Singletrack Sidewalks (STS)

As a homeowner, I am very concerned about the impact this project will have on our quality of life. There is a lot of wildlife that travel on the area of the proposed trail. I fear this will this will affect wildlife adversely.I am also concerned about more noise and privacy. I am not sure why there needs to be another trail to add more human activity to this area.

I think this project would be great for residents & visitors in Golden, and will also reduce traffic on the rec path. It will also provide beginner trail access for young and beginning mountain bikers in Golden, which for the most part we currently lack.

I oppose this idea it will ruin our peaceful neighborhood with bikers from all over Denver. What does a pilot program mean? You put in the trails and if it does not work then Giddyup Golden fully restores the ground?
From my experience once these trails go in they will be an eyesore forever.

Re the comment below re commuting: We already have a beautiful all-season bike trail to and from downtown. It happens to be paved.
Why is it paved? Dirt turns to mud. People drag it indoors on their shoes. Oh, did I mention? The soil is clay (think about the historic kiln) it turns into "gumbo" known to experienced mountain bikers as bad news.

One point of consideration that may have not been mentioned yet is that of auto traffic congestion. I can imagine that STS linking between existing trail systems and the downtown area would mitigate some degree of automobile traffic and congestion that exists, especially during the busy times on the weekends. The popularity of mountain biking around Golden will only continue to grow, and STS could help facilitate people biking to the trail head instead of driving to the trail head. Likewise, biking into town after a ride for lunch or a beer, rather than driving into town.

As a beginner mountain biker in Golden, it's hard for me to find safe places to learn new skills. More importantly, as the mom of two kids, I think this project has monumental potential for both the fun and safety of my kids. Thank you for keeping Golden on the right track to being a fun place to live, play, raise a family, and plan my retirement.

I am in favor of the construction of a single track sidewalk. I just learned about this project and as a Golden resident, this sounds exciting!! I hope the city moves forward with the project, and this is why:

I am a hiker and biker. Biking is just as popular as hiking in our town. I do not hold any affiliation with the Golden Giddyup. I make use of our trails in Golden for both hiking and biking and am starting to feel the effects of trail congestion. Trails are too crowded during peak usage and can lead to increased tension. With all the open space we have available and the mountains at our doorstep, I'd love to see more shared use trails being constructed. If we are not progressive enough to build new trails, it would be great to have more single track in the community along sidewalks as proposed. It also seems like this would be great for families and kids to use, but also for anyone of age as it provides a connection for various spots around town. I would not have to use as many main roads to get around, providing greater safety.

I have biked on concrete paths that had a single track trail next to them and never thought of this as a disadvantage or concern to the community. Crested Butte comes to mind as an example (the Lower Loop Trail).

I fully support the Singletrack Sidewalks project. As a resident of Golden, I think this would be a great addition to our community. I believe the project will improve trail safety for multiple user groups, provide needed alternative to trail access points (with a sensible and limited footprint), enhance rider experiences for all skill levels, and will further establish Golden as the premier outdoor community on the Front Range.

Thanks for the opportunity to voice my opinion. Also, cheers to the Giddyup team for all of the great work they are doing in our community - both on and off the trail!

As a Hiker, Mountain Biker, parent, and Golden Resident I am in strong support of STS. A lot of opposition comments has to do with trail conflict. If you go past the hype - then you see - that separating bikes from a multi-use path would lead to a reduction in conflict. Almost all complaints have to do with an issue of speed differential. Keeping the left lane for passing, keeping a dirt trail for mountain bikes, all help with lowering conflict - not increasing it.

Also having an interesting trail will help keep mountain bikers on trail - instead of going off a paved multi-use path trying to find something interesting to ride.

On the impact to habitat and wildlife - these trails are in neighborhoods next to concrete paths. If these dirt trails impact wildlife - then what does the housing developments, roads and pavement do to the wildlife?

As a trail builder, Golden resident, parent and Golden Bike Park co-founder, I am in full support of this project. With experience working with the public, government entities, non-profits, multiple user groups, the idea of single track trails next to sidewalks is a huge benefit for our community.
Let's start with why: I moved to Golden/Jefferson county because of their vision of the outdoors and the support they provide for it. I love being in a progressive community that embraces the outdoors; which is becoming more and more lost in today's society. I'm proud to see my neighbors & friends on the trails, on the cliffs climbing, kayaking down Clear Creek, cycling up Lookout and jumping bikes at the Golden Bike Park. Golden is a progressive playground that separates it for 99.9% of the cities in North America. For that, I thank you.
I'm really happy that Golden is considering this idea!
1. An alternate path provides a variety for other to use. Hikers, runners, walkers and bikers alike can benefit from additional gravel/dirt trails for a multitude of reasons.
2. Congestion concerns: time and time again, we've seen how adding lanes to highways helps with congestion and safety. Adding dirt trail options for Golden residents will make our experiences enhanced above what is already there! You can have less traffic on 1 path and instead on a handful.
3. Users: I know for a fact that these nature based trails will provide a positive experience with all types of users, not just Mtn Bikers. We will see all user types using a more natural surface to add to the outdoor experience. Kids love dirt! Runners like softer surfaces. We all enjoy less concrete!
4. Noise: Since there is already a paved path, I don't see how the noise will increase. In fact, I think it will decrease due to the surface types. Vegetation, dirt, etc will do a better job at damping noise than concrete will.
5. Maintenance: We've been down this concerned path before. Concrete is much more expensive to maintain than dirt trails. Plus, when a community believes in giving back, the City not only benefits, but a sense of community is enhanced. The Golden Bike Park has been routinely updated by volunteer work. Local Jefferson county benefits from trail crews like the GoldenGiddyUp, COMBA and other organizations at NO COST.

Thank you again Golden for considering this idea and standing out above all other cities in America for keeping kids out of the house, enjoying the outdoors and providing excellent experiences in the community. I look forward to working with all groups, volunteering my time, and putting in the work to make our community what it is!
-Taylor

I am opposed to the construction of a Singletrack Sidewalk (STS) along proposed Segments 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Here are the reasons I’m opposed to this project:
1. I believe this proposed STS is more for the benefit of adult mountain bikers and “providing a place for young and beginner riders to experience mountain biking” is an ancillary and secondary benefit to get their proposal to assist its acceptance with the City. There are other areas for children to “experience” mountain biking within the nearby Jefferson County operated open space parks (e.g. the base of North Table Mountain comes to ming).

2. I also believe that constructing STS Segments 2-6 will encourage more mountain bike traffic through a park and trail system regularly used and loved by existing homeowners in the area. This trail will go out on social media and it will be overrun with bikers from outside our area. There are many areas for mountain biking activities near Golden (e.g. Jefferson County trail system) and we do not need or want one going through our neighborhood. Contrary to the proposers thinking, this project is not “greatly needed”.

3. This project will serve only a minority of the resident population, and in my opinion will serve people who do not live in this neighborhood at the expense of those who do own homes here. Enough bike projects!!! Try running this STS through the nearby wealthier Stonebridge neighborhood and see how far you get.

4. No one will enforce rules or police bad behavior along the proposed STS.
a. I’ve used the concrete bike/pedestrian trails daily in this proposed area since they were constructed. I’ve seen mountain bikers (MBs) run off the existing trails into protected areas despite the efforts of the City of Golden Parks and Recreation staffs attempts to thwart this behavior.

b. One only needs to walk the paved trail section between the Apex trailhead parking lot toward the bridge to see where rocks have been placed (and regularly moved by MBs) to run up along the constructed berms, where the City is trying to get grass to grow, just to get one last thrill in before the parking lot. This will happen along the proposed sections of the STS also…with no consequences for perpetrators.

c. I’ve seen MBs run off the paved trail in Section 2 to jump up on boulders along the side of the trail and race past pedestrians with pets and small children.

d. There are many other examples but the final one I’ll use here is related to the pedestrian-only cut-off trail between the Apex trail parking lot and the bridge that leads to the actual trailhead. Countless times there are MBs riding down those stairs despite the clear signage indicating the cut-off is for pedestrians only. I’ve been yelled at by MBs who didn’t like me correcting them or pointing out the signage. Again, no consequences enforced.
I believe the proposed STS will invite additional aggressive and reckless MBs who will continue this bad behavior and, like now, no one will enforce rules, issue fines, or police these people in any way.
5. The proposed STS will pose a threat to the safety of resident pedestrians
a. I’ve seen mountain bikers (MBs) race down the Kinney Run Trail often while on my daily walk with my dog. We’ve almost been hit several times along Segment 5, in the tunnel under Stonebridge, and at the entrances of the tunnel under HWY 6. Other’s on the trail have had similar incidents. You will not convince me that adding a MB trail along the Kinney Run trail will slow these people down. They will jump off the track and use the paved trail to gain speed.

b. The safety of resident pedestrians will be particularly at risk where the STS cross over and enter the existing concrete trail. They will not slow down coming off the STS. No one will be there to police these people.

c. Finally, these trails cause erosion of soils on the hillsides they are constructed. I will not be convinced that the proposer (Golden Giddyup) will maintain these trails beyond a few months. During heavy rains and snowmelt, sediments will flow down the trails and over the existing paved trails where they cross. This is currently happening at the entrance to the neighborhood park (near W. 4th and Chelan St.) where the kids have worn down a shortcut to the paved trail. Given the slope of the Kinney Run trail, the loose sand and gravels will create a slip hazard for pedestrians and casual bikers using the trail. I’ve seen people crash on their bikes and I’ve slipped on these sediments.

6. This is our open space…..
a. Many residents in the area of the proposed STS use the park and Kinney run trail regularly for outdoor strolling and exercise. We regularly have the opportunity to see wildlife along the trail. It is our open area where one can feel they are away from the city and calm silence clear one’s head. This will disappear for us homeowners in the area once this project is constructed. Another thing we love about living in Golden taken away.

7. Legal Liability for the City of Golden – does the City really want the legal liability involved with such a project. One of these MBs will crash into a pedestrian and/or pet…mark my words.

I'm a Denver resident who comes to Golden to ride bikes (and spend money at local businesses like Golden Bike Shop!). I support this Singletracks Sidewalks proposal. I think it'd be a great addition to the neighborhood and will reduce trail use conflict between pedestrians and bikers.

I would like to express my full support of this project. Singletrack sidewalks are a brilliant way to provide additional options for off-road cyclists, kids, hikers, and anyone else that would prefer a natural trail surface to recreate upon.

Eagle, Colorado has already done significant work on a singletrack sidewalk project and it has been an overwhelming success.

I would encourage the City of Golden to approve and support this project, as it really only has upsides - most of the opposition that I've heard bandied about has simply been typical "not in my backyard" stuff that simply does not hold up in a rational discussion...

Hello! I only just found out about this discussion of STS and am somewhat surprised by it. I've lived in Heritage Dells for 20 years and use the bike/walking trail almost daily. Never had a conflict with bikers and only wish they would signal their approach a little more clearly....I can't always hear the bikes themselves. I don't have a problem encouraging biking, if it is done well, right and maintained. Will it be? The City is expanding so quickly that I'm not sure we have the resources to do so. I also like the idea of connecting neighborhoods but don't see how this STS trail does that since it follows an already established trail. I am disappointed that the community meeting is scheduled for the same evening as the Golden Bike Cruise - a family, friendly BIKE event that is fully supported by the City of Golden, during which hordes of bikers of all ages cruise through a multitude of Golden neighborhoods on interconnected trails that already exist! I am not a mountain biker so I don't have experience on STS trails in other communities. Maybe it's fabulous - I don't know. Just not sure we really need to expend time, money and effort on this when there are other areas suffering from deferred maintenance already (specifically the streetscaping in Heritage Dells and our city-maintained planting areas).

City Council and Parks Board,
Subject: STS trails in the Heritage Dells and Stone Bridge residential areas.
I am adamantly opposed to the proposed STS trail system by Giddyup Golden(GUG).
We have a perfectly fine well maintained 10’ trail system in Kinney run now. The addition of dirt trails to accommodate bike riders is not necessary.
• I believe new dirt trails will be a burden on the city of Golden budget for installation and maintenance.
• The Giddyup Golden proposal is 24 pages with 12 of them blank. The proposal shows two trails on each side of the existing Kinney run trail while the information on the site shows one trail. Why the discrepancy?
• The addition of dirt trails will be an eye sore to the area scarring the beautiful open space we now have. Dirt trails will be a maintenance problem for the City Crews from erosion for the heavy storms we get in the area. They will encourage more runoff erosion as that is the nature of dirt trails, further scarring the landscape.
• Who will remove the snow? Or will they ride through it causing a muddy mess and more scarring and erosion. The Biker will not stay on the trails as seen in Apex they will make their own trails if the route is not “challenging” enough.
• I totally object to Segment one as totally unnecessary.
• Segment four showing switch backs on the steep portion coming down from Eagle ridge is unrealistic as the riders will just come straight down that as the do now again making their own trails. A public private partnership will be a public partnership when Giddyup Golden (GUG) moves on and tires of the project as they get older.
• The trail system will allow Giddup golden to plan races through the area and a residential neighborhood. They say they will not, but I know how that goes once they get what they want they will conveniently forget all their promises.
• We have a quiet and peaceful neighborhood why would we want to provide recreation for bikers in the metro area at the price of the serenity we have in this area.
• Where will all the people using the trails park? There are plenty of facilities operated and maintained by Jeffco Open Space.
• This proposed dirt trail is maybe 3’ wide. Why does GUG think that the trails will be compatible for runners and walkers and bikes?
• Let’s be serious, these trails are not for children.
I reiterate my strenuous opposition to the GUG proposal.

I oppose the project for a couple of reasons. Being realistic, this trail is going to be used by people riding mountain bikes from Golden to Apex. The bike traffic is already on the paved section every day, so we know who will be using the singletrack. Discussions of beginner riders training on these trails seems to be disingenuous, or well-intended but unrealistic.

The proposal puts the single track on a steep hillside, which is populated by deer, elk, fox, and coyotes. We just keep developing every inch around Golden. Residents along the route are asking those riding to Apex to stay on the paved trail for this short section, staying out of the elk and deer areas in the "open space." Please just leave the strip of remaining open space alone so the animals have somewhere to live.

Finally, this area is sand and loose rock, especially Section 5 which is on a steep hillside. I have not seen any info on erosion mitigation or an engineer's opinion showing it is realistic to build a trail on the steep areas. As others have said, there are also no plans or funding for long-term upkeep. It would be good to know if this project is realistic and not destructive before asking residents to support it.

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I am an original Stonebridge homeowner and Kinney Run trail user and I am opposed to this development in my community. Kinney Run Trail (Section 5 in this proposal) is in direct line of sight and within earshot of my home.

No need to repeat the technical and tangible oppositions from my fellow residents who are opposed to this development. The observations about increased traffic, safety issues of merging dis-similar speed traffic, erosion from STS, etc.. are all real issues that will detrimentally affect our community if the STS is added.

I feel this proposal, to date, has been a stealthy political effort with veiled disclosure from a special interest group that has not presented a complete and sustainable plan.

This plan lacks environmental impact study, engineering plan, sustainability plan, full funding (including maintenance funding), enforcement plan, and has not been fully disclosed to the immediately affected residents. It is unreasonable to hope The City of Golden would maintain a limited access STS when they haven't demonstrated ability to maintain the easily accessible landscaping along Heritage Road or Kimball Ave.

If the intent of this proposal were to have a beginners STS area, then the local residents of the affected areas would be the most credible entity to deliver the idea to the City rather than a special interest group of known intent.

I think we all get that this isn't about kids learning to ride trails. But if it were, proposed Section #1 has enough appropriate terrain, can host the trail with the least impact on immediate residents, may have the least impact on wildlife, is readily accessible to more users, is readily accessible to City for maintenance, and may be less erodible than other sections of the proposed STS.

Part of the attraction and value of the Stonebridge area is the natural open space and native wildlife. I don't think every open space area of Golden needs to be infiltrated with invasive recreational activity that pushes the natural wildlife activity out of the area and erodes the natural habitat.

Section 4, 5, 6 STS will have a detrimental if not fatal impact on wildlife in the area. This area is home to elk and deer who deliver their young in this area each year. The rock wall above Kinney Run Trail in Section 5 is home to dens for bobcat, coyote, and fox. The residents in this area have existed peacefully with and enjoyed this wildlife for many years and the quiet, relaxed nature of Kinney Run Trail in this area merges with the resident wildlife. The proposed STS in this area will increase volume of bikes resulting in dust, added noise inherent from bikes/bikers on terrain, and faster deeper intrusion into the wildlife habitat and will push these animals out of this area and reduce the homeowner's environmental value.

Changes like this proposal will affect the local residents 24/7 forever. The non resident "users" who show up three times per week for a 3 minute quick pass "to use" come out of the woodwork to lobby for this type of change because they think it's a great idea for "them" and they don't live with the fallout 24/7.

SL

We live along Segment 5 and oppose this proposed development for these reasons:
1. The fact that it is not contiguous and crosses the path will make it very dangerous at the spots where the STS meets the existing trail. Also, the short piece that crosses the existing path from the kiln to the tunnel seems unnecessary since the tunnel makes all users merge back onto the existing path again anyway.
2. Currently, people do a nice job of sharing the existing trail, so we do not see a need to cut into green space to add another trail so near to residences for this purpose.
3. We have concerns regarding the long-term plan to maintain these trails.
4. Implementing this project in residential areas is unnecessary since we have so many other trails that are already designed specifically for mountain biking.