The Board of County Commissioners convened in Aspen for a regular meeting, addressing a packed agenda and opening the floor for public comments. Notably, resident Rachel Richards raised concerns regarding the potential bypass of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in upcoming infrastructure projects, particularly the proposed three-lane bridge with reversible lanes on Highway 82.

Richards emphasized the importance of adhering to NEPA guidelines, citing the historical context of transportation planning in the area. She criticized the city of Aspen's recent decision to allocate $600,000 to request approval from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and other federal agencies without undergoing the necessary environmental review process. Richards argued that this move undermines decades of efforts to prioritize mass transit over single-occupancy vehicles, a shift that she believes is crucial for sustainable community development.

She urged the commissioners to engage actively in the planning process, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to transportation that considers future population growth and workforce commuting needs. Richards expressed concern that the current proposals could lead to increased traffic congestion and inefficiencies in public transit services.

The commissioners acknowledged Richards' comments and indicated they would relay her concerns to relevant parties, including the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (Raft). The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue about infrastructure development and environmental stewardship in the region, as community members seek to influence decisions that will shape Aspen's transportation landscape for years to come.