Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center advocates for Rocky Flats warning signage

Community leaders in Broomfield County are taking a stand against the development of recreational trails on land contaminated by nuclear waste. At a recent City Council session, Giselle Herzfeld, representing the Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center, expressed gratitude for the council's previous decision to withdraw from the Rocky Mountain Greenway project, which aimed to develop trails near the Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant. Herzfeld emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of recreating in areas affected by plutonium contamination.

Herzfeld urged the council to go further by installing informative signage at key locations bordering the Rocky Flats Refuge. This signage would feature the internationally recognized radioactive symbol alongside warnings about the dangers of the area. She highlighted that similar proposals are being discussed in neighboring Westminster and Boulder County, showcasing a growing regional commitment to public health and safety.

Chris Allred, also from the Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center, echoed Herzfeld's sentiments, noting that Broomfield's past decisions have inspired other local governments to prioritize transparency and public health. He pointed out that Westminster recently followed Broomfield's lead by withdrawing from the Rocky Mountain Greenway, reinforcing community solidarity against development in contaminated areas.

The council's discussions reflect a significant shift in local governance, prioritizing environmental safety and community awareness over development interests. As Broomfield continues to navigate these complex issues, the proposed signage initiative could serve as a critical step in educating residents and visitors about the historical dangers of the Rocky Flats site. The council's next steps will be closely watched by community advocates and neighboring municipalities.