Committee recommends purchase of 2.11-acre parcel adjacent to Stafford Hogback with pedestrian-only access easement

Jefferson County Open Space staff described a proposed acquisition of 2.11 acres at 13975 West Bowles (13975 West Bowles LLC) adjacent to Stafford Hogback and the future Turnbuckle trailhead. The committee voted to recommend the purchase.

Staff said the parcel preserves scenic backdrop for the ridge and provides passive open-space opportunities and connectivity to existing county property. The site is accessed by a private road (Aldridge Street) and includes a narrow vehicular access easement of roughly 0.03 acres limited to pedestrian and animal use; staff noted the current easement would not allow vehicular public access to the parcel. The listed price was $350,000 and staff negotiated a purchase price of $300,000; staff will pay closing costs.

Staff noted known cultural resources in the vicinity and said a trail on the acquired parcel could be hiker-only to maintain separation from other trail users, depending on future trail planning and adjacent easement decisions. The acquisition is adjacent to other undeveloped parcels including a proposed distillery and a planned Turnbuckle trailhead; staff said final subdivision and stormwater work for the adjoining parcels remain pending and the county delayed closing until approvals are complete.

Committee members asked about the private access easement and how the parcel relates to the Turnbuckle trailhead and the distillery site. Staff said the private-road owner controls the easement and that the property would expand connectivity options while preserving views. The committee moved to recommend adoption of Resolution 25-11; the motion carried.