIRM COMMITMENT OF FUNDS FOR CONSTRUCTION AND COMPLETION
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to
Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of
administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and
WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with the Saint Vrain Valley Open Lands and
Trails Master Plan for Southwestern Weld County, and
WHEREAS, the Board is in support of land presentation and trail construction activities
for the benefit of its citizens, and to enhance the quality of life in the community and the
surrounding areas of Weld County, and
WHEREAS, the Board desires to work cooperatively with the communities of Dacono,
Erie, Firestone, Frederick and Longmont to implement a regional trail network and land
preservation program through the purchase of property or the acquisition of conservation
easements through a willing-buyer/willing-seller basis, rather than through eminent domain, and
WHEREAS, the Board desires to commit funding, in the amount of$100,000 for each of
the next three years, for land preservation and trail construction activities specified in the Saint
Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Master Plan, and
WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve the Saint Vrain Valley
Open Lands and Trails Master Plan for Southwestern Weld County, a copy of which is attached
hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of
Weld County, Colorado, that $100,000 for each of the next three years be, and hereby is,
committed for the land preservation and trail construction activities specific in the Saint Vrain
Valley Open Lands and Trails Master Plan.
L'C L 2000-2257
BC0024
SAINT VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS MASTER PLAN
PAGE 2
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted
by the following vote on the 20th day of September, A.D., 2000.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
W-LD COUNTY, C LORADO
ATTEST' /id j + 11.0_7 ��i /kat F � Barbara J yer, Ch it
Weld County Clerk to the :: ar.
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Glenn Vaad
2000-2257
BC0024
ST . VRAIN
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VALLEY
OPEN LANDS
AND
TRAILS PLAN
CSU/DOLA COMMUNITY TECHNICAL
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
AND
COLORADO OPEN LANDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ST. VRAIN VALLEY
OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PLAN
JULY 2000
Page
I. Executive Summary 1
II. Introduction
A. Open Lands and Trails 4
B. Project Goals 5
III. Setting
A. Overview 7
B. Topography and Waterways 8
C. Vegetation 12
D. Wildlife 13
E. Land Use/Development 16
IV. Open Lands and Trails Plan
A. Open Lands 20
B. Trail Corridor 24
C. Design Guidelines 85
D. Maintenance Guidelines 94
E. Signage 96
F. User Safety 100
V. Implementation Plan
A. Open Lands 101
B. Trails 106
C. Volunteer Opportunities 108
D. Funding 110
BY:
Colorado Open Lands CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance Program
274 Union Boulevard, Suite 320 Tim Katers,Director
Lakewood,Colorado 80228 150 East 29th Street, Suite 215
(303) 988-2373 Loveland,Colorado 80538
(970) 679-4502
Jonathan Moore
Christine Earley Allison Bohn Rachel Hoch
Jason Messaros Kelly Vance
Barbara Sutton
CSU/DOL4 Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
I . EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails plan is an ambitious effort in
southwestern Weld County and eastern Boulder County. Five partner communities
(Erie, Longmont, Dacono, Frederick, Firestone) have worked with their respective
county governments and the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund to begin the process
of establishing a network of open lands that would be connected by a complementary
trail system.
The partner communities, through this planning effort, have envisioned a system that
links unique and irreplaceable landscapes. From the lush riparian habitats of Boulder
Creek and the St. Vrain River, to the connections this system will make with existing
towns, this open lands and trail network promises to become a natural outdoors
attraction for a quickly developing area of the front range of Colorado. This project is
a multi-faceted program that incorporates education, recreation, open lands
preservation and wildlife protection into its mission.
This document highlights the setting in the project area while detailing the current
status of the open lands preservation work and identifying a nearly 40 mile trail
corridor.
The Open Lands component of the project included:
* Identification of a set of criteria to define the type of lands that should
be included in this effort.
* Establishment of 3 distinct open land phases. These phases focus and
prioritize areas where landowner negotiations have,and will continue,to
take place.
* The beginning of negotiations with landowners in the lower Boulder Creek,
western St.Vrain,and eastern St.Vrain project areas and the discovery of
landowners willing to discuss land preservation options.
* Open land issues identified during the process include:
A. Working with landowners during gravel mining reclamation and
development will be important.
B. Preliminary land appraisals should be conducted to help property
owners decide whether or not to commit to the process.
C. Weld County should be flexible in their approach to landowners and
look at all available land preservation tools.
* Colorado Open Lands is continuing landowner negotiations and
preliminary land appraisals at the time of this printing.
The Trails portion of this effort included:
* Establishment of a proposed trail corridor of 33.9 miles that includes
existing trail developed by the Town of Firestone.
Executive Summary Page 1
CSU/DOIA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
* The creation of 14 distinct corridor segments and the ranking of each
segment against a set of fifteen criteria to help determine development
priority.
* A discussion of current conditions,known opportunities and possible
alternatives along the trail corridor.
* A description of development issues,topography,wildlife,vegetation and
water resources in the area.
* An outline of the proposed trail corridor through each segment and the
creation of a construction cost estimate for the entire trail. Highlights of the
trail cost estimate include:
A. Total estimated cost of$23,500,000 for the trail system.
B. A per mile estimated cost of$690,000 and an average projected cost per
linear foot of just over$134.00.
* Design standards for most elements of the trail and an implementation
program.
* The development priority for trail segments can generally be described as
moving from the existing Firestone Trail to the St.Vrain River to the north
and Dacono to the south. Beginning frail construction from Erie north and
connecting to 1-25,Barbour Ponds State Park,Eagle Claw Fishing Education
Center and Sandstone Ranch is also a high priority.
This document provides the community partners with a clear plan and rationale to
implement an open lands and trail program. Priorities have been identified,an
implementation scheme has been created and the work program is strongly positioned
in the minds of the community.
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails project is an excellent example of a wide
range of partners coming together to preserve and protect a unique portion of the
Colorado landscape.
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Page 2 Executive Summary
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project Master Plan was funded through
a planning grant from the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund.
Local governments cooperating in this effort include:
* Weld County,
* Boulder County,
* Town of Erie,
* Town of Frederick,
* City of Longmont,
* Town of Firestone,and
* the City of Dacono.
Additional support for this project was provided by Colorado State Parks, Colorado
Division of Wildlife, the Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center, and the communities
of Mead and Northglenn.
GREAT OUTDOORS
COLORADO
Acknowledgements Page 3
CSU/DOL4 Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
II . INTRODUCTION
This plan describes a regional planning project that attempts to knit together a network
of open lands and trails in southwestern Weld County and eastern Boulder County,
Colorado. The successful completion of the effort outlined in this document will help
connect the prairie ecosystem of Weld County to the nearby foothills of the Rocky
Mountains.
A. OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS
Systems of open lands and trails help weave natural places, cultural and historic
resources and recreation opportunities into our daily lives. These networks can
also help satisfy a diverse set of environmental and social needs.
Southwestern Weld County is at a crossroads in many respects. After decades as
a sleepy agriculture-dominated area north of Denver, the area has awakened to
find commercial, industrial and residential development proposals reshaping and
redefming much of the region.
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project is a multi-jurisdictional,
multi-objective planning project. It will bridge the southwestern Weld County
prairie ecosystem and the Boulder County foothills through the partner
communities of Dacono,Erie,Firestone,Frederick and Longmont.
Through a partnership with Great Outdoors Colorado, the St. Vrain Valley Open
Lands and Trails Project will accomplish the following:
1. Develop an inventory and prioritization schedule for the preservation or
acquisition of Open Lands.
2. Develop a phasing and implementation plan for a regional trail system.
3. Develop a schedule of funding needs for the items listed above.
Project Benefits
This master plan provides a coordinated, comprehensive plan for the
implementation activities of five communities, two counties and various state
agencies. The St.Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project encompasses a 70-
square mile area in southwest Weld County. This project is large and its success
will hinge on the coordinated efforts of the project partners. These communities
have agreed that a comprehensive plan is the most appropriate tool to use in
guiding their efforts in moving toward the goal of a regional open lands and trail
system.
Open space conservation is becoming essential for intelligent growth in any
community. Communities which offer easy access to trails, greenways and open
lands are often the most attractive communities to homebuyers. Preservation and
conservation of open lands can help a community grow in a more organized
manner, preventing the higher costs of unplanned development while creating a
high quality of life that attracts businesses and residents to communities. hi the
long term, economic advantages will go to communities that are able to guide
growth through land conservation and other smart growth measures. Open space
also serves to boost local economies by attracting tourists and supporting outdoor
recreation while the protection of agricultural lands also helps safeguard the
Page 4 Introduction
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
future of farming economies and communities. Floodplain protection may be
another benefit of open space preservation and can offer a cost-effective
alternative to expensive flood-control measures. Open space conservation is also
often the cheapest way to safeguard drinking water, help maintain clean air
quality,and take a step toward achieving other environmental goals.
Trails can be considered linear parks that provide more recreation alternatives
than a single parcel of land. A trail system brings an experience to users that
"unfolds" as they move along the system. This trail is envisioned as a
complement to an effective open space preservation effort now beginning in Weld
County and well-established in Boulder County. Already,millions of Americans
are linked by multi-use trails to the outdoors,providing opportunities for exercise
and an alternative means of transportation. In addition to the physical benefits,
effective trails can also do a part to improve an area's air and water quality.
Commuting bicyclists and pedestrians help to reduce air pollution and natural trail
corridors preserve trees and vegetation that refresh the air and filter runoff that
flows into rivers and streams. Trail corridors also serve wildlife by linking
migration and normal travel routes with other sites. Preservation of riparian(near
water) habitat is one of the strongest actions a community can take to maintain
wildlife species.
A trail system for the St. Vrain Valley should help preserve local plants and
animal life while providing an opportunity for outdoor ecological classrooms.
Trail corridors should provide buffers between different land uses, separating
commercial and residential areas while at the same time creating links between
urban,suburban and rural communities.
This trail corridor is proposed to be part of a larger open space effort. Together,
they should provide controlled public access through, or adjacent to, areas not
otherwise open to the public. While not all protected open lands should(or will)
have public access, a trail system can complement these protected lands through
educational opportunities that illustrate and interpret land use, wildlife, historic,
economic and scenic elements of this area of Colorado.
B. PROJECT GOALS
Goals for the St.Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project include:
1. Develop an inventory and prioritization schedule for the preservation or
acquisition of conservation lands.
• Determine which characteristics will form the basis for identifying
conservation lands.
• Assess known property owners and explore their opinions on open space
preservation.
• Assess any additional parcels which exhibit characteristics of
conservation lands.
• Explore strategies of land protection in Weld County.
• Complete individual consultations with selected property owners.
• Prioritize parcels of land for protection or acquisition.
• Develop a cost estimate for the implementation of the open space portion
of this plan.
Introduction Page 5
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
2. Develop a phasing and implementation plan for the regional trail network.
• Determine gaps in the existing trail network.
• Develop a trail strategy with citizen input.
• Assess environmental factors of trail placement.
• Develop trail segments that are part of a logical system.
• Develop construction needs and phasing schedule for each trail segment.
• Develop a method to involve Weld County Youth Conservation Corp/
AmeriCorp and other volunteers to assist in trail construction and
ongoing maintenance.
3. Develop a schedule of funding needs for the above items.
• Continue the ownership of/and investment in the project through the
project partners.
• Develop a systematic approach for continual project funding.
• Develop an implementation schedule to ensure project completion.
• Enlist additional stakeholders to form a multi-jurisdictional non-profit
citizen group that will monitor the progress of this project and develop
program policies.
By developing a phasing and implementation plan for the preservation or
acquisition of open lands and the development of a regional trail, limited
funds can be spent based on identified criteria, field work, landowner
meetings and resource need. This should help ensure the successful
protection or acquisition of priority parcels within the project area.
The formalization of a vision for the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails
Project will provide a clear partnership structure and a well-defined project
for the public.
Page 6 Introduction
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
III . SETTING
A. OVERVIEW
The study area for this project covers approximately 70 square miles in
southwestern Weld County. The southern boundary of the area is WCR 6, the
eastern boundary WCR 15,the northern boundary is roughly the St. Vrain River
and the western boundary is just west of the Boulder/Weld County Line.
This area lies just north of the metropolitan Denver area and just east of the
Boulder/Longmont corridor.
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Setting Page 7
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
B. TOPOGRAPHY AND WATERWAYS
This area is characterized by gently rolling land forms just east of the foothills of
the Rocky Mountains.
While a casual observer driving on Interstate 25 might fail to notice a traditional
Colorado "valley" in this area, it is indeed carved into a number of broad valleys
that divide the area into distinct drainages. These valleys support a mix of
agricultural, residential and commercial/induslrial land uses that are bringing
radical changes to the character of the area. This entire project area drains into
the St.Vrain River and will be identified as the St.Vrain Valley in this document.
St. Vrain River
The St.Vrain River dominates the northern portion of the study area. It is a broad
shallow valley through most of this area. Gently sloping land forms are found-
especially on the south side of the river. For a portion of this area, however, a
few dramatic cliff and ridgeline formations can be found on the north side of the
river. At Sandstone Ranch, a sizable sandstone formation is exposed and for the
three miles of river east of the ranch, a very steep bluff is found just north of the
river. The land forms along the St. Vrain River are changing dramatically due to
the level of gravel mining along the river corridor. The St.Vrain River corridor is
being intensively mined for gravel. As these mining operations end, they will
leave a series of lakes and ponds from Longmont to the point where the St. Vrain
River joins the South Platte River. The nature of the mining reclamation effort in
both Boulder and Weld Counties will determine whether the St. Vrain River
corridor becomes a series of sterile ponds or a rich mix of water and riparian
habitat.
A mix of riparian and grassland areas can be found along the St.Vrain River near
Sandstone Ranch and at the confluence with Boulder Creek. These areas are two
examples of the rich and diverse river habitats that can be found in the St. Vrain
Valley.
Boulder Creek / Coal Creek
These two creeks enter the project area near the Town of Erie. They flow
generally from the southwest to the northeast with Coal Creek joining Boulder
Creek about ''A mile north of Erie. The land forms rise steeply just east of Coal
Creek with a series of intermittent drainageways feeding the creek from that
direction. Coal Creek passes along the eastern edge of"old town" Erie before
crossing into Boulder County south of Kenosha Road. The banks of Coal Creek
are steep and seem generally unstable and easily eroded.
Coal Creek joins Boulder Creek just south of State Hwy. 52 and just west of the
Weld/Boulder County line. Flowing northeast, Boulder Creek generally
meanders through Weld County with slight hills on the west bank and a broader,
open landscape on its eastern bank. Extensive gravel mining is occurring along
Boulder Creek and the nature of much of this area is in a state of flux. The
portions of the Boulder Creek corridor not currently being mined, however,
include some of the most beautiful stretches of land in the entire project area.
Well-kept farms and ranches highlight this landscape.
Page 8 Setting
CSU/OOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
F
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Setting
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT PAGE: 10
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT
RASED ON THE 1990 FEMA INSURANCE RATE MAP PAGE: 1 1
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Other Waterways
The project area is crossed by numerous small creeks, intermittent streams and
irrigation ditches/structures. These include: Lefthand Creek, Spring Gulch,
Little Dry Creek, Idaho Creek, Godding Hollow, Erie Ditch, Stanley/Frico
Ditch,Last Chance Ditch and Bull Ditch.
C. VEGETATION
The St. Vrain Valley lies in the shadow of the Front Range of Colorado along
the Rocky Mountains. It is a part of the Great Plains grassland ecosystem that
extends for hundreds of miles eastward. In general the climate is sunny, with
warm summers and cool winters. Precipitation varies from season to season
but is characterized by low annual precipitation.
The grasslands ecosystem is devoid of trees except along stream courses where
riparian habitats are found. The grassland system exists below elevations of
5,600 feet and is distinguished by short mats of compact grasses interspersed
with taller bunch-type grasses. Native species include blue grama,
buffalograss, sand dropseed, red threeawn, bottlebrush, squirreltail, barley
foxtail,bluestem,cheatgrass(an undesireable species), switchgrass,wheatgrass
and needle-and-thread grass. Shrubs include yucca, prickly pear cactus,
hedgehog cactus, ball cactus, fringed sagebrush, winterfat, broom snakeweed,
rabbitbrush and saltbrush. Willows and cottonwoods highlight the landscape
and also delineate permanent streambeds. The grasses are green only during
the moist spring and early summer months. Late summer drought or dry
periods turn the plains golden brown as the grasses became dormant until the
arrival of the spring rains the following year. The large number of forb species
become evident when bright sunflowers, prairie-clovers, Kansas gayfeather,
evening primrose,heliotrope,Russian thistle and goldenrod,just to name a few,
bloom.
Lowland riparian ecosystems occur along the banks of the St. Vrain River,
Boulder Creek, Coal Creek and in wetland areas. They include floodplain
woodlands and marshes with various associations of grasses,herbs, shrubs and
trees that depend on a more or less continuous and accessible supply of water.
Several types of plant communities exist ti u rfq, xary+� I
in lowland riparian zones,The cottonwood ajt *a" ° t 1`i ,1,6`41 ,
community, dominated almost exclusively
by plains cottonwoods, with varying
amounts of peach-leaved willow is the
predominant stream community. Also
present are several shrubs, such as wild ;s‘; "'
plum, hawthorn, chokecherry, currant,
wild rose, snowberry, and shrubby
willows. Saltgrass and sand dropseed are
the most common grasses. Marshes occur
in shallow margins of streams and ponds,
and elsewhere where the water table is
high and standing water remains for most
of the year. Riparian ecosystems are
continually changing in response to the
dynamic nature of the stream channel. As
the stream meanders across the flood plain Typical vegetation pattern
Page 12 Setting
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
new sandbars are created which are then invaded by sandbar willows. These
shrubs guard against erosion while building soil. Eventually, cottonwoods take
the place of the willows. As this process is happening, other portions of the
stream are undercutting mature cottonwoods. These frees in time collapse into
the creek,sand is deposited,sandbar willows grow and the process is repeated.
Since settlement began, the hand of man has erased most of the indigenous
vegetation in this area. Agriculture uses that focus on hay, cattle and crop
production have replaced the huge herds of bison that once roamed the plains.
Today,farms,croplands and pastureland characterize the landscape. Irrigated and
non-irrigated crops of sugar beets, corn, pinto beans, wheat, barley and oats are
the predominant crops. Alfalfa and hay meadows have replaced most of the
native grasses and where native grasses do remain, some of the land has been
over-grazed. Common grasses dominate the area along with yucca and cacti.
Within the riparian ecosystem, a mixed community has replaced the cottonwood
community. Various combinations of cottonwood, peach-leaved willow, box
elder,American elm,green ash and Russian olive, all introduced by early settlers,
can now be observed along the streambeds. Some of these species (eg. Russian
Olive) are now considered undesirable species. In addition, non-native smooth
brome, redtop orchard grass, and reed canarygrass are now interspersed
throughout marshy areas. Although riparian ecosystems in the area rarely exist in
their natural state, they continue to support a diverse and abundant population of
flora and fauna. It has been said that a strong riparian ecosystem is the barometer
of a healthy environment.
To date, urbanization of the St. Vrain Valley has had the greatest impact on the
ecosystem of this high plains grassland. Tracts of subdivisions and large urban
estates are now replacing farmland. Bluegrass and fescue lawns replace crop and
pasture land and new cultivars of trees, shrubs, perennials,and annuals add color,
texture and vertical elements to a relatively horizontal landscape. Increased water
usage is transforming this semi-arid area into a lush landscape and housing
developments built near streamsides are replacing riparian ecosystems. Human
use has changed this landscape for over a century, and will continue to do so.
Because of this, an ecological awareness must be brought into the design and
review of any development within this ecosystem.
D. WILDLIFE
Wildlife is defined in this document as wild vertebrates, mollusks, and
crustaceans that exist as a species in a natural state in their place of origin, either
currently or historically. This also includes those exotic or non-native species
which have been introduced into the wild by the Colorado Division of Wildlife or
classified as native by the Colorado Wildlife Commission. Critical and
significant habitats and threatened/endangered species are classifications that will
require some impact/mitigation as development continues to occur in the area.
Wildlife inhabitants of the project area include a variety of mammals, birds,
reptiles, amphibians and aquatic species. A wide variety of wildlife and both
game and non-game species are present throughout the area.
Setting Page 13
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Mammalian
Mammals that inhabit the St. Vrain Valley area include: mule deer, black bear,
white tailed deer, coyote, red fox, raccoon, striped skunk, beaver, muskrat,
porcupine, fox squirrel, black-tailed prairie dog, thirteen-lined ground squirrel
and cottontail rabbit. Most of the habitat used by these can be found along the St.
Vrain River and Boulder Creek riparian corridors. These areas are lush,rich,and
in some areas,predominantly native habitats. The prairie dog and ground squirrel
which inhabit pasture areas outside the riparian zone are exceptions.
Small-sized mammals are found in a variety of environments in the Saint Vrain
Valley. Native shortgrass inhabitants include shrews (Merriam's shrew and the
water shrew), bats, prairie vole, hispid pocket mouse, silky pocket mouse and
other rodents. The western harvest mouse, plains harvest mouse, meadow vole,
and long-tailed vole are all rodents that live in moist riparian areas or wetland
margins. The deer mouse dwells in virtually all habitats.
Avian
Raptors:
Birds in the area include many species of raptors (birds of prey): the bald
eagle, great homed owl, long-eared owl, eastern screech-owl, rough-legged
hawk, ferruginous hawk, red-tailed hawk, Swainson's hawk, northern
harrier, sharp-shinned hawk, prairie falcon, wild turkey and turkey vulture
have been sighted.
The great horned owl, a year-round resident, primarily rests in large
cottonwood and willow trees. Other owls seen along the St. Vrain riparian
corridor during breeding season include the long-eared owl and eastern
screech-owl. The screech-owl nests in tree cavities, while the large long-
eared owl nests in stick-built structures. All of the owls prey on small
mammals.
The rough-legged hawk can be found during the winter season and
Swainson's hawks are commonly found on agricultural land throughout the
region. The red-tailed hawk and Swainson's hawk are common raptors in
open woodlands and ranchland. Both feed on a mix of small mammals and
snakes.
The ferruginous hawk also appears in ranchland habitats but is less
common. Prairie dog areas could be especially attractive to ferruginous
hawks, which are one of the few species to prey directly on adult prairie
dogs. These hawk's nests are often sticknests and can be found in large
riparian trees. Prairie dog"towns"are also prime habitat for the Burrowing
Owl. The northern harrier is a ground-nesting raptor species usually seen
flying low over grasslands and/or marshes, where it hunts for voles. The
sharp-shinned hawk is a woodland bird and is often seen in riparian forest.
Waterbirds:
Canada Geese appear to have nested along the St. Vrain River while
mallards appear to have nested along several drainages. Cinnamon, blue-
winged, and greenwinged teal can be found and a variety of ducks occur
during migration. Great blue and black crowned night herons have been
observed along both ponds and waterways. The wetland complexes along
the drainages could also support American bitterns,Virginia rails, and soras.
Shorebirds that likely nest in the area include the killdeer that may nest
Page 14 Setting
CSU/DOL4 Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
along rocky bars in the St. Vrain River. The common snipe can also be
found in cattails.
Small Birds:
A variety of small birds have been seen in the area during spring migration
and the breeding season. The small bird species can be identified as being
associated with either riparian woodlands, river banks, or grasslands
habitats. The species list for the area is as follows (common migrants are
indicated by"m").
Riparian Woodlands:
Northern flicker, downy woodpecker, red-headed woodpecker, western
wood-pewee, American crow, black-billed magpie, blue jay, black-capped
chickadee, house wren, brown creeper, gray catbird, brown thrasher (m),
American robin, Townsend's solitaire, yellow warbler, yellow-romped
warbler (m), orange-crowned sparrow (m), blue grosbeak, indigo bunting,
spotted towhee (m), dark-eyed junco (m), American goldfmch and lesser
goldfmch.
River Banks:
Belted kingfisher,northern rough-winged swallow,bank swallow.
Grasslands:
Eastern kingbird, western kingbird, homed lark, western meadowlark,
vesper sparrow,grasshopper sparrow.
Reptilian and Amphibian
Amphibians:
Bullfrogs,Woodhouse's toad,and chorus frogs all call the St.Vrain corridor
home. Other amphibians that could occur in wet habitats include the tiger
salamander,northern leopard frog,Great Plains toad and spadefoot toad.
Snakes:
The area is home to the bullsnake, yellow-bellied racer, western terrestrial
garter snake,common garter snakes,and northern water snake. A variety of
other snake species could occur, including plains garter snake and milk
snake in riparian areas and the western hognose snake and prairie rattlesnake
in dry areas.
Other reptiles that could be expected include the short-homed lizard, six-lined
racetunner and many-lined skink in native grassland, and both the snapping turtle
and western painted turtle in ponds or slow-moving stream sections.
Aquatic
Aquatic species include small minnows (probably the fathead minnow) in pools
and large carp in deeper portions of the St. Vrain River. Channels contain brook
stickleback, stoneroller, longnose dace, creek chub, red shiner, bigmouth shiner,
plains killfish,plains topminnow,jonny darter and Iowa darter. The native"game
fish"most likely to occur is the green sunfish.
Setting Page 15
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Threatened, Endangered or Concerned Status
This area is home to many unique and valuable animals that require special
protection. Such animals are listed as threatened, endangered or concerned
status by various government agencies. The following is a list of animals that are
known to inhabit the study area:
Mammalian:
Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse federally threatened/state threatened
Avian:
Whooping Crane federally endangered/state endangered
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher federally endangered/state endangered
American Peregrine Falcon federally endangered
Piping Plover federally threatened/state threatened
Bald Eagle federally threatened/state threatened
Western Snowy Plover state special concern
White Pelican state special concern
Reptiles and Amphibians:
Northern Leopard Frog state threatened
Aquatic:
Common Shiners state threatened
Brassy Minnows state threatened
Northern Red Belly Dace state threatened
Stonecats state special concern
Iowa Darters state special concern
E. LAND USE/DEVELOPMENT
Population Growth in Colorado
Since 1990, Colorado's population has been increasing by 2%which is twice the
national average. This places Colorado third among the fastest growing states in
the United States, behind Arizona and Nevada. This growth is projected to
continue for years to come. As the average age of the population increases, and
with the appeal of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado will also be a very attractive
place for retirement and/or second homes.
Growth in Weld County
Weld County is the third largest county in Colorado covering 4,004 square miles.
It is located in the northeastern portion of the state. Within Weld County, there
are 32 municipalities. The county seat is located in Greeley, the largest
municipality. In the study area of southwestern Weld County, the partnering
municipalities have experienced rapid population growth over the past ten years.
Of the communities in the study area, Erie's population has increased 138%,
Frederick has grown by 84%, Firestone, 24%, and Dacono, 6%. In total, the
Weld County population has grown by 27% from 1990 to 1999 making it the
fourth fastest growing of the 63 Colorado counties.
Page 16 Setting
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Due to the increase in the Weld County population, land use is changing rapidly.
Historically, Weld County has been considered an agricultural county but
according to the 1990 Census, less than 40% of the county was actually
agricultural-dependent. In 1998, only 30% of the total employable population of
the county were employed in agriculture-related practices. This data indicates an
increase in urban land use and therefore a decrease in land area dedicated to
farmland and open space. The percentage of urban land use in Weld County,
however, is not as significant as the pattern and location of such use. Urban land
uses in Weld County tend to be dispersed and intermingled within rural areas. As
the urban population of Weld County continues to grow, the remaining open
lands, which can be considered to be a nonrenewable resource, will pass into a
more urban type of development. The result of this development can place stress
on the natural environment. As this development pressure strengthens, so must
the effort to protect the natural balance of the area. This open lands and trail
project should help the partner communities as they strive to protect the natural
and nonrenewable resources that currently exist in the study area.
Still, municipalities and county governments in the project area have conceptual
or preliminary plans, either pending or already approved, that will develop
hundreds of acres of land in southwest Weld County. As the cost to develop in
the Metro Denver, Boulder and Longmont areas increases, developers and the
home buying public have shifted their focus to this area. If a concerted effort to
preserve valuable open space is not made as these development proposals are
submitted the opportunities described in this plan will be lost in a very short
timeframe.
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Setting Page 17
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT PAGE: 18
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND _
----, Erie Thornton
TRAILS PROJECT I
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SCALE: Iwya] Frederick r
ail0 MILES 2MILS 4nILESi ® Longmont PAGE: 19 i
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
IV. OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PLAN
A. OPEN LANDS
The following steps were taken to define, identify and prioritize open lands to be
included in this project.
Preservation Criteria
In the case of the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project, it was essential
to define what types or elements of land comprise "conservation lands," and are
therefore lands targeted for protection. This definition process helped the project
team and Colorado Open Lands (COL) prioritize potential conservation lands as
well as strategize how to work with the appropriate landowners.
A few methods were used to elicit the definition of these lands. The first method
used was a survey of project team members as well as landowners at public
meetings. The second method involved fieldwork and research. Lastly, an initial
mapping analysis was conducted.
Using these three approaches,the following criteria and supporting rationale were
developed.
Critical View Corridors/Scenic Viewsheds
These should strive to protect highly visible, sensitive ground that should
not be developed.
Riparian Habitat
Most important is the protection of wildlife habitat in the riparian areas.
Recreational Opportunities
Emphases on foot travel and passive uses are identified as the most
important recreational opportunities. Secondary are bicycling and
equestrian uses with the potential for hunting a fmal consideration.
Educational Opportunities
These should emphasize natural and cultural features in the area rather than
man-made features.
Open Space Relationship
Emphasis on a parcel's relationship to other open space parcels, nearby
townships, and municipal Open Space goals are of greatest importance.
Location is of secondary importance.
Agricultural Lands
Of greatest importance are sites that are actively being used or are under
threat of loss. Specific parcel size is of secondary importance. Significant
agricultural lands are ones that are comprised of prime soils (national
importance), high potential dry croplands (statewide importance), irrigated
lands,and prime lands if irrigated.
Historic Sites
These should include any sites of local,state or national importance.
Page 20 Open Lands and Trails Plan
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Overlay Analysis (GIS)
Once broad criteria were established, step number two began to identify the
location of land types that met these criteria. Using a computer mapping overlay
analysis, different "layers" were created based on some of the criteria listed
above. Because not all of the desired information for this project was available in
digital form for such an analysis, the "layers" ultimately used were agricultural
lands, key wildlife species, urban growth boundaries, ownership and aerial
photography data. Broad themes emerged through this overlay analysis: the
entire project area is prime irrigated agricultural lands; prime wildlife corridors
are congruent with river corridors such as the St. Vrain River and Boulder Creek;
and while there are significantly sized parcels in the project area,many are being
subdivided or mined,or both.
Project-wide Priority Areas
Based upon the preservation criteria, the computer overlay analysis and input
from the steering committee and key stakeholders, initial priority areas were set
up as general"bubble areas"and include the vast majority of the key parcels that
appear to meet the project partners' priorities. These "bubble areas" have been
divided into loosely defined phases. Additional input was sought to further
define these phases. Phase One is defined by the overlay analysis, trail needs as
identified, landowner participation at public meetings, and landowner direction
from public meetings. Future phases are comprised of the rest of the project
priority areas. Please see the accompanying maps for a depiction of these priority
areas and phases..
Significant Parcels
Once criteria had been established, conservation lands defined and priority areas
set, landowners could be contacted. Phase One is broken into three current
priority areas: the lower Boulder Creek, the western St. Vrain River corridor
(from 1-25 to Sandstone Ranch)and the eastern St. Vrain River corridor (from I-
25 to Weld County Road 19). A general description of the outcome of
preliminary meetings with these landowners is provided later in this document.
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Open Lands and Trails Plan Page 21
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OPEN LANDS PRIORITY AREAS - PHASE 1
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT
[PAGE: 22
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ST. VRAIN VALLEY OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT PAGE: 23
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
B. TRAIL CORRIDOR
General
Determining a route for any type of trail is essentially a"local"decision made by
willing participants. Trail alignments at this time are actually more an indication
of the general intention of the trail route than a particular location for the trail
right-of-way itself. Temporary alignments will undoubtedly be necessary as the
trail system is developed. Some of these alignments may involve simple signage
that directs users along a particular county mad for a given distance.
Trail Segment Analysis
The criteria listed below have been used as a conceptual guide to analyze each
segment in order to establish a priority ranking for development. The criteria
have been used to measure the development factors for trail construction and the
ownership,environmental and aesthetic properties of a segment. The measures of
each criteria are summed as a total score for each segment. These rankings are
subjective and based upon the best information available at the time of the
ranking. The rankings should be considered a general indication of the segment
priority.
A score of 18 to 23 indicates highest priority.
A score of 24 to 29 indicates high priority.
A score of more than 30 indicates moderate priority.
CRITERIA ELEMENT SUBJECTIVE MEASURE
■ Ownership and Owner Willingness Very willing= 1
Is the segment in public or private ownership? Are the owners willing to Somewhat willing=2.
dedicate land to the trail? Unwilling=3
■ Owner's Conditions No conditions= 1
Does the owner have a number of conditions or stipulations that must be Some conditions=2
addressed before the trail can be accessed by the public? What costs and Many conditions=3
time are involved to meet these conditions?
• Cost for Trail Development in Segment Area Low cost= 1
What are the anticipated costs for developing the trail segment? Moderate cost=2
High cost=3
■ Impact on Wildlife Habitat and/or Environmentally Sensitive Lands No impact= 1
Are there wildlife habitats,migration corridors,or environmentally Some impact= 2
sensitive lands along the segment that might be disturbed or impacted by Major impact=3
trail users?
• Timing Short-term= 1
When could the segment be available for public use? Mid-range=2
Long-term=3
• Location of Segment Connects with other trails= 1
In which jurisdiction is the segment located? Does the segment provide a Close to other trails= 2
linkage to other portions of the trail or other trail systems,or is it an Far from existing frail= 3
isolated section?
■ Anticipated Trail Surface Existing= 1
Is there already a pathway through the segment? Is an interim treatment Partial=2
needed to make the frail accessible? What type of permanent surface is Non-existing=3
anticipated for the segment?
Page 24 Open Lands and Trails Plan
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
CRITERIA SUBJECTIVE MEASURE
• Current Use Compatible= 1
How is the land currently being used along the segment? Are there areas Somewhat compatible= 2
zoned for mining and resource extraction,agriculture,open space,etc.? Conflicting use=3
■ Visual/Aesthetic Quality Very significant= 1
Are there significant visual or aesthetic features along the segment, such as Somewhat significant=2
vistas,areas of native vegetation,or interesting water features? Insignificant==3
■ Accessibility Easy access= 1
Is the trail accessible from a public roadway or intersection? Also,is Somewhat accessible:= 2
parking available and does the segment meet accessibility requirements Inaccessible= 3
under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)? Is a trailhead needed to
access the segment?
■ Proximity to Water Elements Adjacent to= 1
Is the segment adjacent to the St. Vrain River,Boulder Creek,Coal Creek, Close to=2
or other water features? Far from=3
■ Number of Owners Along Segment One owner= 1
How many individuals own property along the ideal trail orientation within Few owners= 2
the segment? Many owners=3
✓ Existing Conditions Good conditions=
What type of conditions exist along the trail segment? Fair conditions=2
Geology and Terrain Type(including hydrology and topography) Are Difficult conditions==3
there steep slopes?
Good conditions= l
Soils Type Fair conditions=2
Are there difficult soils along this segment? Difficult conditions°=3
Floodplain Location Good conditions= 1
Is the segment in an area subject to frequent or seasonal flooding? Fair conditions=2
Difficult conditions==3
• Anticipated Trail Opportunities Along Segment Very significant= 1
Possible features could include wildlife viewing areas,historical or cultural Somewhat significant=2
sites,recreational facilites. Insignificant =3
• Property Split Conforming= 1 ---
Does the dedication of land for a trail complicate the property ownership Special condition=2
issue by reducing the owner's overall parcel to a size below the minimum Nonconforming=3
size allowed in the designated zone?
SEGMENT SCORE SUMMARY
Segment Score Segment Score
I. Barbour Ponds/East 23 8. Cty.Rd. 8 to Erie 26
2. St.Vrain to Rail R.O.W. 30 9. Erie 22
3. Rail R.O.W. 20 10. Coal Creek to Boulder Creek 24
4. Rail R.O.W. 19 11. Boulder Creek 33
5. Rail R.O.W. 20 12. Boulder Creek 26
6. Rail R.O.W. 21 13. Sandstone Ranch 18
7. Rail R.O.W.to I-25 32 14. St.Vrain to Barbour Ponds 25
Open Lands and Trails Plan Page 25
C5U/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Segment Descriptions and Route Alternatives
The trails component of the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails project area
has been divided into 14 segments. Each of these segments are discussed in a 3
page format that follows. Segment descriptions include:
• Information on current conditions.
• A discussion of known opportunities in the segment.
• Possible design and orientation alternatives.
• Criteria scores indicating development priority and segment ranking.
• A description of a preferred trail route.
• A projected construction cost estimate.
• A map of the segment identifying the general trail route or corridor,
roads,water features and other information.
An index map for the proposed frail corridor segments follows on the next page.
Construction Cost Estimates
The following construction cost estimates are based on the long-term trail
orientation. Projected costs are current as of this publishing.
SEGMENT COST SUMMARY
Segment Cost Segment Cost
1. Barbour Ponds/East $ 1,695,193 8. Cty. Rd. 8 to Erie $ 1,114,218
2. St.Vrain to Rail R.O.W. $ 2,551,772 9. Erie $ 1,250,019
3. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,663,321 10. Coal Creek to Boulder Creek $2,674,591
4. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,066,154 11. Boulder Creek $ 1,723,808
5. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,624,596 12. Boulder Creek $ 1,752,602
6. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,197,616 13. Sandstone Ranch $ 865,435
7. Rail R.O.W.to I-25 $ 1,061,416 14. St.Vrain to Barbour Ponds $ 3,253,824
Tota I $23,494,565
Page 26 Open Lands and Trails Plan
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ST. VRAIN OPEN LANDS AND TRAILS PROJECT PAGE: 27
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0MLES 2MILES 4MLEs N O RTH PAGE: 28
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 1
Current Conditions
Interstate 25 (1-25) cuts through this segment running north/south. Barbour
Ponds State Park, the Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center (under construction)
and gravel mining dominate this area. The south edge of this segment is near the
large commercial developments at Del Camino. East of 1-25, housing
development and dairy operations are found. The reconstruction work on 1-25 in
recent years by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) provided a
short paved section of trail under I-25 on the south bank of the St.Vrain River.
Opportunities
Both Barbour Ponds State Park and the Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center
provide a unique opportunity for the trail system. A large trail head is proposed
on the Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center site. East of 1-25,the county owned
land currently being mined is slated to include park lands when the mining is
completed. This park,and the area near the southern Weld County administration
building should also provide access to the regional trail.
Alternatives
The Town of Firestone has conceptual plans for a trail network that would be
built through proposed developments running from their existing trail north and
west toward Del Camino. If this system is developed, the regional trail could
potentially exit segment 1 to the south and run through this space until reaching
the existing Firestone Trail. While this alternative is not found on the segment
map, this connection could be completed before the alignment on the map if
developers continue with their projects in Firestone.
as _ fs :,.., . F ,.`t`$' t paid Pe '� { a
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility 1
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 1
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 2
Timing 2 Existing Conditions
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split 2
Current Use 3
Total Points 23
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment.1 Page 29
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 1
Preferred Route
The trail in Segment 1 travels south of Barbour Ponds State Park and County
Road 24'A to Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center where there will be a major
trailhead. From this trailhead,the trail will continue north along the west side of
I-25 until it again reaches the St.Vrain River. It will cross under the highway on
the south side of the river, and then follow the St. Vrain River for approximately
1'A miles,staying on or near the south bank.
This segment will cross the land of about six property owners and negotiations
will have to be completed before any trail can be constructed.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 14,870 $ .90 $ 13,383
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 14,870 $47 $698,890
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 14,870 $ 7 $ 104,090
8' Equestrian Trail If 10,000 $ 18 $ 180,000
2' Discovery Trail If 2,000 $ 5 $ 10,000
10' Boardwalk If 200 $ 150 $30,000
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 3 $25,000 $75,000
Underpass:
At 1-25 (misc. improvements) allow $ 5,000 $ 5,000
Trail Head:
At Eagle Claw Fishing Education allow Provided
Center(Major)
At Weld County Administration allow Provided
Building(Minor)
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 14.9 $350 $5,215
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc.) If 14,959 $ 10 $ 149,590
Subtotal $ 1,272,668
Mobilization 5% $63,633
Engineering 6% $70,360
Adjusted Subtotal $1,412,661
Contingency 20% $ 282,532
Total $ 1,695,193
Page 30 Open Lands and Trails Plan - Segment I
Note:
1- The trail corridor alignment shown is proposed. Final corridor 0
in location is dependent on negotiations with willing landowners. LEGEND
N 2 - Equestrian trail is proposed in this segment east of I-25.
I I 3 - Discovery trails (2' wide) will be developed as appropriate.
Proposed St. Vrain
Valley Trail Corridor 0
[3 6,
A., 1`�-' tCo0tb05t0
Other
S • � Trails
ED
3
At-Grade Crossing
410 Trail Underpass
2
.., .
, ,x � Bridge lig
y e. L ti. ISII
Major Trailhead el- 1
r '" Cty. Rd. 26 `� Minor Trailhead
t am
i r „..
o •
+ Creeks and Rivers X
I:4 1 rid Irrigation Ditches and X Xs
r —
Cty. Rd. 24 3/4 Streams 0 <
U r
Future Weld Lakes and Ponds 7
t County Admin. rn '7 r
r•_ 0 pi
Bldg. and I. - f
Regional Park O f Roads ..1
$ (4 n 0
U Railroad Right-of-Way .� so
1
ty. Rd. 24 1/2 ripN
r
I }a
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 2
Current Conditions
The St. Vrain River passes through this segment and features many ponds along
the river. There are clear views to the west. Several irrigation ditches also pass
through this section. Much of the property along the river is being mined for
gravel and there are also several farm properties, Weld County Roads(WC:R) 13,
15, and 26 pass through this segment as well as several mining roads. There is a
bridge that crosses the St.Vrain at WCR 13 in this segment.
Opportunities
The area along the St. Vrain River and around the mining ponds is suitable for a
trail. The mining ponds attract waterfowl and may provide for a nice wildlife
viewing area. The old Union Pacific right of way is available as a possible trail
connection beginning north of WCR 26%.
Alternatives
The most interesting orientation and the long term goal for the trail through this
segment is along, and near, the St. Vrain River. Wherever possible, the trail
should generally follow the river and travel between the mining ponds to create a
less monotonous trail. An alternative short-term route cuts away from the St.
Vrain River at WCR 13, south and east to the intersection of Roads 15 and 26,
where it joins the old railroad right-of-way and then heads southwest into
segment 3. This alternative is part of the Town of Firestone trail effort.
s o.i _lonek `�tg��� E'sa "�,S, o ^'}`�t '7� " :� ° I� It ig R°�' E(:ni h �'+ ^isS
p+ 9�.,,�'�•';i.,r. �Ak.;r�le Q%f1 i n�eY+HI+,�9'�f'hY„"
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway 2
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 3
Timing 2 Existing Conditions 3
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 2
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 3 Property Split 2
Current Use 2 _
Total Points 30
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 2 Page 33
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 2
Preferred Route
The trail in Segment 2 begins on the south side of the St. Vrain River and follows
the river for approximately 1% miles. A minor traithead could be established at
the river and WCR 13. From there it will go east following the St. Vrain River
until it nears the intersection of WCR 26%and the old railroad bed. The railroad
bed will be used as trail for the remainder of this segment.
The route in this segment passes through approximately four different properties
before meeting the right-of-way controlled by the Town of Firestone.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 22,770 $ .90 $20,493
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 22,770 $47 $ 1„070,190
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 22,770 $7 $ 159,390
8' Equestrian Trail If 10,000 $ 18 $ 180,000
2' Discovery Trail If 5,000 $5 $25,000
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 2 $25,000 $ 50,000
Underpass:
WCR 13 allow $ 100,000 $ 100,000
At-grade Crossing ea 3 $ 1,000 $ 3,000
Trail Head:
At WCR 13 (minor,home access) allow 1 $50,000 $ 50,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area:(Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1,000 If 22.8 $350 $7,980
Plantings,(grass,trees, etc.) If 22,770 $ 10 $227,700
Subtotal $ 1,915,746
Mobilization 5% $95,787
Engineering 6% $ 114,944
Adjusted Subtotal S 2,126,477
Contingency 20% $425,295
Total $2,551,772
Page 34 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 2
.4�� LEGEND
J f
' ,, Proposed St. Vrain
a ar Valley Trail Corridor
0
�6tip Connections to Other
4< 3
....
r •�a• Trails% .„
s,,,z,„
. _ , . •-• iH .0. to ,,-3 b
e 4 8 - :", “ ,. )7v(--#31-'.. -" x iF in
At-Grade Crossing
Y- U
r. / Tra sip il Underpass
v:. y_ _ �t Bridge
4
pax a / .- MajorTrailhead
K * Minor Trailhead Pi tA
Z -1
0
I! j <
�j : . . ..„..../ Creeks and Rivers 'C
as
.I - i = Irrigation Ditches and '.
Streams Di <
.. � a
—v � , Lakes and Ponds r� r
o pi
.1 Roads
m N o
)
Railroad Right-of-Way -( X
U A
1`997 I
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 3
Current Conditions
There is an existing trail in this segment on the old Union Pacific right-of-way
heading north out of Firestone. The developed trail currently ends at State Hwy.
119. There are good views of the mountains along most of this section of the old
Union Pacific right-of-way.
Opportunities
The trail orientation is already established in this segment. A small trailhead at
Hwy. 119 will provide multi-use access to the trail. A short loop trail should be
developed into the St. Vrain Ranch subdivision. Access to the new school in this
development is especially important.
Alternatives
The existing trail will be paved and the right-of-way modified to allow for
equestrian use. No alternatives are necessary in this segment.
acibier' + & , h sio, ra.v r I, t �s.�-.�e� s4 as pC
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 2
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility 1
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands I Number of Owners along segment 1
Timing 1 Existing Conditions I
Location of Segment 2 Anticipated Trail Opportunities
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split 1
Current Use I
Total Points 20
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 3 Page 37
CSU/DOL9 Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 3
Preferred Route
Segment 3 continues to follow the railroad bed, crossing under State Hwy. 119
with an underpass and crossing WCR 22 at grade. Segment 3 will also have a
crusher fines trail for equestrian use where the trail corridor width permits.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
+
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 10,875 $ .20 $2,175
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 10,875 $47 $ 511,125
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 10,875 $ 7 $76,125
8' Equestrian Trail If 10,875 $ 18 $ 195,790
Underpass:
At State Hwy. 119 allow $ 300,000 $ 300,000
At-grade Crossing ea 1 $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Trail Head:
At Hwy. 119(Minor,w/horses) allow 1 $ 50,000 $50,000
Signage 1000 If 10.9 $350 $3,815
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc.) If 10,875 $ 10 $ 108,750
Subtotal $1,248,740
Mobilization 5% $62,437
Engineering 6% $74,924
Adjusted Subtotal $ 1,386,101
Contingency 20% $277,220
Total $ 1,663,321
Page 38 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 3
Y,
LEGEND
..,-. p Proposed St. Vrain
Valley Trail Corridor 0
• Note:
." 1 - Equestrian use is proposed in this Connections to over
. 3
entire segment. Trails
Ink
ikaAt-Grade Crossing
2' 411$ 'Trail Underpass
XL
imillits
ridge Ili
Major Trailhead 63
MI SD Oil MO OE
. no ection to grade Elm St. * Minor Trailhead
and subdivision St. Vrain Ranch Z -(
Subdivision 0 C
irsd Creeks and Rivers -I x
4-,'" Maple Maple St. /j Irrigation Ditches and ', ye
Streams to <
;,-
U Lakes and Ponds x r
or
> Roads LI
U .<
i Railroad Right-of-Way " 1
2
r I
I I Del Commundo Ln. is
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 4
Current Conditions
The land in this segment is primarily flat. There is a housing development at the
intersection of WCR's 13 and 20. Milavec Lake is a nice feature and a good
location for a major trailhead. The old Union Pacific right-of-way runs parallel to
WCR. 13 on the east side of the roadway and is used as a trail at this time. The
mountains are visible from most locations along this segment.
Opportunities
Milavec Lake is a major attraction in this segment and the trail will provide
access to the existing recreation facilities at the lake.
Alternatives
The trail orientation in this segment is already determined and makes use of the
right of way near WCR 13. No alternatives have been established at this time
although as new developments move through the planning process, access to the
regional trail should be constructed.
1 tt � tt { ,
1
^� a�drt t d9 G '' `f rp
';F�'���tt",�•`ti&.'".ah�.iw'�::�. '.:
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 2
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility 1
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment
Timing 1 Existing Conditions
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split 1
Current Use 1
Total Points 19
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 4 Page 41
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 4
Preferred Route
Segment 4 continues to follow the railroad bed south, staying on the east side of
WCR 13,and crossing over roads 20 and 18. There will be a major trailhead with
horse trailer parking at Milavec Lake. Segment 4 will have a path for horses on
the portion of the trail which is north of the trailhead only.
This segment is completely controlled by the Town of Firestone.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 9,960 $ .20 $ 1,992
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 9,960 $47 $468,120
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 9,960 $7 $69,720
8' Equestrian Trail If 6,640 $ 18 $ 119,520
Bridge:
Gap in rail right-of-way surface ea 1 $25,000 $25,000
At-grade Crossing ea $ 1,000 3 $3,000
'Frail Head:
At Frank Milavec Memorial Lake
(major,with horse access,most allow 1 $ 10,000 $ 10,000
elements already in place)
Signage 1000 If 9.9 $350 $ 3,465
Plantings,(grass,trees, etc.) If 9,960 $ 10 $ 99,600
Subtotal $800,417
Mobilization 5% $40,020
Engineering 6% $48,025
Adjusted Subtotal $888,462
Contingency 20% $ 177,692
Total $ 1,066,154
Page 42 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 4
i - l
t
LEGEND tin
lig
No Name C -:5 P v
Subdivision Proposed St. Vrain
Valley Trail Corridor
0
Connection to future
Firestone trail system Connections to Other 3
Trails
,._ �� Note:
Pil
Missing 1 - Equestrian use is proposed north of At-Grade Crossing
Golf Course` Cty. Rd. 18 in this segment.
2
qui trail Underpass
ridge 4
3 :q
Major Trailhead
iillti
Minor Trailhead a X
Frank Milaveerai Creeks and Rivers "I <
Memorial Lake ; a a
st Irrigation Ditches and Z
t',w" Streams
ma
,v �
a Lakes and Ponds .�
0r
km :• O m
Roads: ,-.. /
- Railroad Right-of-Way
IM
�.�"^�S!
r rTT1T`CtmnxT17 • .
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 5
Current Conditions
The Town of Frederick is located in the center of this segment. The former
Union Pacific right-of-way runs north and south between WCR 13 and Main
Street. The right-of-way crosses State Hwy. 52 at grade. Much of the area has
views of the mountains.
Opportunities
The right-of-way remains a perfect location for the trail. The close proximity to
the towns of Firestone and Dacono makes for excellent trail access which will be
further strengthened by a large trail head located near the crossing of Hwy. 52 and
the old right-of-way. An underpass is necessary at State Hwy. 52.
Alternatives
The trail will make use of the right of way through this segment. It will pass
under State Hwy. 52 and continue south as it exits this segment. No alternatives
have been established at this time regarding the orientation of the trail. The
trailhead will be located just south of State Hwy. 52 and should provide
equestrian access to the trail system.
c j i f !I ANANP to ti r IRIAAA +��° b a. AVAA M, �i,r,.AS =d
MFM .E?f ihzu e re �'.-;a i.f.� ..rl�wE` a
Ownership and Owner Willingness I Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility
Cost for Trail Development 3 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment 1
Timing 1 Existing Conditions 1
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split I
Current Use 1
Total Points 20
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 5 Page 45
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 5
Preferred Route
Segment 5 continues to follow the railroad bed south, past Firestone and
Frederick. The trail crosses over WCR 16 and follows the railroad bed between
WCR 13 and Main Street in Frederick. From there it will pass under State Hwy.
52 and follow the railroad bed to the southwest. There will be a major trailhead
located near the intersection of State Hwy. 52 and WCR 13.
About four landowners will need to approached regarding trail alignment in this
segment.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 9,972 $ .20 $ 1,994
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 9,972 $47 $468,684
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 9,972 $7 $69,804
Bridge:
Gap in rail surface ea 1 $25,000 25,000
Underpass:
State Hwy. 52 allow $500,000 $500,000
At-grade Crossing ea 1 $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Trail Head:
At State Hwy. 52(Major) allow 1 $50,000 $50,000
Signage 1000 If 9.9 $350 $3,465
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 9,972 $ 10 $99,720
Subtotal $ 1,219,667
Mobilization 5% $60,983
Engineering 6% $73,180
Adjusted Subtotal $ 1,353,830
Contingency 20% $270,766
Total $ 1,624,596
Page 46 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 5
i it0
i' o LEGEND
an use is proposed in this
the trail north of Hwy. 52. The j':.a
this segment will accommodateIC Proposed St. vra;a
i" fillill
horses will be allowed south of r Valley Trail corridor
i
1. I3
Connections to Other
'. t =' Trails
t g
t. ._�
�� � Iin
At-Grade Crossing
I ~ r 4,
E Sa --- 1 f H ea trail Underpass
-- Mil rills
J _ gillAridge
� Major Trailheadtill
" • ' "i - 1 FREDERICK
� '''._ 3 f -' * Minor Trailhead
il
r Z --4
O •
n, + -' ion to Creeks and Rivets ""I 1
A:iv , , v as
.y
"Ci Irrigation Ditches and r z
t ...1' �'� � W Streams
0a
' `� U tlitillit 1Lakes and Ponds .A r
pi
Li Roads .c
PI
Railroad Right-of-Way .4 1
14
I, l _'6 A COl \O , ... r
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 6
Current Conditions
This segment is located southwest of Dacono. There are several large farm
properties as well as some residential and industrial uses in this area. The Union
Pacific right-of-way crosses through this segment on the east side of Dacono.
The Stanley/Frico ditch enters south of Dacono and passes through the segment to
the southeast. WCRs. 11, 12,and 13 cross this segment.
Opportunities
This segment of the trail will provide a connection between Dacono and proposed
outlet mall and housing developments to the southwest. The trail also begins to
head west towards 1-25 in this segment.
Alternatives
The proposed trail route follows the Union Pacific right-of-way to the south
where it could begin following the Stanley/Frico ditch. Remaining on the rail line
easement is also an option in this segment. The City of Dacono should make an
effort to connect this trail to Clem Dufour Park and new developments as they are
built.
Seem ; rttel 4 score
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 2
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility 2
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment I
Timing 1 Existing Conditions
Location of Segment I Anticipated Trail Opportunities 2
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split
Current Use 1
Total Points 21
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 6 Page 49
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 6
Preferred Route
Segment 6 continues to follow the railroad bed to the south, through Dacono
crossing over WCR 12. Eventually, the path as shown will follow along the
Stanley/Frico Ditch.
This segment travels through about three different properties whose owners will
need to be approached with the idea of a trail system easement.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 10,770 $ .90 $9,693
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 10,770 $47 $ 506,190
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 10,770 $ 7 $75,390
8' Equestrian Trail If 10,770 $ 18 $ 193,860
At-grade crossing ea 1 $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea I $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 10.8 $350 $ 3,780
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 10,770 $ 10 $ 107,700
Subtotal $899,113
Mobilization 5% $44,955
Engineering 6% $53,946
Adjusted Subtotal $998,014
Contingency 20% $ 199,602
Total $ 1,197,616
Page 50 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 6
c, italed Sa. -� r� P
tee _. Wei g II
c v.
_ VII
DACONO c LEGEND
s can Q-
0
- Connection to
_ Proposed St. Vrain
Clem Dufour Valley Trail Corridor
Park.
-4-: gois
= Connections to Other
Trails 3
4,_ .
, , . r1
.4.,, ., . At-Grade Crossing
s 414. rail Underpass
ex
Bridge Ili
i----
Major Trailhead
M
,
a A .
4?
sue*. Minor Trailhead A 0
ac,-:. X"u Z "i
.s.
ak` sr ~ Creeks and Rivers
A ,;_ 47 rajA
azIrrigation Ditches and F
Streams
'0
Lakes and Ponds ��A
,
0A
Note:Lia Roads
L �
1- The trail corridor alignment A O
Railroad Right-of-Way A
y { ' en shown is proposed. Final
6 x=, R.- - b corridor location is dependent r
ee r
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 7
Current Conditions
This segment is primarily rural. WCR 8 runs east and west through the middle of
the segment. I-25 runs through the western portion of this segment with an
overpass at WCR 8 and an underpass at WCR 6. There are on-ramps to north and
south bound I-25 from WCR 8. There are also frontage roads along both sides of
I-25. The Union Pacific R.O.W. runs north and south through the eastern portion
of this segment and also runs northwest/southeast through the center of the
segment across the entire area. Little Dry Creek runs northeast from the east side
of I-25 just north of WCR 6 and exits this segment north of WCR 8. The Union
Pacific line and Stanley/Frico Ditch meet at the northern edge of this segment.
Opportunities
Current conceptual plans call for a sporting-oriented outlet mall at the northeast
corner of the intersection of I-25 and WCR 8. North of the rail line a large
housing/commercial development is being proposed.
Alternatives
The intersection of the trail system and I-25 is extremely important. Plans call for
a widening of I-25 at WCR 8 (Leon Wurl Parkway). The Colorado Department
of Transportation has agreed to provide at least a minimum level of
accommodation for bicycle/trail traffic along the north side of WCR 8 over 1-25.
Other opportunities to cross I-25 include the current underpass at WCR 6.
" f 4'tdtvu att k &�'8 1 jo iL -tog '•'!
w°Y(.k ��°c v?vt talna is .r Yi - n+ + �� v4i . fin. ,;,:., ... .. .0 aE i.tc
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 3
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility 3
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment 2
Timing 3 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment 2 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 3
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split
Current Use 2
Total Points 32
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 7 Page 53
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 7
Preferred Route
In this segment, the route follows the Stanley/Frico Ditch across WCR 11 to
WCR 8. At this point the trail meanders parallel to WCR 8 past the proposed
outlet mall and over I-25. The parking area for the mall could serve as a minor
trailhead and access point.
Approximately four property owners will need to provide easements to allow the
trail to be located as shown.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 10,225 $ .90 $9,202
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 10,225 $47 $480,575
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 10,225 $7 $71,575
8' Equestrian Trail If 6,816 $ 18 $ 122,688
At-grade Crossing ea 2 $ 1,000 $2,000
Trail Head:
At Outlet Mall(Minor) allow 1 $5,000 $:5,000
Signage 1000 If 10.2 $350 $3,570
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 10,225 $ 10 $ 102,250
Subtotal $796,860
Mobilization 5% $39,843
Engineering 6% $4'7,811
Adjusted Subtotal $884,514
Contingency 20% $ 176,902
Total $ 1,061,416
Page 54 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 7
" ` LEGEND (1)
i,,,,.., ,_
Proposed St. Vrain
rub ., el
Valley Trail Condor
,.. ail%s ? _ Connections to Other
Railroad Right-of-Way ic Traila
.,„_
. ..
. .. 2....xY3
$At-Grade Crossing ill
• �' rail Underpass
�. s 1` Comiectios .; z'
-.fix - �g t OliLiet I‘' yIIIIII-'' '
Bridge
,k,.\ nib' S\\
Major Trailhead
14
�j��45'�# .ate
yj'''''‘,-/
'7 fa
F w x: '` tI Minor Trailhead a 0
$ Z -1
o 0
��� •
•o� radCreeks and Rivers a a
t` '. rat/ Irrigation Ditches and r Z
Streams r <i el Lakes and Ponds u r
ettesic OA
�y Roads .c
yta�e Note: A O
1- The trail corridor alignment Railroad Right-of-Way .
shown is proposed. Final Z
'" corridor location is dependent on
A f na rn+iatinno mifil null inn r i
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 8
Current Conditions
The major roadway in this area is WCR 8. This segment contains small
neighborhoods, small farms, and horse pastures. There are salvage yards along
WCR 8 and two major landfill operations near the intersection of WCR's 5 and 6.
There are some small intermittent streams just north of WCR 6 that run across the
length of this section.
Opportunities
WCR 8 provides the most direct route through this segment. Plans call for
rebuilding this road in the future when it will be called the Leon Wurl Parkway at
that time. There is a view of the mountains from this route as well. The
intermittent streams north of WCR 6 are another potential trail route as is an
inactive rail line near of WCR 10.
Alternatives
Another possible route is to follow in this segment is the abandoned rail right-of-
way near WCR 10. This line is paved over at all of the north/south county roads
and is inactive at this time. It would be an excellent candidate for a Rails to
Trails project. This option would also provide better views of the Front Range
and a distinctive trail route as opposed to the WCR 8 option shown on the
following map.
Planning and coordination efforts will need to begin if the Town of Erie and
project partners wish to ensure that a"cross country" route away from WCR 8 is
planned for as development proposals are reviewed. The Town of Erie and Weld
County should also remain aware of all plans involving the inactive rail right-of-
way.
��{{e�. ,y a �AXu ,pia (. 3 t-� i �p I� . .�.�•�q. +fit+ . :Score
4At•�Q t � i �s � �� F Y 1],i "h� .T� � �. S J n3
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 3
Owner's Conditions I Accessibility 2
Cost for Trail Development 1 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment 2
Timing 2 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 3
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 1 Property Split 1
Current Use 2
Total Points 26
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 8 Page 57
CSU/DOL4 Technical Ass/stance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 8
Preferred Route
This route continues west along the north side of WCR 8, crossing WCR's 7 and
5. Connections should be made from this route to any of new developments
along both sides of WCR 8.
If the trail is located within the county road right-of-way only Weld County and
the Colorado Department of Transportation will need to work on the alignment.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 12,000 $ .90 $10,800
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 12,000 $47 $564,000
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 12,000 $7 $ 84,000
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 2 $25,000 $ 50,000
At-grade Crossing ea 2 $ 1,000 $2,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 12 $350 $4,200
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 12,000 $ 10 $ 120,000
Subtotal $836,500
Mobilization 5% $41,825
Engineering 6% $50,190
Adjusted Subtotal $928,515
Contingency 20% $ 185,703
Total $1,114,218
Page 58 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 8
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 9
Current Conditions
This segment encompasses the Town of Erie, WCR 8, Coal Creek and several
subdivisions. The topography in this area is varied and limits the views of the
mountains and surrounding region.
Opportunities
The Town of Erie is working on trail development along the east side of Coal
Creek. Coal Creek is also an excellent potential trail route to the south where a
trail could eventually connect to Lafayette and Superior.
Alternatives
The simplest route to Erie from the west is along the north side of WCR 8. The
route will then head north along the east side of Coal Creek until it exits this
segment to the north. Should the inactive rail line be used in the future as the trail
alignment, it approaches Erie quite close to the trailhead in this segment.
Y.. 041 ' iic{?h�, +,m 3� s `ggy iC iV �rp
igit4 I•i. 'd# i:L, ,! m itr al ir i $�S.'.bz 'iM,t HP igpy . w-&t'=.t S ..e�3 `re
Ownership and Owner Willingness I Visual/Aesthetic Quality 2
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility 2
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway 3
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 1
Timing I Existing Conditions 1
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 1 Property Split 2
Current Use 1
Total Points 22
Open Lands and Trails Plan - Segment 9 Page 61
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 9
Preferred Route
This segment will continue to follow WCR 8 west until it meets up with Coal
Creek in Erie. The trail will head north on the east side of Coal Creek through
Erie and join the old rail right-of-way as it exits this segment.
This segment would involve approximately seven property owners along the
projected trail route.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 10,145 $ .90 $ 9,130
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 10,145 $47 $476,815
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 10,145 $7 $ 71,015
8' Equestrian Trail If 4,058 $ 18 $73,044
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 2 $25,000 $50,000
Underpass:
Bridge(Improvements) allow $ 100,000 $ 100,000
At-grade Crossing ea 2 $ 1,000 $2,000
Trail Head:
At Erie(Minor) allow 1 $50,000 $50,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 10 $350 $ 3,500
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 10,145 $ 10 $ 101,450
Subtotal $938,454
Mobilization 5% $46,922
Engineering 6% $ 56,307
Adjusted Subtotal $ 1,041,683
Contingency 20% $208,336
Total $ 1,250,019
Page 62 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 9
\/7 Baker La
ILAidor alignment shown is mod. LEGEND
nal corridor location isrig
t negotiations with willing
2.
4r ^Vall Pro Proposed
Trail C rain
>e is proposed north of the ".
trailhead.
p� :•- Connections to Otter 3
k' O Trails
.t"ci s.
V
�, •
At-Grade Crossing
4 4, go rail Underpass
o I
> ' e$ ridge
,r Rd. v
T
i, thyme
Major Trailhead
v s —a Nir'-=�jj r r N.
.
Jay Rd. I i I c5 . t ' * Minor Trailhead a w
11111 Itc9' l z :�
o �
y> t.: Creeks and Rivets
II' .21 I, a —
C . • rt../ Irrigation Ditches and <
Streams
I LIILU
M Lakes and Ponds a r
R -t ✓p ' r �I IL II. gr Roads A '<
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-w ,1 Railroad Right-of-Way -I 1
���I I fi N
lY4 / Y -fir: ' Z
ERIE r y
r
s ..
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 10
Current Conditions
Coal Creek runs just west of the Boulder/Weld County Line for most of this
segment. A good view of the mountains from the higher points in the area
surrounding Coal Creek adds to the aesthetic quality of this segment. There is
access from Hwy. 52 and County Line Rd. However, underpasses are needed at
County Line Road near Kenosha Road, Boulder Creek and Hwy. 52, and at
Boulder Creek and County Line Road. Coal Creek and Boulder Creek merge just
south of Hwy. 52.
Opportunities
A large trailhead should be placed at or near the intersection of Kenosha Road
and County Line Road to service the Town of Erie and the surrounding
population. This area is well suited for equestrian and pedestrian use. The route
should follow Coal Creek as closely as possible.
Alternatives
The best route is directly beside Coal Creek on the east bank through this entire
section. The area where Coal and Boulder Creeks meet is an opportunity to
create a strong trail intersection. This area will need signage that makes a clear
connection to the Boulder County trail system once it becomes developed to this
point. Care must be taken to preserve portions of the riparian habitat in this area.
8" �: �._ ..: {j 4 3h q�° H:1�i 4-44Oe444.46.—.14I r(i ii
�h �. �. ¢.v tay lobepter-
�yy -3���. u" x <.�� �3` �V:t ci ' . i fiiMffi��
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility 1
Cost for Trail Development 3 Proximity River or Waterway 1
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 2
Timing 2 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 1
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 1 Property Split 2
Current Use 1
Total Points 24
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 10 Page 65
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 10
Preferred Route
This route follows the rail right-of-way for a short distance, then crosses County
Line Road just north of Kenosha Road and meanders along the east side of Coal
Creek until its intersection with Boulder Creek. Underpasses will need to be
constructed at County Line Road, Hwy. 52 and again at the intersection of
County Line Road and Boulder Creek. From Hwy. 52 the trail generally follows
the east side of Boulder Creek.
There are about five property owners along this segment.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 10,600 $ .90 $9,540
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 10,600 $47 $498,200
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 10,600 $7 $74,200
8' Equestrian Trail If 9,000 $ 18 $ 162,000
Underpass:
At County Line Rd. and Boulder allow $300,000 $300,000
Creek north of Hwy. 52
At Hwy. 52 and Boulder Creek allow $ 500,000 $ 500,000
At County Line Rd. north of
Kenosha Rd. allow $ 300,000 $ 300,000
At-grade Crossing ea 1 $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Trail Head:
At Kenosha Rd. (Major) allow I $ 50,000 $50,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 10.6 $520 $5,512
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 10,600 $ 10 $ 106,000
Subtotal $2,007,952
Mobilization 5% $ 100,397
Engineering 6% $ 120,477
Adjusted Subtotal $2,228,826
Contingency 20% $445,765
Total $2,674,591
Page 66 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 10
LEGEND (1)
PI
\ Proposed St.Vrain
,. Hwy. 52 \ Valley Trail Corridor
0
` a: i
en Connections to Other 3
Trails. 4tu
in
- U \\N„,_____: iiib At-Grade Crossing
•
2
c...,
trail Underpass
•
BridgeDi
Y,. Major Trailhead
MA
1 V°*.estview Rd. Note: O
r 1- The trail corridor alignment Minor Trailhead
shown is proposed. Final
o corridor location is dependent Z ID
Creeks and Rivers
4 on negotiations with willing •
p
r landowners. ,� Irrigation Ditches and "i a 2-Equestrian use is proposed in Streams N -•this entire segment. r x
s Lakes and Ponds
s C
tY• Rd. 12 r Roads ii r
r"L 4 Railroad Right-of-Way O .<
n
I -`fi 0
-I A
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 1 1
Current Conditions
This segment is being heavily mined for gravel. North of WCR 16%m and west of
Boulder Creek, large-scale excavation is taking place. The old Union Pacific
right-of-way cuts through this segment in a straight line running northeast
crossing WCR 16%s half way between Boulder Creek and WCR 5.
Opportunities
A dirt road extends south of WCR 16%just on the east side of Boulder Creek and
through a lush area with large trees. The old Union Pacific right-of-way is also a
potential straight and clear route through this segment.
Alternatives
A creek side path through this segment is ideal with respect to the goal of creating
a varied and interesting trail. The old rail right-of-way is an effective alternative
but lacks the naturalistic feel of the creek. Specific site design along this stretch
of corridor should include a mix of trail close to Boulder Creek and trail that
strays away from the riparian habitat.
�,� ° e! ssly� i ,a ceiseie 4Sir 3 �' 4 v. Y zT' "„nu',el e e �. 1�371�
!i�aiWwy`�7@iqr� c�, i ��' .in,�� � .ik? ��x�,.lS:ke`M"u'� .i.. .'A%t"�� H. ..
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 2
Owner's Conditions 3 Accessibility 3
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway 2
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 2
Timing 3 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 2
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 3 Property Split
Current Use 3
Total Points 33
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 11 Page 69
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 1 1
Preferred Route
The preferred route in this segment is along the east bank of Boulder Creek,
meandering around reclaimed gravel pit lakes and generally following the natural
undulations of the river.
Approximately six landowners will need to be approached for access through this
segment.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 14,450 $ .90 $ 13,000
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 14,450 $47 $ 6'79,150
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 14,450 $7 $ 101,150
8' Equestrian Trail If 14,450 $ 18 $260,100
2' Discovery Trail If 2,000 $5 $ 10,000
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 1 $25,000 $25,000
At-grade Crossing ea 1 $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Trail Head:
At WCR. 16 1/2(Minor) allow 1 $50,000 $ 50,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 2 $ 1,500 $ 3,000
Signage 1000 If 14.5 $500 $ 7,250
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 14,450 $ 10 $ 144,500
Subtotal $ 1,294,150
Mobilization 5% $64,708
Engineering 6% $77,649
Adjusted Subtotal $ 1,436,507
Contingency 20% $287,301
Total $1,723,808
Page 70 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 11
{: y
Itin
/1 /
/ LEGEND
rri
-{ r�,
Proposed St.Vrein
0
eirtewe ..„:„
Valley Trail Corridor
x
r ' Connections to Other 3
fr.:
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,- ridge
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irrt./ Creeks and Rivers
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ation Ditches and
ifir ,� cm = Streams "
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i { w Roads O r
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Railroad Right-of-Way A O
a
Note:
1- The trail corridor alignment 14
shown is nronosed- Final I Z
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 12
Current Conditions
Large mining operations are underway in the southern portion of this segment
along the Boulder Creek. The old rail right-of-way crosses Boulder Creek at
about the middle of this segment and heads northwest toward Sandstone Ranch.
The western half of this segment is primarily rural farmland. Where WCR 20''/
crosses Boulder Creek,there are some well-kept homes and farms. The northern
portion of this segment is also actively used for gravel mining.
Opportunities
The east side of Boulder Creek, at the crossing of WCR 20'1,seems to be an ideal
location for the trail because it has a clear pathway along the creek. There is also
a good "deck" along the creek bank at this spot and would be a good place to
cross WCR 20/. This area is excellent for wildlife viewing. The Union Pacific
right-of-way is another possible orientation through this segment.
Alternatives
The ideal orientation for this trail is along the east side of the Boulder Creek
except where mining operations actually bridge the creek. Trail cannot be built in
much of this alignment until mining activity is complete. The trail could then go
around reclaimed mining operations and the adjacent lakes. Using the Union
Pacific right-of-way is an alternative in this area and may be feasible. However,
the right-of-way is currently under multiple ownership.
i �„ ita e r g 'i Ia�'ffl � .. r s K'of i r✓u 14 a ° 5� 3r i n:
e � i 1t �q�
t ` .E .� i `�s�}�4I ar. �..�a I .
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility 2
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment
Timing 3 Existing Conditions
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 1
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 3 Property Split 1
Current Use 3
Total Points 26
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 12 Page 73
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 12
Preferred Route
An orientation primarily along the east side of Boulder Creek is ideal through this
segment. The trail will meander around mining operations and ponds, finally
becoming established trail as the mining reclamation efforts are completed.
The three landowners in this section have already been approached regarding
open lands and trails.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 12,084 $ .90 $ 10,880
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 12,084 $47 $567,948
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 12,084 $7 $ 84,588
8' Equestrian Trail If 12,084 $ 18 $217,512
2' Discovery Trail If 1,000 $5 $ 5,000
Underpass:
At WCR.20 '/z allow 1 $300,000 $300,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 2 $ 1,500 $ 3,000
Signage 1000 If 12 $500 $ 6,000
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 12,084 $ 10 $ 120,840
Subtotal $1,315,768
Mobilization 5% $65,788
Engineering 6% $78,947
Adjusted Subtotal $ 1,460,502
Contingency 20% $292,100
Total $1,752,602
Page 74 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 12
1:1\: :so .
LEGEND CA
fil
a r
s s�
Proposed St. Vram
Valley Trail Corridor
"w ^ 0
ar ' Connections to Other
Trails
3
rri
y
._,
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of' O
Creeks and Rivers v
Ali;" �� S Irrigation Ditches and X
Streams P -
`
- z
'a Lakes and Ponds m
Roads 0 r
® i Li I Railroad Right-of-Way A '�
alignment shown is n 0
orridor location is /
'I
Dtiations with willing z
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 13
Current Conditions
This area is quartered by State Hwy. 119 and County Line Road. A large
community and district park is being built at Sandstone Ranch. The St. Vrain
River passes though the southern half of this segment flowing to the east/
southeast. Sandstone Ranch is in a lush valley area through which the St. Vrain
River flows,bordered by sandstone bluffs on the north side.
Opportunities
The new Longmont community and district park at Sandstone Ranch is an
important node on the St. Vrain Valley Trail. The new park will provide another
major trailhead on the St. Vrain River and a strong educational site. The south
side of the St. Vrain River is largely rural farmland and gravel mining. The bluffs
are a very attractive and unique element in this segment.
Alternatives
An orientation along the south bank of the St. Vrain River is ideal and would
provide a view of the sandstone cliffs. A bridge will be needed to connect the
trail to the amenities of Sandstone Ranch.
- ;,7*" Offi, * ...,.. " i,5.'G 1.16 wt�T.'�'!i.�.?i� "rtw�:+ ii �!I';�` '.�,�i,It`"�, Si l mt ,.
Ownership and Owner Willingness 1 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 1 Accessibility l
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway 1
Impact on Lands 1 Number of Owners along segment
Timing 1 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment I Anticipated Trail Opportunities 1
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split 1
Current Use 1
Total Points 18
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 13 Page 77
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 13
Preferred Route
This segment of the St. Vrain Valley Trail is essentially a connecting route to
both Sandstone Ranch and Longmont's St. Vrain Greenway once that trail is
developed from Longmont to this point. The St. Vrain Valley Trail is proposed
along the south side of the river with bridge access to Sandstone Ranch. In this
cost estimate, it is assumed that the bridge over the St. Vrain River providing
access to Sandstone Ranch will be completed by the City of Longmont.
Approximately three property owners will need to be negotiated with to allow the
trail to be placed as shown.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 6,975 $ .90 $6,277
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 6,975 $47 $327,825
3' Crusher Fines Edge Lf 6,975 $ 7 $48,825
8' Equestrian Trail If 6,975 $ 18 $ 125,550
Bridge:
Lefthand Creek crossing ea $35,000 $15,000
(Typical)
Trail Head:
At Sandstone Ranch(Major) allow provided
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 1 $ 1,500 $ 1,500
Signage 1000 If 7 $500 $35,000
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 6,975 $ 10 $ 69,750
Subtotal $649,727
Mobilization 5% $ 32,486
Engineering 6% $ 38,983
Adjusted Subtotal S 721,196
Contingency 20% $ 144,239
Total S 865,435
Page 78 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 13
ail corridor alignment shown is proposed. LEGEND
corridor location is dependent onPll
F,
iations with willing landowners.
Arian use is proposed for this entire 0
Cty. Rd. 26 c pi Proposed St. Vrain
nt. 0 Valley Trail Corridor
1 4" Connections to Other
Trails 3
P Railroad
fill
At-Grade Crossing
lee rail Underpass x
OBridge
Q
Q LL 44
‘--N.\--2 Major Trailhead Mil
(4 Hwy. 1 19 [ Minor Trailhead
7
' Community and Creeks and Rivers Z 4
District Pail <
ea...../ Irrigation Ditches and q A
Streams a r
SA STONE Z
RA ' Lakes and Ponds pi <
N. co x ' r
• ` 0 pi
_ — - - :� ���o i _ Roads z Zr
��481210
d� - - Railroad Right-of-Way L" .<
St. V %`ay oars , n 0
/4It1 D ♦. atutsl .i
I `
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 14
Current Conditions
State Hwy. 119 runs east/west and divides this area in half. Boulder Creek joins
the St. Vrain River just south of State Hwy. 119 near the center of the segment.
There is a housing development north of State Hwy. 119 on the west side of
WCR 5%. Large gravel mining operations dominate this segment. A large
wooded/grassy area is situated between the St. Vrain River and Boulder Creek
near their confluence. A steep hillside on the north bank of the St. Vrain helps to
contain and define the area.
Opportunities
The area between the St.Vrain and Boulder Creek just south of the confluence is
a beautiful area. This can be one of the "showcase" areas of the entire trail
system. The connection west toward Sandstone Ranch is also an integral part of
this plan.
Alternatives
The crossing of State Hwy. 119 and the St. Vrain River is a possible location for a
trailhead, due to its close proximity to several ponds, State Hwy. 119, and
housing developments. Alternatives north of State Hwy. 119 include following
the south bank of the river all the way to Barbour Ponds.
Ownership and Owner Willingness 2 Visual/Aesthetic Quality 1
Owner's Conditions 2 Accessibility
Cost for Trail Development 2 Proximity River or Waterway 1
Impact on Lands 2 Number of Owners along segment 3
Timing 2 Existing Conditions 2
Location of Segment 1 Anticipated Trail Opportunities 1
Anticipated Trail Surface Treatment 2 Property Split 1
Current Use 2
Total Points 25
Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 14 Page 81
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
SEGMENT 14
Preferred Route
The preferred route for the trail is along the south bank of the St. Vrain River.
The trail will then go under State Hwy. 119 and follow the river north until
turning eastward through reclaimed gravel mining areas.
There will be about 5 property owner negotiations to take place in this segment.
Element Unit # of Units Cost Per Unit Estimated Cost
Trail Preparation:
Grading If 20,245 $ .90 $ 13,220
Trail Surface:
10' Concrete Trail If 20,245 $47 $ 951,515
3' Crusher Fines Edge If 20,245 $7 $ 141,715
8' Equestrian Trail If 20,245 $ 18 $ 364,410
2' Discovery Trail If 3,000 $ 5 $ 15,000
Bridge:
Ditch Crossing(Typical) ea 4 $25,000 $ 100,000
Boulder Creek crossing ea 1 $35,000 $ 3 5,000
Underpass:
At State Hwy. 119 and river allow $600,000 $600,000
Wildlife Viewing/Rest Area: (Typical) ea 3 $ 1,500 $4,500
Signage 1000 If 20 $500 $ 10,000
Plantings,(grass,trees,etc. ) If 20,245 $ 10 $202,450
Subtotal $2,442,810
Mobilization 5% $ 122,141
Engineering 6% $ 146,569
Adjusted Subtotal $2,711,520
Contingency 20% $542,304
Total $3,253,824
Page 82 Open Lands and Trails Plan -Segment 14
Note: ^ rn
1- The trail corridor alignment shown is LEGEND W
proposed. Final corridor location is - 111
dependent on negotiations with willing
landowners. Proposed St. vrain
2 - Equestrian use is proposed for this entire valley Trail corridor
GI11
q P P
segment. g Connections to Other
3 - Discovery trails will be developed as t _ Trails 3
U
appropriate.
t r z + At-Grade Crossing
frail underpass
2
ei . v Rd. 24
/ s> # ` ,•iii Bridge
sg Major Tcailhead Mil
y. 119 —
C
4,.„, * Minor Trailhead
arQ
) • „.,i,- .2-, . , .
F w Creeks and Rivers z "
Irrigation Ditches and ml X
Streams a a
— z
Lakes and Ponds 01 `
? ,, e Roads i r
r� r
ri
Railroad Right-of-Way O <
PI
t �,- , ' A
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
C. DESIGN GUIDELINES
Trails
This trail system is intended to be a multiuse recreational trail providing opportunities
for a wide range of outdoor activities. The primary activities around which this trail
has been designed are: walking,jogging,rollerblading, cycling and horseback riding.
All of these activities are natural to a regional trail system but not necessarily to the
use of a single common trail. As patrons of diverse recreation forms prefer different
types of trail surfacing,a variety of trails are necessary to support multiple uses.
Trail Types
Hard surface trails(concrete)
The major objectives of trail location are to design a trail that produces a
minimum impact on the land and to nearby landowners, to choose an alignment
that is visually pleasing and provides a variety of views and experiences, to take
advantage of the natural terrain and vegetation, and to provide a trail that
requires minimum maintenance.
Design goals/concepts
- The alignment should follow the contours of the land and natural drainage
patterns. A trail should not appear to be carved out of a hillside.
- Trail meanders should appear to have a purpose,not be placed
haphazardly or regularly throughout the segment length.
- Designers should strive to create functional,efficient circulation patterns.
- Site path intersections should be located at natural focal points and
convenient access points.
- Where hard and soft surface trails both occur along a system,place the soft
surface trail nearer to the water to allow pedestrians closer contact to the
water.
- Integrate subtle,attractive buffers where necessary to protect privacy.
- Occasional rest areas should be located along the trail. Integrate these with
focal points,water features,public areas,etc.
- Provide adequate sight distance for curves.
Design Standards
- 10'minimum trail width where bicyclists and pedestrians share the trail.
- Landscape treatment within 3'adjacent to trails must conform to the
following standards:
• new plant material shall not be woody or bear thorns
• existing thorny plants shall be trimmed back,and
• temporary irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid spraying
path.
- Subgrade preparations include:
Compact roadbase or use on-site gravel material where approved by an
engineer. Over-excavate if unstable sub-soils are encountered and replace
with suitable fill material. Compact all fill areas and remove all top soil
prior to subgrade preparation.
- Minimum 6"thick concrete. Apply broom finish perpendicular to trail
length. Sawcut V."joints 1'/"deep at a minimum of every 10'along trail.
- Backfrll edge with topsoil. Finish grade to be flush with trail edge (typical)
and seed with native grasses.
Design Guidelines Page 85
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
- Maximum 6%grade.
- Minimum 8' overhead clearance.
- Standard width is 10' for two-way bicycle trails. A separate parallel
gravel trail is recommended for pedestrians.
Soft surface trails(gravel fines)
Design goals/concepts
- Materials should provide stable surface and remain relatively dry.
- Color should blend with the natural environment to minimize visual
impact.
- Design for wheelchair accessibility wherever reasonable,minimum 36"
width.
- Minimize erosion of surface material,i.e.provide concrete pans at side
drainage locations to limit creation of gulleys.
- Gradients less than 3%are preferable.
- Create meanders with gentle curves which conform to the natural
topography.
- Consider providing occasional viewing and seating areas along the trail
to accommodate passive recreation activities.
Design standards
- Standard width is 8' for 2-way bike/pedestrian trails.
- For pedestrian-only hiking trails,minimum width is 6'.
- For grades over 4%,surface erosion protection is required.
- 3/8' -3/4' crushed and compacted gravel fines to be approved by
engineer prior to construction.
- Use a geotextile fabric under the gravel fines.
Combined trails,narrow right-of-way
Bicycle,jogging,and equestrian trails can be combined where the right-of-
way is forced into a narrow space. In this case,combined trails should have
a 10'minimum width of hard surface trail,and an 8' wide soft surface trail.
Equestrian trail clearance
The minimum desirable width for a combined horse and jogging tail is eight
feet. Vertical tail clearance for hone and bicycle trails should be ten feet.
Equestrian and Jogging Trail Surface
Equestrian users and joggers prefer a non-paved, softer surface, although
paved surfaces can be used. Where separate surfacing is possible, crusher
fines should be used if there is a matrix of larger particles to resist the
grinding and kicking motion of horses' hooves.
Crusher fmes should meet the following characteristics:
1. Irregular and angular.
2. Fines should be laid to an average depth of 6 inches.
3. Stones for crusher fmes should be as hard as possible. Sandstone is
not generally acceptable while granite is excellent. Fines bound
with limestone provide an even stronger surface.
Horses should be kept off trails with crusher fmes where the trail surface slope
exceeds 6%. Have horses use the hard surface paving for steep sections. Hones
should be kept off all boardwalks. If box culverts are large enough and have a
clear sightline to the opposite end,they can be used by equestrians.
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CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Typical divided,multiple trail section
,A .►
- k4
Separate Crusher Fines Jogging/Nature Trails
In some areas,the available trail corridor permits a separate crusher fines jogging
and/or nature trail. These trails allow access to points of interest,rest areas,vistas
and wildlife viewing areas. A crusher fines trail along paved sections in this plan
is 3' wide and has a minimum vertical clearance of 8'.
Typical separate nature/jogging trail section
Trails Along County Roads
Trails should be separated horizontally from roadways wherever possible for
safety and aesthetics. Along existing county roads, the trail should be separated
from the roadway by a ditch or raised berm with a minimum 12' division. Fences
should be set back from the edge of the trail surface by a minimum of 3 feet.
Borrow ditch cross pitches should be a maximum of 4' horizontal to l' vertical to
prevent dangerous slope conditions.
Typical roadside trail section
\l
y
.
Design Guidelines Page 87
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Private Driveways
Where private driveway crossings occur two situations are possible:
1. trail users yield to driveway,or
2. driveway users yield to trail users.
The first should be used at busy driveway intersections or where sight lines or site
features decrease trail user's safety. Where driveways are less busy, the second
can be used. Signage and pavement markings should be provided to control
traffic in each scenario.
Railroad Crossings
Crossings should be adequately designed for safety and ease of crossing. A
minimum 20 foot level area should be provided on each side of the tracks so that
trail users have an adequate place to stop and wait while trains pass.
A gradual slope should be provided at the approach to the level resting area.
Grades should be a maximum of 10 percent on the approaches. Track crossings
should use a compressible flangeway filler to provide a safe and easy crossing.
Filler material should be approved by the affected railroad.
Crossings should be designed so that they approach all roadways at a 90 degree
angle if possible. A minimum cross angle of 45 degrees is permitted. All
crossings should be signed with appropriate railroad crossing signs. Additional
signs should be provided indicating bicyclists should dismount. All signing
should meet the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)
Standards.
Inactive railroad right-of-way cross-section
(.1%
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\_ K
Trail Underpasses
Wherever possible trail underpasses should be used to cross busy highways and
roads. Underpasses can either be under an existing bridge or in a specially
constructed culvert. An alternate route is necessary at all underpass crossings to
allow for at-grade passage and access to the roadway.
Sightlines
Adequate sightlines to the entrance of an underpass are critical for user
safety. Users approaching an underpass should have an unobstructed view of
the center of the entrance from at least 140' away. From a point of 60' away
from the entrance to the underpass, users should be able to see the center of
the path at least 40' into the underpass.
Underpass width and height
The minimum width of the path in a box culvert should be 10'. Paths
beneath bridges should be considered a hazard zone and widened by 2' to 4'
if possible. The minimum vertical clearance in the underpass is 8' with 10'
being preferred. Warning/rumble strips should be placed at river edges of
Page 88 Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
the trail for safety and lane markings should be provided through the
approach and underpass.
Lighting
Lighting is problematic in underpasses. A short underpass will not need
lighting and in a few of the longer ones proposed in this plan (for example:
Hwy. 119 and the St. Vrain River) a skylight may be able to be created in
the middle of the underpass as the highway above is, or may be, divided. If
lights are necessary, vandal resistant fixtures should be used and placed at
the ends of underpasses no more than 30' from entrances. Interior lights are
discouraged as they tend to be destroyed quickly. Electrical supply wires
should be underground or be placed in conduit painted to match the
underside of the bridge. Wing walls may be necessary at the upstream and
downstream ends of underpasses to keep stream flows off the trail surface.
5 a Bridges
" Design goals/concepts
- Consider breakaway capability to minimize flood
��� obstruction.
-l Bridges should be sturdy, safe, vandal-resistant, and
easily maintained:
• good skid-resistance or deck;
• railings should be free of splinters and
provide a smooth,clean surface;
• railings should allow view to the creek from
all,heights,yet prevent anyone from falling
through;and
• the scale of the bridge should be in keeping
with its surroundings.
- Bridge color should blend with natural environment or
Typical underpass tie into the color scheme of any adjacent development.
with lane markings
Bridge approaches and drainage
Where separated crossings occur, access to cross-streets should be provided.
High headwalls should also be provided in these locations to minimize snow
overshoot and debris from snow plows. Culvert drains may be required at
approaches.Drain pans adjacent to frail surfaces may also be required.
Typical underpass section
Design Guidelines Page 89
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Trailheads, Parking, etc.
Trailheads are some of the most important facilities in the trail system. As the
users first impression of the trail system, the trailhead should be highly visible
and well-maintained. It should provide frail information and be physically
inviting and attractive. Each trailhead is an important place where users enter
the trail system. There are two basic forms:
Major Trailhead
This facility would include parking,handicap spaces,a trail map, a bulletin
board, specific user information, benches, trash/recycle bins and possibly
restrooms. Most of the major trailheads in this plan will also support
equestrian uses(trailer parking,tie rail,etc.).
A lump sum cost of$50,000 has been estimated for these trailheads. That
figure includes grading, a gravel parking lot, fencing and minimal site
work.
Minor Trailhead
This could be simple access to the trail from a spur or at a bridge crossing.
It would consist of a small fenced parking area,trash/recycle bins and route
signage. In this plan, minor trailheads have been designated to support
equestrian uses at some,but not all,of the locations.
Each trailhead should be designed specifically for its own unique location.
Consistency in trail image will come from the trail sign system,
landscaping and site furnishings such as fencing and plantings.
Transfer points
The term transfer point refers to the transition from road to trail in the
travel process. The transfer point should be designed to tie the site together
both visually and functionally. The first step is to provide a gradual
transition from the parking / transfer area to the trail. A concrete ramp
meeting ADA guidelines should be incorporated in at least one entry point
per trailhead.
Landscaping
A high level of landscaping should be provided at each transfer point. The
landscaping will emphasize the area as a special place and tend to provide a
visual reference for users. Some of the key aspects of the landscaping will
be to provide indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses, and to incorporate
consistent fencing. Use of indigenous plant materials is preferred to exotic
plants. The character of the trailhead should enhance natural features of the
area and reflect the St.Vrain Valley's natural heritage.
Landscaping should be protected after installation from damage by beavers
and other wildlife that can eat the bark or kill trees. A wire fabric such as
chicken wire should be placed around the trunks of all newly planted trees.
Wherever possible in the layout of trailheads, mature plants and trees shall
be preserved and protected.
Page 90 Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
TYPICAL MINOR TRAILHEAD ( 1 )
Trail Signag
Trash Receptacle
Trail Erman Handicap Puking
Port and 3 Rul,NaWN Cola;
Vinyl,Recycled Plastic,
a Treated Wood Fencing
Entrance Signage
Minor trailheads located in the trail corridor serve as supplemental access points to the
St.Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails system. These trailheads are designed for low
traffic and local pedestrian and/or bicycle access. The trailhead below could be
modified to support equestrian uses.
TYPICAL MINOR TRAILHEAD (2)
Pon aedl Rail NaaW Color,
Vrhe,Recyckd FWic.
`\�� or hewed Wood Fe '
Tail Sigma",.
r wain —no
Rake Soils al LRag EMMY �r
1
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/f0---,,n
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Earl=Sipage
Design Guidelines Page 91
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
TYPICAL MAJOR TRAILHEAD
Self!<WiN To Waite Fountain.
Hyda and
flub f<Wrt�
BercSu-1 `lyJ`
L Q a 11
4 j j 11R
�lA yi�lA
Paeomm xPe
r.a
Beirbe
Poe mei I Pail.Neu&Color.
'theft Recycled Mac.or
Tinted Wood Resin{
T T I
tilt' W
SO,: C rash &.eeeer
The primary or major [railheads located in the frail corridor serve as
primary access points to the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails
system. These trailheads are intended for high traffic and equestrian
access.
Page 92 Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
' a3 i JZ rt.{J st x (."+t ,w �pL 'p�,t h dp
J f'
§ i5<& '� e a �kY, '*m v rFr �1•
J
Typical trail/road crossing
Page 93
Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
D. MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES
User safety is central to all maintenance operations and a maintenance program
must be in place before any trail segments are developed. This program must
address not only the activities that will be undertaken to maintain a quality trail,
but also identify the organizations responsible for the work. Funding sources
need to be identified and committed to maintenance before trail construction
begins. A strong maintenance program when combined with good trail design
and adequate safety signage will remove much of the liability exposure from the
trail system.
Maintenance of the trail system should include:
1. Trash pick up.
2. Repairing and maintenance of site facilities such as benches,trash
receptacles, picnic tables, restrooms, parking areas, signage, railings,
fences,etc.
3. Repairing trail surfaces.
4. Replacement of vegetation.
5. Pruning of vegetation for plant health and trail safety.
6. Snow clearing.
7. Weed control.
8. Animal control.
9. Disease and insect control.
10. Maintenance of protection devices and tree staking.
11. Mowing.
12. Culvert and bridge maintenance.
13. Temporary irrigation system maintenance and operation.
14. Trail sweeping.
Trail maintenance is key to the longevity and lasting appeal of the St.Vrain
Valley Trails System. Being a large and diverse trail system interconnecting
several municipalities and spanning two counties,maintenance must be
administered either by government agencies through a special maintenance
district or by a well-organized volunteer effort.
Maintenance of the St.Vrain Trails System should be an ongoing effort to keep
the system in excellent condition. Many of the maintenance requirements for this
system are seasonal. Summer requirements include trail surface repair,
replacement of vegetation and mowing the margin along the trail. Winter
requirements include but are not limited to snow removal,regrading parking lots
and temporary irrigation system winterization.
Maintenance to be performed on a continuous basis includes:
1. Trail inspections need to be regularly scheduled. The frequency of
inspections will depend on the amount of frail use,location,age of trail
segment,and the type of construction. Items for consideration include
documentation of inspections,the condition of railings,bridges and trail
surfaces,review of signage,removal of debris,and coordination with
other agencies associated with trail maintenance. All trail inspections
are to be documented.
2. Trail sweeping is one of the most important aspects of trail
maintenance and helps ensure the safety of trail users. The type of
Page 94 Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
sweeping to be performed depends on trail design and location. Trails
that require sweeping of the whole segment should be swept by
machine. Trails that require only spot sweeping of bad areas can be
swept by hand or with blowers. Some trail segments will require a
combination of methods.
3. Trash removal from the trail corridor is important from both safety and
aesthetic viewpoints. Trash removal includes removing ground debris
and emptying trash containers along the trails. Trash removal will take
place on a regularly scheduled basis,the frequency of which will
depend on trail use and location.
4. Tree and shrub pruning will be performed to established specifications
on a scheduled and as needed basis,the frequency of which will be
fairly low.
5. Mowing of vegetation must be done by trails maintenance personnel
along trail corridors on a scheduled basis.
Maintenance to be performed on an irregular or as needed basis includes:
1. Trail repair.
2. Trail replacement.
3. Weed control.
4. Trail edging.
5. Drainage control.
6. Signage replacement.
7. Revegetation.
8. Habitat enhancement and control.
Snow removal should not be much of an issue for this trail system. Snowfall
along the Front Range of Colorado generally melts away from roadways and
paths within a day or two. Quite often, streets will be fairly clear of snow by
noon of the day after the storm. With good design that takes advantage of trail
alignments that maximize sun exposure, much of the trail system should melt
free of snow quickly. Snow and ice removal may be necessary in banked or
shaded areas of the trail and near bridges and underpasses. Once constructed,
these areas of the frail will need special attention as winter storm systems
approach.
Design Guidelines Page 95
CSLI/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
E. SIGNAGE
Trail signage is the system of boards or placards bearing information,regulations,
or safety information along a trail. Signage is a functional element in the trail
environment and necessary for safe and enjoyable trail use.
Signage along the St. Vrain Valley Trail will provide patrons with use guidelines
and information regarding the trail. Signage will help direct and control traffic
and will help the user feel secure and aware of their surroundings. A consistent
style of signage will tie different portions of the trail having certain unique
characteristics to other portions of the trail, which have significantly different
characteristics. The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails logo will be used on
all site specific signs related to the trail and open lands. Locations, shapes, sizes,
materials, and graphics will be consistent throughout the entire system (see
examples)and built in accordance with all applicable standards.
The Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), developed by the
United States Department of Transportation, offers standards and basic principals
regarding traffic control signage. All regulatory and warning signs and their
locations will meet the MUTCD standards for sign dimension, style and
placement.
There are four major categories of signs to be placed within the St. Vrain Valley
Open Lands and Trails system.
1. Regulatory signs that communicate a demand of action on the trail user such
as stop or yield.
2. Warning signs warning users of possible or particular events such as a sharp
turn or traffic crossing.
3. Directional signs that indicate the direction along a path that leads to a
destination.
4. Informational signs offering useful or interesting information about the trail
or surrounding area.
Directional Sign
Route Directional
/�\
V
LONG OWl
LDNGMDNL PARK 1 ml
SANDSTONE RANCH I AK
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51.8. EIRESRNE m
6-6•
*FREDERICK 1 Hi
OACONO nil
4 ERIE "'
Page 96 Design Guidelines
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Trailhead Entrance Sign/kiosk
'14,n
R. NY VALLEY N LANDO TRAILSTRAILS7 RT.VitUN VALLEY
'••'�
TI LN RN ' � n..ERIE RWRYRTIM
/NYIORY '
r Frii iiiiil s , is
inmumn G /5
n' :iTwLGW Nn - 4y
/� e
von////z• movmi i/i//oovio.Yi/ /S/•// 4'7 ///,/// urmH.,ouvoovv/4•//g FIAT OVINE MAU /—
Divided Use Sign
Information/Educational Sign
V.a
IAN EQUESTRIAN
3J_9" TRAIL TRAIL
5._3., .,f'
. i :i
F222=4> C$'
DIVIDED USE TRAIL
I�_1b"
i
Design Guidelines Page 97
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
General Sign Standards
All informational and directional signs shall conform with MUTCD standards
and the sign codes of the appropriate district.
1. All non-regulatory signs shall bear the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands
and Trails logo at the top center.
2. All non-regulatory sign posts shall be 6" x 6" recycled plastic or
pressure treated wood.
3. All visible sign post tops shall be cut at a 45 deg. angle as shown in the
example.
4. The colors are beige,denim,black and white. Maps and other graphic
elements should be colored.
5. All signs are to be placed such that the bottom corner closest to the
trails be at a minimum of three horizontal feet and a maximum of six
horizontal feet from the trail.
6. The bottom edge of all regulatory signs should be a minimum of four
vertical feet and a maximum of five vertical feet above the trail
surface.
7. Warning signs should be placed a minimum of 50' from any hazard or
sharp turn.
Entrance Sign
j' ,2' L Mile Marker Sign
6km
A
4'-9' Ir
•
0
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CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Regulatory Signs
Consult MUTCD, Part IX for bike lane and pavement markings as well as for
details on all aspects of regulatory signs for bicycle facilities.
1. STOP: Place at locations where users are required to stop. These must
be placed at all intersections with vehicular traffic. Locate appropriately
so signs are not visible to motorist but are clearly visible to trail users.
2. YIELD: Use this sign where users can see approaching traffic and must
yield to the traffic. Yield signs should be used only where visibility of
approaching traffic is adequate for safety.
3. STOP AHEAD and YIELD AHEAD: These signs should be used where
the view of an intersection is obscured.
4. WARNING: These signs should be placed 50'before any unexpected or
potentially dangerous condition.
5. INTERSECTION: Use these signs to warn users of intersections with
other trails or roads.
Site Specific Signs
At trailheads and access points there will be a primary kiosk/sign located at the
beginning of the trail. It will have a map of the trail, information on important
features,guidelines and rules of trail and land use,activities permitted on the trail,
geographic information and funding acknowledgment. There will also be signs
directing parking rules and other pertinent and regulatory information for each
location.
On the frail there will be directional signs located at trail intersections and at two
mile intervals along the path, warning signs at potentially dangerous locations,
information signs at points of interest and mile markers located at each mile of
trail. There will also be signs indicating the location of emergency phones.
The sign diagrams show a conceptual sign system that is unique to the St. Vrain
Valley Open Lands and Trails system. The specific sign details should be more
fully developed prior to construction and installation.
Design Guidelines Page 99
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
F. USER SAFETY
The following actions could be implemented to make the trail users more aware
of regulations and safety practices:
1. Post trail regulations, safety information,pathway ethics and updated maps at
all trailheads.
2. A volunteer bike path patrol should be developed that would take on a role to
educate and inform users of trail regulations and safe riding practices.
3. The distribution of information should be coordinated with bicycle rental
shops. This could be done by providing handouts for the shops to distribute
which inform cyclists about trail regulations,peak use times on the pathways,
weather patterns,and safety information. Each spring the County and partner
communities could conduct a session for bike shop owners to review the
information being provided.
4. The County and communities could coordinate a series of articles to be
printed in visitor-oriented publications and also daily newspapers. These
articles could be converted to public service announcements on the local
radio and/or cable stations.
The four most critical safety issues on the trail are speed, stopping on pathways,
keeping right except to pass and mixed use issues. Faster cyclists should be
directed to remain on the roads or ride at safe speeds along the pathways as they
sometimes ride at speeds that do not allow time to react to other users on the
pathways. Pathway maps could indicate roads for faster cyclists as alternatives to
using the pathways. Users stopping on the paved portions of the pathway are also
a serious safety hazard. These users block the pathway when they do not pull off
the trail to stop. The trailhead signs and pathway maps should emphasize the
importance of pulling off the path when stopping. Users should be educated
about the importance of not blocking the pathway, especially families with
children. Where space allows, the trail corridors should have safe shoulders that
are easy to use when stopping. It is not uncommon to have bicyclist groups ride
three or four abreast congesting the pathway for oncoming traffic. This happens
mostly when families and other groups are riding together along the pathway.
The trailhead signage and pathway maps should emphasize the importance of
bicyclists staying on the right while riding. Bicycle helmets help protect riders
from head injuries. Information at trail portals and on trail maps should
emphasize the importance of wearing a helmet while riding or inline skating.
As a result of the continued increase in the use of and interest in trail systems,
emphasis should be placed on the safe management of the pathways, especially
through educating users on trail system regulations and good safety practices.
Page 100 Implementation Plan
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
V. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
A. OPEN LANDS
Preservation/Implementation options
As a result of the early planning phases, Colorado Open Lands (COL) has been
able to pursue those conservation lands within the study area that met the criteria.
In order to refine the priorities within each of the bubble areas, COL began a
process of contacting key landowners to gauge their interest in the project and to
determine where opportunities might be present. COL has met with 12
landowners within the various priority areas and anticipates meeting with one or
two more. The purpose of the initial meetings has been to discuss the
landowner's long-term objectives for their property, the significance of the
resources on their land, the various options available for conservation and
protection and the project's timeframe.
Understanding that each landowner's situation is different and unique, the timing,
structure and substance of the meetings has needed to remain open and flexible.
The landowner meetings have focused primarily on providing background on the
project and discussing the various conservation options available. With the hope
of additional local funding, COL would like to engage the landowners in more
detailed discussions and negotiations and try to set up tentative preservation
agreements. The goal is to begin crafting solutions that would match landowner
needs to the project's open space and trail goals.
As part of these meetings, COL has tried to give each landowner a"tool box" of
conservation options to consider. Specifically, COL has tried to describe a
variety of voluntary tools that can preserve their property's unique values„ as well
as their lifestyle and economic well being. The individual landowners understand
that the long-term goal is to help them develop conservation plans tailored to fit
their unique circumstances. The land preservation options that have been
discussed with the various landowners have included the following tools:
• Conservation easements including agricultural, riparian and scenic
easements.
• Donation or purchase of a conservation easement.
• Donation or purchase of a trail easement when applicable or appropriate
• Outright fee simple purchase by local or county agency.
• Outright fee simple purchase by State Parks(adjacent to Barbour Ponds).
• Conservation/Limited development.
Landowner Negotiations
NOTE: Because meetings with landowners generally involve very personal and
fmancial discussions, this information must remain confidential. Because it is
very early in the process of establishing relationships with many of the
landowners,the specifics of these meetings cannot be disclosed. At a point in the
future when firm commitments are in place (i.e. contracts, options, etc.) this
information can be made available to those stakeholders directly involved with
the project.
At this point,the general nature of discussions is as follows:
Implementation Plan Page 101
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
• Lower Boulder Creek
The first contact presented itself when a landowner attended one of the public
meetings and indicated an interest in learning more about land preservation and
the project plans. This contact led to additional landowner contacts in this area.
COL then met the four landowners representing approximately 500 + acres and
varying levels of interest in land preservation options. While one is interested in
a conservation easement and perhaps a trail easement, that person made it clear
that they would only want to participate if other landowners in the area did as
well, since this would provide the greatest chance of maintaining the viability of
agriculture in the immediate area. A second landowner has been mining gravel
on the land for 25 years and, while interested in perhaps preserving it for open
space reasons, may also want to develop some or all of the remaining land.
Colorado Open Lands discussed a few creative approaches that could combine
both ideas, but at this point the family was still not certain how they wanted to
proceed.
The third family in this area has already requested a second meeting with
Colorado Open Lands to discuss how a conservation easement or other technique
might be used to protect their land.
The fourth landowner in this area was skeptical at first but ultimately has
expressed a high level of interest in conservation easements.
• Western St.Vrain River corridor(I-25 to Sandstone Ranch)
The five landowners that COL met with in this area are experiencing more
pressures from development than those along Boulder Creek and therefore
provide a more challenging situation from their standpoint, as well as COL's.
However, all of the parcels are in close proximity to Barbour Ponds State Park
and may be appropriate lands to consider for any future expansion of this park. In
fact,one of the landowners indicated a specific interest in this possibility.
The five landowners COL met with represent approximately 780 acres, with
widely ranging land uses. One is entirely in agriculture, another is an inactive
farm with excellent riparian and wildlife habitat, and three others are primarily
being mined for gravel,although some lands remain in their original state. Three
of the five have segments of the St. Vrain River running through their properties,
with associated high wildlife values.
As in the Boulder Creek area, these property owners expressed varying levels of
interest in land preservation. The family currently farming on over 150 acres
expressed interest in a riparian easement at some point in the future probably
combined with limited development. A second family, while sympathetic to the
project's goals, is not interested at this point in any preservation, although they
would like to continue enhancing their land for wildlife. This interest may
provide an opportunity in the future for additional discussions.
The third family is open to the possibility of donating an easement on a portion of
their property, and is also open to a trail easement and possibly a trailhead.
During a tour of their property, a possible location for such a trail and trailhead
was discussed.
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CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
The fourth landowner in this area is on strategic property near Hwy. 119 and is
open to selling it outright once mining reclamation is complete -probably within
a year. The last landowner in this area is in the early stages of developing about
1/2 of their acreage but is considering preserving the remainder for wildlife
purposes.
• Eastern St.Vrain River corridor(I-25 to Weld County Road 19)
Again in this area, land uses varied significantly among the three landowners
COL met with. These families own land representing over 1,300 acres, two on
the north side of the St. Vrain, the other on the south side. The first family has
mined their property and has fairly extensive development plans, since their land
is in Weld County's MUD area. However, there are approximately 10 acres of
prime wildlife habitat on their land that COL would recommend be permanently
protected through the PUD process. It is not likely that this family would
relinquish their development plans unless their land was purchased in its entirety
by the County.
The second landowner feels quite differently and expressed a great deal of
interest in preserving their land with a conservation easement. Because of the
diverse nature of their property, COL suggested an easement with "zones" that
would complement the varied land types and reflect appropriate protection
measures. The landowner also expressed an interest in placing an easement on
their property over a few years, rather than all at once. One benefit of doing an
easement over more than one year is that not all the funding is needed at once for
purchase of the easement.
The third landowner in this area expressed interest in preserving some of their
farmlands but initially on only a small portion of their total acreage. This could
include a wetland area. COL hopes to negotiate the protection of additional
acreage.
Colorado Open Lands has had a fair amount of success in the meetings described
above. These meetings have been preliminary in nature, designed to determine if
a minimum level of interest existed among the landowners,and have not involved
negotiations specific to an owner's property.
Due to the large number of properties in the entire project area as well as the
importance of involving enough landowners to make an impact, COL has met
with four additional landowners. COL also anticipates holding follow-up
meetings with up to three landowners previously met with. These meetings
would begin the discussions of specific land preservation methods. The hope is
to bring together their goals and the project's.
There is also a likelihood that preliminary appraisals will need to be completed on
up to three of the parcels mentioned above. This will not only assist in securing
commitments from landowners for a specific preservation option - most likely a
conservation easement-but also in shaping an appropriate future grant request.
Because of these additional meetings and the completion of preliminary
appraisals, COL has been granted an extension of their contract with Weld
County.
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CSU/DOLA Technical Ass/stance/Colorado Open Lands
Recommendations
The landowner meetings thus far illustrate a few important issues. The first issue
is the challenge of protecting mined out gravel properties along the St. Vrain
River. Landowners that are currently mining their property are doing so with the
expectation and hope that they will develop their land, once mining and
reclamation is complete. It is expected that future meetings with landowners
mining their property will yield similar intentions on the part of these property
owners.
Because of the many ponds that are created in the reclamation process,
landowners view these as excellent amenities to residential development for
either active or passive recreation, as well as waterfowl habitat. Some
landowners have already invested significant sums of money towards
development plans,making negotiations more difficult.
Colorado Open Lands' recommendation to the County for landowners in this
category is to work with willing landowners towards limited or clustered
development that will take preservation of wildlife and riparian habitats more
into consideration than traditional development might. Asking these
landowners to abandon development plans is likely to be an unrealistic
request of them unless they can be significantly compensated . On the other
hand, because most of these landowners will go through the County's
subdivision process, the opportunity for requiring open space or trail
dedications is high. Weld County should work toward requiring such
dedications in a more strategic manner.
The second issue illustrated through the landowner meetings is the pressure being
felt by the families that still remain in agricultural production. This pressure is
coming from both area development as well as gravel companies in need of more
mining lands. These landowners would prefer to keep their lands in agricultural
production, but are seeing rapid, sometimes random, development that causes
them to think twice about the rationale of staying in the agricultural business.
These are families that Colorado Open Lands believes are better candidates for
agricultural preservation efforts through the use of conservation easements.
These landowners would prefer to stay in farming, and the purchase of an
easement could provide enough compensation for them to do so. It would also
enable them to pay off debts they might have,take a partial charitable donation to
off-set taxes from the sale of an easement, lower their estate value for estate
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planning purposes,and ensure the protection of a resource they have managed for
decades.
Colorado Open Lands' recommendation to the County regarding these
landowners is to identify those most interested in pursuing a conservation
easement or other similar preservation option and obtain preliminary
appraisals for these properties once the basic preservation goals have been
identified. A preliminary appraisal will identify the approximate value of a
conservation easement and help the landowner decide whether or not to go
through with the easement.
The third issue uncovered during the landowner meetings was the sheer variety
of landowner interests and needs in the area. This creates a wide range of
opportunity for preservation and creative, sensitive development. There was a
noticeable level of interest by the majority of the landowners for discussing
preservation or limited development options. While development and mining
pressures are great, there are still areas where preservation options can succeed,
whether through creative development,conservation easements or the donation or
sale of land for preservation purposes.
Colorado Open Lands' recommendation to the County regarding this issue is
to remain flexible and creative. While conservation easements are the most
common land preservation tool, there are other options available such as
clustered development, donating a remainder interest in land, charitable gift
annuities, right of first refusal, bargain sales of land or easements, and
installment sales of land or easements.
As momentum is developed among landowners in the area for land preservation,
it is anticipated that this will lead to other preservation efforts that will also meet
the County's long-term agricultural preservation plan for the future. The key will
be to be proactive,timely and creative.
Funding Opportunities and Needs
While it would be preferable to include actual dollar amounts needed to
implement the Open Lands portion of this plan,the nature of the plan itself cannot
provide for this. Landowner meetings were preliminary in nature and designed to
determine if any level of interest in preservation existed. COL then began the
discussion of what type of preservation option or options might be most
appropriate. Negotiations do not happen rapidly, and certainly could not be
completed in the time frame of this project.
In order to obtain land values that Colorado Open Lands and an appraiser are
comfortable submitting to the project team, preliminary property appraisals must
be conducted. These appraisals will provide an estimate of costs involved in
preserving some of the prime conservation lands in the project area. Land types
vary greatly in this area and it is difficult to determine values without a qualified
appraisal. However, due to the extension of COL's contract with the County,
these values should be obtained in the near future.
Implementation Plan Page 105
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
B. TRAILS
Implementing a trail project of this size and scope is both a long-term and
expensive proposition. No community involved in this effort can afford to place
the trail corridor as shown in this document on the ground without the assistance
from a wide variety of finders, volunteers and strong support from elected and
appointed officials over the long term. For a trail project of this scope to be
implemented, this effort needs to become a"labor of love"for a cadre of people
from all walks of life. This group needs to include landowners, trail advocates,
government officials and staff, residents, local organizations and any others with
an interest in the amenities that both trails and open space bring to life.
Advocacy
To accomplish this project, efforts must be made in a number of different areas.
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trail project must move from an effort that
is known largely by elected officials and planning staff to a project that is
"common knowledge"in the northern Colorado area. Methods to help develop a
strong public image for the project include:
* Put together a citizens committee.
This group will change over time but it is necessary for the success of the
project. It may be incorporated as a non-profit entity with specific
agreements put in place to maintain the close connection to the communities
in the area.
* Sell the concept.
The advocacy group needs to make personal contacts on this project. They
should be well-versed on the effort and be ready to make others believe in the
project as strongly as they do.
* Make the connections.
Establish this plan as a part of every known planning effort in this area. Fit
the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trail effort into other projects and build
on any accomplishments.
* Emphasize the positive.
Stress the benefits of the project and make becoming a part of this irresistible
to those who need to be identified with positive achievements.
* Use the talents and resources of others.
Attract a wide variety of supporters to the project and put them to work on
what they do best.
* Be flexible and tenacious.
This concept may take root slowly over a period of years. This group must
have volumes of energy to keep the project alive and establish it firmly in the
minds of community and political leaders while being prepared to take
advantage of opportunities that come along.
Trail Development
The basic tools for local trail development are land use planning,zoning, funding
and volunteerism. The establishment of the trail will face unique opportunities
and obstacles mile after mile. However, a basic procedure for placing the trail
can be outlined.
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* Refine the trail plan/continue landowner negotiations.
The route shown in this document is a proposed corridor alignment based on
the best available information. Weld County, Boulder County and the
cooperating communities need to continue discussions with property owners
and develop site specific trail alignments. This process will also identify the
timing issues involved with these properties. Some properties may be ready
for trail quite soon,while some may not be ready for years.
• Complete segment planning and design.
After the route alignment and trailhead locations have been determined, fmal
design and engineering must take place. Specific alignments must be
identified in the field and construction drawings completed for all elements
of that segment.
* Install the trail and amenities.
Construction will undoubtedly take place using a combination of hired
contractors and unpaid volunteers.
* Maintain the frail and associated improvements.
Construction within this trail corridor will need to be maintained. The
corridor should be regularly patrolled and agreements put in place to ensure
that the community responsible for that segment of the trail quickly responds
to any maintenance issues. Regular maintenance of the trail and associated
improvements is also the best way for local municipalities to reduce any
liability exposure along the system.
Implementation
Which segment of this trail system is constructed or improved first will depend
on a myriad of issues. These include: the outcome of landowner negotiations,the
implementation of cooperative agreements for construction, maintenance and
operations, fundraising and the organization of a strong volunteer effort. Trails
that are connected create a greater effect and "draw" than isolated trails. In
simple terms, this means that developing a trail in Segment 12 without having
trail in Segments 11 and 13 is less productive. While any of the partner
communities can begin constructing trail in their locale at any time, we propose
that this project build from the existing trail to other parts of the project area.
The priority for implementing this project would then be:
Priority $eament Reason
Segment 5 Complete Tri-City connections
2 Segment 6 Begin connection south from Dacono
3 Segment 2 Reach St.Vrain river
4 Segment 1 Connect to I-25
5 Segment 14 Connect to Eagle Claw/Barbour Ponds
6 Segment 13 Connect to Sandstone Ranch/St.Vrain Greenway
7 Segment 9 Construct Erie Segment
8 Segment 10 Connect Erie/Boulder Creek
9 Segment 11 Establish Boulder Creek Trail
Implementation Plan Page 107
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Priority Seamen% Reason
• 10 Segment 12 Continue Boulder Creek Trail
11 Segment 8 Connect Erie subdivisions
12 Segment 7 Cross I-25 at Leon Wurl Parkway
13 Segment 3 Pave this segment
14 Segment 4 Pave this segment
The scheme above is advisory and attempts to build from existing trail to the new
attractions found in the project area. Below is a summary of the projected cost per
segment and the average cost per linear foot to complete each segment of the frail.
COST SUMMARY
Segment Cost Cost J Linear Foot
1. Barbour Ponds/East $ 1,695,193 $ 114.00
2. St.Vrain to Rail R.O.W. $2,551,772 $ 112.06
3. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,663,321 $ 152.94
4. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,066,154 $ 107.04
5. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,624,596 $ 162.91
6. Rail R.O.W. $ 1,197,616 $ 111.19
7. Rail R.O.W.to I-25 $ 1,061,416 $103.80
8. Cty. Rd. 8 to Erie $ 1,114,218 $92.85
9. Erie $ 1,250,019 $ 123.21
10. Coal Creek to Boulder Creek $ 2,674,591 $ 252.31
11. Boulder Creek $ 1,723,808 $1 t 9.29
12. Boulder Creek $ 1,752,602 $ 145.03
13. Sandstone Ranch $ 865,435 $ 124.08
14. St.Vrain to Barbour Ponds $3,253,824 $ 160.72
Total $23,494,565 Average Cost/If $134.38
Average cost per segment= $1,678,183
C. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Traditionally, volunteer involvement has been essential to successful trail
development. From the advisory board to the people who show up with a shovel
or rake on work days, there is some sort of volunteer role for people of every
ability and temperament.
An example of a strong trail-related volunteer effort in Colorado is the Volunteers
for Outdoor Colorado (VOC). Established in 1984 as a joint effort of the
National Volunteer Project and the Colorado Office of Volunteerism,. VOC's
success is a strong message that high quality volunteerism is a reality. In Weld
County, the Weld County Youth Corporation is one of many organizations that
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could be enlisted in this project. Local clubs and organizations in the partner
communities should also be approached once a clearly-defined volunteer
opportunity has been developed.
Consider any legal and professional constraints that might limit potential jobs for
volunteers within the effort. Then, let your imagination take over. Volunteers
can fill a wide range of administrative positions, conduct educational and
outreach activities, handle professional duties and manage large-scale special
events.
Administrative volunteers range from members of the board of directors or
trustees to volunteers who perform routine clerical, behind-the-scenes tasks.
Volunteer board members often come from encouraging hardworking,
knowledgeable,committed volunteers to rise to leadership positions.
Education and outreach volunteers are another traditional type of volunteer.
Individuals in Extension Master programs are an example of this as they receive
instruction from professionals and then share that information with others.
Professional volunteer positions occur sometimes and could include: a tour
director who plans tours for members, a public relations assistant, or a
photographer who helps prepare a new brochure.
Special event volunteers are among the easiest to recruit because of the short-term
commitment. Special events serve a wide variety of purposes, including
education, social, fund-raising, trail construction and publicity functions. Most
would be impossible to manage without the help of scores of volunteers.
Volunteer Costs
Direct costs associated with volunteer programs can include the salary of a
volunteer coordinator, training materials, office supplies, pins, plaques, banquets
or other forms of volunteer recognitions, tuition to attend seminars and
conferences, and reimbursement for transportation or other out-of-pocket
expenses if such a policy is adopted.
The most significant indirect cost is the staff time invested in training and
supervising volunteers. The costs of benefits offered to volunteers such as
parking privileges, discounts on merchandise, or participating in educational
activities and social events are sometimes difficult to calculate.
Insurance coverage is a budgetary issue for volunteer programs. An
organization's comprehensive public liability should cover volunteers injured on
the job. Directors' and officers' liability insurance will protect volunteer board
and staff members from individual liability for alleged errors and omissions in
actions taken on behalf of the organization.
Disadvantages of volunteer programs can include:
- harder to manage if commitment is limited,
- higher turnover rate,
- difficult to fire volunteers,
- increased time required to recruit,train,manage, and supervise,
- not always cost effective,and
- may not be as dependable as salaried staff.
Implementation Plan Page 109
CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
D. FUNDING
The St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project is a multi-objective, multi-
jurisdictional planning project that has the potential to involve many stakeholders
and funding partners. As evidenced by this planning grant, each sponsor and
every partner brings to the project unique resources, strong cooperation, financial
commitment, and a vision. The five Weld County communities involved with
this project have previously committed funds for the purchase of open lands,
easements and abandoned rights-of-way. The project partners are committed to
the long-term implementation of this project and plan to work cooperatively to
secure the necessary outside funding to achieve tangible results.
At this time, the project partners are beginning to explore the funding
opportunities available to this project. Identified sources include:
The Communities of:
• Dacono
• Erie
• Firestone
• Frederick
• Longmont
Other Funding Opportunities include:
• Boulder County Open Space
• Weld County—Future open space sales tax proceeds(possible)
• The Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
Open Space Grants
Legacy Grants
Wetlands Initiative Grants
Local Government Grants
• Colorado Division of State Parks
• Eagle Claw Fishing Education Center
• Colorado Division of Wildlife
• Colorado Department of Transportation
• local service clubs
• local/regional public foundations
• private foundations
• developers
• the business community
• private citizens
Funding the St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trail project will be a substantial
task that will probably occur over a fairly significant period of time. Two distinct
tasks must be funded. The first is the acquisition of easements, rights-of-way, or
other land access and protection mechanisms. This will continue to involve
discussions with landowners, land appraisals, the legal work to complete
agreement,and of course the funds to close the transaction.
As that work is progressing, monies must be gathered to implement the plan on
the property in question. This document provides a reasonable target for the
fundraising necessary to complete each segment of the trail system. However,
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CSU/DOLA Technical Assistance/Colorado Open Lands
Weld County and the cooperating communities must review those estimates d
determine what level of in-kind effort they will apply to each segment. In-kind an
work by these local governments(and others) can do much to reduce the costs as
shown. Once that level of in-kind effort has been committed, the respective
community must search out funding options from the list above (and any other
potential sources) and apply for grants and other contributions that will make the
St. Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trail project a reality.
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