HomeMy WebLinkAboutagenda.council.worksession.20111004 MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jessica Garrow, City Long Range Planner
Chris Bendon, City Community Development Director
DATE OF MEMO: September 30, 2011
MEETING DATE: October 4, 2011, 5pm, Council Chambers
RE: Review of 2011 Aspen Area Community Plan
REQUEST OF COUNCIL: No action is requested at this time. This is the third of
seven work sessions to review the 2011 AACP. This meeting focuses on reviewing the
Transportation, Parks /Recreation/Open Space /Trails, and Environmental Stewardship
chapters.
REVIEW SCHEDULE: There have been some minor changes to the AACP review
schedule, which are identified below:
• Sept 19: Identify potential code changes to ensure mass & scale considerations in
project reviews, identify other potential code amendments, overview of the
chapter review process, review the Aspen Idea chapter.
• Sept 20: Review Historic Preservation and Lifelong Aspenite chapters.
• Oct 4: Review Transportation, Parks /Recreation/Open Space /Trails, and
Environmental Stewardship chapters.
• Nov 7: Review West of Castle Creek Corridor, Housing and Managing Growth
for Community & Economic Sustainability chapters.
• Nov 29: Review and Follow up on any outstanding issues on chapters reviewed
to date, review Managing Growth for Community & Economic Sustainability
chapter.
• Dec 5: Review Managing Growth for Community & Economic Sustainability
chapter.
• Dec 6: Review Introduction, Wrap up.
REVIEW OF AACP CHAPTERS: Each chapter review is organized in the following
format:
1. Overview of the chapter's main concepts and policy direction.
2. Review the evolution of the chapter's major policies and themes over the past
three years.
3. Highlight changes the P &Zs have made to the chapter since Council received the
August 15 draft.
4. Staff recommendation on changes to the chapter. Each chapter will be attached to
the work session memo and staff changes will be incorporated into them using
track changes.
Page 1 of 5
Transportation:
1. The Transportation chapter focuses on encouraging public transit and alternative
modes of transportation, and reducing traffic levels across the Castle Creek Bridge to
below 1993 levels. The chapter includes a focus on Transportation Demand
Management (TDM) techniques as a way to reduce traffic levels. The document
specifically does not call for or endorse a specific solution to the Entrance to Aspen.
Instead, it focuses on using TDM measures whenever possible, and the need to
engage the public when any Entrance solution is discussed.
2. This chapter has remained consistent throughout the P &Z's review.
3. The P &Zs made a few minor changes to this chapter after the August 15 draft. They
added a definition of RFTA and BRT to the document, amended Action Item IV.1.b
regarding the use of TDM strategies in the Entrance to Aspen to state "Maximize all
TDM solutions to the Entrance to Aspen before considering a built solution," and
added two action items related to the Airport Terminal redevelopment (VII.4.b and
VII.4.c).
4. Transportation staff from the city and county have a number of comments on this
chapter, especially related to public transit and the Entrance to Aspen. There were
some concerns expressed that the document does not adequately focus on public
transit, which is a departure from current city policy. The Vision statement was
changed to add that focus.
Entrance to Aspen: There were a number of comments from City and County
Department Heads regarding the Entrance to Aspen. There was some concern that as
written, the document appears to require that all TDM options be implemented before
pursuing a physical solution to the Entrance to Aspen. The Entrance to Aspen
Policies have been amended to address this concern, and is modeled after the
language in the March 2011 draft. The list of "Community Objectives" in Policy
IV.2 has been moved to Action Item IV.2.a. In addition, Council may want to
consider adding a Policy to the Entrance to Aspen policy section related to achieving
a consensus around the issue: "Continue working to achieve community consensus on
the Entrance to Aspen."
The table on the next page outlines the evolution of the Entrance to Aspen Policies
throughout the P &Z review process:
Page 2 of 5
September 2010 March 2011 Current Draft
We are committed to We are committed We are committed first to reducing traffic by
reducing traffic by first to reducing implementing TDM solutions.
implementing traffic by
Transportation implementing At the same time, the City of Aspen should develop a
Demand Management Transportation list of Community Objectives to evaluate options for
(TDM) solutions. Demand physical improvements to the Entrance to Aspen, such
When TDM measures Management (TDM) as:
are exhausted, solutions. Ongoing • Retain small town character;
physical planning for • Avoid a net loss of open space;
improvements to the physical • Preserve historical resources;
Entrance to Aspen improvements to the • Maintain vehicle trips across Castle Creek at or
should be evaluated Entrance to Aspen below 1993 levels;
using community should use a list of • Maintain Highway 82 as a two -lane facility for
objectives. community general purpose traffic with extra capacity
objectives to reserved for mass transit use only;
evaluate options. • Increase the reliability and convenience of our
public transit system and our pedestrian and
bicycling system;
• Include reliable cost estimates regarding both
capital built -out costs and long -term operational
costs;
• Include a carbon footprint analysis of the
construction phase as well as annual operations;
• Use visual simulations to illustrate how
improvements would impact the flow of vehicular
traffic and the user experience.
ROD: There were also some concerns that the reference to the ROD in the "What's
New" section implies that there is no support for the ROD, which could complicate
planning and funding efforts to implement a physical solution. Staff has proposed
changes to this section in an effort to clarify the language — the intent of the P &Zs
was to indicate that the plan does not address any one solution, but it was not
intended to judge the value or validity of the ROD.
Safety: The City Engineer commented that the chapter includes a reference to safety
for bicyclists, pedestrians, and public transit users, but there is no general policy
related to safety. For example, speeding and road configuration can impact the safety
of the traveling public. Council may want to consider if the existing policies (I.1 and
II.3) adequately cover this issue, or if an additional policy should be added.
Parking: There were a few comments that the Parking Policy (V.1: "Manage the
supply of parking to reduce the adverse impacts of the automobile ") is confusing and
could be read multiple ways — we shouldn't decrease parking because it may cause
cars to drive around more to look for a parking space, OR we should decrease parking
to reduce vehicle trips. The policy discusses "managing" parking levels, while the
Page 3 of 5
action items focus on a variety of ways to decrease parking spaces or preferential
parking. Council may want to consider changing the policy to align the action items:
"Decrease the supply of parking to reduce the adverse impacts of the automobile."
Alternatively, this policy could be deleted and the Action Items could be moved to a
different section. The policy is pulled almost verbatim from the 2000 AACP
( "Manage the supply of parking to limit adverse impacts of automobile use and to
conserve land in the Aspen area. ").
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails:
1. The Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails chapter focuses preserving and
enhancing these areas and activities in the Aspen Area. The chapter includes
policies calling for the acquisition of lands for parks and open space when
possible, as well as building upon the many recreation activities in the area.
2. The chapter has remained consistent throughout the P &Z review process. The
P &Zs tried to condense the chapter through the use of bullets rather than prose.
The Policies and Action Items have remained the same throughout the review.
3. The P &Zs have not made any changes to this chapter.
4. Staff had only one minor change to this chapter — Parks and Open Space was
deleted as a suggested responsible agency for Action Item V.1.e. Council may
want to consider a potential underlying conflict in Recreation policy II.2 (The
Aspen Recreation Department should strive to be financially self - sustaining while
still providing affordable, accessible, quality recreational opportunities.
Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Recreation). There are few, if any,
recreation systems in the country that meet these twin goals, meaning that public
funding is needed to meet the second part of the goal. Alternative language could
be to define a level of public subsidy that is appropriate for the community to
spend meeting the public good component of recreation services. Some suggested
language is in the attached chapter (Exhibit B).
Environmental Stewardship:
I. The Environmental Stewardship chapter focuses on ensuring our natural
environment is preserved. It calls for balancing human activity and the health of
the environment. The chapter is new to the AACP (it had previously been
included in the parks and Open Space Chapter) and focuses on all aspects of the
environment — from greenhouse gases to air and water quality to biodiversity.
2. This chapter evolved throughout the P &Z's review process because it is new and
covers a broad range of issues. The chapter was originally called "Environmental
Quality," but was renamed to better reflect the feeling that we are stewards of the
environment and human actions have an impact on the natural environment. The
philosophy was modified and expanded throughout the review process to better
reflect the continued support of the environment.
Page 4 of 5
3. The P &Zs made one minor change to this chapter after the August 15 draft. The
document references reducing our levels of carbon dioxide (CO2 -e) from 2004
levels (the reference is based on the 2004 Canary Goals). The P &Z requested that
actual numbers (tons of CO2 -e) be added to these references, rather than
referencing the Canary Initiative's Climate Action Plan.
4. Staff recommends some minor changes to this chapter to help clarify some of the
language. There are also some additions to the "What's Changed" and "What's
New" sections to reflect the many advances that have been made in this field.
One item that is not included in the lists that Council may wish to include is the
public vote on the Castle Creek Hydro Plant.
The Environmental Health Department suggested a change to the philosophy that
City Council may want to consider including. The first sentence in Philosophy
states, "As stewards of our environment and resources, it is our responsibility to
balance human activity and the health of our natural environment." Their
comment is that we are consistently balancing competing interests and activities,
and that the goal of environmental stewardship is enhancing the natural
environment. Instead, the language could state, "As stewards of our environment
and resources, it is our responsibility to enhance the health of our natural
environment." The Planning and Zoning Commission discussed this sentence in
detail throughout their review and felt it was important to call out the need to
balance human activity with the health of the environment.
Attachments:
Exhibit A: Transportation Chapter - proposed staff changes
Exhibit B: Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Chapter - proposed staff changes
Exhibit C: Environmental Stewardship Chapter - proposed staff changes
Page 5 of 5
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011 �•b •�
We are committed to providing an efficient, multi -modal and
. integrated transportation system, with a focus on mass
' - ' 4.- ii '. ' transit, that reduces congestion and air pollution.
r1. ;\ 1 I •
J � , : Philosophy
oak , Our transportation philosophy comes largely from our desire to
...iimia4tr maintain a quality of life that reflects how a small town looks
and feels, while accommodating the functioning of a resort
C iiiim- : area. Peak -hour Rraffic volumes in Aspen should be less than
what they are today.
0 IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIml ' Our future should be one in which the automobile plays a
smaller role in people's everyday lives. We should not build
• additional highway lanes to accommodate more private
1— : vehicles, but should increase the percentage of trips made via
• alternative modes of transportation.
We should increase the percentage of trips made using
‘ t , ' :- , ' : alternative modes of transportation by continuing to make mass
transit and the pedestrian /bike trail system more convenient,
efficient, accessible, affordable and enjoyable. We support a
O valleywide Bus Rapid Transit system that efficiently connects to
• transit hubs, the airport, and trails.
12 11 : The airport is an important component of our multi -modal
0 : transportation system and we support its mission to provide
safe, efficient, accessible, reliable and environmentally -
C ---... : responsible airport services and facilities. It is essential to
-_ integrate the airport with alternative modes of transportation to
�— . diminish reliance upon rental vehicles.
C U Transportation is inextricably linked to land use issues.
L Decisions about development have a direct impact on our
transportation system. New development should take place
• only in areas that are, or can be, served by transit, and should
s , - , fully mitigate for its-reasonably related transportation
t : i mpacts. Another important factor in reducing congestion
ID : is limiting the displacement of workers through a strong
_' I : Community Workforce Housing program.
This plan emphasizes further exploring Transportation Demand
- I Management methods, while providing important guidance for
future decision - making regarding a physical solution to the
Entrance to Aspen. Because each user is motivated by different
a travel goals, we should develop systems that encourages them
•
i ' to make the personal choice to use alternative modes of travel
rather than rely on the automobile.
•
Our commitment to alternative modes of transportation
helps reduce traffic congestion, improves air quality, reduces
greenhouse gas emissions, promotes public health, and reduces
our dependence on non - renewable resources.
36
Transportation
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
What's Changed Since 2000 Definitions
While our overall transportation policies remain consistent Transportation Demand
with those outlined in the 2000 AACP, a number of projects Management (TDM):
have been implemented since that have helped further the Programs or services
community's transportation goals. that maximize the use of
alternative transportation.
In 2003, the City established a Hybrid Vehicle Incentive Alternative transportation
Program in an effort to promote low emission vehicle ownership generally encompasses bus,
and use. The program allows hybrid vehicles to use HOV carpool, vanpool, bike, walk
parking spaces, and to apply for a vehicle registration rebate and carshare modes as well
as compressed workweeks
from the city. and telework. TDM also
encompasses outreach and
In 2006, the City of Aspen initiated a comprehensive public education programs as well as
process on the Entrance to Aspen. New data showed that built alternatives such as park
the number of vehicles going in and out of town remained and rides, High Occupancy
at 1993 levels largely because of the continual improvement Vehicle lanes, etc. Economic
and expansion of mass transit service, and limiting parking in incentives and disincentives
town. However, as downvalley are also considered TDM
y population grew over the years, programs.
congestion had expanded farther up and down the Highway 82
corridor as well as lasting for longer periods during the day. Transportation Options
Program (TOP): An
One outcome of the public process was a May 2007 Citywide employer outreach effort
vote that approved the addition of two dedicated bus lanes that currently serves
from the airport to the roundabout, with 63% in favor. This about 36 businesses. It is
fundamental change reflected public support for improving separate from other outreach
the reliability and efficiency of the mass transit system. The programs offered to tourists,
dedicated -lane project was completed in 2009. commuters, etc.
Roaring Fork Transit
In November 2008, valleywide voters approved funding to Authority (RFTA): RFTA
begin implementing the concept of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) provides regional transit
- a valleywide plan that depends partially on the success of services to Aspen, Snowmass,
dedicated transit lanes. At the same time, free bus service Basalt, El Jebel, Carbondale,
began operating year -round from Aspen to Snowmass. In 2009, Glenwood Springs, Rifle, and
the City expanded paid parking into neighborhoods around the New Castle.
Commercial Core to encourage the use of mass transit.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT):
In recent years, an Airport Master Plan process has been BRT a rubber ti transit
service that t is s i ntee r ndeed d tto o
ongoing, and a project to extend the runway has been mimic the benefits of light
approved. This extension would result in higher weights rail service. It provides
and more people per flight, resulting in increased efficiency, faster, more efficient service
potentially fewer delays and a per - person decrease in carbon than a regular bus line
footprint. through the use of stations,
vehicles, running ways,
a flexible operating plan,
and technology. RFTA is
implementing the first phase
of a BRT system, known as
VelociRFTA, that is anticipated
to be in place by 2013.
Entrance to Aspen: The
Entrance to Aspen refers
to the transportation
infrastructure from the
Buttermilk area to 7th and
Main. as defined in the
1998 Record of Decision
(ROD),
Transportation
37
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
•
What's New in the 2011 AACP
While the 2000 AACP sought to limit average annual daily •
vehicle trips (AADT), the 2011 AACP goes further by "striving
to reduce peak -hour vehicle -trips to at or below 1993 levels." :
This is a response to the 2007 Entrance to Aspen Reevaluation
Report, which found that while we continue to meet the 1993
average annual daily vehicle trips, congestion had expanded
farther up and down the Highway 82 corridor during peak
hours.
Regarding physical solutions at the Entrance to Aspen, the 2000
AACP endorsed the 199$8 Record of Decision (ROD), which
called for crossing the Marolt Open Space with two vehicle lanes
and a dedicated mass transit corridor. While tFhe 2011 AACP
acknowledges the ROD, it doesn't enderseaddress any
particular physical solution,
because there are diverse
community opinions and is a lack of clear community
consensus around the issue.
However, the 2011 AACP continues to uphold other long -held
Entrance to Aspen policies: to use new highway lanes only for
public transit, and to ensure no net loss of open space at the
Entrance to Aspen as part of any physical solution.
Linkages
Over the years, the Aspen Area has supported a transit -
based transportation system, which helps to improve our
air quality and reduce our carbon footprint. Incentivizing Transportation Community
hybrid and electric vehicles has also been a policy aimed at ; Character
improving our environmental stewardship. In addition, the
continued development of a car pooling networks can help the
"s
environment as well as persons with disabilities and elderly
residents who may currently have no access to transportation. : •
Our transit system is also essential to bringing a commuter nvironment
workforce to the Aspen Area, helping our economy function. Growth &
To the degree that our transportation system can be more Economy
efficient, accessible, affordable and reliable, the sustainability of
our resort economy will improve.
Future decisions regarding growth management, land use tools
and affordable housing will have an impact on the function and
cost of our transportation system. Construction traffic can have
a significant impact on our transportation system as well, and
should be considered as we explore growth management and
land use changes.
Major physical improvements, such as the Entrance to Aspen,
must always be considered along with a sense of retaining
community character.
38 Transportation
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Transportation Policies Policy
•
Categories
•
Primary Transportation Policies:
1. Use public transit and Transportation Demand Management Community Goal,
teelsstrategies to accommodate additional person trips in the Collaborative Initiative
Aspen Area.
Community Goal,
2. Continue to limit maintain Average Annual Daily Trips Collaborative Initiative
(AADT) to at or below 1993 levels at the Castle Creek Bridge,
and strive to reduce peak -hour vehicle -trips to at or below
1993 levels.
I. PUBLIC TRANSIT
I.1. Improve the convenience, reliability, efficiency, comfort, Community Goal,
accessibility, affordability, safety, capacity, and quality of the Collaborative Initiative
regional transit service experience, while ensuring physical
improvements are consistent with community character.
I.2. Plan for the location and development of Park and Ride Collaborative Initiative
areas considering ease of intermodal transition, quality of
experience, effectiveness and cost.
I.3. Actively promote public awareness of transit alternatives Collaborative Initiative,
for visitors and second homeowners, including bus routes and Incentive Program, Work
the pedestrian /bicycle trail system. Program for Transportation
I.4. Maintain the reliability and improve the convenience of City Work Program for
of Aspen transit services. Transportation
II. BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN Collaborative Initiative,
Work Program for Parks &
Open Space, Engineering.
II.1. Extend and /or improve commuter pedestrian /bike trails pedestrian & Bicycle
with the greatest potential for integration with the public transit Safety Team and
system. Transportation
Collaborative Initiative,
II.2. Expand and improve bicycle parking /storage. Work Program for parks &
Open Space, Engineering
Transportation and
Pedestrian & Bicycle
Safety Team
II.3. Improve the convenience, safety, and quality of experience Collaborative Initiative,
for bicyclists and pedestrians on streets and trails. Incentive Program, Work
Program for Parks & Open
Space, Engineering.
Transportation and
Pedestrian & Bicycle
Transportation Safety Team
39
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Transportation Policies Policy
Categories
EI. US. GROUPS AND TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT
III.1. Reduce vehicular trips that are generated by employment, Community Goal,
special events, construction activity, schools, recreation, the Collaborative Initiative,
service industry, local residents and other activities. Data Needs
III.2. Minimize the impacts of development on the Collaborative Initiative,
valley -wide transportation system that occur during economic Proposed Code Amendment
booms and periods of intense construction activity.
III.3. Require new development to mitigate for its Proposed Code Amendment
transportation impacts.
IV. ENTRANCE TO ASPEN
IV.1. Community Goal,
ieme•nting Utilize Transportation Demand Management Collaborative Initiative
(TDM) selatiensstrategies to reduce traffic at the
Entrance to Aspen.
IV.2 - -= - - • -; - - : :Develop a Community Goal,
list of Community Objectives - for physical Collaborative Initiative
improvements to the Entrance to Aspen,, such
• Reta+n-antetil-town-eherreeter;
•
i
• P-Mesc ye4 i resot
• - (note these bullets
193 lcyc1...
• . . - : - . 7. - - _ - = were moved to
Action Item IV.2.a)
•
•
.. . . .. : .
cxpericncc-
V. PARKING
V.1. Manage the supply of parking to reduce the adverse Collaborative Initiative,
impacts of the automobile on the community. Work Program for Parking
and Transportation
40
Transportation
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Tra nsportation Policies Policy
Categories
•
VI. EDUCATION AND PUBLIC OUTREACH
VI.1. Ensure that public outreach includes the latest Collaborative Initiative
technologies for the purpose of well- informed decision - making
regarding transportation.
VI.2. Build awareness regarding government subsidies for Collaborative Initiative
transportation, including the fact that subsidies not only support
public transit but also provide major subsidies to sustain roads
and highways.
VII . AIRPORT POLICIES
VII.1. Strengthen the Airport's role in the valley -wide regional Collaborative Initiative
transportation system.
VII.2. Increase the quality and availability of information on Collaborative Initiative
travel options at the Airport.
VII.3. Improve the efficiency and reliability of airport services Work Program for Airport
while reducing environmental impacts.
VII.4. Improve the overall quality of the airport experience in a Work Program for Airport
manner that is consistent with our community character.
VII.5. Reduce the negative impacts of Airport operations on the Work Program for Airport
surrounding area.
VII.6. Improve the convenience, efficiency and environmental Work Program for Airport
impacts of ground transportation options available at the
Airport.
VIII. FUNDING
VIII.1. Increase funding for public transit so that service Collaborative Initiative
is consistent and reliable with a preference for stable and
sustainable revenue sources.
IX. DATA GATHERING
IX.1. Ensure that enough clear and understandable data is Data Needs
gathered and compiled for the purpose of well- informed public
decision - making.
IX.2. Quantify user groups on the transportation network to Data Needs
better customize TDM strategies.
Transportation
41
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Transportation Policies and Action Items
Primary Transportation Policies:
1. Use public transit and Transportation Demand Management toolsgtrategies to
accommodate additional person trips in the Aspen Area. (Community Goal, Collaborative
Initiative)
2. Continue to Iimitmaintairt Average Annual Daily Trips (AADT) to at or below 1993
levels at the Castle Creek Bridge, and strive to reduce peak -hour vehicle -trips to at or
below 1993 levels. (Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
I. PUBLIC TRANSIT
I.1. Improve the convenience, reliability, efficiency, comfort, accessibility, affordability,
safety, capacity, and quality of the regional transit service experience, while ensuring
physical improvements are consistent with community character. (Community Goal,
Collaborative Initiative)
I.1.a The City, County, Snowmass Village, EOTC, SkiCo, the Airport, CDOT and RFTA must be active
and working partners to help implement Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). (I - T, County Manager, City
Manager, Town of Snowmass Village, RFTA, SkiCo, PW, Airport)
I.1.b Maintain free bus service from Aspen to Snowmass (LT - T, RFTA, EOTC)
I.1.c Maintain existing free bus service in the Urban Growth Boundary and explore additional
routes. (LT - T, RFTA)
I.1.d Make using, accessing, and getting information about public transit more intuitive. (LT - City,
RFTA, A)
I.1.e Utilize technology to provide real -time information on transit services and road conditions. (I
- RFTA)
I.1.f Review RFTA's fare system to achieve greater simplicity and clarity and to ensure affordability.
(LT - RFTA)
I.1.g Create bus stop shelters that incorporate safe, comfortable waiting areas, storage of bicycles,
real -time information on transit schedules and road conditions. (I - RFTA)
I.1.h Increase the ability of buses to carry bicycles. (LT - RFTA)
I.1.i Explore opportunities to incorporate public art at BRT stations. (I - RFTA, T, PW, City
)
I.1.j Identify the location and amount of space required for bus parking, maintenance, staging
areas for RFTA. (I - RFTA, T)
I.1.k Remodel Rubey Park to improve bus staging areas. (LT - T, RFTA, City Manager)
I.2. Plan for the location and development of Park and Ride areas considering ease
of intermodal transition, quality of experience, effectiveness and cost. (Collaborative
Initiative)
I.2.a Conduct a study on demand patterns of commuters to help determine optimal locations of
Park and Ride areas. (I - RFTA, T, PW, Snowmass Village, SkiCo)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 17
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
I.2.b Employ Best Practices for using technology to encourage use of Park and Ride areas, such as
cell phones, bus information displays, electronic highway signs. (I - RFTA, T, PW)
I.2.c Develop cost comparisons for different Park and Ride locations. (I - RFTA, T, PW)
I.2.d Explore options for enhancing the transition between modes at Park and Ride locations to
improve the quality of the experience. (I - RFTA)
I.2.e Plan for bicycle storage /lockers at Park and Ride areas. (I - RFTA, T, PW)
I.3. Actively promote public awareness of transit alternatives for visitors and
second homeowners, including bus routes and the pedestrian /bicycle trail system.
(Collaborative Initiative, Incentive Program, Work Program for Transportation)
I.3.a Collaborate with ACRA, SkiCo, lodges, and property management companies to increase the
quality and availability of information provided to visitors on summer and winter travel options,
such as transit schedules, lodging shuttles, walking, bicycling etc. (I - RFTA, T, ACRA, SkiCo, Stay
Aspen Snowmass etc)
I.3.b Provide information on travel options in multiple languages and using international symbols.
(I - RFTA, T, A)
I.4. Maintain the reliability and improve the convenience of City of Aspen transit services.
(Work Program for Transportation)
I.4.a Improve bus stop shelters and passenger amenities. (I - T)
I.4.b Replace transit vehicles that have met or exceeded their service life, and add vehicles to meet
demand. New vehicles should be environmentally clean and quiet. (LT - T)
I.4.c Support consistent operating hours for transit routes. (I - T)
I.4.d Ensure bus services remain free for users. (I - T)
I.4.e Utilize technology to provide real -time information on transit services and road conditions. (I
- T)
I.4.f Explore the demand and funding available for extending transit services to the ABC. (I - T,
PW)
I.4.g Explore increasing the frequency of certain transit routes, while minimizing impacts on
neighborhoods. (LT - T)
II. BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN
II.1. Extend and /or improve commuter pedestrian /bike trails with the greatest potential
for integration with the public transit system. (Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for
Parks & Open Space, Engineering. Pedestiran & Bicycle Safety Team and Transportation)
II.1.a Identify bike and pedestrian trail extensions and improvements with the greatest potential
for integrating with public transit. Prioritize these improvements to assist in annual budgeting
decisions. (I - T, OS /P, RFTA, PW)
II.l.b Identify bike and pedestrian trail links and improvements with the greatest potential for
extending commuter trails. Prioritize these improvements to assist in annual budgeting decisions.
(I - T, OS /P, RFTA, PW)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 18
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
II.2. Expand and improve bicycle parking /storage. (Collaborative Initiative, Work
Program for parks & Open Space, Engineering. Transportation and Pedestiran & Bicycle
Safety Team)
II.2.a Require all publicly- funded development to provide space for bicycle parking /storage in
prominent locations. (I - P, P /OS, T)
II.3. Improve the convenience, safety, and quality of experience for bicyclists and
pedestrians on streets and trails. (Collaborative Initiative, Incentive Program, Work
Program for Parks & Open Space, Engineering. Transportation and Pedestiran & Bicycle
Safety Team)
II.3.a Develop a comprehensive plan for convenient bicycle parking/ storage in downtown. Explore
replacing some vehicle parking with bike parking. (LT - T, E, P /OS)
II.3.b Explore adding bike lanes to existing rights -of -way. (LT - T, Streets, P, E, City Manager)
II.3.c Use cash -in -lieu funds (for parking or pedestrian amenities) to implement the Downtown
Enhancement and Pedestrian Plan (DEPP). (I - P)
II.3.d Improve the safety and quality of experience of crossing Main Street in the downtown area,
and Highway 82 at various locations between Castle Creek and the ABC. (I - PW, T, P /OS, P, A)
II.3.e Explore establishing a system of free bicycles for community users throughout the UGB. (I
- T)
III. USER GROUPS AND TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT
III.1. Reduce vehicular trips that are generated by employment, special events,
construction activity, schools, recreation, the service industry, local residents and other
activities. (Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
III.1.a Expand membership and participation in the City's Transportation Options Program (TOP)
through outreach and incentives, with a specific emphasis on large employers and school - related
impacts. (I - T)
III.1.b Ensure a44 businesses in the Aspen Area receive information about the City's Transportation
Options Program by adding the Transportation Department as a required referral and contact
before annual business licenses are issued. Explore establishing a threshold of the number of
employees that would trigger this program. (I - T, Finance Department)
III.1.c Educate Itemeawaerspropert management firms who employ a large number of service
workers regarding the benefits of TOP programs. (I - T, Finance Department)
III.1.d Esta 49hExplore a City- County agreement for County funding of City - provided TOP
services implemented in the County portion of the Aspen Area. (I - County Manager, PW, T)
III.1.e Establish a menu of TDM requirements for special events to be implemented by the Special
Events Committee. (I - T, Special Events Committee)
III.1.f Implement new TDM measures, including real -time on -line carpool matching, public and /or
private vanpooling, dynamic carpooling and other measures. (I - T)
III.1.g Ensure adequate funding and staff resources exist in the City Transportation Department
for the development and implementation of TDM and outreach programs. (I - City Manager, County
Manager)
III.1.h Update the City and County's Construction Management Plans and related codes to address
construction - related trips and impacts using principles of TDM. (I - T, E, PW, P)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 19
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
III.1.1 Ensure adequate funding and staff resources exist for enforcement of Construction
Management Plans. (I - City Manager, County Manager)
III.1.j Expand coordination and communication between the schools and City /County /RFTA
regarding regular school hours and special events to reduce transportation impacts. (I - T)
III.1.k Incentivize school membership and participation in TOP. (I - T)
III.1.I Gather relevant data needed to define the impacts of resident vehicle travel. (I -T)
III.1.m Identify and implement TDM strategies to reduce resident vehicle travel. (I - T)
III.2. Minimize the-adverse-impacts impacts of development on the valley -wide transportation
system that occur during economic booms and periods of intense construction activity.
(Collaborative Initiative, Proposed Code Amendment)
III.2.a Explore amending City and County codes to adopt similar systems that pace the level of
transportation and impacts of construction activity on an annual basis. (I - P)
II.2.b Implement TDM measures to reduce adverse impacts of traffic and parking generated by
development and associated new employment. (LT - T, P)
III.3. Require new development to mitigate for its transportation impacts. (Proposed
Code Amendment)
III.3.a Amend codes to require that all new major development identify and mitigate its
transportation impacts. (I - P, T)
III.3.b Adopt a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) policy, using an Aspen -based trip
generation model, that can be implemented by development to mitigate its transportation impacts.
(I - P, T)
III.3.c Update existing transportation mitigation fees to include all costs, including physical and
long -term operational costs. (I - P, T)
III.3.d Amend City and County codes to ensure development upholds its transportation mitigation
commitments as approved. (LT - P, T)
IV. ENTRANCE TO ASPEN
_ - - - - _ - - • . - - Utilize Transportation
Demand Management (TDM) solutiiensstrategies to reduce traffic at the Entrance to
Aspen. (Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
IV.1.a Maximize all TDM soIutionsstrategies to the Entrance to Aspen before considering a built
solution. (I - City Manager, County Manager, T, EOTC)
IV.2. _ - -, - _ - - - - _ - - pevelop a list of Community Objectives
for physical improvements to the Entrance to Aspen, s-
• Retain all t - c h a c t e .
• ,
• Preserve h•st_r•cal - _- _ _- e .
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 20
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
(Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
IV.2.a Community objectives should be used to evaluate any proposal for physical improvements to
the Entrance to Aspen. These should include those listed in the FEIS /ROD. as well as those
Jisted below:
• Retain small town character;
• Avoid a net loss of open space;
• preserve historical resources;
• Maintain vehicle trips across Castle Creek at or below 1993 levels;
• Maintain Highway 82 as a two -lane facility for general purpose traffic with extra
capacity reserved for mass transit use only,
• Increase the reliability and convenience of our public transit system and our
pedestrian and bicycling system.
• Include reliable cost estimates regarding both capital built -out costs and long -term
operational costs,
• Include a carbon - footprint analysis of the construction phase as well as annual
operations,
• Use visual simulations to illustrate how improvements would impact the flow of
vehicular traffic and the user experience.
(LT - City Manager, County Manager, T, EOTC)
V. PARKING
V.1. Manage the supply of parking to reduce the adverse impacts of the automobile on
the community. (Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Parking and Transportation)
V.1.a City Council should define a threshold for vehicle trips over the Castle Creek Bridge, at which
time paid parking fees automatically increase. (I - T, City Manager)
V.1.b Expand designated paid parking areas in town. (I - T)
V.1.c Decrease maximum paid parking periods. (I - T)
V.1.d Explore the benefits of separating on -site parking spaces from their respective residential
and commercial units in appropriate areas; such that parking spaces could be rented or purchased
separately. (I - P, T)
V.1.e Amend the City code to establish a cap on the number of parking spaces associated with
development to discourage automobile use. (I - P)
V.1.f Analyze the preferential parking policy for hybrid and electric vehicles to reduce the number of
vehicle trips. (I - T)
V.1.g Explore converting on- street vehicle parking spaces for other transit options, such as bike
lanes, bike parking. (I - T)
V.1.h Explore expanding the pedestrian malls. (LT - T, P)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 21
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
VI. EDUCATION AND PUBLIC OUTREACH
VL1. Ensure that public outreach includes the latest technologies for the purpose of well -
informed decision- making, regarding transportation issues. Collaborative Initiative)
VI.1.a Identify and collect data necessary to build an animated traffic simulation model of the
transportation system to illustrate vehicle trip levels, traffic flow, public transit elements and
bike /pedestrian trail integration from downtown to the Brush Creek Road intersection. (I - T, City
Manager)
VI.1.b Explore establishing an Ambassador Program to promote the commuter and employer transit
incentive programs. (I - T)
VI.2. Build awareness regarding government subsidies for transportation, including the
fact that subsidies not only support public transit but also provide major subsidies to
sustain roads and highways. (Collaborative Initiative)
VI.2.a Develop a campaign to inform the public of government subsidies for transit as well as for
repair and maintenance of roads, highways and parking. (I - City Manager)
VI.3. Promote the use of Bus Rapid Transit as a valley -wide transportation system.
(Collaborative Initiative)
VI.3.a Develop a campaign to provide the public with tools to compare vehicle use versus BRT,
in terms of cost (gas, parking, repair and maintenance), environmental impacts, reliability and
efficiency. (I - City Manager)
VII. AIRPORT
VIII.1. Strengthen the Airport's role in the valley -wide regional transportation system.
(Collaborative Initiative)
VII.1.a Explore opportunities to use the airport as a multi -modal transportation hub for a variety of
users. (LT - A, CDOT, RFTA, ABC Group, City Manager, County Manager, SkiCo)
VII.1.b Determine how the Airport can best integrate with the implementation of the BRT project
and other future mass transit options. (LT - A, RFTA)
VII.1.c Reserve room on the Airport property for future commuter parking needs to support the
mass transit system. (LT - A)
VII.1.d Preserve dedicated transit rights -of -way and easements to accommodate a future dedicated
mass transit system. (LT - A)
VII.2. Increase the quality and availability of information on travel options at the Airport.
(Collaborative Initiative)
VII.2.a Collaborate with ACRA, SkiCo, lodges, taxi /shuttle companies, and property management
companies to increase the quality and availability of information on travel options, such as transit,
lodging shuttles, walking, bicycling, etc. provided to visitors and residents during inclement
weather . (LT - A, ACRA, SkiCo)
VII.3. Improve the efficiency and reliability of airport services while reducing
environmental impacts. (Work Program for Airport)
VII.3.a Conduct an analysis of the overall efficiency of airport operations. (I - A)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 22
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
VII.3.b. Work with users and airport tenants, such as commercial airlines, general aviation, food
concessions, rental car companies etc) to implement new technologies that reduce emissions and
increase fuel economy. (I - A)
VII.4. Improve the overall quality of the airport experience in a manner that is consistent
with our community character. (Work Program for Airport)
VII.4.a Explore improvements to enhance the current terminal's functionality, convenience and
appearance of the airport, such as information kiosks, public art, landscaping, and food availability.
(I - A)
VII.4.b Ensure modifications to the terminal are consistent with community character. (I - A, P)
VII.4.c Explore the feasibility of establishing a final destination bag delivery for airport arrivals. (I
- A)
VII.5. Reduce the negative impacts of Airport operations on the surrounding area. (Work
Program for Airport)
VII.5.a Continue to work with the airlines on the Fly Green /Fly Clean Program to encourage pilots
to operate their aircraft as quietly as possible through voluntary compliance with noise abatement
measures. (I - A)
VII.5.b Continue to work with private aircraft owners and operators to utilize the quietest aircraft
possible when operating at the Airport. (I - A)
VII.5.c Continue to reduce Airport impacts on the surrounding area by soliciting feedback from area
residents. (I - A)
VII.5.d Study all options for reducing ground noise from aircraft power up and other ways to best
mitigate this noise on surrounding residential areas. (I - A)
VII.5.e Continue efforts to refine and implement the Airport's Greenhouse Gas and Climate Action
Plan. (I - A)
VII.6. Improve the convenience, efficiency and environmental impacts of ground
transportation options available at the Airport. (Work Program for Airport)
VII.6.a Work with rental car companies on ways to tailor the rental car inventory to take advantage
of new technologies that reduce emissions and increase fuel economy. (I - A)
VII.6.b Work with lodges and hotels in the Aspen /Snowmass Area on measures to improve shuttle
service to reduce reliance on rental cars. (I - A)
VII.6.c Provide a grade- separated, safe pedestrian crossing between the Airport and the ABC. (I
- A, CDOT, RFTA, ABC Group, City Manager, County Manager)
VII.6.d Improve signage and information to direct users from terminal to public transit services. (I
- A, RFTA)
VIII. FUNDING
VIII.1. Increase funding for public transit so that service is consistent and reliable with a
preference for stable and sustainable revenue sources. (Collaborative Initiative)
VIII.1.a Evaluate the sustainability of existing and prospective transportation revenue streams
to determine if they are sufficient to accommodate demand. (I - City Manager, County Manager,
RFTA, Transportation)
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 23
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
VIII.1.b The County should strongly consider seeking voter approval to increase Construction
Materials Use Tax to make the rate consistent with the City. (I - County Manager)
VIII.1.c Apply for federal grants available for pedestrian and bike access to public transit. (I - P/
OS, Trails)
VIII.1.eg Budgeting for transit operations should consider fluctuating revenue sources. (LT - City,
County, RFTA)
VIII.1.f� Explore and implement funding options for a grade- separated crossing at the airport. (LT
- A, CDOT, RFTA, ABC Group, City Manager, County Manager)
VIII.1.gf In addition to the TDM /Air Quality impact fee, explore implementing a fee that can be
used for operational costs. (I - T)
IX. DATA GATHERING
IX.1. Ensure that enough clear and understandable data is gathered and compiled for the
purpose of well - informed public decision- making. (Data Needs)
X.1.a Establish an accurate baseline of traffic data between Brush Creek and Aspen on Highway 82,
including all relevant feeders. (I - T, PW)
IX.1.b Use reliable data to build traffic simulation model from Brush Creek to Aspen, including
relevant feeder streets and roads, which can be used to demonstrate potential impacts of TDM
measures and potential impacts of various physical solutions to the Entrance to Aspen. (I - T, PW)
IX.2. Quantify user groups on the transportation network to better customize TDM
strategies. (Data Needs)
IX.2.a Conduct a traffic study to gather information on traffic counts and vehicle occupancy
information. (I - T, PW)
IX.2.b Survey the origin and destination of transportation system users. (I - T, PW)
IX.2.c Conduct follow -up surveys to determine the effectiveness of TDM measures, including those
required by development approvals and employer - initiated programs. (LT - T)
1
Transportation - Appendix
Appendix - 24
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011 Ell
h ilop
• Vision
1: : • We believe in preserving and enhancing our enjoyment of and
` access to parks, recreational opportunities, open space, and
trails.
w •
CIE •
•
0 .: Philosophy
fin Scenic views of the natural environment, easy access to public
• lands and a range of recreational opportunities are three of our
- greatest assets and the reasons many people choose to visit or
_ make the Aspen Area their home.
C •
O We have made great strides in the acquisition of open space,
in the improvement of our trail system and our recreational
facilities. Future acquisition of open space should focus on
L the intrinsic value of open space, wildlife habitat, protection
1 • of scenic resources, recreational uses, trail connectivity and
MIMI accessibility. Future trail expansion should connect existing
trails to improve and maintain easy access to public lands and
Itip provide opportunities for the use of trails by commuters in both
summer and winter.
W As stated in the 2000 AACP: "Constant vigilance is required C° to ensure that (open space) is protected for its visual and
L recreational contribution to our community as well as for its
immediate accessibility from all parts of town."
LI) (11) The City's extensive recreation programs and facilities have
become a valuable community asset, and an integral part of our
a) V quality of life. These programs and facilities must be continually
reassessed and revitalized to meet changing demographic
Cle tip ,
+ needs and community desires.
•
CIL
tin .
in -.. .
is
. IV`
IrCI . ' -aety ' w r,
, it........_ I
% _
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
48
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
What's Changed Since 2000 Definitions
One of the most significant accomplishments since 2000 • Active Park: An active
has been the acquisition of two major open space parcels: park is a park parcel that
The 250 -acre Smuggler Mountain property and the 845 -acre : has significant maintenance
Brush Creek (Droste) property, which completes a 2,500 -acre : and usually contains a ball
Mountain Park that includes the City's Cozy Point Ranch and field, volleyball court, or flat
Aspen Mass open space properties. These acquisitions are the area which can be used for
result of multi - jurisdictional collaborative efforts. Other major - programmed sporting events,
accomplishments since 2000, under the heading of Parks, special events and par
accom
p � g � Wagner Park, where Rugger
Recreation, Open Space and Trails, include: Fest is held, is an example of
an active park.
Parks
• Awarded €CAS;AColorado Chapter of the American Passive Park: A passive
park is either a park parcel
Society of Landscape Architects Award in 2002, 2003, that is maintained in its
2005 and 2008 natural or native state with
little or no maintenance or is
• The Rio Grande Skateboard Park a formal park parcel that has
• Harmony Park maintenance and irrigation but
does not have programmed
• Snyder Park recreational capabilities. In
• Wagner Park playground and restroom either scenario these parcels
may have benches and trails
• Yellow Brick playground located within the parcel. The
Jenny Adair Wetlands is an
Recreation example of a passive park.
• Construction of the Aspen Recreation Center
• Artificial turf project at high school
• Community Campus playing fields
• New Golf Clubhouse and Championship Tennis Facility
• New irrigation system using treated effluent water at golf
course, saving 60 million gallons per year
• Rated #1 Municipal Golf Course in Colorado, 2011
• Rated in Top 20 municipal golf courses nationally, 2009 and
2010
• Redesigned several holes with native landscaping, water
features
Open Space
• Voter approved City Open Space Tax
• Established City Open Space + Trails Board
• Restored historic Ute Cemetery
• City Charter now requires replacement of open space with
comparable parcel, by ballot election
• Established Youth Corps for Open Space management
• Established annual volunteer projects on open space
maintenance
• Acquired river corridor properties: Mills Open Space, Aspen
4 Mass, Holy Cross, James H. Smith and Anderson Park
• Adopted Smuggler Open Space Management Plan
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
49
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Trails /Nordic
• Rio Grande Trail
• Built Cemetery Lane, Highlands, East of Aspen and Ajax
trails
• Highway 82 pedestrian improvements
• Nordic Trail improvements at golf course
• County mill levy passed for Nordic funding
: • Castle Creek underpass
• Tiehack Bridge
• • Terrell /Wade Pedestrian Bridge
t
In addition, the Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic
• Byway added the 40 -mile stretch from Twin Lakes to Aspen
in 2008. Prior to this addition the Byway only extended from
•
Minturn and Copper Mountain to Twin Lakes. The designation
' • • as a Scenic Byway recognizes the areas spectacular scenery,
Y Y 9 p
•• • recreational opportunities, and rich history.
•
•
What's New in the 2011
Examples of Passive and • AACP
Active parks in the Aspen (
Area. The photo on above is
the Jenny Adair Wetlands, a
passive park, while the photo There are no dramatic changes to the Vision, Philosophy and
below is Wagner park, an Policies in this chapter compared to the 2000 AACP. In fact,
active park. much of the wording remains the same. This is due largely to
the long -term and unwavering support in the Aspen Area for
Parks, Open Space and Recreation.
Some shifts in policy direction for the 2011 AACP include an
emphasis on providing recreational opportunities that are
"affordable." Another new policy is aimed at establishing
undevelopable "buffer" areas alongside public trails to maintain
and improve the recreation and scenic experience. Finally,
, : there is an emphasis on trail acquisition and /or improvement
: that focuses on commuter trails and connectivity with the public
: transit system.
r y'
•
•
•
•
•
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
50
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Parks, Recreaction
Parks, recreation, open space, and trails are an integral part Open Space &
of our resort economy, providing opportunities to enjoy scenic Trails Growth &
views and an outdoor lifestyle, while preserving outlying rural : • Economy
environment and contributing to biodiversity. Potential conflicts : + i
may arise as other community priorities are considered for our :
remaining open lands.
Environ
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
51
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Parks Recreation Open Policy
Space & Trails Policies Categories
•
I. PARKS
I.1. Acquire land for active and passive parks whenever Community Goal,
possible. Collaborative Initiative,
Work Program for Parks/
Open Space Department
I.2. Maintain a balance between active recreational parks and Work Program for Parks/
passive parks. Open Space Department
II. RECREATION
II.1 Provide affordable recreational opportunities for all ages Community Goal,
and abilities. Collaborative Initiative
IL2. = _ - • • Collaborative Initiative,
_ Work Program for
.. ; - ... Recreation
Determine an acceptable level of public subsidy for
Aspen Recreation Department Facilities and Programs
which creates affordability, accessibility. while striving
to be financially self sustaining to the greatest extent in
providina quality recreational opportunities.
II.3. Strive to integrate physical rehabilitation and adaptive Work Program for
recreation into Aspen Recreation Department facilities and Recreation Department
programs.
II.4. New recreational facilities should offset impacts regarding Proposed Code Amendment
traffic and job generation and maintain the contextual character
of the built environment.
III. OPEN SPACE
III.1. Maintain and protect existing open space parcels. Community Goal,
Collaborative Initiative
III.2. Acquire open space to preserve biodiversity, wildlife Community Goal,
habitat, scenic value and to support trail connectivity and Collaborative Initiative,
recreational activities. Work Program for Parks/
Open Space Department
III.3. Continue to promote multi - jurisdictional collaboration for Community Goal,
open space acquisition, acknowledging that open space and trail Collaborative Initiative,
systems are regional assets that improve the region's quality of Work Program for Parks/
life. Open Space Department
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
52
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Parks Recreation Open Policy
Space & Trails Policies Categories
AILS
IV.1. Acquire, improve and develop trail connections throughout Community Goal,
the Aspen Area. Collaborative Initiative,
Work Program for Parks/
Open Space Department
IV.2. Encourage regional trail planning and multi - jurisdictional Community Goal,
collaboration. Collaborative Initiative
IV.3. Increase opportunities for summer and winter trail Collaborative Initiative,
commuting. Work Program for Parks/
Open Space Department
V. PUBLIC OUTREACH
V.1. Educate the public regarding our parks, open space, trails Collaborative Initiative,
and recreational opportunities through maps, brochures, and Work Program for Parks/
on -line services. Open Space and Recreation
Departments
•
•
•
•
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails
53
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Parks Recreation Open Space & Trails
Policies and Action Items
I.1. Acquire land for active and passive parks whenever possible. (Community Goal,
Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Parks /Open Space Department)
I.1.a Use development review processes whenever possible for the acquisition and development of
parks. (I - P, P /OS)
I.2. Maintain a balance between active recreational parks and passive parks. (Work
Program for Parks /Open Space Department)
I.2.a Continue to develop future park space as active or passive by assessing the park system's
inventory, conducting needs assessments and inviting public feedback. (LT - P /OS)
I.2.b Amend the code to establish a preference for on -site public parks as part of larger new
development, where appropriate. (LT - P /OS, P)
II. RECREATION
II.1 Provide affordable recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities. (Community
Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
II.1.a Update the 2005 Aspen Recreation Department Strategic Plan, ensuring that it complies with
the policy. (I - ARD)
II.1.b Enhance current programs and create additional recreational programs with a primary focus
on utilizing existing facilities. (LT - ARD)
II.2 The Aspen Recreation Department should strive to be financially self- sustaining
while still providing affordable, accessible, quality recreational opportunities.
(Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Recreation Department)
II.2.a Explore special events programming that optimizes the use of existing recreational facilities,
while generating revenue. (LT - SE, ARD)
II.2.b Seek partnerships with outside entities to reduce overall subsidies and to help promote
Aspen's recreational facilities. (LT - ARD)
II.2.c Implement energy- efficiency measures and use sustainable energy resources to help reduce
energy costs for recreational facilities. (I - ARD)
II.2.d Promote the Aspen Area as a high - altitude training venue. (I - ARD)
II.3. Strive to integrate physical rehabilitation and adaptive recreation into Aspen
Recreation Department facilities and programs. (Work Program for Recreation
Department)
II.3.a Identify and invite potential partners to update the Recreation Business Plan to identify
staffing and facilities necessary to accommodate physical rehabilitation and adaptive recreation
programs. (LT - ARD)
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails - Appendix
Appendix - 30
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
II.4. New recreational facilities should offset impacts regarding traffic and job
generation and maintain the contextual character of the built environment. (Proposed
Code Amendment)
II.4.a Explore mitigation tools in order to offset impacts from new recreational facilities and
programs regarding traffic and job generation. (LT - P, T)
III. OPEN SPACE
III.1. Maintain and protect existing open space parcels. (Community Goal, Collaborative
Initiative)
III.1.a Develop management plans for all open space parcels according to the terms of acquisition
as a means to balance open space values with appropriate recreational opportunities. (LT - P /OS)
III.2. Acquire open space to preserve biodiversity, wildlife habitat, scenic value and to
support trail connectivity and recreational activities. (Community Goal, Collaborative
Initiative, Work Program for Parks /Open Space Department)
III.2.a Continue to evaluate opportunities for the purchase of open space. (LT - OS)
III.2.b Re- authorize the city's open space sales tax before it sunsets in 2025. (LT- P /OS)
III.2.c Use development review processes whenever possible to secure scenic, recreational or
agricultural easements. (I - P /OS, P)
III.2.d Explore a consistent method for assessing value of open space. (I - P /OS)
III.3 Continue to promote multi - jurisdictional collaboration for open space acquisition,
acknowledging that open space and trail systems are regional assets that improve the
region's quality of life. (Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for
Parks /Open Space Department)
III.3.a Pursue public - private partnerships as an important tool for completing future projects.
III.3.b Ensure the new Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic Byway is enhanced and
preserved through cooperative partnerships. (LT - Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic
Byway Board of Directors, Non - Profits, P /OS)
T h
IV.1. Acquire, improve and develop trail connections throughout the Aspen Area.
(Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Parks /Open Space
Department)
IV.1.a Focus on developing safe and effective trail connections, separated from vehicular traffic, for
both commuter and recreational use in the Castle Creek, Maroon Creek, East /West Highway 82,
and Hunter Creek valleys. (LT - P /OS)
IV.1.b Implement marked bike lanes on roads where appropriate. (LT - P, T)
IV.1.c Implement the Pitkin County Nordic Trails Master Plan. (LT - P /OS, Nordic Council)
IV.1.d Continue to acquire trail easements through methods such as, private landowner donations,
land use actions or acquisition. (LT - P /OS, Nordic Council)
IV.1.e Implement the City's Pedestrian Walkway and Bikeway Plan through phased capital
improvements. (LT - P /OS)
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails - Appendix
Appendix - 31
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
IV.1.f Create buffer areas alongside trails to maintain separation between trails and development
to preserve the integrity of the trails experience. Explore new land use tools or potential property
acquisitions to implement this action item. (LT - P /OS, P)
IV.2. Encourage regional trail planning and multi - jurisdictional collaboration.
(Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative)
IV.2.a Continue ongoing efforts to improve trail connectivity to outlying communities and public
lands. (LT - P /OS)
IV.3. Increase opportunities for summer and winter trail commuting. (Collaborative
Initiative, Work Program for Parks /Open Space Department)
IV.3.a Identify trails intended to move large numbers of people to and from recreational, cultural,
commercial and educational centers and develop them so they are an attractive alternative to
the automobile. Seek to integrate these trails with the public transit system. (See Transportation
Chapter: II Bike and Pedestrian policy.) (LT - P /OS, Nordic Council)
V. PUBLIC OUTREACH
V.1. Educate the public regarding our parks, open space, trails and recreational
opportunities through maps, brochures, and on -line services. (Collaborative Initiative,
Work Program for Parks /Open Space and Recreation Departments)
V.1.a Update and adopt the biodiversity and wildlife map that is in the 2000 AACP to ensure our
wildlife resources are identified and protected. (I - P /OS, P)
V.1.b Create a Comprehensive Map and Inventory of all parks, trails, open space properties,
land trust properties, conservation easements and fishing easements within the Urban Growth
Boundary. (LT - P /OS)
V.1.c Create a comprehensive and publicly accessible database that outlines management plans
and other relevant information for parks, open space, trails and recreational facilities. (LT - P /OS)
V.1.d Improve public access to and information about parks, recreation, open space, and trail
facilities through brochures and signage programs. (LT - P /OS, ARC)
V.1.e Support education and outreach efforts for the Top of the Rockies National Scenic and
Historic Byway. (LT - Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic Byway Board of Directors, —
P/05)
Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails - Appendix
Appendix - 32
e k . 2011 As en Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011 i
V
■
= _ ram : ▪ The Aspen Area will be a local, regional, state and national
' : leader in all aspects of environmental stewardship.
in - .,
....... ...... ................... 4...1)
•
11111:111 .
•
•
Philosophy
p Y •
L F r • As stewards of our environment and resources, it is our
__ } : responsibility to balance human activity and the health of our
I C '� - • natural environment. This ethic is our defining characteristic.
► - ` In .
•A : As stated in the 1993 and 2000 AACPs: "The natural
environment is one of the community's greatest assets and the
reason many people choose to visit or make the Aspen area
their home." We aspire to be good stewards of the environment.
W We are committed to nurturing, sustaining, and protecting the
environment, and believe in the urgency of these actions.
l i m p mimimmEmmilm.........•
Some of our greatest environmental challenges include the
(11) .,...„:0.-?-----.. various impacts of development, redevelopment and population
growth, including:
cADTAIN CLEAN �'
SAYS . ii • The treatment of run -off before it reaches riparian areas,
Get on the • . a problem that is heightened when development occurs on
CLEAN steep slopes and in riparian areas.
fp TEAM � The generation of substantial amounts of demolition
114� debris a long term problem due to strong trends towards
residential redevelopment, and the impact on our limited
C J J,JJ Jig landfill.
• Excessive energy consumption, including extensive
aii _ snowmelting, outdoor pools and spas etc.
•
- • Periods of high employment, special events, and
E "1 k .
enjoyment of our resort can increase vehicle trips, which
results in air pollution emissions and congestion.
4 . • We recognize the decisions we make today regarding our air,
C . water, and land will have a significant impact on our future. As
such, we are committed to making choices and implementing
programs that ensure our environmental sustainability. We
O i recognize that this ethos will influence decision - making as
we consider basic municipal services such as snow removal,
L , maintaining public parks and fields, and street - sweeping and
cleaning, etc., promoting our resort, and helping to We
changeing people's individual habits,
■ from re- useable grocery bags to higher recycling rates and
limiting the wasteful consumption of plastic bottles.
We continue to endorse the Ecological Bill of Rights, adopted by
C the City Council and Board of County Commissioners (please
see sidebar on page 57).
LLI
54 Environmental Stewardship
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
What's Changed Since 2000 Definiti0ns
Since 2000, there have been a significant number of new : ZGreen: A City certification
programs and projects completed with a goal toward improving ; and outreach program
the environmental health of the Aspen community. Some of the : designed to reduce the
highlights include: environmental impacts of
Aspen's citizens, visitors,
• Continued improvement of the City and County Residential businesses, and events.
Energy Mitigation Program (REMP), which requires
PM-10: Small particulate air
mitigation for energy consumption outside the home for of pollution including dirt, dust,
snow melt systems, pools etc. and smoke. It is responsible
for UD to 60,000 deaths per
• Continued City and County support of the Roaring Fork year in the US.
Transit Authority (RFTA), which saved 8,023 tons of CO2
from being emitted into the environment in 2006. Ozone: A gas that naturally
occurs in the Earth's upper
• Reaching EPA PM -10 "attainment" status in 2003, after 15 atmosphere. At ground level
years of devising and implementing strategies to improve it is a pollutant caused by
air quality. upwind emissions of pollutants
from gas drilling and traffic.
• Adopting the City's Canary Initiative in 2005 with a goal of Canary Initiative: In
aggressive reductions in our 2005, the city adopted the
carbon footprint. ambitious Canary Initiative
that identifies Aspen and
• Adopting the City's Waste Reduction /Recycling Ordinance other mountain communities
in 2005, aimed at increasing the recycling rater and as the "canary in the coal
diverting yard waste from trash, and mine" for global climate
disruption (global warming /
creation of a compost program to
climate change). The goal is
help residents and businesses compost their food and to aggressively reduce Aspen's
paper waste. carbon footprint to protect our
community's future, and to
• Creating the ZGreen program in 2006, a City contribute to global reduction
certification and outreach program designed to reduce of global warming pollution.
the environmental impacts of Aspen's citizens, visitors, Global climate disruption
businesses, and events. is caused by greenhouse
gasses, which trap heat in
• Establishing a dedicated energy efficiency division in
the atmPphUre, According
and implement energy programs and Gas EPA's Inventory, y, Greenhouse
2006 to develop p gyp 9 Gas Inventory, in 2006 carbon
projects to reduce energy consumption in residential dioxide (CO2) made up 80%
and commercial homes and buildings of green house gas emissions
in the United States.
• Established a new taxing district in 2007, and adopting ECarbon dioxide enters
Urban Run -Off Management Plan in 2010 with the goal of the atmosphere through the
treating stormwater run -off before it enters the river. gcombustion of fossil
fuels, solid waste, and tree
products wood and other
Also, fees are being used to address
run -off problems at developed sites, as part
of the City's Clean River Initiative. organic materials.
Clean River Initiative: A
• Creating the Jennie Adair Stormwater City program dedicated to
Management Projects in 2006. After six months of improving the water quality in
operation, this constructed wetlands project prevented 144 the Aspen Area.
tons of sediment from discharging into the Roaring Fork
River. Deconstruction: The
selective dismantlement
• Renovating the Recycling Center in 2010, to make it more of building components,
attractive and easier to use. specifically for re use,
recycling, and waste
management. It differs
from demolition where a
site is cleared of its building
materials by the most
E nvironmental Stewardship expedient means.
55
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
What's Changed Since
•
2000 cont. •
•
• Bega monitoring of ozone pollution levels to prepare
for forthcoming federal ozone standards.
• Implementing voluntary programs to increase the use
of reusable items instead of single use, disposable
items, such as beverage containers. shopping bags,
and other packaging, •
•
•
•
•
What's New in the 2011 AACP
The 2000 AACP combined the Environment, Parks and
Open Space into one chapter. The 2011 update to the
AACP recognizes that Environmental Stewardship is of such
importance that it should be highlighted in its own chapter.
The 2011 AACP establishes a series of ambitious goals that are
intended to elevate environmental stewardship to a new level
during the next 10 years. They include:
• Reducing the Aspen Area's carbon footprint by 30% (to
588,612.5 tons CO2 -e) by 2020 (compared to 2004 levels).
• Reducing electricity and natural gas consumption in the
Urban Growth Boundary by 15% (to 229,488.1 tons CO2 -e)
by 2020 (compared to 2004 levels).
• Implementing the Clean River Initiative through additional
wetlands design and construction at Par
." of water
quality treatment areas throughout the City.
• Initiatives aimed at on -site treatment for run -off.
• Increasing the diversion of construction debris from
the landfill, and moving towards recycling and waste
reduction programs to help extending the life of the
landfill.
• Substantially reducing our dependence on non - renewable
energy.
• Reducing air pollution and exposure to air toxins.
Environmental Stewardship
56
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Linkages
Environment :
Growth & This community's commitment to responsible environmental
„ . E conomy stewardship has been evident for decades, and has evolved
dramatically in recent years. Preserving the natural
4 environment, scenic views and biodiversity are important to
our attractiveness as a community and a resort. There will
always be a need to strike a responsible balance between
environmental protection - ant#- zphysical developmente-
Transportation
'and the provision of municipal services, —
winters.
Ecological Bill of Rights
The community adopted an Ecological Bill of Rights in 1989, which
states the overall environmental philosophy for the Aspen Area:
• The right to breathe clean air and enjoy clear vistas.
• The right to the preservation of natural riparian areas and
wetlands.
• The right to permanently protected minimum stream flows in
rivers and creeks.
• The right to the preservation and restoration of native wildlife
and plant diversity by preservation of sufficient habitat.
• The right to protection of designated wilderness through
management of adjoining land in a way that preserves the
integrity of the wilderness areas.
• The right to a landscape free of noxious and invasive weeds.
• The right of appropriate access to public lands on roads and
trails historically open to the public, consistent with the nature
and designation of the public lands.
• The right to dedicated open space protected from urbanization
and development.
• The right to the efficient and renewable use of energy.
•
• The right to be free from excessive noise.
• The right to see the night sky without the interference of
unnecessary artificial light from growth, urbanization and
highway development.
• The right to the absolute minimum involuntary exposure to
toxic chemicals, radioactive substances and energy forms that
are hazardous to health.
• The right to maintain and not exceed the carrying capacity
(sustainability) of the land and water, including protecting water
quality.
: • The right to expect from our government legislation and
active enforcement of land use and development regulations
consistent with this Ecological Bill of Rights.
Environmental Stewardship
57
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Quote from: Haudenosaunee Environmental Restoration
An Indigenous Strategy for Human Sustainability
Because of our strong sense of responsibility to the natural environment, we have brought
forward and reprinted the Mohawk Nation strategy statement for human sustainability and
interaction with the earth from the 2000 AACP - Parks, Open Space, and Environment Chapter.
We believe the Aspen area should be guided by these principles as a community as the Mohawk
are guided by them as a nation.
"The underlying philosophy among the Haudenosaunee is that in every aspect of our way of
life, in our government, and with every decision that we make, we must always be of one mind
and always make our decisions in consideration of the Seven Unborn Generations. ' This
centuries old Haudenosaunee philosophy reflects the importance of decision making and its
effects upon the continuity of Haudenosaunee existence. F'ro,n this philosophy comes a strong
sense of responsibility for the earth and life upon it. The first game seen on the hunt is not
harvested, the, first berries are not picked, to make sure these gifts will always be there as a
resource. The thought is that if you don't pick the first, you won't be the one to pick the last.
The Haudenosaunee harvest only what can he eaten or used, and thanks is always given to the
Creator for these bountiful provisions."
"The Constitution of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy requires that lawmakers consider the
effects of our decisions on the natural world, of which we are a part and for which we feel we
bear special obligations. The duty of human beings and our governments toward the natural
world leads the Haudenosaunee to treat the natural world with respect and protect it for the
unborn generations."
It is a major priority to see that our unborn generations are born into a world no worse than
it is presently, and that the world's condition will hopefully get better. When we walk on Mother
Earth, we always plant our feet carefully because we know the faces of our future generations
are looking up at us from beneath the ground. We never forget the seven unborn generations in
any of our collective or individual decisions. Since the Seventh Generation will .soon he walking
the same earthy path as the Haudenosaunee do today, we fry to ensure that our future children
will have a path to walk, and that the path will be much better than the one we have walked
upon."
Reprinted with permission of the Mohawk Nation
No uses beyond those associated with the AACP may be made without permission from James Ransom, Director,
E laudenosaunee Environmental Task Force, (518) 358 -3381.
Environmental Stewardship
58
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
•
Environmental Policy
Stewardship Policies Categories
I. GREENHOUSE GASES
I.1. By 2020, reduce the carbon footprint of the Aspen Area Community Goal, Work
from 2004 levels by 30% (to 588,612.5 tons CO2 -e). program for Canary
Initiative
I.2. All existing development and uses should minimize their Community Goal, Work
greenhouse gas emissions. Program for Canary
Initiative
I.3. Incentivize alternative forms of transportation to reduce Incentive Program
reliance on fossil - fuels.
I.4. All new development and uses should minimize their Proposed Code Amendment
greenhouse gas emissions.
II. AIR QUALITY
II.1. Improve air qualityby reducing PM -10, ozone, and Community Goal,
toxic air levels. Collaborative Initiative,
Work Program for
Environmental Health
Department
II.2. Achieve and maintain healthy ozone levels. Community Goal,
Collaborative Initiative,
E_.,:.... _ tol u...
Work Program for
Environmental Health
Department
II.3. All existing development and uses should minimize their Community Goal,_
air pollution emissions. Work Program for
Environmental
Health and Planning
Departments
II.4. All new development and uses should minimize their air Proposed Code Amendment
pollution emissions.
Environmental Stewardship
59
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011 •
•
•
Environmental PoI icy
Stewardship Policies Categories
•
iIII.WATER
III.1. Maintain minimum instream flows for the Roaring Fork Community Goal, Work
River and its tributaries. Program for Water
Department
III.2. Reduce the detrimental effects of diversions from the Work Program for Water
Roaring Fork River and its tributaries. Department
II1.3. Maintain and preserve existing riparian habitat and Work Program for Planning_
wetlands. and Engineering
Departments, Proposed
Code Amendment
III.4. Reduce the quantity of urban pollutants in stormwater Work Program for
runoff that discharge into the Roaring Fork River and its Engineering Department,
tributaries. Proposed Code Amendment
III.5. Optimize the natural filtration of storm- and melt- water. Work Program for
Engineering Department,
Proposed Code Amendment
III.6. Require new development to treat its stormwater runoff, Work Program for
with a preference for on -site. Engineering and Planning
Departments, Proposed
Code Amendment
II1.7. Encourage existing development to treat its stormwater Work Program for
runoff, with a preference for on site. Engineering Department
ySTE MANAGEMENT AND REDUCTION
IV.1. Maximize recycling and diversions, implement waste Community Goal
reduction programsand environmentally - responsible Collaborative Initiative,
purchasing programs, and encourage behavior that moves the Work Program for
Aspen Area toward being a zero waste community and extends Environmental Health
the life of the landfill. Department & Landfill
IV.2. Adequate funds should be available for environmental Work Program for Landfill
monitoring and eventual remediation of the Pitkin County
Landfill.
IV.3. Minimize off -site snow storage. Work Program for Planning,
Engineering, Streets, and
Environmental Health
Departments
IV.4. Increase the practice of deconstruction and increase the Proposed Code Amendment
amount of materials that are diverted from the landfill, reused
or recycled.
Environmental Stewardship
60
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
•
Environmental Policy
Stewardship Policies Categories
•
it V. RENEWABLE ENERGY
V.1. Reduce our dependence on non - renewable energy sources Community Goal, Work
and instill an ethic of energy accountability. program for Canary
Initiative and Utility
Department
V.2. Continue to pursue efforts to establish an electric portfolio of Community Goal, Work
100% renewable energy. Program for Canary
Initiative and Utility
Department
V.3. By 2020, reduce electricity and natural gas consumption Community Goal, Work
in the Urban Growth Boundary from 2004 levels by 15% (to Program for Canary
229,488.1 tons CO2 e). Initiative and Utility
Department
V.4. Require new development and redevelopment to minimize Incentive Program, Work
their energy usage and use on -site renewable energies as the Program for Canary
site allows. Initiative and Building
Department, Proposed
Code Amendment
V.S. Existing development should minimize their energy usage Incentive Program, Work
and use on -site renewable energies as the site allows. Program for Canary
Initiative and Building
Department,
•
VI. WEED MANAGEMENT
VI.1. Ensure there is proper resource management to minimize Community Goal, Work
the negative impacts of weeds on the Aspen Area. Program for Parks and
Open Space Departments
VII. WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
VII.1. Sustain, protect and restore biodiversity and native Community Goal,
ecosystems through land use planning, resource acquisition and Collaborative Initiative,
best land management practices on public and private lands. Work Program for Planning,
Parks, and Open Space
Departments, Proposed
Code Amendment
•
VII.2. Elected and appointed Boards and Commissions should Community Goal, Proposed
consider environmental and wildlife issues when making Code Amendment
decisions.
1
Environmental Stewardship
61
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
Environmental Stewardship Policies and
Action Items
GREENHOUSE GASES
I.1. By 2020, reduce the carbon footprint of the Aspen Area from 2004 levels by 30% (to
588,612.5 tons CO2 -e). (Community Goal, Work Program for Canary Initiative)
I.1.a Enhance existing and create new incentives for Aspen Area property owners to voluntarily
track and reduce their personal carbon footprints. (I - CI)
I.1.b Continue the Canary Initiative and Community -wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory and
establish interim reductions goals. (LT - CI)
I.1.c Encourage businesses to decrease their greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing best practices,
and becoming ZGreen and TOP certified when they get a business license. (LT- CI, EH)
I.1.d Study and implement methods to further decrease greenhouse gas emissions, such as
incentivizing users to conduct energy audits, switch to renewable energy, purchase energy efficient
appliances, improve insulation, etc. (LT- CI)
I.2. All existing development and uses should minimize their greenhouse gas emissions.
(Community Goal, Work Program for Canary Initiative)
I.2.a Explore the creation of incentives for existing development to minimize their greenhouse gas
emissions. (I - P, B, E /SW)
I.3. Incentivize alternative forms of transportation to reduce reliance on fossil - fuels.
(Incentive Program)
I.3.a Implement purchasing policy for new City and County vehicles to include hybrid, electric, or
alternative fuel vehicles whenever possible. All vehicles purchased should score at 8 or higher for
both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions as listed in the EPA's green vehicle guide. (I - EH,
CI, Streets, Asset)
I.3.b Incentivize the use and purchase of hybrid and electric vehicles by the public, including rental
car companies (LT - CI)
I.3.c Incentivize air travelers to voluntarily offset impacts from flights through the purchase of
Canary Tags. (I - CI)
I.3.d Continue to work with FAA to further reduce the pollution impacts of the airport. (LT - CI)
I.3.e Explore the potential benefits of adding bike lanes to existing rights -of -way, including looking
for opportunities to eliminate some onstreet parking and replacing it with bike lanes. (I - T,
Streets, P, E, City Manager)
I.3.f Establish a community bike sharing program throughout the UGB. (I - T)
I.3.g Encourage and increase the use of carpooling and car - sharing in the Aspen Area, including
educating the public on the options and availability. (I - T)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 33
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
I.4. All new development and uses should minimize their greenhouse gas emissions.
(Proposed Code Amendment)
I.4.a Review and update elements of the Building Code to minimize the use of unsustainable
resources and those that have high levels of embodied energy. (I - CI, EH, B)
I.4.b Quantify, evaluate, and reduce construction emissions. (I - EH, CI)
I.4.c Amend the City and County land use codes to require all development to go through an
environmental review that ensures it will meet the established thresholds. (I - P, EH, CI, SW, B)
I.4.d Establish a sliding scale of environmental thresholds for development. (I - P, EH, CI, B)
■ •
II.1. Improve air quality by reducing PM -10, ozone, and toxic air levels. (Community
Goal, Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Environmental
Health Department)
II.1.a Maintain a maximum PM -10 level of 50 or Tess with 98% of days with PM -10 levels below 35
(I - EH, T, Streets)
II.1.b Track the use of street sanding and cleaning in the winter and street cleaning in the summer •
and investigate ways to minimize impacts. (LT - EH, Streets)
II.1.c Continue to investigate alternatives for winter treatment of Highway -82. (LT - EH)
II.1.d Improve public education and awareness of toxic pollutants, such as pesticides and radon,
and implement programs to decrease their use. (I - EH)
II.1.e When PM -10 levels are likely to be high, inform the public and implement programs to
encourage bus and carpool use. (I - EH, T)
II.2. Achieve and maintain healthy ozone levels. (Community Goal, Collaborative
Initiative, Work Program for Environmental Health Department)
II.2.a Monitor and determine baseline ozone levels for the Aspen Area. (I - EH)
II.2.b Evaluate ozone monitoring data and develop a program to attain and maintain healthy ozone
levels. (LT - EH)
II.3. All existing development and uses should minimize their air pollution emissions.
(Community Goal, Work Program for Environmental Health and Planning Departments)
II.3.a Explore the creation of incentives for existing development to minimize their air pollution
emissions. (I - P, B, E /SW,CI)
II.4. All new development and uses should minimize their air pollution emissions.
(Proposed Code Amendment)
II.4.a Explore amending the land use codes to require all development to go through an
environmental review that ensures it will meet established sliding scale thresholds for air pollution.
(I - P, EH, CI)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 34
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
III. WATER
III.1. Maintain minimum instream flows for the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries.
(Community Goal, Work Program for Water Department)
III.1.a Pursue dedication of water rights to maintain minimum stream flows. (I - U)
III .1.b - - . - .. - .. - :. - : : • - - -: :
purflesesCoordinate with Colorado Water Conservation Board for dedication and change
of water rights for in- stream flow purposes. (LT - U)
III.2. Reduce the detrimental effects of diversions from the Roaring Fork River and its
tributaries. (Work Program for Water Department)
III.2.a -; - - - • - :
diversion-97 Continue to evaluate and identify mitigation efforts which target effects of
river diversion. (LT - U, E /SW)
III.2.b -_ _ .. - - -- _ ,._ - _ •
... : : .. - : _ - - . Consistent
with existing water regulations, ordinances, resolutions and policies, evaluate
connection to municipal water supplies or other water districts. (I - U)
III.3. Maintain and preserve existing riparian habitat and wetlands. (Work Program for
Planning and Engineering Departments, Proposed Code Amendment)
III.3.a Examine existing land use policies to ensure they protect the riparian habitats. (I - P, P /OS)
■ III.4. Reduce the quantity of urban pollutants in stormwater runoff that discharges into
the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries. (Work Program for Engineering Department,
Proposed Code Amendment)
III.4.a Conduct master planning of the Aspen Area's sub - watersheds and install regional
stormwater treatment facilities to capture and treat runoff, beginning with the most heavily
developed areas. (I - E /SW)
III.4.b Reduce the potential for stormwater pollutants generated from municipal facilities and
operations, such as vehicle maintenance and street flushing, by implementing storm water best
management practices. (LT - E /SW)
III.4.c Pursue partnerships among government, local businesses and property owners and
managers to develop and showcase measures that reduce the amount of urban pollutants in storm
water runoff. (LT - E /SW)
III.4.d Educate and engage the public in Clean River Initiative project, and the impacts of
pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer on water quality. (I - E /SW)
III.4.e Develop and implement a plan to detect and eliminate illegal or improper discharges to the
stormwater system. (LT - E /SW)
III.4.f Implement a regular pharmaceutical take -back program to reduce the levels of
pharmaceuticals entering our rivers. (LT - EH, E /SW)
III.5. Increase the natural filtration of storm- and melt- water. (Work Program for
Engineering Department, Proposed Code Amendment)
III.5.a Amend land use requirements to reduce the amount of allowed impervious surfaces, such as
reducing lot coverage dimensional requirements. (I - P, E /SW)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 35
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
III.5.b Explore the feasibility of requiring pervious surfaces in place of impervious surfaces. (I - E/
SW, Fire, P, Streets)
III.6. Require new development to treat its stormwater runoff, with a preference for
on -site. (Work Program for Engineering and Planning Departments, Proposed Code
Amendment)
III.6.a Amend the land use and building codes to require development and redevelopment to
incorporate best management practices that will permanently manage and treat stormwater runoff
on site. (I - P, B, E /SW)
III.6.b Require Construction Management Plans to include provisions for the installation and
maintenance of pollution prevention measures on construction sites. (I - E /SW)
III.7. Encourage existing development to treat its stormwater runoff, with a preference
for onsite. (Work Program for Engineering Department)
III.7.a Explore the creation of incentives for existing development to treat stormwater runoff on-
site. (I - P, B, E /SW)
/. WASTE MANAGEMENT AND REDUCTION
IV.1. Maximize recycling and diversions, implement waste reduction programs and
environmentally - responsible purchasing programs and encourage behavior that moves
the Aspen Area toward being a zero waste community and extends the life of the Landfill.
(Community Goal Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Environmental Health
Department & Landfill)
IV.1.a Implement programs, including expanded curb -side recycling pick -up and increasing the
kinds of materials that can be recycled, to significantly reduce waste and increase recycling. (LT
- EH, L)
IV.1.b Evaluate amending regulations to require that all residences and businesses in the Aspen
Area recycle office paper, commingled, magazines /newspaper, and paperboard, glass, plastic,
cardboard and compost /yard waste. (I - EH, L)
IV.1.c Develop a system for food waste and organic material pickup and a permanent food waste
and organics compost operation at the landfill. (I - EH, L)
IV.1.d Incorporate programs to promote and implement "zero waste," for events, businesses, and
residents. (LT - EH, L)
IV.1.e Require all events in the Aspen Area to meet the environmental requirements established
by the ZGreen Program, addressing waste reduction, energy conservation, and public outreach. (I
-
IV.1.f Ensure that there are adequate facilities and resources to accommodate increased recycling
levels and a greater diversity of materials. (LT - EH, L)
IV.1.g Reduce the use of paper and plastic bags in the Aspen Area. (I - EH7-C-1)
IV.1.h Incentivize businesses to use reusable or recyclable cups, bottles, and containers. (I - EH,
CI)
IV.1.i Lobby state legislature to improve laws and regulations in order to implement policy. (LT
- EH)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 36
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
IV.2. Adequate funds should be available for environmental monitoring and eventual
remediation of the Pitkin County Landfill. (Work Program for Landfill)
IV.2.a Explore and implement mechanisms to ensure there are adequate funds for the landfill
operations. (LT - L, EH)
IV.3. Minimize off -site snow storage. (Work Program for Planning, Engineering, Streets,
and Environmental Health Departments)
IV.3.a Work with development to minimize off -site snow storage, and explore potential code
amendments to implement the policy. (LT - P, E /SW, Streets, EH)
IV.4. Increase the practice of deconstruction and increase the amount of materials that
are diverted from the landfill, reused or recycled. (Proposed Code Amendment)
IV.4.a Explore amend City and County codes to require deconstruction rather than demolition of
existing structures so that materials and components that can be reused are separated and made
available for salvage and reuse, and recyclable materials are handled appropriately. (I /LT- B, EH, P,
L)
IV.4.b Explore opportunities to create incentives in the building process for increasing
deconstruction and salvage. This could include giving discounted access to the Pitkin County
Landfill, adjusting landfill /building permit fees when a building is deconstructed instead of
demolished, imposing fees at time of building permit to cover the costs of construction waste that
goes to the landfill, or prioritizing building permit review based on the level of deconstruction and
on the amount of construction and development waste that is recycled. (LT - EH, B, L)
IV.4.c Explore opportunities in the state to recycle or re -use construction and development waste
that cannot be accommodated at the Pitkin County landfill. (LT - EH, L)
V. RENEWABLE ENERGY
V.1. Reduce our dependence on non - renewable energy sources and instill an ethic of
energy accountability. (Community Goal, Work Program for Canary Initiative and Utility
Department)
V.1.a Retrofit existing City and County buildings with renewable energy systems and energy
efficiency improvements. (I - CI, U)
V.1.b Evaluate amending the building codes to reduce phantom energy loads in new and existing
buildings. (I - B)
V.1.c Evaluate potential energy requirements and quantify greenhouse gas emissions if the Urban
Growth Boundary was completely built out according to current zoning. Consider code and policy
changes based on the study in order to conserve energy and reduce trips. (LT - P, EH, CI, T, B, U)
V.1.d Evaluate amending the building code to maximize the use of renewable energy in all new
construction. (LT - CI, B)
V.1.e Continue efforts to educate and engage the public regarding energy usage and opportunities
to increase energy efficiency. (I - EH, CI, U)
V.2. Continue to pursue efforts to establish an electric portfolio of 100% renewable
energy. (Community Goal, Work Program for Canary Initiative and Utility Department)
V.2.a Complete and implement the Clean Energy Plan. (LT - U, CI)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 37
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
V.3. By 2020, reduce electricity and natural gas consumption in the Urban Growth
Boundary from 2004 levels by 15% (to 229,488.1 tons CO2 -e). (Community Goal, Work
Program for Canary Initiative and Utility Department)
V.3.a Work with Holy Cross to increase the renewable energy mix in their electricity provided to the
Aspen Area. Explore options for greater utilization of the City of Aspen's energy utility in the Aspen
Area. (LT - CI, U)
V.3.b Implement efficiency programs and projects as well as continued development and
collaboration in conjunction with Source Gas, HCE. and CORE. (LT - CI, U)
V.3.c Incentivize private development of ground source heat pumps, solar panels and wind power.
(LT - CI, U)
V.3.d Explore opportunities for local renewable energy production, including ground source heat
pumps, the creation of geothermal heating districts, and the use of solar and wind power. (LT - U,
CI)
V.4. Require new development and redevelopment to minimize their energy usage and
use on -site renewable energies as the site allows. (Incentive Program, Work Program for
Canary Initiative and Building Department, Proposed Code Amendment)
V.4.a Establish a City /County renewable energy project in the Urban Growth Boundary that projects
can buy into as an alternative to renewable energy on -site. (I - CI, EH, B)
V.4.b Amend the City and County building codes to prohibit outdoor fire pits, hot tubs and
snowmelt systems unless they are powered by nonpolluting, 100% renewable energies. (I - B, EH,
SCI)
V.4.c Adopt a program that would allow property owners to get a loan from the City or County for
energy upgrades that would be paid back over time through increased property taxes (e.g. a lien
on the property), available resources, and other financial mechanisms. (I - CI)
V.4.d Amend City and County land use codes to remove barriers to the use of renewable energy,
such as solar panels, on development. (I - P)
V.4.e Amend the land use code to require protection of solar access and proper siting for solar
orientation in all development. (I - P)
V.4.f Amend the building code to require new construction to accommodate future energy
upgrades, such as rooftop wiring. (I - B)
V.S. Encourage existing development to minimize their energy usage and use on -site
renewable energies as the site allows. (Incentive Program, Work Program for Canary
Initiative and Building Department. )
V.5.a Require energy audits when an improved property is sold so the new buyer is aware of the
energy costs, and potential improvements, of the building. (LT - CI)
V.5.b Adopt a program that would allow property owners to get a loan from the City or County for
energy upgrades that would be paid back over time through increased property taxes (e.g. a lien
on the property). (I - CI)
V.5.c Amend City and County land use codes to remove barriers to the use of renewable energy,
such as solar panels, on development. (I - P)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 38
2011 Aspen Area Community Plan - Sept 15, 2011
VI. WEED MANAGEMENT
VI.1. Ensure there is proper resource management to minimize the negative impacts of
weeds on the Aspen Area. (Community Goal, Work Program for Parks and Open Space
Departments)
VI.1.a. Broaden public education about specific techniques to limit the spread of invasive noxious
weeds. (I - LM, P /OS)
VI.1.b Create new, and enhance existing, policies that enable partnerships and cost sharing
between government and property owners to achieve compliance with the Colorado Noxious Weed
Act. (I - LM)
VII. WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
VII.1. Sustain, protect and restore biodiversity and native ecosystems through land use
planning, resource acquisition and best land management practices on public and private
lands. (Community Goal, Collaborative Initiative, Work Program for Planning, Parks, and
Open Space Departments, Proposed Code Amendment)
VII.1.a Align City and County stream buffer /setback standards to comprehensively buffer
development from the riparian ecosystem associated with the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries.
(LT - P)
VII.1.b Improve and coordinate existing City and County standards and incentives for the
reclamation of riparian and wetland habitat mitigation and /or replacement. (I - P, P /OS)
VII.1.c Support use of City and County Open Space and Trails funds for purchase and maintenance
of intact, unfragmented wildlife habitat, or critical connections between habitats for the
preservation of native plant and animal species. (LT - P /OS)
VII.1.d Promote the diversity and vitality of the "urban forest" that exists both within the City of
Aspen and in the Wildland Urban Interface. (LT - P /OS)
VII.1.e Improve existing standards, enforcement and education as needed to enhance the
coexistence of bears and people in the City of Aspen and in Pitkin County. (LT - EH, LM)
VII.2. Elected and appointed Boards and Commissions should consider environmental
and wildlife issues when making decisions. (Community Goal, Proposed Code
Amendment)
VII.2.a Amend the code, as needed, to ensure environmental and wildlife issues are incorporated
as review criteria. (LT - P)
Environmental Stewardship - Appendix
Appendix - 39