Commissioner Best advocates for clear trail signage and private property protection

On May 2, 2025, city and county officials gathered in Flagstaff for a Joint City/County Regional Plan Retreat, focusing on the future of trail systems and land use in the region. The discussions highlighted the need for clear distinctions between public and private lands to prevent unauthorized access and ensure safety.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the issue of trespassing on private property. Christine, a participant, shared her experience with a previous project that required fencing to deter illegal access. She emphasized the importance of creating visible markers to differentiate between dedicated public trails and private lands. This suggestion aims to protect property rights while promoting responsible use of trails.

Commissioner Best echoed these sentiments, advocating for a straightforward approach to signage. He proposed using bright colors and clear language to indicate private property boundaries, ensuring that trail users are aware of where they can and cannot go. This dual focus on property rights and public access reflects a growing recognition of the complexities involved in managing shared spaces.

The meeting also touched on the alignment of trail planning with existing maps and master plans. It was noted that the engineering staff is responsible for creating maps for the urban trail system, which differ from the open space master plans that pertain to city-owned properties. This distinction is crucial for future planning efforts, as it ensures that all properties are considered in the broader context of active transportation.

As the meeting concluded, participants were encouraged to identify any missing trail concepts or areas for future planning. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between city and county officials in developing a cohesive and accessible trail network that respects both public use and private property rights.

Overall, the retreat served as a platform for addressing critical issues related to land use and trail accessibility, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing the region's outdoor infrastructure. The next steps will involve further refining trail maps and signage strategies to promote safe and responsible use of the area's natural resources.