Berthoud Pass Decision Out Today:
The highlights:
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DECISION
I have decided to select Alternative D with modifications for implementation (see attached site map). Elements of Alternative D that were described in the Environmental Assessment (EA) that will be implemented include the following:
· A paved parking lot will be constructed on the east side of Highway 40 and will be separated from Highway 40 with a four to eight foot berm that runs the length of the parking lot. The parking lot will be accessed from Highway 40 through one entry point.
· Highway 40 will be modified to include acceleration and de-acceleration lanes, each approximately 200 to 300 feet long, approaching the entry point.
· Water detention areas will be constructed adjacent to the parking area to provide for designated storage of plowed snow and settling of sediment and other parking lot pollutants.
· An approximately 2,500 square foot hardened trailhead and interpretative plaza will be constructed. The interpretive plaza will include information kiosks, vault restrooms, warming shelter, seating area, and the Continental Divide Monument (which will be relocated).
· A gate will be placed near the parking lot to limit motorized access to Mines Peak Road.
· Existing barren areas where soils are compacted will be revegetated, with the exception of the historic Empire and Middle Park Wagon Road.
· Forest cover will be re-established in open areas (previous ski runs) to provide for wildlife habitat and visual enhancement.
· The development will preclude the opportunity to develop a future snow play area. However, the site development will provide space for a future educational center or other facility.
Modifications to Alternative D that will be implemented include:
· The interpretive plaza will be constructed at the northeast end of the parking lot, which was originally described in Alternative D as the overflow winter parking area. Constructing the plaza in this location will allow expansion of the year round paved parking.
· Parking capacity will be about 100 vehicles year round, roughly 25 less that originally described in Alternative D during the winter. However, after further field review, it was determined that the original number of 125 was overestimated.
· A Highway 40 surface crossing will be constructed until funding is secured for a pedestrian overpass. The surface crossing will be identified with flashing lights and limited highway markings.
· Accessible trails on the west side of Highway 40 will not be constructed as part of this project.
· Accessible trails on the east side of Highway 40 will be limited to the interpretive plaza, day use area and scenic overlook.
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emphasis mine.
Looks to be about glass 3/4 full to me. Wish the overpass would just die and that they'd incorporate some rumble strips for the ped xing although flashing lights and the accel/decel lanes are nice.
picture of the site plan:
