Routt County commissioners on July 29 approved a road-use permit allowing Steamboat Gravel to return as a one-day event on June 28, 2026, with up to 2,750 participants, after a presentation from county road staff and extensive discussion with event organizers and members of the public.

Road and Bridge staff recommended approval under the countys road-event policy for events that exceed thresholds for participants and road miles. Mike Morty, Road & Bridge, told the board the application "meets the criteria by requesting 2,750 participants and utilizing over 100 miles of county roads." The board debated course design, closures and operational details before approving the permit with a written caveat that any requested temporary road closures must be reviewed by county legal staff.

Organizers said the 2026 plan pulls together lessons from 2024 and 2025. Amy Charity, cofounder and owner of Steamboat Gravel, said the proposal returns to a single, consolidated event footprint in Steamboat and uses more remote county roads to reduce impacts on towns and busy highways. "We want to be an event that is fun and safe for everybody," Charity said, describing changes including the elimination of shakeout rides, continuing the safety bubble for the pro race, new wave starts to spread participants and a reduced operational footprint.

Gabe (BluePallet Events), the contracted event operator, told commissioners the design was intended to "inconvenience the fewest people for the least amount of time" and to consolidate aid stations and logistics so the event is safer and more efficient. Planning and operations material in the packet showed four course distances (25, 53, 73 and 108 miles), a safety plan that includes a command center, radio and satellite communications, medical coverage, course marshals, portable sanitation and plans for route sweeps to remove trash.

Organizers proposed rolling closures on two narrow county roads where two‑way interaction with cyclists could create safety concerns; staff said closures would remain open to emergency and local traffic and would be staffed by flaggers or law enforcement as needed. Commissioners said they wanted written legal review of the closure authority and any potential exposure before closures are implemented; the final motion included that caveat.

The board heard broadly supportive testimony from local business owners and tourism and lodging representatives who said the event drives room nights and local spending, and from cycling organizations and local volunteers who described the events community value and the organizers recent safety investments. Several rural residents urged strict enforcement of rider conduct and earlier rider communications; organizers said they will continue direct outreach, increased signage and a local hotline for concerns. County staff said they will continue coordinated planning with local law enforcement, state patrol when needed, and emergency medical providers.

The board voted to approve the permit and authorized the chair to sign, with the requested legal review of closures before implementation.