Community demands safe access to trails amid closure concerns

During a recent government meeting, Andrew Feeney, a teacher and coach at Fairview High School, raised urgent concerns regarding the impending closure of the Marshall Mesa trailhead. With the closure scheduled for this fall, Feeney emphasized the lack of a safe alternative for students and community members to access the South Boulder trails.

Feeney highlighted the proposed route that would require cyclists to cross Highway 170 at Cherryvale, a busy road with a speed limit of 50 miles per hour and limited shoulder space. He expressed that this route poses significant safety risks, particularly for young cyclists.

In light of these concerns, Feeney urged city officials to consider alternative routes that would provide safer access to the trails. He suggested utilizing existing trails in the West Transportation Service Area (TSA) for temporary or emergency access, specifically mentioning the Greenbrier connector and the South Boulder Creek west trail as potential safe pathways.

Feeney's appeal reflects a broader community interest in ensuring safe access to outdoor recreational areas, particularly for youth involved in activities like mountain biking. As the city pushes for initiatives like Vision Zero, aimed at reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities, the need for safe, non-car travel routes to trailheads becomes increasingly critical. The community awaits a response from city officials regarding the feasibility of these proposed solutions.