Community opposes Mineral Trail paving plan during council meeting discussion

The Transportation & Mobility Board meeting held on March 27, 2025, in Littleton, Colorado, focused on the contentious proposal to pave the Mineral Trail, a project linked to the city's transportation master plan. The meeting highlighted significant public opposition to the paving initiative, with many residents expressing concerns over the potential impact on trail usability and safety.

During the meeting, several community members voiced their objections to the proposed concrete paving of the trail. One resident, who frequently uses the Mineral Trail, argued against the need for paving, stating that the current conditions are satisfactory and that safety issues primarily stem from speeding cyclists rather than the trail's surface. This sentiment was echoed by Steve Lawry, who presented findings from a survey indicating that nearly all respondents opposed the full concrete option, with many expressing the belief that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Lawry urged the board to reconsider the paving plan, suggesting that the design could be modified to better reflect public opinion. He proposed removing the paving component from the upcoming Phase 1 contract, allowing for further discussion and evaluation of the project. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing user preferences over maintenance cost concerns.

Another speaker, Larry Borger, a former city councilor, also criticized the paving proposal, suggesting a narrower concrete path combined with a gravel trail to accommodate various users, including joggers and horseback riders. He argued that the item should be removed from the consent agenda for the upcoming city council meeting to allow for further debate.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a clear divide between city planners and community members regarding the future of the Mineral Trail. As the council prepares to vote on the project, the voices of local trail users will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final decision. The board's next steps will involve addressing these concerns and potentially revising the project to align with community desires.