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OSAC votes to install double-vault restroom at B&B Trailhead; costs to be split with town
Summary
Summit County Open Space Advisory Council unanimously voted to install a double-vault concrete restroom at the B&B Trailhead, with installation costs split 50/50 with the Town. OST noted a vault toilet's higher upfront cost (~$105,000) but lower annual operating costs (~$10,000) and a long lifespan; Environmental Health recommended vault toilets for year-round sites.
The Summit County Open Space Advisory Council voted unanimously Feb. 4 to install a double-vault restroom at the B&B Trailhead and to split installation costs 50/50 with the Town.
OST staff presented three options for the heavily used B&B Trailhead—year-round porta-potties, a double-vault concrete restroom, or doing nothing—and recommended a vault toilet for year-round service. Staff provided comparative figures: a porta-potty option has a lower installation estimate (about $15,000) but higher annual service costs (around $11,000) and is intended for seasonal use per Environmental Health; a double-vault concrete restroom has an estimated installation cost of roughly $105,000, lower annual operating costs (about $10,000 per year), and a long expected lifespan (40–50+ years). Staff also noted winter servicing constraints (vault pumping typically occurs after spring thaw) and building-code considerations for any added shelters.
Environmental Health recommended vault toilets for year-round use; OST staff said it takes about 40 years to recoup the higher upfront cost of a vault toilet compared with porta-potties. OSAC discussed siting and signage to direct users from nearby Lincoln and other French Gulch trailheads and suggested that any shelter designs meet snow-load and occupancy codes; OSAC also suggested local high-school students could help build shelters if code requirements are met.
The motion to install a double-vault restroom and split costs with the Town passed unanimously. Staff noted the Town has budgeted for a restroom in its current budget cycle. The council characterized the B&B Trailhead as a regional recreation showcase and emphasized balancing visitor access with open-space conservation values.
Next steps: OST and Town staff will coordinate design, permitting, and a cost-sharing agreement; staff to consider ADA options for any future modifications.
