Littleton council authorizes grant application for Jackass Hill Park after heated debate over concrete trail

The Littleton City Council voted 4–3 on April 15 to authorize a grant application to Arapahoe County Open Space seeking $600,000 for Jackass Hill Park improvements, a proposal that prompted extended public comment and debate over whether park trails should be paved in concrete or left as softer crusher‑fine surfaces.

Supporters of leaving trails unpaved said the city and South Suburban Parks and Recreation should revise the design to avoid a continuous 16‑foot concrete corridor across Jackass Gulch. “We need to look for roadways for examples,” warned Mark Flank during public comment, saying the plan would create a “16 foot wide concrete scar that will degrade the Jackass Gulch open space.” Several neighbors and trail users said they prefer crusher fines or a dual surface to preserve the park’s natural character.

South Suburban and city staff said the design balances accessibility, maintenance and safety. Melissa Reese Thacker of South…