Jefferson County commissioners reported on local trail and transit pilot projects at their Sept. 16 meeting, highlighting the Dutch Creek Trail dedication and a WestTrax shuttle pilot.

Why it matters: improved trail connectivity and shuttle pilots aim to expand multimodal access to trailheads, recreation areas and transit, reduce drive-alone trips and support regional tourism and recreation access.

Details from commissioners: Commissioner Kerr noted the Dutch Creek Trail dedication and a new bridge connecting the C‑470 multimodal trail to the Ridge Recreation Center. Kerr said the project will help connect to a broader trail network reaching toward Downtown Denver and called the dedication a “positive” step.

Kerr also said a WestTrax shuttle pilot will run from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday with stops at partners including Jefferson County, City and County of Denver, Golden, Morrison, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Red Rocks Park and Dinosaur Ridge; the county hopes the pilot will lead to a permanent shuttle next summer.

Funding note: Commissioner Leslie Dahlkemper said Foothills Park and Recreation District received $1,800,000 in funding from a 2022 Trails Partnership Program grant administered through Jefferson County Parks and Open Space to support the project.

Discussion versus action: these items were reported as commissioner updates; no formal board vote was required at the meeting. Officials encouraged public participation in upcoming shuttle pilot events.