Residents oppose Littleton's Jackass Gulch Trail paving project amid funding concerns

Concerns over the proposed paving of the Jackass Gulch Trail dominated the Littleton City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, as residents voiced strong opposition to the project. Mark Flink, a long-time resident and frequent user of the trails, urged council members to reconsider the plan, arguing that the funding for the 16-foot wide concrete road was secured through misleading statements in grant applications. He highlighted that the project was not part of the city’s Transportation Master Plan, contradicting claims made to secure state and federal funds.

Flink pointed out that the trail's proposed improvements would not effectively serve the community, as the distance to the Mineral Light Rail Station exceeds standard walkability measures. He emphasized that the paving would not encourage residents to walk longer distances and would compromise the recreational value of the trail for walkers and runners.

Following Flink, Andrew Ehrenstein raised concerns about the visibility of the Littleton City flag, suggesting that it lacks recognition and should be adopted in a more prominent design that reflects the city’s heritage. He also expressed his preference for keeping the Spur Trail in its current crushed gravel state rather than converting it to concrete.

Don Bruns, another resident, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the existing trail has served the community well for decades and that the proposed design does not align with the open space setting. He noted that many users already prefer more direct routes to the station, questioning the necessity of the new design.

The discussions highlighted a significant divide among residents regarding the future of the Jackass Gulch Trail, with many advocating for its preservation as a natural recreational space rather than a paved thoroughfare. The City Council now faces the challenge of balancing community needs with transportation goals as they consider the next steps for the project.