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Boulder trustees hear heated public debate over proposed Dowdy Draw connector trail
Summary
More than two dozen speakers and trustees debated whether to accelerate study of a bike connector from Shanahan Ridge/Greenbrier to Dowdy Draw. Proponents stressed youth safety and reduced car trips; opponents warned of habitat impacts and urged thorough ecological review. Staff outlined a one-year assessment with three engagement windows.
Trustees of the Open Space Board of Trustees heard about two dozen public comments on Dec. 10 about a proposed mountain‑bike connector between Shanahan Ridge/Greenbrier and the Dowdy Draw/Marshall Mesa trail network, with speakers split between safety and ecological concerns.
Supporters, including parents, Fairview High School riders and local cycling organizations, framed the connection as a safety and access measure. ‘‘This would prevent accidents, reduce car dependency, and provide responsible, sustainable access for all users,’’ said Andrew Feeney, who urged the board to ‘‘prioritize the well‑being of our youth.’’ Anna Niedy, a Fairview captain who described being seriously injured by a distracted driver, said the connector would cut road riding from five miles to about a half‑mile for many students.
Opponents cautioned about…
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