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OSAC declines wetland trail in Dillon Valley parcel, supports bridge and easement for nearby connector
Summary
After reviewing an Icon Engineering feasibility study, OSAC voted Oct. 1 not to pursue a proposed trail through a wetland-dominated Parcel 1 in Dillon Valley due to extensive wetlands (>90%), FEMA floodplain constraints and high estimated costs (~$1.2M with mitigation). The council supported pursuing a Parcel 2 connection and bridge (estimated $90k–$150k) subject to permitting and funding.
OSAC reviewed staff and Icon Engineering findings on potential trail options in Dillon Valley and voted not to pursue a formal trail through Parcel 1 while expressing support for pursuing a Parcel 2 connection and bridge.
Staff told OSAC that Parcel 1 is composed of more than 90% wetlands, lies largely within the FEMA floodplain, and would require multiple bridges and mitigation. Icon Engineering estimated a baseline construction cost of $770,000–$900,000 and about $1.2 million when wetland mitigation is included. Staff said the trail would likely be used seasonally, would cause about 0.5 acres of wetland disturbance, run close to private homes, and present significant regulatory and maintenance challenges; OST therefore recommended leaving Parcel 1 in its natural state to preserve riparian habitat.
Parcel 2, by contrast, contains the Dillon Valley District’s operations yard and water-treatment facility and is already the location of an informal social trail and user-built bridge. Staff reported an existing agreement with Denver Water to secure a formal trail easement that would allow a connection from Parcel 2 to the Straight Creek Trail system; Icon estimated bridge and trail-crossing costs at $90,000–$150,000 and noted the project would likely require an Army Corps permit for roughly 0.1 acre of disturbance. The District has offered an easement but requested OST funding for construction; staff said funding for Parcel 2 is included in the 2026 OST budget.
OSAC expressed concerns about habitat fragmentation, neighborhood impacts, and parking, and recommended engaging the Road & Bridge Department on broader regional options (bike lanes and sidewalks) to improve year-round walkability. OSAC unanimously voted not to pursue Parcel 1 due to environmental impacts and high cost and signaled support for pursuing Parcel 2 subject to funding, permitting, and coordination with the District.
