Section 3.6: Parklands & Recreation Areas Section 3.6 Parklands & Recreation Areas
3.6 PARKLANDS AND RECREATION AREAS 3.6.1 Introduction to Analysis This section provides an overview of parklands and recreational areas in the North Metro corridor study area. Parkland and recreational resources within the project study area (300 feet from the centerline of the alignment and station footprint) and the direct impact area are discussed in detail, including a description of each resource, analysis of potential impacts, and evaluation of potential mitigation measures. Project team members coordinated with the representatives of City and County of Denver (CCD), Adams County, Commerce City, Northglenn,, the Sand Creek Greenway Partnership, and the Greenway Foundation in a series of meetings to discuss identification, impacts, and mitigation measures for parkland resources. Information from site visits, relevant planning documents, and available geographic information system (GIS) data was also compiled and researched. 3.6.1.1 Summary of Results Direct impacts are anticipated at eight park resources and 13 existing recreational facilities (trails, multi-use paths, and sidewalks) as listed below. Parks Globeville Landing Park Yucca Way Property Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat Fox Run Open Space and Trail Network Eastlake Railroad Property Larry Walker Ball Fields Cherrywood III Park Fallbrook Farms Detention/Playground Recreational Trails/Multi-use Paths/Sidewalks South Platte River Trail Fernald Trailhead and Regional Trail Access Colorado Agricultural Trail Settlers Chase Condos Unnamed Local Trail Grange Hall Creek Trail 112 th Avenue Detached Multi-use Path/ South Sidewalk Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail 128 th Avenue Sidewalk Signal Ditch Trail 136 th Avenue Sidewalk North and South Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail Fallbrook Farms Trail Haven Trail The introduction of commuter train traffic as a result of this project could cause additional delays and inconvenience for users of five of the recreational facilities listed above because they are adjacent to roadways and would cross the alignment at-grade. These include 112 th Avenue Detached Multi-use Path/South Sidewalk, Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail, 128 th Avenue Sidewalk, Signal Ditch Trail, and 136 th Avenue Sidewalk North and South. If implemented, several proposed recreational facilities (which are conceptual in nature) would cross the direct impact area but would not be precluded by the project. 3.6-1 January 2011
Potential indirect impacts associated with noise, visual quality, air quality, access, and safety are identified for several parkland resources. Temporary construction impacts could result from the air quality degradation, noise, dust, and visual impacts associated with construction processes. During construction, possible trail closures, detours, or protection structures could cause inconvenience to recreational users of facilities that cross the direct impact area. Cumulative impacts could include increased urgency to develop currently proposed recreational facilities and increased demand for new recreational facilities. 3.6.1.2 Relevant Law The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended (42 United States Code 4321 et seq.) requires federal agencies to integrate environmental values into their decisionmaking processes by considering the environmental impacts of their proposed actions and reasonable alternatives to those actions. This section has been prepared in accordance with NEPA requirements and Federal Highway Administration/Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations (23 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 771 and 23 CFR 774 et seq.) on implementing NEPA. 3.6.2 Affected Environment There are public and private parklands and recreational resources in the North Metro corridor study area. The public resources are owned and maintained by one of the five North Metro corridor study area jurisdictions: CCD, Adams County, Commerce City, Northglenn, or. There are over 100 parks and recreational resources located within the North Metro corridor study area. Sixty recreational resources are located within the project study area: 42 existing and 18 proposed resources (as shown in Figure 3.6-1 and Figure 3.6-2). Most of the proposed resources are recreational trails planned by the. The city has indicated that with the exception of the proposed E-470 Trail, all these proposed trails are conceptual in nature and no construction plans have been developed. All resources within the project study area are described in Table 3.6-1. Those resources that would be impacted by the Preferred Alternative are discussed in further detail in the Impact Evaluation subsection. The project study area includes all lands within 300 feet of the centerline of the alignment and stations. 3.6.3 Impact Evaluation 3.6.3.1 Methodology The impact analysis is based on information collected in the affected environment analysis, site visits to the project study area, and GIS analysis. GIS was used to assess direct, indirect, and construction impacts using data provided by local jurisdictions and the proposed direct impact area defined by the project team. This evaluation includes analysis of potential electric multiple unit vehicle technology impacts where applicable. When the technology impacts this resource, it is described below in Results. January 2011 3.6-2
FIGURE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA SOUTHERN SECTION 3.6-3 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-2. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA NORTHERN SECTION January 2011 3.6-4
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) Southern Section DUS Access to 84 th Avenue P-15N Globeville Landing Park T-1 Sand Creek Greenway Trail P-2 Rose Hill Grange Park T-2 Fernald Trailhead and Regional Trail Access Platte River Drive and I-70 I-270 and State Highway 265 East 70 th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard East 70 th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard T-3 O Brian Canal Trail between 78 th Avenue State Highway 224 and 74 th Avenue P-3 Siegrist Lake Park East 78 th Avenue and Steele Street Park with fishing, picnic tables, a frisbee golf course, a plaza, and access to the South Platte River Trail. A 13-mile multi-use trail and greenway connecting between the High Line Canal in Aurora and the South Platte River Trail. 9.8 Park with picnic area and barbecue pit. 0.7 Multi-use trail with trailhead on east side of UP Railroad tracks connecting to several recreational resources on the west side of the UP Railroad tracks, including the South Platte River Trail, the Clear Creek Trail, and the Engineer Lake recreation area. Proposed multi-use trail along the O Brian Canal that would connect between the northern part of Commerce City and recreational resources including the South Platte River Trail, Sand Creek Greenway Trail, and Fernald Trail. Open space natural area, trail, and wildlife habitat. 19.1 Access bicycle, Limited automobile, Entity with Jurisdiction City and County of Denver Within Direct Impact Area? Commerce City 2 Rose Hill Grange #256, maintained by Commerce City No Commerce City Commerce City Adams County No 3.6-5 January 2011
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) T-4A T-4B T-4C T-5 South Platte River Trail First Crossing: BNSF Brush Subdivision tracks west of Park Avenue Second Crossing: BNSF Brush Subdivision tracks northwest of 38 th Street Third Crossing: UP Railroad tracks near 78 th Avenue and Steele Street South Platte River Trail - East 78 th Avenue Niver Creek Trail Extension * and Steele Street P-4 Steele Street Park East 78 th Avenue and Steele Street Regional multi-use trail that provides access and connectivity to several recreational resources, including the Sand Creek Greenway Trail, Fernald Trail and Trailhead, Clear Creek Trail, Engineer Lake, Niver Creek Trail, Globeville Landing Park, Denver Skate Park, and Commons Park. Existing crossings are accommodated via underpasses. Multi-use trail that is part of the South Platte River Trail and was developed with Land and Water Conservation Fund monies. Park used for passive recreation with a picnic area and access to the South Platte River Trail and the Niver Creek Trail. 3.7 P-5 Gravel Lakes Fishing Facility 80 th Avenue and Steele Street Park with fishing, open use areas, and access to the South Platte River Trail. 123.9 T-6 Niver Creek Trail East 70 th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard Multi-use trail connecting between Washington Street and the South Platte River Trail. January 2011 3.6-6 Access limited bicycle, and Automobile Entity with Jurisdiction Within Direct Impact Area? Adams County Adams County No Adams County No No Adams County
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) Northern Section 84 th Avenue to 162 nd Avenue Area T-7 86 th Avenue to 88 th Avenue Neighborhood Trail Missing Link T-8 Colorado Agricultural Trail P-6 Yucca Way Property and Yucca Way Property Neighborhood Trail Missing Link T-9 Villages North Trail Network T-10 T-11 Community Park Trail Network Community Park Neighborhood Trail Missing Link 88 th Avenue and Devonshire Boulevard East of 88 th Avenue and Devonshire Boulevard East of 88 th Avenue and Devonshire Boulevard Welby Road and Welby Circle East of Steele Street and Parkway East of Steele Street and Parkway Access Proposed local trail/sidewalk. Local multi-use trail that provides several links between different branches of the regional and local trail systems, including the Villages North Network Trail Network and the Community Park Trail Network. Open land and trail corridor that is currently undeveloped with no existing or proposed formal recreational use. Proposed local trail to provide connectivity between 88 th Avenue and Yucca Way. 4.9 Neighborhood multi-use trail network. Local multi-use trail that connects local trails with bike paths. Proposed regional multi-use trail to provide connectivity between Community Park Trail, Villages North Trail Network, and Community Park Trail Network. planning documents propose an underpass of the UP Railroad tracks for this trail. No formal access Entity with Jurisdiction Within Direct Impact Area? No No 3.6-7 January 2011
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) Access Entity with Jurisdiction T-40N T-12 T-13 T-14 P-7 Parkway Parkway Bike Lane or Route Missing Link and UP Railroad tracks 100 th Avenue Bike Lane or 100 th Avenue and Route Missing Link Colorado Boulevard Settlers Chase Condos Unnamed Local Trail Grange Hall Creek Regional Trail Missing Link Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat T-15 104th Avenue Sidewalk T-16 Unnamed Neighborhood Trail 1 West side of UP Railroad tracks between 102 nd Avenue and 104 th Avenue Colorado Boulevard between 100 th Avenue and 104 th Avenue Colorado Boulevard and South of 104 th Avenue 104 th Avenue and Fox Run Parkway Along UP Railroad tracks north of 104 th Avenue Proposed or existing bike lane or route that would connect between the Community Park Trail and other local trails. planning documents propose an underpass of the UP Railroad tracks for this facility. Proposed bike lane or route. planning documents propose an overpass of the UP Railroad tracks for this facility. Local multi-use trail. Proposed regional multi-use trail that would connect between the Grange Hall Creek Trail and Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat. planning documents propose an overpass of the UP Railroad tracks for this facility. Open space, parking, fishing, trash cans, signs, and prairie dog habitat. Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. 43.7 Local multi-use trail. Northglenn January 2011 3.6-8 Within Direct Impact Area? No No
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) P-8 Fox Run Open Space and Trail Network (including the Fox Run Neighborhood Trail) T-17 Grange Hall Creek Trail T-18 112 th Avenue Detached Multi- Use Path/South Sidewalk T-41N 112th Avenue North Sidewalk T-19 T-42N T-20 T-21 T-22 Between 104 th Avenue and 112 th Avenue east of the alignment Fox Run Parkway between 108 th Drive and 109 th Drive 112 th Avenue and York Street 112 th Avenue east of the UP Railroad tracks Unnamed Neighborhood Trail UP Railroad tracks Missing Link 2 and 120 th Avenue Unnamed Developer Trail North of 112 th Avenue Woodglen/Union Ditch Local Trail 120 th Avenue Detached Multi- Use Path/Sidewalk East of the UP Railroad tracks and north of 112 th Avenue Clayton Street and Saint Paul Street 10 th Avenue and Claude Court Union Ditch Local Trail UP Railroad tracks Missing Link and 120 th Avenue Open natural area for wildlife, multi-use trail, playground, informational signs, benches, and a basketball court. Regional multi-use trail providing access to Fox Run Open Space and Trail Network. Crosses UP Railroad tracks via an existing underpass. Multi-use trail connecting to the Fox Run neighborhood trail network. Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. Proposed local multi-use trail to connect between 112 th Avenue and Unnamed Developer Trail North of 112 th Avenue. Proposed local trail to connect between Unnamed Neighborhood Trail Missing Link 2 and Woodglen/Union Ditch Local Trail. Multi-use trail connecting between Woodglen/Brookshire Park and the trail network. Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. Proposed multi-use trail to connect between 120 th Avenue and Eastlake Reservoir #2 Park and Trail. 55.1 Access Entity with Jurisdiction Northglenn Northglenn Northglenn Private Ownership (Carlson) Northglenn Within Direct Impact Area? No No No No No No 3.6-9 January 2011
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) Access Entity with Jurisdiction T-23 T-24 P-9 Glen Eagle Apartments Unnamed Trail Waterford Place Trail and Trail Corridor Eastlake Reservoir #2 Park and Trail P-10 Adco Shop Site and Trail T-25 124th Avenue Sidewalk 120 th Avenue and Claude Court west of UP Railroad tracks UP Railroad tracks and 120 th Avenue North of 121 st Avenue and York Street 124 th Avenue and 2 nd Street 124 th Avenue Detached Multi-Use Path T-26 UP Railroad Trail 124th Claude Court Avenue and Multi-use trail connecting between 120 th Avenue and Eastlake Reservoir #1 sidewalk. Multi-use trail corridor connecting between 120 th Avenue and Eastlake Reservoir #2 Park and Trail. Open space and multi-use trail. Existing local gravel trail, proposed development to create an active park with playground and play fields. Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. Proposed multi-use trail on Eastlake Railroad property. 4.9 Northglenn P-11 Eastlake Reservoir #1 Park 124th Claude Court Avenue and T-27 Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail T-29 UP Railroad Trail P-14N Eastlake Estates Park (Private) P-12 Eastlake Railroad Property 124 th Avenue and Claude Court 128 th Avenue east of Claude Court 1 st Street and Birch Avenue 128 th Avenue and Claude Court Proposed park passive use, exact amenities are unknown. Sidewalk/multi-use trail. Multi-use trail connecting to Eastlake Estates Park and Signal Ditch Trail. Private 8.7 Ownership (Lambertson) Private park (grass open area). 0.95 Open recreation area, maintained but undeveloped. Also designated by the as future transit station location. 7.2 Private Ownership (Centex Homes) January 2011 3.6-10 Within Direct Impact Area? No No No No No No
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) T-30 128th Avenue Sidewalk T-31 Signal Ditch Trail T-32 136 th Avenue Sidewalk North and South P-13 Larry Walker Ball Fields T-33 T-34 128 th Avenue and Claude Court York Street north of 129 th Avenue 136 th Avenue and York Street York Street north of 138 th Avenue 136 th Avenue to Rocky Top th 136 Avenue and Middle School Local Trail Missing Link York Street Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail P-16N Cherrywood III Park P-17N Fallbrook Farms Detention/ Playground East 140 th Avenue west of Detroit Street West of the intersection of East 140 th Avenue and Elizabeth Street West of the intersection of East 140 th Avenue and Detroit Street Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. Regional multi-use trail that crosses the UP Railroad tracks at-grade. Multi-modal transportation facility providing connectivity for recreational trails. Baseball fields, playground, and picnic area. Partially existing and partially proposed multi-use trail. Access trail connecting neighborhoods east of UP Railroad tracks to Larry Walker Ball Fields and Rocky Top Middle School on west side of UP Railroad tracks. Trail currently crosses railroad at-grade but planning documents indicate proposed future underpass at this location. Private park with open grassy area and playground. Stormwater detention area with playground at north end of property. 18.8 3.1 4.4 Access Entity with Jurisdiction Within Direct Impact Area? Private Private 3.6-11 January 2011
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) Access Entity with Jurisdiction T-35 North of East Unnamed Neighborhood Trail 4 Missing Link 140 th Avenue and the UP Railroad tracks T-43N Fallbrook Farms Trail T-44N Fallbrook Farms to 144 th East of UP Railroad tracks and Rocky Top Middle School East of UP Railroad Avenue Connector Trail tracks and south of T-36 Haven Trail 144 th Avenue West side of UP railroad tracks between 144 th Avenue and 152 nd Avenue Proposed multi-use trail. Multi-use trail. Proposed multi-use trail to connect between Fallbrook Farms and 144 th Avenue. Multi-use trail. Fallbrook Farms Homeowners Association T-37 E-470 Trail T-38 T-45N UP Railroad tracks and E-470 German Ditch Local Trail Missing Link Big Dry Creek to German Ditch Local Trail Missing Link South of 162 nd Avenue and West of Colorado Boulevard West of UP Railroad tracks and north of 162 nd Avenue Proposed regional multi-use trail. Would cross the UP Railroad tracks via a proposed underpass. Proposed multi-use trail to connect future development to the trail network. Would cross the UP Railroad tracks north of 156 th Avenue via a proposed underpass. Proposed multi-use trail connecting between proposed German Ditch Local Trail and proposed Big Dry Creek Regional Trail. E-470 Authority and Colorado Department of Transportation January 2011 3.6-12 Within Direct Impact Area? No No
TABLE 3.6-1. PARKLANDS AND RECREATIOL RESOURCES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Resource ID 1 Resource Name Location Resource Description Size (acres) T-39 Big Dry Creek Regional Trail Missing Link North of 162 nd Avenue and West of Colorado Boulevard Proposed multi-use trail to connect future development to the trail network. Would cross the UP Railroad tracks south of 166 th Avenue via a proposed underpass. Access Entity with Jurisdiction Within Direct Impact Area? Source: Project Team, 2010; CCD, 2003; 2005; Adams County, 1998, 1999; Commerce City, 2006;, 2003a, 2003b, 2005, 2008; Northglenn, 2005b. Notes: P-# : FEIS park numbering system T-# : FEIS trail numbering system * Section 6(f) resource. 1 Commerce City-owned properties as well as easements with private property owners. Proposed parks and recreational resources. # = number DUS = Denver Union Station FEIS = Final Environmental Impact Statement I-# = Interstate # (e.g., I-25, I-70, etc.) ID = identification = not available UP = Union Pacific 2 3.6-13 January 2011
3.6.3.2 Results The direct impacts to parklands and recreation areas resulting from the No Action Alternative and Preferred Alternative are shown in Table 3.6-2. The direct impact area is defined as: the area that would be physically disturbed by construction of the alignment and stations as well as measures to mitigate project impacts. Along the alignment, the direct impact area includes the toe of slope for project improvements or the width of a bridge structure. The direct impact area for the stations is the station footprint. The direct impact area also includes the toe of slope for mitigation measures such as improvements to roadways, trails, and drainage. A 15-foot buffer has been added to these areas to account for the current level of design and potential construction and maintenance impacts. Specific areas where staging for construction activities is anticipated to occur are also included in the direct impact area, where they are known. The direct impact area was minimized to avoid or reduce impacts to private property, community resources, and natural resources to the extent practicable. Potential indirect impacts associated with noise, visual quality, air quality, and access were also assessed for parklands and recreational resources. Indirect impacts specific to each resource (if any) are identified in Table 3.6-2. TABLE 3.6-2. DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS SUMMARY PARKLANDS AND RECREATION AREAS Alternatives Direct Impacts Indirect Impacts NO ACTION ALTERTIVE SOUTHERN SECTION AND NORTHERN SECTION The Welby Road (Beachwood Drive to 88 th Avenue) Relocation Project: Potential for direct impact to the Colorado Agricultural Trail. No plans are available for this project at this time. The 104 th Avenue: (Colorado Boulevard to Grandview Ponds) Road Widening Project: Potential direct impact to the Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat. No plans are available for this project at this time. The 104 th Avenue (Marion Street to Colorado Boulevard) Road Widening Project: Potential direct impact to the 104 th Avenue sidewalk. No plans are available for this project at this time. The 128 h Avenue (Lafayette Street to York Street) Road Widening Project: Potential direct impact to the 128 th Avenue sidewalk. No plans are available for this project at this time. The Welby Road (Beachwood Drive to 88 th Avenue) Relocation Project: Recreational users of the Colorado Agricultural Trail may experience less traffic noise if the road is located further from the trail. January 2011 3.6-14
TABLE 3.6-2. DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS SUMMARY PARKLANDS AND RECREATION AREAS Alternatives Direct Impacts Indirect Impacts PREFERRED ALTERTIVE SOUTHERN SECTION DUS Access to 84 th Avenue Alignment Alignment (continued) Stations National Western Stock Show (Denver) 72 nd Avenue (Commerce City) Direct impacts at the first crossing of the South Platte River Trail greenway, Globeville Landing Park, and the regional trail access from Fernald Trailhead. Proposed O Brian Canal Trail would not be precluded. During construction, possible trail closures, detours, or protection structures could cause temporary inconvenience to trail users on the Sand Creek Greenway Trail, Fernald Trail, South Platte River Trail, and Niver Creek Trail. No temporary construction impacts to the proposed O Brian Canal Trail are expected, assuming that the trail is not built before or at the time of construction. Commerce City would need to grade-separate the trail at the location where it would cross the alignment (north of I-270). None. No temporary construction impacts to the proposed O Brian Canal Trail are expected, assuming that the trail is not built before or at the time of construction. Potential indirect impacts to the South Platte River Trail (second crossing) due to reduced visibility for trail users. None. None. Improved access to the Fernald Trailhead and Regional Trail Access and the proposed O Brian Canal Trail. 3.6-15 January 2011
TABLE 3.6-2. DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS SUMMARY PARKLANDS AND RECREATION AREAS Alternatives Direct Impacts Indirect Impacts NORTHERN SECTION 84 th Avenue to 162 nd Avenue Area Alignment Direct impacts to the Yucca Way Property, Indirect impacts to the Colorado Agricultural Trail, Fox Run Open Fox Run Open Space Space and Trail Network, 112 th Avenue and Trail Network due Detached Multi-use Path/Sidewalk South, to a potential temporary Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail, reduction in access. Eastlake Railroad Property, 128 th Avenue Potential visual impact Sidewalk, Signal Ditch Trail, 136 th Avenue to the Settlers Chase Sidewalk North and South, Rocky Top Middle Condos Unnamed Local School Connector Trail, Larry Walker Ball Trail and the Haven Fields, Cherrywood Park III, Fallbrook Farms Trail due to new noise Detention/Playground, Fallbrook Farms Trail, walls parallel to trails. and Haven Trail. The following proposed resources would not be precluded: the 86 th Avenue to 88 th Avenue Local Trail Missing Link, Community Park Local Trail Missing Link, Parkway Bike Lane or Route Missing Link, 100 th Avenue Bike Lane or Route Missing Link, Grange Hall Creek Regional Trail Missing Link (would need to cross the alignment at 100 th Avenue or 104 th Avenue), E-470 Trail, German Ditch Local Trail Missing Link, and Big Dry Creek to German Ditch Local Missing Link. Possible trail closure, detour, or trail protection structure could cause inconvenience to trail users on existing trails within the project area during construction. No temporary construction impacts are expected for proposed trails, assuming that the trails are not built before or at the time of construction. Stations 88 th Avenue () 104 th Avenue () Direct impacts to the Colorado Agricultural Trail and the Yucca Way Property (Existing). The Yucca Way Property Local Trail Missing Link (Proposed) would not be precluded. Possible trail closure/detour could cause inconvenience to trail users on the Colorado Agricultural Trail during construction. No temporary construction impacts for the proposed Yucca Way Property Local Trail Missing Link, assuming that the trail is not built before or at the time of construction. Direct impacts to the Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat. The Grange Hall Creek Regional Trail Missing Link (Proposed) would not be precluded, but would need to cross the alignment at 100 th Avenue or 104 th Avenue. Construction activities could inconvenience park users. None. None. January 2011 3.6-16
TABLE 3.6-2. DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS SUMMARY PARKLANDS AND RECREATION AREAS 112 th Avenue (Northglenn) Alternatives Direct Impacts Indirect Impacts 124 th Avenue/Eastlake () 144 th Avenue () SH 7/162 nd Avenue () None. Direct impact to Glen Eagle Apartments Unnamed Trail, Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail, and Eastlake Railroad Property. Portions of the Eastlake Railroad Property could be closed during construction, limiting access and use of the property during construction. Possible trail closure/detour could cause inconvenience to trail users on the Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail and Glen Eagle Apartments Unnamed Trail during construction. The 136 th Avenue to Rocky Top Middle School Local Trail Missing Link (Proposed) would not be precluded. No temporary construction impacts are expected, assuming that the trail is not built before or at the time of construction. The Big Dry Creek to German Ditch Local Missing Link (Proposed) would not be precluded. No temporary construction impacts are expected, assuming that the trail is not built before or at the time of construction. None. Improved access to Eastlake Railroad Property. None. None. Source: Project Team, 2010. Notes: *Proposed trail is conceptual in nature; therefore, impacts could change based on change in development schedule and/or refined trail design. DUS = Denver Union Station I-# = Interstate # SH 7 = State Highway 7 UP = Union Pacific No Action Alternative The No Action Alternative assumes existing conditions and committed improvements and that all other FasTracks corridors are built, as described in Chapter 2, Alternatives Considered. Direct Impacts Welby Road Relocation Project The realignment of Welby Road from Beachwood Drive to 88 th Avenue could require the realignment of a portion of the Colorado Agricultural Trail. The trail could be rerouted or closed during construction, but it is not anticipated that long-term direct impacts would occur. If the existing trail is removed and not replaced, this project would have a permanent direct impact on this resource. No plans are available for this project at this time. 3.6-17 January 2011
104 th Avenue Widening Project The road widening project at 104 th Avenue between Colorado Boulevard and Grandview Ponds could have a direct impact on the Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat. No plans are available for this project at this time. The road widening project at 104 th Avenue between Marion Street and Colorado Boulevard could have a direct impact on the 104 th Avenue Sidewalk. The sidewalk could be rerouted or closed during construction, but it is not anticipated that long-term direct impacts would occur. If the existing sidewalk is removed and not replaced after construction, this project would have a permanent direct impact on this resource. No plans are available for this project at this time. 128 th Avenue Widening Project The road widening project along 128 th Avenue between Lafayette Street and York Street could have a direct impact on the 128 th Avenue sidewalk. The sidewalk could be rerouted or closed during construction, but it is not anticipated that long-term direct impacts would occur. If the existing sidewalk is removed and not replaced after construction, this project would have a permanent direct impact on this resource. No plans are available for this project at this time. Indirect Impacts The Welby Road Relocation Project could reduce traffic noise for recreational users on the Colorado Agricultural Trail if the road is located further from the trail. Temporary Construction Impacts During construction of the above-referenced roadway projects, users of adjacent recreational facilities could experience increased noise and other construction-related impacts. Additionally, adjacent trails could be rerouted or closed. Cumulative Impacts Population in the Denver metropolitan area is projected to increase over 60 percent, from 2.7 million to approximately 4.4 million people, between 2005 and 2035. Continuing development expected under the No Action Alternative combined with increased population in the reasonably foreseeable future in the Denver metropolitan area would increase new development on vacant lands, as well as increase the use of existing parks and recreational resources. This increase in population and development would place additional strain on existing parks and recreational facilities. The increased demand on vacant land could make it difficult for the cities and counties within the North Metro corridor to identify new park and recreational resource sites. Due to the increase in development, parks and recreational resources currently proposed would likely be developed. Parks and recreational facilities would be provided proportionately to new development. The Union Pacific (UP) Railroad existed long before development of the communities north of Denver. This rail line was originally used to haul freight across the country. The UP Boulder Branch section of the alignment is seldom or not used now, so communities developed along the alignment have viewed this area as open space or as a recreational amenity, as have the residents living nearby. Continued disuse of this line, coupled with increased development near the tracks, would increase the perception of the rail line as open space. January 2011 3.6-18
Preferred Alternative Direct Impacts Direct impacts are anticipated at eight park resources and 13 existing recreational trails/multi-use paths/sidewalks. If implemented, several proposed recreational facilities (which are conceptual in nature) would also cross the direct impact area. These proposed trail crossings would not be precluded by the project. During a field diagnostic review for this project on 11 August 2008, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), which must approve all railroad crossings, stated that all new exclusive crossings in this corridor must be grade-separated. This will apply to the new trail crossings proposed in the North Metro corridor and undertaken by the local jurisdictions. Due to the change in use in this corridor from infrequent freight rail (one train per week) to frequent commuter rail service (approximately 106 trains per day), the Regional Transportation District (RTD) would also pursue elimination of two existing at-grade exclusive crossings in the corridor. For these existing crossings, grade-separated crossings or trail realignments are being planned in consultation with the local jurisdictions. The direct impacts associated with the Preferred Alternative are discussed below. Globeville Landing Park The alignment would impact a maximum of 0.66 acre along the northern edge of Globeville Landing Park (see Figure 3.6-3). Up to three frisbee golf holes could be affected and up to 11 trees would be removed. 3.6-19 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-3. GLOBEVILLE LANDING PARK South Platte River Trail The alignment would cross over the South Platte River Trail three times (see Figure 3.6-4 and Figure 3.6-5). At the first South Platte River crossing near Denargo Street and Arkins Court, the alignment would cross on a new bridge structure adjacent to the existing BNSF Railway bridge. No direct impacts to the trail would occur and the new bridge would provide approximately 18 feet of clearance. There would be one bridge pier within the greenway area near the east bank of the river. The general location for the pier was selected in cooperation with CCD during an on-site meeting on 2 March 2010. The pier would either have two 4-foot diameter columns or one single oblong column totaling approximately 25 to 29 square feet of surface area in the greenway. The exact location of the pier and the exact size of the pier column(s) would be determined during final design, but the size of the columns would not exceed the surface areas noted above nor would the location of the pier change the hydraulic capacity of the river. This segment of the South Platte River Trail and associated greenway was constructed with a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. In a letter dated 19 May, 2010, Colorado State Parks January 2011 3.6-20
concurred that the Preferred Alternative would not constitute a conversion under Section 6(f) (See Appendix F). Coordination with the City and County of Denver and Colorado State Parks regarding this resource is discussed in the Section 6(f) Evaluation in Chapter 7. The alignment would cross the trail a second time with a new bridge north of 38 th Street adjacent to the existing BNSF Railway bridge. At this location, no direct impacts to the trail or greenway would occur and the bridge would provide approximately 16 feet of clearance. The alignment would cross the trail a third time at 78 th Avenue and Steele Street on the existing UP Railroad bridge. The existing bridge would be improved including minor repairs, replacement of timber ties, and addition of the catenary system and an emergency walkway. No direct impacts to the trail at this location are anticipated. On each side of the river within the greenway, a caisson (catenary pole foundation) would be constructed to support the catenary system for the commuter rail line. 3.6-21 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-4. SOUTH PLATTE RIVER TRAIL CROSSING 1 AND 2 January 2011 3.6-22
FIGURE 3.6-5. SOUTH PLATTE RIVER TRAIL CROSSING 3 Fernald Trailhead and Regional Trail Access The alignment would create a new crossing of the regional trail access from the Fernald Trailhead (see Figure 3.6-6) west of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Crossing 176303W. Because new exclusive crossings outside of controlled intersections or station platforms are not permissible, the trail would be accommodated underneath the proposed alignment via an underpass approximately 300 feet north of USDOT Crossing 176303W. 3.6-23 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-6. FERLD TRAILHEAD AND REGIOL TRAIL ACCESS The proximity of the alignment to the UP Railroad at this location would allow a trail underpass of both rail lines. Therefore, the regional trail access from the Fernald Trailhead would no longer have an at-grade crossing of the UP Railroad at this location. The proposed commuter rail alignment would not interface with the existing at-grade crossing location. Therefore, RTD would not pursue elimination of USDOT Crossing 176303W so that it could be retained for potential future use by the proposed O Brian Canal Trail. The regional trail access would reconnect with its existing alignment on the west side of O Brian Canal, and the proposed underpass would allow trail users to cross the alignment without delays. A new trail extension north of the proposed underpass location would be implemented to provide connectivity to the proposed 72 nd Avenue Station. Proximity to the new transit station could improve access to the regional trail access and result in increased use. No impacts to the trailhead are anticipated. January 2011 3.6-24
Colorado Agricultural Trail North of 88 th Avenue, approximately 1,100 feet of the Colorado Agricultural Trail would be within the 88 th Avenue Station footprint. This portion of the existing trail would be reconstructed and incorporated into the design of the station following a similar alignment to the current trail. At the north end of the station area, the realigned trail would connect with the portion of the trail that will be realigned by others as part of the Welby Road relocation. Additionally, roadway improvements required to mitigate for traffic impacts at 88 th Avenue and Welby Road would impact the trail (see Figure 3.6-7). The existing trail connection to the 88 th Avenue sidewalk would be reconstructed to accommodate the roadway improvements at that intersection. FIGURE 3.6-7. 88 TH AVENUE AREA RESOURCES 3.6-25 January 2011
Yucca Way Property The 88 th Avenue Station would include a connection to Yucca Way on the west side of the BNSF/UP Boulder Branch Alignment that would impact 0.14 acre of this resource (see Figure 3.6-7). Additionally, the alignment would impact 0.03 acre of this resource for a total of 0.17 acre of impact. This land is currently undeveloped open space and is planned for a park with a trail connection between Yucca Way and 88 th Avenue. Future recreational use on this parcel would not be impaired and the station design would not preclude the desired trail connection. Grandview Ponds Open Space and Prairie Dog Habitat The 104 th Avenue Station would impact 0.17 acre of this resource. Drainage improvements and roadway improvements along Colorado Boulevard would encroach into the boundary of the open space (see Figure 3.6-8). FIGURE 3.6-8. 104 TH AVENUE AREA RESOURCES January 2011 3.6-26
Settlers Chase Condo Unnamed Trail The connectivity of this trail would be improved with the addition two new connections between the 104 th Avenue Station and this trail, which runs parallel to the west side of the alignment (Figure 3.6-8). The commuter rail line would be elevated at this location and the new connections to the station parking area would be provided under the elevated tracks; one near the north end of the station and another just south of the station platform. Access to the station platform from the parking area would be via elevators or stairs. 112 th Avenue Detached Multi-use Path/South Sidewalk At the location where this facility would cross the commuter rail alignment at-grade, new crossing panels would be installed along the tracks. Additionally, roadway improvements required to mitigate traffic impacts along 112 th Avenue would require reconstruction of two segments of the sidewalk (see Figure 3.6-9). Approximately 420 feet of the sidewalk between York Street and the alignment and approximately 775 feet of the sidewalk west of the intersection with Irma Drive would be reconstructed slightly south of the current sidewalk alignment to accommodate roadway improvements at the intersections of 112 th Avenue and York Street and 112 th Avenue and Irma Drive. Additionally, the introduction of commuter train traffic at this existing at-grade crossing could increase delays and inconvenience for users. Safety-related measures for crossings at streets are identified in Chapter 4, Mitigation. 3.6-27 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-9. 112 TH AVENUE AREA RESOURCES Fox Run Open Space and Trail Network Grading associated with drainage improvements along the alignment would impact 0.38 acre of this resource adjacent to the railroad ROW (see Figure 3.6-10). These impacts represent a fraction of a percent of the total area of the park and are not anticipated to impair the recreational function of this resource. The Fox Run Neighborhood Trail, which connects south to 104 th Avenue from the open space, would not be impacted by the roadway improvements proposed at Fox Run Parkway north of 104 th Avenue (see Figure 3.6-8). January 2011 3.6-28
FIGURE 3.6-10. FOX RUN OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL NETWORK Grange Hall Creek Trail As shown in Figure 3.6-10, the Grange Hall Creek Trail crosses the alignment at the south end of a curve in the rail line. A railroad spur for a freight rail customer connects to the mainline just north of the underpass for the trail. Spur connections require a switch in the tracks to allow rail vehicles to exit the mainline and access the spur. The likelihood of rail vehicle derailments is affected by a variety of factors, including speed, curves in the alignment, and disruptions in the continuity of the mainline, such as switches. Due to the higher operating speeds of the proposed commuter rail service, a switch along a curve in the alignment would increase the chances of a derailment. Therefore, under the Preferred Alternative, this spur must be reconfigured to connect with the rail alignment farther south along a straight segment of the tracks. The Grange Hall Creek Trail would continue to cross under the alignment at the current crossing location via a trail underpass in a box culvert. However, to accommodate the extra width of the relocated railroad spur, the existing trail underpass would be extended about 20 feet. 3.6-29 January 2011
Eastlake Reservoir #1 Sidewalk/Local Trail At the location where this facility would cross the commuter rail alignment at-grade, new crossing panels would be installed along the tracks (Figure 3.6.11). The introduction of commuter rail traffic at this existing at-grade crossing could increase delays and inconvenience for users. Safety-related measures for crossings at streets are identified in Chapter 4, Mitigation. Because this trail crosses the alignment at a skew of approximately 30 degrees, specific mitigation to create a perpendicular crossing would apply and is discussed in Chapter 4, Mitigation. FIGURE 3.6-11. 124 TH AVENUE AREA RESOURCES Eastlake Railroad Property A portion of this resource, as shown on Figure 3.6-11, is designated by the as future use for a transit station. Therefore, the 124 th Avenue/Eastlake Station has been designed to utilize the area designated for future transit and minimize impacts to the area designated for open space and recreational use. The Preferred Alternative would impact 0.85 acre of the open space/recreational area of this resource. Drainage improvements on both sides of the January 2011 3.6-30
alignment at 128 th Avenue would cause impacts near the northern end of the resource. As part of the 124 th Avenue/Eastlake Station, a proposed walkway connecting between the station platform and 1 st Street would impact a small portion of the open space area. A narrow strip (approximately 10 feet) along the east side of the alignment between Lake Avenue and 128 th Avenue would be temporarily impacted due to construction activities associated with the addition of a passing track in this area. Signal Ditch Trail Under the Preferred Alternative, the Signal Ditch Trail would be realigned and accommodated across the alignment via a surface connection along 128 th Avenue. RTD would pursue the elimination of the existing at-grade crossing (USDOT Crossing 920175T) for the Signal Ditch Trail and the portion of the trail that crosses the railroad ROW north of 128 th Avenue would be removed. Trail users would instead be routed along the east side of the tracks via the existing UP Railroad Trail and across the alignment at-grade along 128 th Avenue. At the location where this facility would cross the commuter rail alignment at-grade, new crossing panels would be installed along the tracks. Between the UP Railroad Trail on the east side of the alignment and the Signal Ditch Trail west of the alignment, the existing sidewalk along the north side of 128 th Avenue would be upgraded from a narrow, attached sidewalk to a 10-foot wide multi-use path (see Figure 3.6-12). The proposed realignment would add approximately 620 feet to the length of the Signal Ditch Trail. The existing connection to Century Middle School from the Signal Ditch Trail would be preserved but would also require that students use the existing UP Railroad Trail on the east side of the tracks and cross the alignment at-grade along 128 th Avenue. A new segment of sidewalk would be added along the west side of the alignment that would connect between 128 th Avenue and the school. This would add approximately 1,300 feet (nearly 0.25 mile) of travel distance for students accessing the school from the east side of the tracks via the Signal Ditch Trail. On the west side of the alignment, the existing trail access to the school is approximately 10 feet from the tracks, within RTD s commuter rail ROW. To maintain safety for students using the trail, a 42-inch high barrier would be added in addition to fencing between the trail and the tracks. The suggests a grade separation for this trail crossing. An underpass at the current crossing location is not feasible due to drainage issues and site constraints. An overpass is feasible at this location and an underpass is feasible north of the existing crossing location. These options would not be precluded by the project; however, RTD would not be responsible for funding a grade separation at this location because the trail can be accommodated across the alignment at-grade along nearby 128 th Avenue. Figure 3.6-12 shows the mitigation measures proposed for this trail. 3.6-31 January 2011
FIGURE 3.6-12. 128 TH AVENUE AREA RESOURCES 128 th Avenue Sidewalk See the description of impacts for the Signal Ditch Trail. Safety-related measures for crossings at streets are identified in Chapter 4, Mitigation. 136 th Avenue Sidewalk North and South At the location where these facilities would cross the commuter rail alignment at-grade, new crossing panels would be installed along the tracks. Additionally, the introduction of commuter train traffic at these existing at-grade crossings could increase delays and inconvenience for users. Safety-related measures for crossings at streets are identified in Section 3.6.4, Mitigation. Because the sidewalk on the south side of the street crosses the alignment at a skew of approximately 30 degrees, specific mitigation to create a perpendicular crossing would apply and is discussed in Chapter 4, Mitigation. January 2011 3.6-32
Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail Under the Preferred Alternative, access across the alignment would be provided, but RTD would pursue the elimination of the existing at-grade crossing (USDOT Crossing 922596L). The trail would be accommodated across the alignment via a trail underpass (see Figure 3.6-13) enabling trail users to cross the alignment safely with no delays. The underpass would be 20-feet wide and 20-feet long and located directly north of the current crossing location. The underpass ramps extending east and west from the commuter rail ROW would reconnect with the existing trail alignment. The existing segment of the trail across the tracks would be removed. The existing connection between this trail and the Fallbrook Farms Trail would also be removed and relocated to the east where the underpass ramp would reach the existing grade. This will create some out-of-direction travel for users traveling east on the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail and intending to travel northbound on the Fallbrook Farms Trail. This would also create some out-of-direction travel for Fallbrook Farms Trail users traveling south and connecting to the Rocky Top Middle School Trail to cross the alignment. FIGURE 3.6-13. ROCKY TOP MIDDLE SCHOOL AREA RESOURCES 3.6-33 January 2011
Three parks would also be impacted by the proposed underpass for this trail (see Figure 3.6-13). The grading required for the ramp extending west from the underpass would impact 0.02 acre along the north side of the parking lot for the Larry Walker Ball Fields. It is not anticipated that any parking stalls would be removed. The grading required for the ramp extending east from the underpass would impact 0.4 acre at the north end of Cherrywood III Park. The proposed trail improvements and modifications associated with the proposed underpass would also impact 0.17 acre at the south end of the Fallbrook Farms Detention/Playground. It is not anticipated that these impacts would impair the recreational function of these resources. RTD evaluated two other options (an overpass at the existing crossing location and an underpass closer to the school) for providing a grade-separated crossing of the alignment for the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail. The results of this evaluation showed that an underpass at the current location would have the least impact to private property, would best maintain the existing trail connectivity, and would be the least expensive to implement. RTD presented the three options and the screening evaluation that was completed during a public meeting at Rocky Top Middle School on 24 February 2010. Residents from the surrounding neighborhoods and representatives from Adams 12 Five Star Schools and the attended the meeting and supported the selection of this option as the part of the Preferred Alternative. Larry Walker Ball Fields See the description of impacts for the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail. Cherrywood III Park See the description of impacts for the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail. Fallbrook Farms Trail See the description of impacts for the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail. Fallbrook Farms Detention/Playground See the description of impacts for the Rocky Top Middle School Connector Trail. Haven Trail Drainage improvements would impact two small segments of the Haven Trail, one near the end of Detroit Way and one near Fillmore Way in the Haven neighborhood north of the 144 th Avenue Station. Impacts would be minor and no long-term changes to this trail are anticipated as a result of this project. Proposed Recreational Facilities With the exception of the proposed E-470 Trail, the proposed trails in the project study area are conceptual in nature and the respective jurisdictions have not developed construction plans for these facilities. The alignments for six of these proposed trails cross the BNSF/UP Boulder Branch Alignment. The proposes grade-separated crossings of the alignment for these planned facilities, which include 86 th Avenue to 88 th Avenue Local Trail Missing Link, Community Park Local Trail Missing Link, Parkway Bike Lane or Route Missing Link, 100 th Avenue Bike Lane or Route Missing Link, German Ditch Local Trail Missing Link, and Big Dry Creek Regional Trail Missing Link. These proposed underpasses/overpasses would not be precluded by the Preferred Alternative. For the proposed trails that would have an exclusive crossing of the alignment, the proposed grade-separated crossing would be consistent with PUC requirements for the North Metro corridor. January 2011 3.6-34