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Issues Identified
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Open Space, Recreation And Trails Issues Vision Statement:
The Working Group re-examined the vision statement creating during the November 2001 Kick-Off meeting. Though the revisions are minimal, the updated statement is as follows:
The Steamboat Springs area has a well planned, well maintained, financed, and integrated system of trails, open space, and recreational opportunities, and a high quality of life.
Issue 1: Trails System Needs Enhancement
As reflected at the November community meeting, the City’s trail system is adequate, but enhancement/expansion is desired as the City’s population and tourism grows. The group suggests the following:
- Updating & expanding the trails plan
- Addressing maintenance and trail use management.
- Designating equestrian, hiking, and biking trails
- Encouraging County participation for trail linkages.
Issue 2: Parks and Open Space Needs to be Expanded
The recent community survey showed that the community supports the level of City Open Space and Parks. Because of the City’s population growth and increase in tourists (who also use the parks amenities), expansion is a goal. The group suggests:
- Acquiring corridors, smaller pockets and larger land masses of open space
- Creating off-leash dog parks
- Creating an Open Space Master Plan
Issue 3: Finance Mechanisms are Needed for Land Acquisition
To support the expansion of the parks network, the group emphasizes finance mechanisms for land acquisition. The group suggests:
- Acquisition of land & essentials of trail construction.
- Investing in acquisition of open spaces & recreation & find mechanism to pay for acquisition & maintenance; establish priorities
- List tools for open space acquisition and land owner incentives for preserving land
Issue 4: Rivers and Creeks Should Be Priority
The role of the natural environment, specifically the riparian areas, remains a key feature in the enjoyment of the City’s parks system. Preservation and enhancement of the City’s river and creek amenities should be considered a top priority. The group suggests:
- Acquiring & preserving access to rivers
- Managing the use of rivers & creeks for kayaks, fishing, tubing,
- Monitoring health of river for water quality, fish habitat, & sedimentation
- Maintaining and developing or expanding river facilities
- Identifying tools for restoration of riparian areas
Issue 5: Facilities and Programs Need Expansion
With the planned expansion and enhancement of the City’s parkland, promotion of the City’s recreation programs and construction of new facilities should follow. As this expansion occurs, the group recommends:
- Maintaining & upgrading existing recreational facilities, such as softball fields, ski jumps, ice rinks, racquetball, youth areas, kayak, & alternative sports (Frisbee golf, skate park), and equestrian
- Addressing how development can support community recreation programs
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