Hessie Trailhead safety, access issues to be addressed

 

First of three public meetings scheduled for April 24

 

Boulder County, Colo. – The Boulder County Transportation and Parks and Open Space departments are proposing changes to the Fourth of July Road (County Road 111) to address concerns about safety and access to the Hessie Trailhead area.

 

The improvements are proposed to be made between the junction of Hessie Road and the end-of-pavement at the west end of the Eldora townsite (see map).

 

Congestion near the trailhead and along the road has resulted in gridlock and created unsafe conditions for residents and visitors. As a result of the number of vehicles and people attempting to navigate through the area, it can be impossible for emergency responders to get from Nederland to the trailhead and points beyond in a timely manner. Watch video of traffic congestion.

 

The Hessie Trailhead is operated by the U.S. Forest Services and is a popular access point to the Indian Peaks Wilderness and several lakes and trails.

 

“The popularity of this area has created a major safety issue, so we’ve developed ideas for keeping the road clear so that people can recreate safely, access is maintained for both the public and emergency responders, and impacts to the community of Eldora are minimized.” Boulder County Transportation Director George Gerstle said.

 

The Boulder County staff proposal includes:

  • Widening the road and adding designated road shoulder parking
  • Free shuttle service from Nederland High School on summer weekends and holidays
  • New regulatory parking signage
  • Increased parking enforcement

 

Meetings and feedback

Three public events will be held to answer questions and collect comments from interested residents and visitors. Comments may besubmitted online until May 11.

 

  • Public Meeting

Tuesday, April 24, 6 p.m.

Nederland High School library, 597 County Road 130

 

  • Open House

Tuesday, May 8, 4:30-7 p.m.

Boulder County Courthouse, 1325 Pearl St., Boulder

 

  • Commissioners’ Public Hearing

Tuesday, May 22, 2 p.m.

Boulder County Courthouse, 1325 Pearl St., Boulder

 

For more information, including the project overview and history, meeting schedules, online comment form and contact information, visit www.HessieTrailhead.com.