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Open space plans for Markel and Wottge approved for construction, Sheridan crossing removed
Summary
City open-space staff outlined final design and construction timing for Markel and Wottge Open Spaces, including a 0.8-mile loop at Wottge, a 220-foot concrete swale funded by the Dillon Pointe developer, removal of a planned Sheridan Blvd/Mountain Dr crossing, and an ADA fishing dock at Markel. Construction is scheduled late 2026–mid 2027.
Open Space and Trails staff presented final construction plans for the Markel and Wottge open-space sites and described a construction timeline that begins in late 2026 with substantial completion expected in mid-2027.
OST staff said plans for Wottge include a 0.8-mile trail loop, restored central grasslands, light tree landscaping at entry corners and a split-rail fence on the east side of the property to discourage social trails across Sheridan Boulevard. Staff also described a 220-foot concrete swale associated with Dillon Pointe development work to maintain historic water flow patterns in the floodplain. "The swale has always been part of the Wottge site plan," OST Director Kristan Pritz said, and staff reported that the Dillon Pointe developer will pay for the concrete pan addition.
Staff noted an existing design adjustment: a previously planned pedestrian crossing at the Sheridan Boulevard and Meadow Mountain Drive intersection has been removed because of accessibility and grading concerns, HOA property ownership of nearby monument signs and islands, and crosswalk constraints. Two trail connections remain: one at Spyglass and Sheridan and another at the Lake Link underpass, and staff said directional signage will route pedestrians to those entries. Interim Chair Teng Keng “TK” Vang urged clear signage for the underpass, saying he preferred controlled crossing points.
Residents raised practical concerns during Q&A. A nearby resident, Brad Helms, said he worries recreational visitors will park on neighborhood streets; Kristan Pritz responded that streets are public, that Country Estates Park parking is intended for Markel visitors, and that on-site parking for Wottge did not receive strong support during the planning process. A resident asked whether parks close at night; Kristan answered, "The open space does close from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. If you notice activity during this time, please call the police non-emergency line and inform them." Another resident asked about grills at picnic pavilions; staff said only picnic tables are proposed due to fire concerns.
The designs for both Markel and Wottge include trail connections, benches and native vegetation. Markel is planned to include an ADA-accessible public fishing dock intended for nature education. Staff said construction documents are in the bid phase and contracts will follow.
