This week: Castle Creek Bridge, Airport, Property Tax on the Ballot
🏗️ Castle Creek Bridge and "Entrance to Aspen" Decision Delayed
The City Council has decided to delay decisions on the Castle Creek Bridge and the "Entrance to Aspen" until December, pending the results of a new inspection by the Colorado Department of Transportation to assess the bridge’s condition. At issue are the three options for the future of the Bridge: the Three-Lane Shifted Design, which maintains two lanes of traffic during construction; the Modified Direct (Split Shot), which requires a new environmental impact study; and the Preferred Alternative "Straight Shot", which involves building a new asphalt highway across Marolt Open Space, eliminating downvalley turns, and adding a stoplight at 7th Street. This delay provides the Council with additional time to explore the complexities of both projects, including the potential hiring of an environmental lawyer and investigating the requirements for a National Environmental Policy Act Environmental Impact Statement.
This decision follows considerable public frustration, with many residents urging immediate action on the Bridge’s replacement rather than postponing the decision to a future ballot. Council members expressed concerns about the complexity of the proposed measures and emphasized the need for a more comprehensive public understanding before making any decisions. They acknowledged that asking voters to decide on such detailed and significant issues without sufficient information might be impractical. The Council plans to gather more community input, evaluate the National Environmental Policy Act process, and draft potential ballot language for a March election instead. This delay aims to provide a clearer and more informed choice for the public, addressing concerns about the aging Castle Creek Bridge and the potential impacts on local open spaces.
The Castle Creek Bridge is an agenda item at tomorrow’s Council meeting.
✈️ Aspen-Pitkin County Airport Misses Out on Federal Funding
Eight airports across Colorado will receive nearly $100 million in infrastructure improvements from the Federal Aviation Administration through various funding programs, including the Airport Improvement Program and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. However, Aspen-Pitkin County Airport did not secure any of this funding due to its Airport Layout Plan not yet being approved by the FAA. The issue revolves around the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport's failure to secure federal infrastructure funding because its Airport Layout Plan remains unapproved, which is essential for addressing runway and taxiway spacing problems. This funding shortfall affects the airport's ability to upgrade infrastructure and sustain commercial air traffic, while also complicating its eligibility for future federal support.
In the interim, Aspen-Pitkin County Airport has utilized its discretionary FAA funds to support infrastructure projects at other Colorado airports, such as those in Colorado Springs and Hayden. With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding set to expire in 2026, the airport faces a pressing need to advance its ALP approval process to remain eligible for future funds. Additionally, the airport's operational challenges, including a monthly shutdown for runway maintenance, have impacted passenger numbers, further complicating its efforts to improve infrastructure and sustain commercial air traffic.
📊 Pitkin County's November Ballot: Proposed Property Tax Increase for Affordable Housing
Voters will be asked to decide on a proposed 1.5-mill property tax increase in the November ballot, aimed at funding affordable housing projects. This property tax increase is projected to generate approximately $8.5 million annually for up to 25 years. The revenue from this tax could be used for a variety of purposes, including creating deed restrictions, developing new affordable housing, and maintaining existing housing reserves. The goal is to leverage partnerships and enhance housing initiatives throughout the valley.
At a recent APCHA Board meeting, concerns were voiced about the allocation of these funds, particularly in relation to the Phillips Mobile Home Park, which requires substantial infrastructure upgrades. While county officials, including Francie Jacober, suggested that the tax revenue could potentially be used to support such projects, the exact use of the funds remains undecided. Board members stressed the importance of innovative approaches to ensure the effective utilization of any funds acquired through the new tax, should it be approved by voters.
⛳️ A Round of Golf Course Planning
At Monday's work session, the COA will hear an update on the Golf Department's effort to develop a business plan in response to growing demand on the amenity. The consultant advising on the plan has so far looked at: the existing structure of pass sales; areas to improve efficiency in staffing; analyzing capital improvement needs for the 22 year old clubhouse, cart barn, practice area, and other maintenance facilities.
Various Around Town
🐻 Bear Cub Euthanized in Aspen Highlands
Earlier this month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife euthanized a bear cub in Aspen Highlands after it, along with its sow and sibling, repeatedly broke into occupied homes. The cub managed to enter a home through a window left open by a homeowner.
🍽️ Mezzaluna to Close After 37 Years
Mezzaluna will close its doors the first week of October after 37 years in Aspen. The space will be transformed into a new restaurant, ZigZag, which is expected to open in December.