if TOWN OF . nte par':3? '5 f? Ma PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 . P PLAN PURPOSE The purpose of the Town Plan is to provide a guiding policy that aids in making decisions on land use, development and redevelopment, public services and facilities, and economic development. It is intended to be both visionary and practical. The Plan will be reviewed annually and updated periodically to continue to reflect the vision and priorities of the community. Implementation of the Town Plan will require further action from staff, Planning Commission, Town Council, and partners, as necessary. 1 OUR PLAN 2 OUR TOWN TODAY 3 OUR CHARACTER AND OUR CULTURE 4 OUR GLOBAL AND LOCAL CONNECTIVITY 5 OUR WORLD-CLASS OUTDOOR RECREATION 6 7 OUR HEALTHY OUR AND THRIVING PATH ENVIRONMENT FORWARD what’s inside... The Town Plan is organized into seven chapters. Chapter 1: Our Plan introduces the an de nes the purpose and need for the update, outlines the Plan’s elements, and summarizes the planning process. Chapter 2: Our Town Today elaborates on existing conditions of the Town today and looks at trends for the future. Chapters 3 through 6 outline the desired future condition of development through vision, illustrative maps, principles, and strategies. They are organized into four themes: Our Character and Our Culture; Our Global and Local Connectivity; Our World-Class Outdoor Recreation; and Our Healthy and Thriving Environment. Chapter 7: Our Path Forward provides a monitoring and adaptive management framework to implement the vision statements, principles, and strate ies identi ed ithin hapters throu h . hese too s ensure the community is moving forward and changing with future conditions. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 iii PHOTOS THROUGHOUT THIS DOCUMENT ARE PROVIDED BY: Town of Winter Park Winter Park and Fraser Chamber Winter Park Resort Cooper Creek Square iv IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN TOWN COUNCIL PLANNING COMMISSION STEERING COMMITTEE TOWN STAFF CONSULTANT TEAM Jimmy Lahrman Brad Holzwarth Mark Adamczyk James Shockey Nick Kutrumbos Dave Barker Barbara Atwater John Crone Logan Simpson Bruce Meighen Art Ferrari Mike Davlin Sky Foulkes Mara Owen Chuck Banks Roger Kish Charlie Johnson Jim Myers Jonathan Larson Roger Kish Doug Robbins Nathan Svoboda Mike Periolat Chris Seeman George Stevens Abby Leigh Megan Moore Kristina Kachur Maria Michieli -Best Brooke Seaman Stantec Rhonda Bell Galena Street Planning Group Mark Sabatini who’s involved... PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 v 3? TOWN PLAN PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1?1 Setting Winter Park is a premier resort destination in Grand County, Colorado. Located on the West Slope of the Continental Divide, inter ar is appro imate y mi es north est of enver. ou can access the Town via I-70 and US Hwy 40 over Berthoud Pass or by train through the historic Moffat Tunnel. Visitors traveling from Rocky Mountain National Park or other locations in the West can access the Town by taking US Hwy 40 through the Fraser River Valley. The Town is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest; and, ith over mi es of trai s serves as a asecamp to oc y Mountain National Park as well as the Indian Peaks, James Peak and Byers Peak Wilderness areas. Winter Park Resort provides world-class skiing in The Seven Territories and some of the best mountain biking in the world in the internationally famous Trestle Bike Park. The Resort attracts over a million visitors to the Town every year. 1-2 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Our History Humans have inhabited the Fraser River Valley for the past 10,000 years, evidenced by the Paleo-Indian huntin comp e es found in the area. he rst modern day settlers in the Winter Park area were members of the Ute Indian Tribe who began hunting in the area in the sixteenth century. By the early 1800s the Utes were joined by members of the Arapaho and Cheyenne nations. In 1820, the Fraser River Valley was discovered by white explorers and trappers. Shortly thereafter, the rst permanent sett ers arrived and esta ished a ranching community in 1850. By 1879 the last of the Native Americans had left the Valley. Lacking the mineral resources found in many other areas in Colorado, the Fraser River Valley was bypassed by the gold and silver booms that began in 1859. he area e perienced its rst economic oom hen David Moffat, a Denver banker, completed his Denver, orth estern and aci c rai ay over o ins ass. Although the Rollins Pass route was intended to be a temporary route unti the mi e offat unne as completed, you can still see the remains of the railroad along with the remains of Corona Station and the Arrow townsite along the Continental Divide. In order to complete Moffat’s railroad, the small town of Tabernash was created just twelve miles north of present day Winter Park. Tabernash quickly became the largest town in the area with a population of over 1,000 people. It is where Linus Oliver “Doc” Graves rst moved ith his fami y in to open a dru store business. Business was booming in Tabernash at the time, thanks to the railroad industry. However, in 1928 the Moffat Tunnel was completed and the route that ran over Rollins Pass was no longer needed. Railroad production in Tabernash all but came to a grinding halt, so the Graves decided to dismantle their shop and move to Fraser where they opened another drug store on Main Street. The family was forced to move again, however, when plans to build the Victory Highway (U.S. Highway 40) were made – a new highway that would run straight through the town of Fraser (and straight through Doc’s drug store). Not giving up on their dream to live in a mountain community, Doc and his wife Helen decided to purchase 10 acres of land on pri in hat is today do nto n inter ar . PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-3 Tucked against the western slope of the Continental Divide, they named the area, “Hideaway Park,” and built ten small tourist cabins which were rented ni ht y most y to hunters and shermen. oon the num er of ca ins e an to grow, and a café and service station were built, called “Doc’s Place.” Within a few years the village added three more businesses and nearly doubled its population. Hideaway Park was located just down the Fraser River from the western terminus of the Moffat Tunnel. During the tunnel’s construction a small settlement was built there that was referred to by several names. Eventually the name “West Portal” came into usage. Rail workers also called the community “Little Chicago” as it was a favorite gambling, saloon, and brothel site. This area is now the base area for the Resort and is also known as the “Old Town” neighborhood. ecreationa s iin as rst introduced to rand ounty in . n the s hen mem ers of the o orado r er u purchased and cut trai s on the acre parce of and no n as ary ane acer s iin too hold in the Winter Park area. As interest in skiing grew, additional trails were developed to the north of the parcel at the present site of the Winter Park ski area. At the same time this was occurring, the City of Denver decided it wanted its own “winter park”—a winter playground within easy access of the enver metro area. s i oom e an hen the s i area o cia y opened in January 1940. Lift tickets cost one dollar. n the ity and ounty of enver he ped form the non pro t inter Park Recreational Association (WPRA) to administer, operate, maintain, and deve op the inter ar esort. y the ate s a ma or e pansion of the Resort was proposed on a portion of Mary Jane Placer. The Colorado Arlberg Club entered into a lease agreement that allowed WPRA to proceed with the construction of a portion of the Mary Jane trails. n inter ar esort as e panded to inc ude most of present day Mary Jane. In the early 1990s, the Resort was again expanded with the development of the Vasquez Ridge and Parsenn Bowl areas to the north of the main ski area. In the late 1990s, the Resort was again expanded with the development of the Vasquez Cirque to the south of the main mountain. In 2007 the Resort opened up Eagle Wind, creating the last of the Seven Territories that now make up the ski area. As the Resort continued to expand, Hideaway Park and Old Town continued to grow. Eventually, on August 1, 1978, the Town of Winter Park was incorporated. The original town boundaries encompassed Old Town and Hideaway Park. ater anne ations added si ni cant y to the o n s oundaries. he o n s main park—Hideaway Park—was named as a tribute to the original village, and a plaque commemorating the Graves Family is located in the park at an area affectionately referred to as ‘Helen’s Spot’. thou h a ot has chan ed since oc and his fami y rst sett ed in inter Park, the Town still maintains a unique, small-town charm, and natural beauty. What once was a community with a few mountain cabins is now a thriving resort town with shops, restaurants, hotels, and an abundance of recreational opportunities. Its stunning natural vistas and authentic ski town feel make Winter Park a must visit destination for both Front Rangers and international travelers. 1-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Clockwise from top: Winter Park Ski Area, Denver Mountain Parks; Ski Idlewild Lodge, 1983; Sitzmark Ski Lodge/ Guest Ranch, 1983 he o n current y encompasses . s uare mi es split between the land surrounding Downtown and the esort. ppro imate y s uare mi es are ithin United States Forest Service (USFS) land. Winter Park boasts the highest point of any incorporated town in the nited tates ith a pea e evation of feet. As of 2018, the Town has approximately 1,100 fulltime residents, with a seasonal population that often exceeds 20,000 people. The Town population contains an interesting mix of full and part-time residents with almost 80% of its housing utilized as second homes or rental units. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-5 A Growing Community Imagine Winter Park The Town of Winter Park is quickly becoming a vibrant year-round destination with unique potential for smart growth. One of the most inviting resort towns in the West, Winter Park maintains a small town, authentic character while continuing to provide world-class scenic and recreation experiences unlike any other mountain town. Enhanced transportation connections, worldrenown recreation, attainable housing, quality design, and a commitment to economic, environmental, and social sustainability are among the elements that form the foundation of Imagine Winter Park (Town Plan). Imagine Winter Park builds on upon previous planning efforts and creates a roadmap for future development and redevelopment. The Plan’s intent is to refocus planning efforts and policies to address current issues and future opportunities. It is a policy document that aids in making decisions on land use, development and redevelopment, public services and facilities, and economic development within the Town’s boundary and Growth Management Area (GMA). Imagine Winter Park recommends a multitude of policies to take advantage of new and unique opportunities while staying true to the Town’s roots to provide the best quality of life for Winter Park’s residents, visitors, employees, and businesses. For the Town Plan to remain effective, it must be regularly reviewed and amended to address current standards, goals and strategies, and future needs, as well as to provide additional social, economic, and environmental sustainability elements. Furthermore, it is essential that the Town Plan remains current with changing local, regional, and global conditions. 1-6 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN This Plan is Important to: Locals and Guests: The Town Plan identifies community character elements and locations for future housing, parks, trails, community facilities, etc. Business and Property Owners: The Town Plan provides direction on the topics of development, policies, programs, natural environment, and services provided by the Town for a sustainable future. Town Officials: The Town Plan will give guidance on budget, timing for capital improvements, and review of development proposals. Why Does it Matter? he o n an is an o cia document of and use po icy adopted y the annin ommission and approved y the o n ounci . tate a authori es the o n to adopt a comprehensive or master p an pursuant to ection of the o orado evised tatures as amended tate a reco ni es the e is ative authority of the municipa ity s overnin ody y e press y re uirin that the annin ommission s adopted comprehensive p an e su ect to approva of the o n ounci . n effect the o n an is not fu y effective unti the o n ounci approves the p an. t is the duty of the commission to ma e and adopt a master p an for the physica deve opment of the municipa ity inc udin any areas outside its oundaries su ect to the approva of the overnmenta ody havin urisdiction thereof hich in the commission s ud ment ear re ation to the p annin of such municipa ity. he master p an of a municipa ity sha e an advisory document to uide and deve opment decisions ho ever the p an or any part thereof may e made indin y inc usion in the municipa ity s adopted su division onin p attin p anned unit deve opment or other simi ar and deve opment re u ations after satisfyin notice due process and hearin re uirements for e is ative or uasi udicia processes as appropriate... ecause the o n an is derived from pu ic input a out hat peop e ant for their community the po icies and future and use p an desi nations of the o n an have an important ro e to p ay in many re u atory decisions the o n does ma e surroundin and use such as anne ation re onin discretionary and use approva s and updates to to n codes and standards. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-7 How Does The Plan Work? Developed through a dynamic, communitydriven planning process, Imagine Winter Park is built around four Vision Themes: [OUR CHARACTER AND OUR CULTURE] [OUR GLOBAL AND LOCAL CONNECTIVITY] [OUR WORLD-CLASS OUTDOOR RECREATION] [OUR HEALTHY AND THRIVING ENVIRONMENT] These themes create the general structure for the Town Plan, and each has a dedicated chapter within the Plan. Within the chapters, each theme is further supported by its principles, illustrative framework map(s), and strategies. While the themes are separated into individual chapters, they are intertwined. For example, Our Global and Local Connectivity involves pedestrian and bicycle connections that are key to Our World-Class Outdoor Recreation. The social, economic, and environmental sustainability addressed in Our Healthy and Thriving Environment is key to an inclusive, yearround community, as detailed in Our Character and Our Culture. Chapters Three through Six include the following sections: 1-8 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN VISION STATEMENTS The four Vision Statements, one per each Vision Theme, and developed through a series of community conversations, represent the aspirational outlook for Winter Park’s land use development and redevelopment, public services and facilities, and economic development. They are overarching statements that describe the desired future of the Town based on shared community values. FRAMEWORK MAP The Framework Map illustrates how the Vision Statements are applied to the andscape and inc ude ey future pro ects nodes for speci c activities and opportunity areas that relate to the Principles. PRINCIPLES The Principles fall under each of the Vision Statements to elaborate on the future setting, character, and opportunities for the Town in the next 10 to 15 years. STRATEGIES he trate ies are the ast and most speci c component ithin the chapter. A Strategy is a statement of intent or expectation—a course of action that provides clarity on the methods for achieving the Principles. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-9 r e t c a Char Our an VISION One Winter Park: a town with diverse cultures, economic opportunities, and architectural styles that fosters a strong, unified, and forward-thinking community. e .. lAuu?-?E 1E r: 'llnl . . .. 'l'II-nll?53? We . . l?l I?fl?ll -7 Wk. Ma?a 1'4 7 A \Ul: a a an i i nn VISION Winter Park is a community linked with majestic physical attributes, connected with state of the art technology, integrated with safe walkable places and diverse transportation linkages, and characterized by seamless connectivity to both the natural and technological environment. a VISION A recreation-based community anchored by a national ski and mountain bike resort, that provides a wide range of unsurpassed outdoor activities for everyday enthusiasts to live, work, and play. ai I typh- .r ?j_;av "ilk: #33 3 a i in an n m n ni VISION An outdoor community physically linked to a healthy and thriving natural and human environment. Planning Process Imagine Winter Park is the result of a year-long initiative that engaged the pu ic in de nin a shared vision for the o n. ith a stron focus on community engagement, the planning process built consensus among different roups inc udin citi ens deve opers ando ners usiness eaders second homeo ners appointed and e ected o cia s and other sta eho ders. he process resu ted in a community supported vision. 1-18 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN “In 10 years, Winter Park will be... ...KNOWN AS A PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY PLACE TO STROLL, SHOP, AND EXPLORE!” - Winter Park Resident PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-19 The Four Planning Phases The plan consisted of four phases, outlined in the graphic below. Each phase included outreach events and an associated online questionnaire. The process was guided by the Steering Committee, and Town Council and Planning Commission were regularly updated and asked to provide comments. KICKOFF EVENTS Engaging events such as High Note Thursdays and Tacos and Tequila introduced the community to the plan and asked about the values. 1-20 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN TASK 1 FOUNDATION TASK 2 VISION + OPPORTUNITIES KICKOFF EVENTS VISIONING OPEN HOUSE Engaging events such as High Note Thursdays and Tacos and Tequila introduced the community to the plan and asked about community values. An open house event allowed the community to review the vision and big ideas. Approximately 75 attendees and 130 online respondents provided feedback. Through input gathered from the public, preliminary vision statements were formed and initial opportunities were outlined. This phase assessed the community’s priorities through the discussion of choices. Policies and strategies were developed to meet the community’s vision. “Winter Park is a... ...CLOSE KNIT, AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY WHERE NEWBIES AND REGULARS FEEL WELCOME.” - Winter Park Resident TASK 3 CHOICES + IMPLEMENTATION TASK 4 PLAN DEVELOPMENT + APPROVAL CHOICES WORKSHOP DRAF T PLAN OPEN HOUSE 35 community members participated in an interactive workshop to discuss each of the vision themes. Key policies and methods for achieving success of the policies were brainstormed. TBD Bringing together all of the input and data collected throughout the process, the phase established a userfriendly, concise planning document. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-21 I LOVE WINTER PARK FOR ITS: accessibility • authenticity • beauty • bikeability • bus service • cleanliness • community v • festivals/ events • few big boxes/ chains • fraser river • fun • hideaway park • laid back vibe • lifestyle/ culture • local b • outdoors/ wilderness • people • potential • public parks • quiet pace • range of activities • restaurants • safe • sense of stage • summer • town council investment • trail system • trees • uncrowded • valley • variety of activities • views walkabl • affordable mountain housing • affordable ski town • alternative transportation • arts + culture • authenticity • classy re • environmentally friendly • family-friendliness • family-friendly destination • family-friendly recreation • festivals/ even carbon footprint • mountain biking • mountain lifestyle • music venue • new stage • outdoor green living • outdoor recre life • quiet town • resourceful • responsible development • skateboarding • ski resort • small town of the Rockies • smal beauty • variety of activities • vibrancy • walkable • welcoming/ inviting • world-class hiking • world-class mountain re COULD IMPROVE ONE THING ABOUT WINTER PARK IT WOULD BE: add a grocer • add an indoor skatepark • add an indo par s add more restaurants ars shops add more side a s add more so er fun entertainment add se e spo education • build gondola connecting the ski resort to downtown • connect south side of town to fraser river trail • conn a center for the arts • create a more pedestrian-friendly town • create a pedestrian-friendly main street • create a walka strip par in ots encoura e eauti cation reuse of e istin structures encoura e remova of rundo n ui din s a system enhance ay ndin ensure that ne ui din s are architectura y interestin e pand do nto n core e p industry employees + laborers host events year-round at the events center • host more early evening events • impleme iden roads improve cohesiveness ithin the do nto n corridor improve housin improve pavin on h y throu • improve quality of accommodations • improve shopping experience • improve signage • improve the aesthetic appe commuter access increase density increase fami y friend iness increase housin avai a i ity increase outreach the par s insta tra c more ay ndin for trai s usinesses eep the to n afforda e eep the to n fami y friend y ess is affordable housing • more affordable long-term rental options for locals • more housing • more workforce housing • preserve the natural landscape • preserve views as ue 1-22 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN re route heavy throu h tra c values • diverse appeal • downtown • engagement • entertainment venues + amenities • family-friendly feel • feels like home businesses • location • lodging • low key + authentic ski town • mountains • music events • open space • outdoor recreation f community • services • size • skate park • skiing/ ski resort • small town/ local feel • small town with big town amenities • le • weather • IF WINTER PARK WAS KNOWN FOR ONE THING, IT WOULD BE: adventurous • affordable fun • affordable living esort town • clean • complete + connected • diverse appeal • diverse mountain town • down-home charm • easily accessible nts • friendliness • fun • healthy/ active community • high-end • hospitality • intelligence + forethought • laid back vibe • low eation • premier trail system • premier year-round outdoor recreation • progressive in sustainable living • quality • quality of ll-town feel + charm • special place to live or visit • sustainable year-round population • trendy • true to its roots • unspoiled etreat • world-class outdoor recreation • world-class ski town • world-class skiing • world-class vacation destination • IF I oor tennis facility • add bike lanes • add more activities/ amenities in town • add more lodging for visitors • add more public ots around to n add sports e ds address ui din p acement address housin crisis attract an institution for hi her nect the town and resort • continue expansion of trails for hiking + biking • continue to be bike-friendly through town • create able downtown • create safe highway crossings • discourage nightly rentals + promote hotel accommodations • eliminate on h y enhance mountain to n fee in enhance the do nto n environment e perience enhance transportation pand socia services e p ore so utions for reducin home essness free par in at the resort hi her a es for service ent building height restrictions • implement careful thoughtful planning • implement stricter design guidelines • improve/ u h to n improve pedestrian e perience ui din facades improve pedestrian safety improve p acema in do nto n eal of the town • increase advertising for events • increase bus routes • increase collaboration with the resort • increase inc usiveness increase variety of services in etter evera e the river imit pot shops do nto n insta i e pumps in the par s insta hammoc po es in o er ta es mar et the i in hi in trai s minimi e i ht po ution miti ate g options • more of the same • more public parking • more single-family starter homes • more transparency in town processes s • prohibit nightly rentals • reduce reliance on the automobile • reduce the speed limit on main street • regulate camping on c a ay from do nto n stricter enforcement of speed imits throu h to n sustain a year round popu ation update s i area What We Heard The planning process ensure that the community’s values align with the Town’s roadmap for the future. The project team began the process by asking residents and community members what they love most about Winter Park, and what they would like to see chan e over the ne t ten to fteen years. his feed ac informed the vision themes and statements, as well as the remainder of the plan development process. 1-24 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Previous and Relevant Plans ince additiona studies and master p ans have een comp eted in support of the previous master plan. These documents provide more speci c recommendations on topic areas. he time and ener y spent on these plans affords this Plan a head start on growing challenges, opportunities, and community preferences throughout Winter Park. Referenced plans (with hyperlinks when available) include: annin for ustaina i ity he inter ar o n he an inter ar o n an d o n mendment Town of Winter Park Housing Needs Assessment (2015) o n of inter ar trate ic an for ttaina e ousin Winter Park Multi-Modal Transportation and Mobility Plan (2005) Community Trails Plan: Winter Park and Fraser Trail Plan (2014) Town of Fraser, Town of Winter Park Broadband Feasibility Final Report (2017) Stream Management Plan: Grand County, Colorado (2010) o orado iver ooperative reement rand ounty u ti a ard inter ar iti ation an Attainable Housing Site Development for the Town of Winter Park (2017) and nership d ustment an PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 1-25 5 HAP T335 I W3 n a n i in n i i n OVERVIEW The following existing conditions “snapshots” have been complied using the most recent available data from the Town of Winter Park, Grand County, the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, and other sources. These snapshots present an overview of the Town’s baseline conditions. These snapshots will aid the update of the Town’s vision, identify major opportunities, and set the stage for a strategic, forwardthinking land use plan. The snapshots are divided into three categories: 1. Neighborhoods & Community 2. Connections 3. Environment and Amenities Neighborhoods & Community The Town population contains an interesting mix of both fu and part time residents ith a si ni cant ma ority of all housing units owned by residents of Colorado’s Front Range. The Town has approximately 1,100 fulltime residents and according to recent information, the seasonal peak population may exceed 20,000 people. There is little ownership outside the state, and these ownership numbers are far higher than local ownership identi ed in any other s i to n in o orado. 2-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Key Highlights • A shortage of workforce housing impacts both the economic sustainability and culture of the community. • Much of the existing housing stock is dated as the majority was built prior to 2010. • The development pattern and physical separation between Downtown and the Resort create a lack of cohesiveness and cultural disconnect. • lac o a yea ound o ulation ma es it di ficult to sustain ce tain businesses. • The e is a lac o clea ly defined ateways throughout the Town. • The limited amount of social gathering spaces within the Town impacts the Town’s sense of identity. • m loyment is ocused ima ily on ec eation tou ism and supporting industries such as accommodation and restaurants. • The Town owns several parcels of land that can be used to provide workforce housing. • Growth patterns along Main Street are trending toward mixed-use de elo ment which can e used to encou a e wal a ility t ansit use li e wo o tions and a mo e i ant community • Future business development can diversify the existing employment base encouraging a year round community. • nified st eetsca e and wayfindin elements can hel c eate a cohesive connection between the Downtown and the Resort. • New annexations and developments can provide opportunities for additional public parks and plazas. • Completing the Fraser River Trail can provide a continuous connection through Town and increase the vitality of the community. • Enhanced broadband connections can be implemented to increase Winter Park’s attractiveness for business development. HOUSING It is estimated that that perhaps 20% of the Town’s housing stock is owned by full time residents. Consistent with other intermountain west resort communities, there are increasing numbers of second homeowners who, upon retirement, become full-time residents. The part-time/absentee population is slightly greater than that observed in other mountain communities. Figures from both the 2000 and 2010 US Census of Winter Park yield the following key ndin s • Population growth rates vary due to the availability of affordable housing. • Home ownership has increased, although many of these are second homes. • Household size has decreased. • Family growth has been greatest where affordable housing is available. • he a in popu ation and influ of retirees continue to outpace the growth of the other demographic sectors. Ownership patterns, both local and absentee, vary little by product type. Additionally, the Town has little diversity in the availability of current housing inventory. Over 70% of the existing housing stock consists of condominiums and townhomes, while the remaining 30% consists of single-family detached or smaller townhome developments. The vast majority of housing in Winter Park was built prior to 2010. andin and wayfindin PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-5 U RS VE 500 1,200 second owner- homes occupied S he o n has a si ni cant shorta e of or force housin hich is exacerbated by its recent increase in economic growth and visitation rates. Additionally, due to demand across the resort marketplace and the notion that Winter Park may be the last, best, and most affordable ski town, property values are rapidly trending upward. The average price of a single-family home is approaching $650,000, while multi-family units average $355,000. With a median household income of $78,000, most families cannot afford to live in Town. Single-family home prices increased by approximately 30% in 2017, with a similar increase in multi-family homes. TE R S REN . VS H O ME O WN ER COND HOME S SE S 2.65 N OW CCUPIED U ER-O NIT S By the Numbers 80% NGLE-FAMI E (SI LY, C I MU R P E ILT ) MEDIA N MILY FA HO M 20% SEASONA LV S. $650K $355K FU -TIM LL E RESIDENTS 20K 2-6 In response to the need for increased workforce housing affordability, the Town purchased several vacant parcels within the Downtown core. These include: 1.1K • The Dimmit Parcel: This is the initial phase of Hideaway Junction inc udin units of detached sin e fami y housin speci ca y for full-time residents. Phase II planning is currently underway for 35 to 40 additional single-family homes that will be constructed over the next 5 years. • The Dimmit 2 Parcel: This parcel is located near the Town Center within walking distance of Main Street, downtown shopping, and event venues. Future plans may consist of a workforce apartment complex for seasonal and full-time Resort employees. • Fireside Creek: A 2 acre parcel located adjacent to Wolf Park, which is currently zoned for 40 units. • High Seasons: This .8 acre parcel is located immediately east of the railroad which separates this parcel from the Fireside Creek property. • Roam: In conjunction with the annexation of the Roam property, the Town will acquire 3 acres within the development. Of the Town’s estimated 2,700 housing units, resident-occupied units are decreasing as the economy has recovered from the 2008 recession, and as short-term rentals have increased (VRBO, Airbnb, etc.). The discrepancy between workforce housing needs in the community and suitable housing availability is perhaps best illustrated by the information provided by the Winter Park Resort. Out of approximately 2,000 employees, the Resort only provides housing for 350 seasonal workers. The Resort is currently unable to provide satisfactory housing for the rest of its workforce. Of its 400 summer seasonal staff and 1,500 winter seasonal staff, 90% come from outside of the community and need to nd housin hen they move here. IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Lookout Poin t nW e he Campfir go Wa el y er ng ory Gl ion Tra E ils nd Wildf lower Saddle Horn rs rs Peak Bye e ak " " " " " " " Nob R ed " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Po rp h or y Pa ss a Co pp m ice te r n e As Av lia Po Gi w leaf " lew i Id Sk ill " Arro Qu i " " un try " " Hi Co " " Mai " " Bak " " stle Whi " m er s Lion n " ild Ga te H ill Saw yer Pr e ve W se r y Trai lhead " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ket Kin " g k Leland Cree Forest " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " W " W " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " W " " " " " " " " " W a rk " W lem " " rk Te Mo rn i " " " " " d Pa nd " W R en d ez vo u s " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " G ran Seco " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " n Re u " v co " s Di " Lo ng P " lore " " " " " " " " Exp " h " r River oac Stagec " r " as e " W Logger " " " " " " " " " " " Wanderers " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " st op " " " " " " " " " " " " PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-7 " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " re ek " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " C land V " Fr " W " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Le Old " " " " " " " " " W " W on e " Ri ve " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " k " W Pine c " 1 inch = 200 feet " " " " " " " " " " ee Cr " W ez " W y nd Frien dship " " " " Rosie's " W " W sq u " W " W " W " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " stl e " W 40 " W " W " W Miller " W Cooper Creek " W a ls Ba " " Tre " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ok c re Bro £ ¤ " W Idlewild " " " " " " Ga re ve n tu Ad " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " C g " " " " " " W gs ros sin Alp ine " " " " ss oo ds W " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Pine Cone " " " " " " " " " " " Wolf Park " " " " " " Mar " " " " " " " " " " W " " " " " " 0.1 Miles " Kin " W " W " " " Old " " W " W " " t cu ss Cro 0 " " il xta " Fo " W " " Willo ws Dr " Pa rk d " " " " 0.05 " 0.1 " icto Fraser ry " Streams " Bus Stops " USFS " ConservationAreas " W " Water Bodies " " Roads " Sidewalks " Trails " Public Parks & Open Space " Privately Zoned OSF " Southern Pacific Railroad " US Hwy 40 " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Parcels " " " Town Boundary " " " " " Va " " an Gr " " " " " " " " " " " " LEGEND " " " W " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " M o o se " "" " " " " " 1 Downtown Winter Park " " " " " " " " " " " " " " on s Seas Hig h " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " "" " " " " " " " " " z ue sq Va ree k wC Sno " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Elk " " " " Tr a il sE f a wle Fr f Wil d Av s nd " " yer Fo rk Ra rB O A ate k ree a r " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Main " " " " " " " " " " Denv e r W hC te " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " W r er at e " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " th nc s Ga " Lion " ow " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Idl " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " oun pgr " " " " 40 £ ¤ " " " " " " " " " ild mp Ca " " gro st V We ta Lako " " " " S um Coro " " " na asquez " " in " " " Lu e L ako " Res ta e " Cub Creek " e " Ac mit ra Arr ils ow id he e ad D T No " P as " " s " An m rea r tle ca tc p he " " o Wo rth Park rve er Ti m b l n d " " " " Arrow" ow n " " " it " " " " " m " " um " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ds Ace a " " " " " " " Ac d rR iv Jim " S e " " " r " " An " " " " Dre " " Lu pin am ca tc I ro he rt No Br i d e Bu Cre e ck " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Water Boa " " " Mou " " hW oo Clo B als am r a Ce d Ny r ge w lo ng ds Ac Balsa n Lo nt ai e m Lakota e " " " " " " " " " " " Lit " tle s Va " " Jim Creek k Cre e " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " am wild C Id le ew " " " Pine Cone " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Ga C oron a Pass " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " u So " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " "" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Wh istle " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " od en A " " " ice m Po " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " iendship ewild Ar ro l Red Quiill Hil " k ne C ree Wolv eri " un s ou No b T " " " " " " " " en d Copp ire er " " " " mark " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " s ng " Wande rers Village o Campf in t Po nd Bak w " " Sa " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Looko u t a ezv ntry er Riv " " Stage c o " " " H " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " e " R Cou Rosie's " " " " d Tra T u rn " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " F a rk ge A lpe e se " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " nd Se co stl e " " " " " " Tre " " " " " er Buck Creek Zephyr " " " " " " " " Ki " " " " " Timb o ta in t er P Vin " " Vic to ry rk P"a " " s top ewild " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Canal Disc W e " Old Gra" Wolf Alpine ing C re ek ber Hi " ss st ore C ro o Tim Jo 0 B eaver Ln l ark et M 0.25 " " Cree 0.5 Elk Zoning Map k Cree 0.5 Miles Moose Elk tail F ox Lake Viki n g " tain n Ho rs " " " " " " " Elk 1 inch = 1,300 feet eek " " " e Tr ai Lak And e rson an z ue sq Va " " " " un str om Mary Jane Cr ee k Ma r yJ an und " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " r tle Winter Park Peak rry Pa s Ny tro r " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Multi-Family Residential/Old Town Planned Development (PD) " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Cr ll d- m o Mi nsp Su P ony Ed e dg e r Alp ir Pa r " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ry C re e k en glo Bullfrog Fr a " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Zoning Downtown Business Overlay B r id pector " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Streams Water Bodies " " " " nd Lela " " " "" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " l Hi n " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " PD (OSF) 2 Gr uez Tu n ne D " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " PD (Destination Center) 0.25 Miles Lela n d E as " " Cabin Creek s Pro Pars en y io n Re "" " " " Limited Commercial " " " " " " Destination Center Fraser USFS 0 " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Bus Stops W " " " Sidewalks " 0.125 " " 1 inch = 600 feet " " " " 1Winter Park, Colorado " LEGEND " " " " " " " " " " 0.25 " " " e " "w " er " " " " " Vasquez Ridg " " a Bro s te ok r cre ss o W l i Id Sk " Dr " " " " " " " P ark Id l " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " r " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " nd " zC a as on s S High " ue v De n " " " Cub Creek k " " " q uez as i de " " " " L Tr ail a ko ta sid Pa e r " ow " Li t tle Vas Se " Parsenn C re ek k " " " " " " Cirque k ey " " Town Boundary " " " " " " ea d " Arr " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ek Jim Cre eek Jim Cr " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Winter Park Resort " " " " " Arr ow h " erlan d Re s e rv e T i mb Buck Creek ge " " " " " " " " oa " " " er B " " " " " " Wat " " " " " " " " " " " " ta " W " " Parcels " " W le Vin F ase r R i v er Old " " " " e " " ver use ry ve " " Sn Blue Sky Cre ekv iew ho " ch " " F Yuk n pa " " B ear V " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ilhead " " PD (Multi-Family Residential) " " W ap 40 £ ¤ " W rse " W Iron Ho D " " " " lo k ree rC pe Co o Bo a " W " " Residential-Commercial Service " " k ConservationAreas " ark " Trails " " W " ree C PD (Res-Comm Service) " " " " " " " " Parse nn " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Single-Family Residential " " " em ad " Tr " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ot Den v er W a t er M " W Zep hyr Black's " " " lw e is s " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Ara Ac c e ss Wat er B oa e nver ek C re " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Public Parks & Open Space " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Southern Pacific Railroad " " " " Multiple-Family Residential " " " " " Privately Zoned OSF " " " " " Ca na l " " " US Hwy 40 oo " Fir Bo 's Bla ck " Ceda r Mary Jane Creek ek Cre ck wn O ld T o " Clover e Timb er H o us D iscov ery Roads C t r Bu " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ta in mo un M ido nsp Su ne k ee Cr " Prospecto r IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN y Ja Mar re e k pe rC Tunnel Hill Ca bin Va sq " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " q k ee " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " 2-8 " m g er w " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " t E lk Cree k e en Key Highlights Economic Development The Town’s economy is characterized by seasonal fluctuations thorou h the year. he o n s usiest months are during the ski season, from December through March. While summer months and the fall shoulder season continue to grow, revenue is less than half of the winter months. Visitation is increasing year-round; visitor days have grown nearly 50% between 2014 and 2017. The Town adopted a Transit and Trails Sales Tax in 2015, increasing the sales tax rate from 5% to 7%. Economic growth is optimistic, with several positive indicators being the development of the Fireside Market and Eatery, the purchase of the Resort by Alterra Mountain Company, and several new mixed use developments totaling approximately 60,000 square feet of retail and over 100 residential units. Broadband connectivity and cellular service within the Town is limited in certain areas. A feasibility study has outlined recommendations for expanding last-mile solutions to service homes and businesses. As broadband is now a necessity, improving internet connections may allow for more year-round residents as telecommuting and the ability to live in Winter Park and commute occasionally to the Denver area grows. • The development pattern and physical separation of the Town and the Resort create a lack of density and critical mass. • lac o a yea ound o ulation ma es it di ficult to sustain ce tain usinesses es ecially in the s in owe e shoulde seasons particularly the fall season is growing in visitation. • lea ly defined ateways Town’s updated brand. • m loyment ocuses ima ily on ec eation tou ism and su o tin industries such as accommodation and restaurants. Any additional manu actu in oduct de elo ment o se ices should ocus on recreation and tourism. • Use streetscape as a common thread to connect Town to the Resort. Creating a framework of similarity allows individual parcels to display individual style and avoid a themed look. • uild additional u licly owned small scale a s and la as and incentives for private development. • Work with property owners to obtain easements or property acquisitions to continue the Fraser River Trail through Town. • n esti ate fi e and enhanced oad and o o tunities to enhance inte Pa s att acti eness o doin usiness e telecommutin wo in om home and hostin con e ences e ents etc • Pursue federal grant opportunities as avenues for funding. andin and wayfindin should match the PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-9 E TRI S DU S 5% L ARG EST IN By the Numbers REAL ESTATE + LEASING 62% 22% EMPLO YEE IN RECREATION + TOURISM OU T W/ O FL 2% PUBLIC ADMIN. ACCOMMODATION + FOOD FLOW 1,988 315 Development Pattern/Zoning Mix BY E/DIRECTI ON TANC S I D JOB CO UN TS Winter Park has two very distinct development areas, the Downtown area, and the Resort area. Each of these areas has considerable residential and commercial development. Although these areas are separated by approximately 2 miles of national forest, they are deeply interconnected. These two main urban areas, zoned Destination Center (DC), continue to anchor the community along Main Street (US-40). A mix of high density residential and additional commercial zoning immediately surrounds these DC zones and farther upslope moves into predominantly single-family and multi-family zoning. Currently, the Town limits encompass 16.5 square miles, primarily split between the land surrounding Downtown and the land at the Resort. Approximately 13 square miles of the Town are within U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands. 120 360 600 RE AS VISITATIO NI NC Character, Identity, and Public Spaces The predominant public spaces within the community consist of Cooper Creek Square, Hideaway Park, Wolf Park, and the base area at the Resort. Rendezvous Event Center at Hideaway Park is the Town’s premier social area, often programmed with festivals and events. In addition, the Town has created e tensive trai and outdoor recreation areas to hi e i e sh and enjoy the surrounding natural environment. E 2-10 2017 2014 50% Unlike many other mountain communities, the Town does not have a c ear y de ned cohesive architectura or themed character ut its ec ectic and unstructured development has given it an authentic look and feel. The many restaurants, breweries, bars, and coffee shops throughout Town act as secondary gathering spaces and help foster a sense of community. IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN The owntown is o e whelmin ly defined by US-40 which also serves as the Town’s ain t eet The owntown o e ou hly defined as the a ea etween as ue oad and in s ossin is one o the Town s mo e edest ian scaled a eas with outdoo dinin and landsca ed a eas etween u lic sidewal s and uildin onts owe e the overall feel of the area is still dominated by ehicula needs oth in te ms o the scale of US 40 and by large building setbacks and the presence of parking lots in front of some buildings. The lac o human scale and enclosu e is in many cases e ace ated y uildin o ientation with a num e o st uctu es oriented sideways to the main roadway with main facades perpendicular (instead o a allel to ain t eet owe e ecent development has focused on the creation of pedestrian friendly retail spaces oriented along Main Street. The Town’s residential areas can be broken into two general types: Valley Neighborhoods: higher density groups of condominiums and townhomes located within walking distance of Main Street or the eso t ase These tend to e ti htly ac ed with tuck-under parking as well as surface lots lthou h some o e ties such as i ount y aus do ha e lanted and i e ont a eas the ma o ity o these ou in s do not offer internal open space amenities Hillside Neighborhoods: more distant homes are typically lower density/ larger lot singlefamily or townhouse/condominium groupings. These tend to occu y la e mo e wooded lots with dedicated garage parking. Both types of development are notable for thei lac o inte nal and e te nal connecti ity s ecifically sidewal s o inte nal edest ian bike paths. Valley Neighborhoods have access to downtown businesses and more frequent Lift service which limits the need o a i ate ehicle althou h these a eas could enefit om enhanced edest ian and i e connections illside ei h o hoods are characterized by winding roads and steep topography with longer distances to co e comme cial a eas ut still ha e access to The Lift transit service. The Town has started development of pedestrian and bike t ails th ou h many o these nei h o hoods increasing access to commercial districts. This character area consists of Resorto iented etail esidential hotel se ices and operations at the base of Winter Park and a y ane s i a eas The definin eatu e of the Resort is the pedestrian village at the base of Winter Park. This area is a vibrant comme cial dist ict es ecially du in the winter months. The Resort utilizes its own unique branding and design standards which define the cha acte o these a eas ith the recent purchase of The Resort by Alterra ountain om any the ase a eas a e seein si nificant ein estment includin the installation of a new 10-person Gondola with an u hill ca acity o eo le e hou Old Town is a mainly residential neighborhood directly adjacent to the Winter Park base a ea cha acte i ed y a ima ily esidential development pattern and limited commercial. The area has potential for additional commercial with the existing zoning along Winter Park Drive. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-11 Our Connections A balanced, multi-modal system is needed to provide options for residents and visitors alike. People choose transportation based on many different factors including destination, speed, convenience, weather, and even baggage (as is well known in a resort town). A person may choose different modes depending upon their needs on any particular day, and the best transportation systems make those choices available and easy. fle i e system responds to oth e istin and future needs. Existing needs demand a system that can respond to seasonal changes in volume, pattern, and mode. Future fle i i ity re uires thou htfu consideration of ho oth user expectation and technology changes may impact physical systems. Examples of this might be preservation of right-of-way for future transportation corridors (and interim uses for those corridors); conversion of lanes for autonomous vehicles, and repurposing of existing parking lots if parking needs decrease. 2-12 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Key Highlights Getting Around Town The Town’s current thoroughfare, Main Street (US 40), is designed for speed and e ciency of vehic es not for a sense of p ace. s the main transportation corridor, the highway serves as both a state highway and a oca main street hich conflict in desi n and purpose. edestrian and bicycle crossing opportunities are limited, with distances between marked crosswalks ranging from 500 to 900 feet, and all located at intersections. The greatest distance between crosswalks at signalized intersections is nearly 3,000 feet, over a half mile. With several public parking structures already built, the Town has the infrastructure to emphasize a district parking approach and ensure parking is planned to encourage pedestrian character, high quality design, and active transportation. The Town has assumed responsibility for the management of the transit system that serves Winter Park, Fraser, and down-valley communities in Grand County. Existing low-density residential development patterns, combined with winding roads and topography, make comprehensive transit coverage challenging. Some developments provide private transit service but have expressed a desire to discontinue this amenity. Non-vehicular linkages abound within the built fabric of Town. These include a multi-purpose bike and pedestrian path network and the Fraser River Trail that provides pleasant access to outdoor amenities that characterize the unique mountain environment. The Fraser River Trail offers excellent bicycle connectivity from Downtown to the Resort, but bike routes and facilities ithin the o n proper are unde ned. t is unc ear if cyc ists shou d ride on the hi h ay shou der mi ith tra c or ride on the side a . • Main Street sidewalks provide pedestrian access th ou h the owntown co e ut connectivity overall is varied and often sub-optimal. • Pedestrian and bicycle crossing opportunities across Main Street are limited. • The Town’s paved bicycle system is limited to the Fraser River Trail which ends at the Resort and the Downtown Core but does not directly extend to either of the Town’s main commercial areas. • Regional transit service has no central point or facility for transfer between local us e ional us i ate shuttles and other potential or future options. • Parking of motorized vehicles has both a physical and visual priority within the Town. • Additional east-west pedestrian connections to Main Street and alternative pedestrian/bicycle facilities parallel to Main Street can be implemented to improve non-vehicular connections throughout Town. • New development provides an opportunity to develop more of the grid system off ain t eet consolidate d i eways alon ain t eet and educe the num e o pedestrian conflict points. • Several developments oriented towards main street offer opportunities to humanize Main Street with public edest ian la as and edest ian ocused design. • A Transit Center at the Town’s Vasquez Parking structure could be leveraged to cent ali e t ansit not only o local us ut also o e ional t ansit o tions i ate shuttles and othe otential o utu e options. • Winter Park has unique transportation capabilities such as connections by train to Downtown Denver and Denver International Airport that could be more fully utilized. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-13 By the Numbers WINTER PARK EXPRESS (SKI TRAIN) REVITALIZED IN 2015 EXPRESS FROM UNION STATION 56 MILES 2.5 HOURS Getting Around the Region 4,000 FT VERTICAL CLIMB US 40, with access to the I-70 corridor over Berthoud Pass, is the Valley’s central transportation corridor and connects Winter Park to the communities of Fraser, Tabernash, Granby, and beyond. CO S 17.7 MIN 24.5 MIN ADO) AVERAGE E (WINTER PAR KV R LO 2-14 UT IM ET CO MM AMAZING VIEWS Amtrak passenger train service, the return of seasonal ski train service, and the opening of the RTD A-Line to Denver International Airport (DIA) offers the Town an opportunity unique among all Colorado resorts; the ability to connect from airport to Town without the need for a private vehic e. he inter ar press i rain provides ee end and rst Friday service from Denver’s historic Union Station to the Resort, and the regular Amtrak service runs once a day from Union Station year round. Following the historic route, the ride stretches 4,000 vertical feet over 2.5 hours. Other common regional transportation options from DIA and the Denver metro area are van shuttles provided by multiple companies, which operate more frequently in the winter. IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN . . .- . \1 MI I I I {"24 5.. ("so 3 '9 :1 PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2?15 Environment & Amenities While many amenities and recreational opportunities exist within Town limits, Winter Park is part of the larger Fraser Valley that provides abundant public lands and trails that draw both residents and visitors to the community. The Chamber champions promotion of the Fraser Valley, marketing the area as “Colorado’s Favorite Playground.” 2-16 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Key Highlights Culture There many factors that contributes to a community’s culture. The physical realm and built environment are just as important to this culture as the events, public processes, and those friendly hellos on the street. Arts and music play an increasingly critical role in the community’s culture with the many musical events and festivals planned throughout the year. These events, geared to both locals and visitors help set the stage for a vibrant community culture. • Public access to the Fraser River and Vasquez Creek from a commercial and esidential stand oint is limited howe e recreational opportunity along the Fraser River is a key amenity. • s the yea ound o ulation inc eases existing (public) facilities will need to grow accordingly. • The ommunity T ails Plan com leted in outlines io ity t ails o inte Pa and ase includin wo in with s and Denver Water Board to complete trail connections. • The Fraser River and associated floodplain can be built on to be a larger recreation amenity. • The community and Town have the desire to support protecting the natural features o the a ea such as ai uality wate uality and scenic iews PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-17 By the Numbers RIVER MI LE S 28.5 MILES USA- TRAI ITAL LM ILE MOUNT AIN BI S KE P CA 600 MILES TOWN PAR KS (IN THE COUNTY) N TRAILS I NT OW 3 96 MILES 2-18 Recreation The primary recreation activities in Winter Park are skiing and mountain biking, both at the Resort and throughout the surrounding National Forest. Recreational skiing began as early as 1883, with skiing becoming popular in the s and the esort o cia y openin in . he raser iver is another recreationa opportunity for activities such as shin and hi in and flo s south to north a on the ase of the esort and throu h the center of Downtown, where it connects with Vasquez Creek. here are three primary community par s ithin the o n onfluence ar idea ay ar and o f ar . onfluence ar is part of the reat utdoors Colorado Fraser River Enhancement Project. It includes in stream habitat improvements for both the Fraser River and Vasquez Creek, interpretive trai s and si na e a fly shin dec et and miti ation a orea toad pond, and is ADA accessible. Hideaway Park caters to community events, gathering spaces, and family fun. This park features the Rendezvous Event Center, a picnic shelter, restrooms with potable water, paved paths along Vasquez Creek, a climbing wall, playground, skate park, free sledding hill, re pits a rand ne amphitheater sta e and is a so accessi e. o f Park is a quiet, neighborhood park with a pavilion available for reservation from May – October. It also features restrooms with potable water, barbecue grills, a playground, sand box, volleyball, tennis, basketball courts, bike rac s tness trai and is accessi e. o o cia camp rounds e ist ithin the o n imits d e i d and id and. These two campgrounds are Forest Service campgrounds operated by the Fraser Valley Lions Club. Three additional campgrounds are located just outside of Town. Trailheads are located all throughout the community and most are easily accessible via local roads or the Fraser River Trail. IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Utilities and Infrastructure Natural gas is available in most parts of Grand County from Xcel. Electricity is supplied to most parts of the County by Mountain Parks Electric, Inc. (MPE) — a not for pro t e ectric provider servin a of rand and Jackson counties, and parts of Routt, Summit, and Larimer counties. Telephone and internet service is provided by Comcast and CenturyLink. Municipal water service within the Town is currently provided by two separate districts, and both rely on oca stream flo s as their primary ater source. ith imited ater stora e faci ities to sustain system flo s during peak water demands, the municipal water supply is susceptible to water shortages due to variations in the ad acent stream flo s. hese stream flo s are not only impacted by weather patterns, local precipitation and snow pack, but also by water diversions by Denver Water Board to the Front Range which are generally upstream of the Town’s primary water sources (the Fraser River and Vasquez Creek). Diversions to the ront an e can si ni cant y diminish flo s ithin the Fraser River which, at times, limits the Town’s ability to divert water for municipal services and still maintain via e ater eve s in the river for sh and riparian habitat. According to the Grand County Stream Management Plan, increased water demands from the Front Range have depleted the Fraser River to the point where winter ase flo s ithout flo enhancements or restoration i e o er than recommended flo ran es. he Stream Management Plan developed environmental tar et flo s that ere determined to est maintain the ecological needs of the stream in relation to its sheries. oca municipa ities have een or in diligently with Denver Water Board and others to address this potentia shortfa in stream flo s throu h the Colorado River Cooperative Agreement. This is an intergovernmental agreement developed to protect watersheds in the Colorado River Basin while allowing Denver Water to develop future water supplies. While a key asset, the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), or the transition zone between open land and human development can create risks. Winter Park’s largest natural hazard risks include avalanches, landsides, drou ht floods hi h inds and i d re amp i ed y pine beetle infestation. Careful planning and mitigation measures can reduce the impact of natural hazards on the public health and safety, as well as personal property. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 2-19 .nr - a r e t c a r a h C Our an e VISION One Winter Park: a town with diverse cultures, economic opportunities, and architectural styles that fosters a strong, unified, and forward-thinking community. 13,397’ MT EVA 13,130’ er Fraser Riv COOPER CREEK SQUARE USFS PROTECTED LANDS HIDEAWAY PARK * 40 FrAMEWOrK MAP PARRY PEAK Our Character and Our Culture JAMES PEAK 13,301’ CONFLUENCE PARK MT FLORA 13,146’ Vasquez Rd WOLF PARK * * Kings Crossing Rd WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ Vasquez Creek VASQUEZ NODE OPPORTUNITY AREA * ** * * EXISTING COMMUNITY SERVICES * USFS PROTECTED LANDS USFS PROTECTED LANDS r ive rR se Fra TOWN BOUNDARY PROPOSED HIGHER DENSITY AREA EXISTING TRAILS PROPOSED COMMUNITY/ HEALTH SERVICES 40 Dr ate ns G Lio EXISTING PARKS/ OPEN SPACE COZENS RANCH EE T IN ST R RIVER/ CREEKS LEgEND MA USFS PROTECTED LANDS ek Vasquez Cre N PROPOSED ATTAINABLE HOUSING SITE EXISTING ATTAINABLE HOUSING SITE Little Vasquez Creek COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ * * PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-3 nter ar JAMES PEAK 13,301’ e r USFS PROTECTED LANDS ae PARRY PEAK 13,397’ Old 40 USFS PROTECTED LANDS k ree er C Fra ser Riv er WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS N Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community PROPOSED HOUSING SITE p Coo TRESTLE BIKE PARK MARY JANE BASE WINTER PARK RESORT BASE * OLD TOWN * 40 CHArACTEr & CULTUrE FrAMEWOrK MAP 40 EXISTING TRAILS * TOWN BOUNDARY EXISTING TRAILHEADS Cub Creek * RIVER/ CREEKS PROPOSED TRAILHEADS LEgEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS 3-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Importance of this Element Winter Park is a unique and eclectic mountain community, with majestic views of the Continental Divide and unparalleled access to the Fraser River and the Rocky Mountains. This element provides the Town with the potential for blending an array of housing typologies with a vibrant and walkable Downtown. This element highlights opportunities to grow and mature through the creation of an inclusive community while setting the standard for the delivery of attainable workforce housing. Retaining the Town’s eclectic character is important to the Town’s sense of place and quality of life, distinguishing it from other mountain and resort communities. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-5 3-6 IMAGINE WINTER PARKTOWN PLAN PRINCIPLES [AUTHENTIC] An authentic, unpretentious town with a strong yearround, family-oriented population anchored within the Town’s deep spirit of diversity and inclusion. [AMENITIES] A community that encourages growth and development as a tool to increase community amenities and economic opportunities. [YEAR-ROUND COMMUNITY] A growing community with a solid base of year round residents supported y diversi ed employment both in and out of the tourist industry and a wide range of quality services. [INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY] A mountain town with a clear feeling of community that offers economic opportunity and viable housing, highquality services and employment choices for a diversity of ages, incomes, and household compositions. [SOCIAL SPACES] A unique atmosphere and gathering spaces that foster ideas of community, creativity, entrepreneurship, and an environment of fun. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-7 1. [AUTHENTIC] AN AUTHENTIC, UNPRETENTIOUS TOWN WITH A STRONG YEAR-ROUND, FAMILY-ORIENTED POPULATION ANCHORED WITHIN THE TOWN’S DEEP SPIRIT OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION. Whether it be Mountain Bike Capital USA, Colorado’s Top Adventure Town, the last affordable ski resort community, or the most familyfriendly destination, Winter Park has earned many titles showcasing it as a diverse year-round community. This diversity is a key element of the Town’s unique character. The many social, economic, and cultural activities available enhance our sense of community while attracting an eclectic mix of individuals. 3-8 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN The people of Winter Park are the backbone of our authentic community. Everyone from the ski bum to the retired CEO, from the grandmother to the Paralympian at the National Sports Center for the Disabled, can feel at home here. Whether it be attending one of our summer festiva s shin in the Fraser River, or relaxing at a local watering hole, Winter Park has something for everyone. Strategies CC STrATEgy 1.1: Maintain a healthy balance of commercial development that can provide a multitude of services both for local residents and for guests. CC STrATEgy 1.2: Continue to provide and support the cultural arts through music festivals, concert series, and gathering spaces fostering a creative and fun environment to live in and visit. CC STrATEgy 1.3: Ensure that the built environment continues to be seamlessly integrated with mountain and recreational amenities (e.g. connections to trails, integration with the Fraser River, bikeable paths, etc.). CC STrATEgy 1.4: e ne and enhance the community gateways, at both north and south, that speak to the experience and values of the Town. CC STrATEgy 1.5: Educate visitors and residents about the history of the Town and larger region. CC STrATEgy 1.6: Ensure the eclectic identity of the o n is reflected in oca policies and codes such as the Design Guidelines, Town Sign Code, and Commercial nhancement rant speci cations. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-9 2. [AMENITIES] A COMMUNITY THAT ENCOURAGES GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT AS A TOOL TO INCREASE COMMUNITY AMENITIES AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES. A considerable amount of work has already gone into leveraging growth to provide a higher level of service to both full time residents and visitors. Utilizing development to help guide and grow the Town allows for a wider diversity and higher quality of amenities. 3-10 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN As the Town continues to grow, it is important that our level of services and amenities grow with it. A strong, vibrant, Main Street shopping and dining experience is crucial to the viability of the Town. Strategies CC STrATEgy 2.1: Incorporate public places into future development. CC STrATEgy 2.2: Continue to create an authentic Main Street as a collection of outdoor gathering spaces and unique shops that celebrate the Town’s eclectic character. CC STrATEgy 2.3: Study, design, and implement a new street layout to help create an accessible, welcoming, and safe Main Street. CC STrATEgy 3.1: Work with developers to provide recreational and cultural amenities that ene t oth residents and uests a i e. CC STrATEgy 2.4: Continue to provide support services to small existing and new local businesses as they adapt to growth and change. CC STrATEgy 2.5: Encourage “formula” usinesses to t into the o n y re uirin modi cation of desi n si na e and site development to be unique to Winter Park. CC STrATEgy 2.6: Discourage drivethroughs, big box retail, and other land uses that do not support the Town’s character. CC STrATEgy 2.7: Support quality design and encourage unique and high-quality ui din construction and ener y e ciency. CC STrATEgy 2.8: Build on Winter Park’s designations as “Mountain Bike Capital USA” and Colorado’s “Top Adventure Town” as a way to attract growth that supports our recreational heritage. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-11 3. [yEAr-rOUND COMMUNITy] A GROWING COMMUNITY WITH A SOLID BASE OF YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS THAT IS SUPPORTED BY DIVERSIFIED EMPLOYMENT BOTH IN AND OUT OF THE TOURIST INDUSTRY AND A WIDE RANGE OF QUALITY SERVICES. Economic growth and an availability of diverse housing stock are critical to accommodate the needs of current businesses and support a local workforce. A broader diversity of businesses also creates a more resilient economy helping to limit shoulder seasons. Availability of suitable housing is essential to maintaining excellence in the service sector. A broad array of housing options can also attract a variety of age groups—such 3-12 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN as those just starting out, those wishing to make a lifestyle move, and baby boomers starting a second career. The Town’s Strategic Plan for its Attainable Housing Program is providing guidance to the town on steps to alleviate housing issues. Pursuing new economic opportunities in a diversity of sectors is an important way to ensure the expansion of a yearround economy. Strategies CC STrATEgy 3.1: Fully integrate workforce housing throughout the Town’s built environment. CC STrATEgy 3.2: Ensure that all new commercial and residential development mitigate their impacts on workforce housing. CC STrATEgy 3.3: Encourage a mix of housing for the local workforce within commercial developments. CC STrATEgy 3.4: Support stable employment opportunities by strengthening existing business and further expanding new business opportunities in areas such as the environmental, home-based, and healthcare e ds. CC STrATEgy 3.5: Invest in the local workforce by providing training, resources, incentives, and locations (e.g. shared workspaces) that provide incubator space for young professionals and services for experienced workers. CC STrATEgy 3.6: Work with partners such as the school district and library district to offer innovative training programs and services. CC STrATEgy 3.7: Investigate opportunities for higher education such as Colorado Mountain College or trade schools to increase access to educational opportunities. CC STrATEgy 3.8: Encourage new hotels to be constructed in the downtown core to increase diversity of accommodation, enhance vibrancy, and support retail and commercial uses. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-13 4. [INCLUSIVE COMMUNITy] A MOUNTAIN TOWN WITH A CLEAR FEELING OF COMMUNITY THAT OFFERS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND VIABLE HOUSING, HIGHQUALITY SERVICES, AND EMPLOYMENT CHOICES FOR A DIVERSITY OF AGES, INCOMES, AND HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITIONS. Winter Park has always appealed to a diverse community of people, and actively works to be an inclusive place for everyone. This commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in Town policies and in important institutions of the community itself such as the National Sports Center for the Disabled and Adam’s Camp. 3-14 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN We strive to engage a wide range of community members across generations, ethnic groups, and income ranges. Especially important is reaching out to groups that might not always have had a voice in community governance. Through robust engagement, we aim to grow emerging leaders, especially from within populations that may not have participated previously. Strategies CC STrATEgy 4.1: Include a mix of housing to support a variety of household compositions and income levels. CC STrATEgy 4.2: Attract young families through quality of life amenities, convenient healthcare, broadband, and a vibrant downtown. CC STrATEgy 4.3: Ensure accessible transportation options are available to all our residents and visitors. CC STrATEgy 4.4: Create an innovative, community-based housing delivery plan to ensure accommodation of a diverse population. CC STrATEgy 4.5: Investigate opportunities and coordinate projects with other local communities and Grand County on affordable/attainable housing. CC STrATEgy 4.6: Seek diverse participation in Town processes. CC STrATEgy 4.7: Promote leadership development and encourage diversity in Town processes. CC STrATEgy 4.8: Plan for equitable access to healthcare providers, schools, public safety facilities, and arts and cultural facilities. Photo Courtesy of the Winter Park and Fraser Chamber PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-15 5. [SOCIAL SPACES] A UNIQUE ATMOSPHERE AND GATHERING SPACES BASED ON SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS THAT FOSTER IDEAS OF COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND FUN. In addition to its unparalleled outdoor resources, the Town also has a variety of public and private gathering spaces. These spaces allow for frequent community gatherings, concerts, and special events that bring people together. As Winter Park grows and evolves, the number and variety of these places where people meet, greet, and interact outside of home or work environments will also need to expand. To solidify its identity as a fourseason community, the Town needs both indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. The Town’s outdoor recreation focus suggests the potential for a more purpose-driven social space. In a community where many residents live in compact spaces, whether by choice or by 3-16 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN economic necessity, the provision of new types of community spaces could provide both a needed amenity as well as a social space. Examples of this new type of community space could be places i e it cafes home re c u s or community kitchen facilities. Town support of additional smallscale community initiatives can also promote the authenticity and ‘real people’ vibe valued in Winter Park. Little Free Libraries, for example, have emerged as a way for communities to blur the lines of public and private space, share resources, and provide an outlet for small-scale artistic expression. These types of projects can create an environment that builds a solid foundation for community. Strategies CC STrATEgy 5.1: Allow for publiclyaccessible parks, plazas, and open spaces in both design and policy, meeting the goal of being an inviting community. CC STrATEgy 5.2: Include neighborhood-scale parks and open spaces within developments that are fully accessible to the public. CC STrATEgy 5.3: Enhance existing parks with recreational opportunities that promote gathering and conversation (e.g. occe horseshoes shu e oard or adventure play areas). CC STrATEgy 5.4: Investigate opportunities for the creation of indoor and outdoor socia spaces e. . it cafes homebrew clubs, or community kitchen facilities). CC STrATEgy 5.5: Promote the creation of small-scale, low cost neighborhood resources that foster community (e.g. Little Free Libraries). CC STrATEgy 5.6: Continue to support community gatherings and events that bring people together. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 3-17 a a an i i nn VISION Winter Park is a community linked with majestic physical attributes, connected with state of the art technology, integrated with safe walkable places and diverse transportation linkages, and characterized by seamless connectivity to both the natural and technological environment. ca and l a C nnect t FraMEWOrK MaP PARRY PEAK 13,397’ MT EVA 13,130’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS 40 COOPER CREEK SQUARE * Kings Crossing Rd MT FLORA 13,146’ Vasquez Rd WOLF PARK WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ Vasquez Creek 40 Little Vasquez Creek COOPER CREEK SQUARE * COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ ACCESS TO TWIN BRIDGES Fraser River HIDEAWAY PARK ek USFS PROTECTED LANDS RD Vasquez Cre Z VASQUE TO LIO AS FR NS ER PM AK TR N IO AT ST D TE GA R VASQUEZ NODE OPPORTUNITY AREA N LIVE/WORK + CO-WORKING OPPORTUNITY AREA PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-3 WINTER PARK EXPRESS STATION PROPOSED TOWN WIFI ZONE PROPOSED PEDESTRIAN CROSSING PROPOSED GONDOLA STATION PROPOSED TRANSIT CENTER PROPOSED RIVER WALK PROPOSED ROUNDABOUT SECONDARY PEDESTRIAN WALKSHED ENHANCED PEDESTRIAN CROSSING * PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN CORE * MAIN STREET Our JAMES PEAK 13,301’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS * HIDEAWAY PARK Dr Ga te ns Lio er Fraser Riv EXISTING TRAILS CONFLUENCE PARK EXISTING TRAILHEADS YANKEE DOODLE TRAILHEAD er Riv ser Fra TOWN BOUNDARY PROPOSED TRAILHEADS 40 RIVER/ CREEKS COZENS RANCH EXISTING PARKS/ OPEN SPACE TRAILHEAD ACCESS ENHANCEMENTS LEGEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS T EE ST R IN MA nter ar JAMES PEAK 13,301’ e r USFS PROTECTED LANDS ae PARRY PEAK 13,397’ Old EXISTING TRAILHEADS EXISTING TRAILS RIVER/ CREEKS PROPOSED TRAILHEADS TOWN BOUNDARY LEGEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS 4-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN 40 Cub Creek USFS PROTECTED LANDS MARY JANE BASE TRESTLE BIKE PARK k ree er C p Coo r Riv er WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ PROPOSED GONDOLA STATION PROPOSED TRANSIT CENTER COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS N PROPOSED PEDESTRIAN ENHANCEMENTS PROPOSED ROUNDABOUT Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community PROPOSED SKI-BACK CONNECTION 40 CONNECtIVIty FraMEWOrK MaP 40 * WINTER PARK RESORT BASE OLD TOWN Fras e PROPOSED FRASER RIVER TRAIL EXTENSION PROPOSED TRAIL CONNECTION TO SUMMIT OF BERTHOUD PASS * Importance of this Element Physical and virtual connectivity are key in allowing people to live, work, and recreate in Winter Park while still allowing people to participate in an increasingly globalized economy. People need the ability to connect both physically and electronically without respect to where they sleep or plug in their computer. Residents and guests alike should be able to travel to and from Winter Park easily and conveniently. This means offering a wide variety of transportation options. It also means designing spaces that allow you to access all of those options. For example, being able to leave your car in the parking garage and hop on a bike share, or hop off the train and get right onto the Town’s bus system (The Lift). Cultivating multilayered connectivity ensures that Winter Park will attract a broad spectrum of people and skill sets that will maintain, enhance, and evolve the ‘real town’ pride of the community. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-5 4-6 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN PRINCIPLES [MOVING PEOPLE] community of easy fast and e cient mo i ity options that ma e transit the rst choice of visitors and locals alike. Vasquez Node [REGIONAL CONNECTIONS] A mountain base camp that makes it possible to get around without the need for a private vehicle. [PEDESTRIAN SCALE] A comfortable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing urban environment that is walkable and bikeable in all seasons. [ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY] A physically and functionally connected community that transforms Winter Park from a ‘destination’ to a ‘hub’ for recreation, commerce, and innovation locally, regionally, nationally, and for the larger global marketplace. [SMART PARKING] A town that acknowledges the importance of balancing parking needs with other active modes of transportation and the desire to be a sustainable, livable community. The Vasquez Node is a unique opportunity to promote density, activity, and movement at the Town’s southern gateway to Main Street. This area includes existing, planned, and future development two blocks east and west of Main Street along Vasquez Road and one block north of Vasquez Road. Encouraging street level retail and dining creates an active ground floor, mirrors adjacent development, and produces a critical mass of shopping and entertainment. Requiring building heights of four stories, with variety of housing options for residents and visitors, allows for year round viability and helps to meet attainable housing goals. Expanded sidewalks and other pedestrian improvements, such as indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, forms an aesthetic identity and fosters a longer stay. A hub of local and regional transit options, ride share drop off, and bicycle and ski trails make this node a center of movement. See Framework Maps for the location of the opportunity area. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-7 1. [MOVING PEOPLE] A COMMUNITY OF EASY, FAST, AND EFFICIENT MOBILITY OPTIONS THAT MAKE TRANSIT THE FIRST CHOICE OF VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE. Creating a truly comprehensive and multi-modal transit system re uires providin su cient coverage, frequency, and choice to address an array of travel goals and destinations. A successful system centra i es and simp i es options. 4-8 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN It acknowledges that the way someone arrives at a destination may not be how they return home, and that same person may choose different modes of travel throughout the week. Bikeshare Bikeshare is one of the most well known types of shared mobility solutions. Bikeshare can be particularly challenging in a small community li e inte Pa with si nificant topography. However, multiple models create many options: Kiosk System (Tech on Station). This system houses the checkout and locking mechanism in the bicycle docking station. Bikes must be borrowed from and returned to established locations. Moving bikes to where they are needed, and making sure docks are not overloaded or empty can be a challenge. Example: Denver B-Cycle Strategies Tech-on-Bike. In this type of system, users locate, pay for, and unlock bikes using a smartphone-based app. Some systems require users to start and end trips at a designated location, while the newest systems are completely dockless (bikes can be parked anywhere around the community). These systems are often seen on college or corporate campuses, or in smaller communities. ‘Street clutter’ is sometimes seen as a problem as bikes can be haphazardly left in the public realm. Examples: Longmont Zagster, LimeBike. CO StratEGy 1.1: Identify the feasibility of a centralized transit center in conjunction with the existing Vasquez Road public parking garage or other centralized and appropriate location. The transit center should accommodate all existing modes (i.e. The Lift, Greyhound, Bustang, local/ regional shuttles, rental car facilities, and bikeshare facilities), provide connections to the Winter Park Resort (e.g. gondola faci ities s i ac trai s and provide fle i i ity for future e pansion. CO StratEGy 1.2: Enhance facilities at the Winter Park Resort Transit Center to serve as a secondary transit hub. As the base area redevelops, evaluate options to consolidate or better connect the existing three transit areas (base of Cabriolet, Balcony House/Zephyr Mountain Lodge area, rail platform) into a single seamless transit hub. CO StratEGy 1.3: Ensure the Resort Transit Center includes easy pick-up/drop-off capability allowing both resort guests and non-resort guests to make regional connections. CO StratEGy 1.4: Initiate a comprehensive, multi-modal signage pro ram to provide intuitive ay ndin throu hout the o n. CO StratEGy 1.5: Work with existing transportation partners to enhance and increase our ability to serve both residents and guests. Bike Library. In this model, bikes are stored and checked out from one or more staffed locations. These systems can often offer a range of bicycle types and sizes. Examples: Golden Bike Library, Fort Collins Bike Library. Source: https://www.zagster.com/blog/thedifferent-types-of-bike-sharing-programs, Colorado Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor CO StratEGy 1.6: Ensure Winter Park is poised to take advantage of new trends in transportation and transit. Recreation Plan, 2013, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Policy and Planning Section PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-9 2. [rEGIONaL CONNECtIONS] A MOUNTAIN BASE CAMP THAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO GET AROUND WITHOUT THE NEED FOR A PRIVATE VEHICLE. Transportation options across the state and nation are rapidly changing. From additional rail opportunities to self-driving cars, new technologies are transforming the way people get around. Autonomous and connected vehicles will affect how public rights-of-way are planned, parking is accommodated, and infrastructure improvements are designed. The opening of the commuter rail from Denver International Airport to Union Station and the return of 4-10 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN the Winter Park Express (Ski Train) uniquely positions Winter Park as the only mountain community in the state here visitors can fly in catch the train, and arrive for a mountain vacation. This gives Winter Park an unbeatable foundation for a new level of mobility for both visitors and locals. Easy access to regional amenities such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Snow Mountain Ranch, and local golf courses are crucial to providing the experience people desire. Strategies CO StratEGy 2.1: Coordinate with Amtrak and the Town of Fraser to ensure connectivity from the Fraser Station to local and regional transportation options. CO StratEGy 2.2: Work with Amtrak and the Winter Park Express (Ski Train) to expand service, and to implement pass systems for frequent riders. CO StratEGy 2.3: Collaborate with the Colorado Department of Transportation and other partners to increase transportation options such as Bustang or regional air service. CO StratEGy 2.4: Explore regional transportation options and connections such as light rail, BRT, or expanded bus service between Winter Park, Granby, and other locations within the region. CO StratEGy 2.5: Provide transportation options to regional destinations (e.g. YMCA, Devil’s Thumb, Rocky Mountain National Park) through offerings such as rental car service, carshare, or Resort pickup. CO StratEGy 2.6: Examine the need for requirements for passenger drop-off and loading zones within new development to accommodate transportation options such as resort shuttles, microtransit, and autonomous vehicles (AV). CO StratEGy 2.7: Explore opportunities to create regional backcountry motorized connections. See WR Strategy 3.6. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-11 Enhanced Crosswalks HAWK Signal. Originally named as an acronym for High-Intensity Activated crossWalK beacon, this, and other simila o e head t a fic cont ol de ices may also be referred to as Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHB). These devices were developed to address pedestrian crossings of wide and high-speed roadways, where pedestrian volumes are not high enough to warrant a full t a fic si nal Pedestrian Activated Warning Lights. Like PHB’s, this type of pedestrian device is dark until activated by the pedestrian. Examples include RRFB and LED Border Signs. As of December 2017, the FHWA has terminated interim approval of the RRFB, due to patent issues. RRFB’s have been shown to be highly effective; existing installations can stay in place but new installations are not permitted until the FHWA reinstates approval. In-Road Warning Lights. These lights are installed flush with the roadway surface, and provide an additional level of driver awareness of crosswalks. First generation lights experienced issues with moisture and longevity; current options appear to have improved performance in snowy and winter conditions. 3. [PEDEStrIaN SCaLE] A COMFORTABLE, SAFE, AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING URBAN ENVIRONMENT THAT IS WALKABLE AND BIKEABLE IN ALL SEASONS. A successful pedestrian and cyclist environment provides a humanscaled atmosphere with elements such as landscaping and art. US Highway 40 creates a challenging downtown environment with its ide tra c anes hi h speeds and large expanses of parking. As a state hi h ay it must fu critica regional functions in moving people, goods, and services. However, as Winter Park’s Main Street it sets the character and feel of the community. 4-12 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN The key to balancing Main Street’s regional and local roles is to humanize it by decreasing scale and adding interest. Many of the urban design features that provide a pleasant aesthetic experience also provide functiona tra c ca min ene ts and increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Winter Park’s pedestrian priorities focus on creating a continuous, comfortable walking environment. The Town Plan focuses on promoting walking and cycling through functional urban design and land use improvements within the US 40/Main Street corridor. Strategies CO StratEGy 3.1: Use policies and incentives to prioritize and direct new, mixed use development within the Vasquez Road Node. CO StratEGy 3.2: Work with developers to create a continuous, human-scale street frontage along Main Street. CO StratEGy 3.9: Pursue the introduction of roundabouts on Main Street at the north and south ends of o n to act as a tra c ca min measure and an opportunity for an aesthetic gateway treatment. CO StratEGy 3.10: Introduce street trees along Main Street in order to soften the visual impact of the existing roadway width and off-street parking. CO StratEGy 3.3: Work with developers and utility providers to integrate non-buildable areas within easements into the public realm (e.g. public plazas, parklets, or dining areas). CO StratEGy 3.11: Provide a bicycle system that offers both recreational and in-town connectivity and accommodates all levels of riders. CO StratEGy 3.4: Encourage Main Street access from cross streets and from Lions Gate Drive. CO StratEGy 3.12: Create multiple bicycle connections to Main Street businesses. CO StratEGy 3.5: Work with Main Street property owners to reduce visual impacts and physical conflicts created y vehicu ar access points i.e. cur cuts). CO StratEGy 3.13: Complete the Fraser River Trail to ensure it functions as the primary north-south bicycle corridor. CO StratEGy 3.6: Work with Main Street property owners to direct parking to the rear of the parcel to eliminate the visual impact of off-street parking. CO StratEGy 3.7: Enhance existing pedestrian crossings to increase pedestrian safety and visibility as well as motorist compliance. CO StratEGy 3.8: Introduce new mid-block pedestrian crossings at locations with demonstrated need. CO StratEGy 3.14: Focus on improving motorist awareness and mutual share-the-road behavior on all north-south roadways through signage and appropriate roadway widths. CO StratEGy 3.15: Improve pedestrian connectivity and experience in and around the Resort. CO StratEGy 3.16: Explore roadway changes such as narrowed drive lanes, consolidated driveways, curb bulb-outs at intersections, street trees, and median refuges to balance road functions. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-13 These renderings reflect possible future options for both an interim and ultimate cross section of Main Street. Actual designs and improvements would require further design and study. 4-14 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN 10' 10' 10' 11? Drive Median Drive Drive 106' Existing Improvements Ea lal Bie 10' Bamer Lane Sidewalk Interim Cross Section i i 10' 10' 10' 11' Drive Median Drive Drive 1 10' Right of Way 8' 7' 6' . Tree Bike Parking Planter Lane 8' Sidewalk Permanent Cross Section PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-15 4. [aDVaNCED tECHNOLOGy] A PHYSICALLY AND FUNCTIONALLY CONNECTED COMMUNITY THAT TRANSFORMS WINTER PARK FROM A ‘DESTINATION’ TO A ‘HUB’ FOR RECREATION, COMMERCE, AND INNOVATION LOCALLY, REGIONALLY, NATIONALLY, AND FOR THE LARGER GLOBAL MARKETPLACE. With recent changes in technology and tech-oriented businesses, people are able to work from virtually anywhere. Increasingly, businesses are choosing where to locate based on amenities, access to the outdoors, and community culture. Improving internet connection is a necessary action to provide what has become 4-16 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN a required utility to support a diverse year-round economy. Winter Park must be prepared to take advantage of emerging technologies such as electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, drone technology, the Internet of hin s arti cia inte i ence and the sharing economy. Strategies CO StratEGy 4.1: Support investment in town-wide technology infrastructure. CO StratEGy 4.2: Cultivate an environment that attracts and supports entrepreneurs and innovators. CO StratEGy 4.3: Facilitate incubator spaces for small businesses and start-ups. CO StratEGy 4.4: Pursue the possibility of providing town-wide Wi-Fi. CO StratEGy 4.5: Support the inclusion of publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in new developments, as well as at existing Town parking facilities and the Resort. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-17 5. [SMart ParKING] A TOWN THAT ACKNOWLEDGES THE IMPORTANCE OF BALANCING PARKING NEEDS WITH OTHER ACTIVE MODES OF TRANSPORTATION AND THE DESIRE TO BE A SUSTAINABLE, LIVABLE COMMUNITY. Parking deserves more attention than it typically gets due to its influence on the character form function and flo of our community. Providing too much parking can result in underutilized lots, while not enough parking can negatively impact the vitality of an area. More importantly, parking needs to be balanced with new development 4-18 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN that supports active modes of transportation (e.g., walking, biking, transit, and carpooling), integrates a complete streets approach, and values high quality public design. The Town’s plan can help achieve this balance by recognizing and utilizing innovative parking strategies and approaches. Strategies CO StratEGy 5.1: Emphasize a District Parking approach based on increased use of existing public parking structures. CO StratEGy 5.2: Commission a formal parking study and parking management plan utilizing Travel Demand Management (TDM) strategies. CO StratEGy 5.3: Integrate shared parking into the code as an allowable option where appropriate. CO StratEGy 5.4: Consider zoning code updates to support smart parking strategies such as maximum parking requirements (foregoing minimum re uirements fle i i ity in providin par in off-site, and incentives for shared parking. CO StratEGy 5.5: Examine the use of paid parking along Main Street to ensure e cient and effective uti i ation of imited spaces. CO StratEGy 5.6: se ay ndin elements to help direct people to underutilized parking facilities. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-19 4?20 IMAGINE WINTER PARKTOWN PLAN This rendering reflects possible future options for a centralized transit hub. Actual design and improvements would require further design and study. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 4-21 a ai VISION A recreation-based community anchored by a national ski and mountain bike resort, that provides a wide range of unsurpassed outdoor activities for everyday enthusiasts to live, work, and play. JAMES PEAK 13,301’ a ai PARRY PEAK 13,397’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS 40 COOPER CREEK SQUARE MT FLORA 13,146’ Vasquez Rd WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ Vasquez Creek Little Vasquez Creek COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ ACCESS TO TWIN BRIDGES PROPOSED PARK Kings Crossing Rd RIVER/ CREEKS USFS PROTECTED LANDS ek Vasquez Cre N PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-3 IDLEWILD CAMPGROUND PROPOSED RIVER ACCESS POINTS PROPOSED RIVER WALK WOLF PARK FRAMEWORK MAP MT EVA 13,130’ er Fraser Riv HIDEAWAY PARK Dr ate ns G Lio USFS PROTECTED LANDS CONFLUENCE PARK EXISTING TRAILS YANKEE DOODLE TRAILHEAD r ive rR se Fra TOWN BOUNDARY EXISTING TRAILHEADS 40 EXISTING PARKS/ OPEN SPACE PROPOSED TRAILHEADS COZENS RANCH EE T IN ST R USFS PROTECTED LANDS LEGEND MA nter ar JAMES PEAK 13,301’ e r USFS PROTECTED LANDS ae PARRY PEAK 13,397’ Old 40 40 USFS PROTECTED LANDS MIDLAND CAMPGROUND k ree er C p Coo TRESTLE BIKE PARK MARY JANE BASE WINTER PARK RESORT BASE OLD TOWN Riv er WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ RECREATION FRAMEWORK MAP Cub Creek Fra ser USFS PROTECTED LANDS COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ PROPOSED FRASER RIVER TRAIL EXTENSION 40 EXISTING TRAILS PROPOSED TRAIL CONNECTION TO SUMMIT OF BERTHOUD PASS IDLEWILD CAMPGROUND TOWN BOUNDARY EXISTING TRAILHEADS LEGEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS PROPOSED TRAILHEADS N Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community CAMPGROUND 5-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Importance of this Element inter ar is rm y rooted in its re ationship to the surroundin nationa forest its trai s its s i resort its narro va ey and its stunnin vie s. his re ationship is oth the o n s past and its future and it is critica to inte rate this re ationship into every aspect of the o n s decision ma in process from physica infrastructure pro ects to economic deve opment oa s to po icy and overnance. ach one of us hether conscious y or not see s a p ace here e fee at home. or many of the peop e in inter ar home has een de ned y the opportunity to recreate in and en oy our surroundin natura environment. s e move for ard and ro it is crucia that e inte rate outdoor recreation into our everyday ifesty e y ma in nature accessi e. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-5 in? 5-6 IMAGINE WINTER PARKTOWN PLAN PRINCIPLES [MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE] n authentic mountain community ith a cu ture de ned y and fundamenta y in ed to its surroundin natura i d environment. [EVERYDAY ADVENTURES] sma to n ase camp em edded in a ide and varied co ection of mu ti sport recreationa opportunities accessi e to every outdoor enthusiast. [ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES] comp ete community anchored y a nationa y acc aimed outdoor p ay round that supports innovative approaches to the outdoor recreation industry. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-7 Outdoor Recreation Participation The most popular outdoor activities in Colorado (201) ranked by number of a tici ants most o ula fi st 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. WALKING HIKING/BACKPACKING PICNICKING FISHING TENT CAMPING SKIING/SNOWBOARDING (RESORT) JOGGING/RUNNING SWIMMING (OUTDOORS) ROAD BIKING PLAYGROUND ACTIVITIES MOUNTAIN BIKING WILDLIFE VIEWING (INCLUDING BIRDING) GOLF SNOWSHOEING/CROSSCOUNTRY SKIING ATV Source: Colorado Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2013, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Policy and Planning Section. 5-8 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN 1. [MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE] AN AUTHENTIC MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY WITH A CULTURE DEFINED BY AND FUNDAMENTALLY . he o n s connection to the outdoors has ed to our ec ectic nature and rea to n fee . his stron o n identity provides a frame or for supportin the o n s outdoor adventure focus. y promotin outdoor focused desi n detai s and seam ess inte ration et een the ui t environment and the natura environment e can continue to enhance this connection. Strategies T T : nte rate dedicated recreation paths throu hout the to n. T T : rovide a safe accessi e dedicated i e ane on ain treet to avoid pedestrian i e conflicts and a o everyone convenient easy access to our o nto n usinesses. T T : esi n road ays ith hi ers and cyc ists in mind ith particu ar attention to posted speeds idth and other pedestrian cyc ist a areness measures. T T : T T : T T : T T : nc ude desi n T T : ntroduce a pu ic art aintain trai head and forest access points and easements ithin and throu h residentia and commercia deve opments. his access can e as simp e as si na e and a hi er i er horse idth easement. ana e trai head par in to miti ate impacts to the environment and to residents. andate maintain pu ic access on private roads as deve opment occurs. detai s interpretive e ements and pu ic art that references oca history and features as an inte rated part of ain treet streetscape enhancements. re uirement for a ne deve opments a uttin ain treet or ithin the primary pedestrian core as de ned in the onnectivity section of this an that supports a inter ar speci c theme re ated to the o n s natura settin . PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-9 Reasons for Participating in and Common Barriers to Outdoor Recreation MAJOR MOTIVATIONS (1ST TIME, AGE 25+): • Try something new • tay fit and healthy • iends amily a tici ate • el me ela and mana e st ess • o e un than indoo e e cise MAJOR BARRIERS: • ot enou h time ecause o my o • nade uate t ans o tation • Pe sonal sa ety o lems • Physically limitin condition • utdoo ests 2. [EVERYDAY ADVENTURES] RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACCESSIBLE TO . inter ar as the economic and socia center of the raser a ey attracts residents and visitors a i e ecause of the unpara e ed outdoor ifesty e it offers. si ni cant part of that attraction is not on y the variety of avai a e activities ut a so the ease of accessin those activities. t is important to ma e it easy and intuitive for everyone to access recreationa opportunities 5-10 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN hether they e sma adventures or epic underta in s. afternoon mu ti day ey part of this focus area is e p orin and e pandin opportunities to attract and e come non traditiona and under served demo raphics into the ran s of outdoor recreation participants and or force. Strategies T T : eve op recreationa opportunities suited to short dai y activities e. . shorter c ose to to n trai s opportunities for ater p ay shin ponds etc. . T T : aintain inter connectivity and access to a recreationa trai s inc udin the raser iver rai . T T : aintain a centra y ocated outdoor activity information center to provide information on resources trai heads ocations maps and activities and private services out tters uide services ear renta s and pro rams . T T : rovide ay ndin si na e throu hout the o n to ey trai heads destinations and access points to increase a areness of a the o n has to offer. T T : o idify the o n s outdoor adventure identity y cu tivatin opportunity and removin arriers for non typica and underserved audiences such as seniors retirees youth and peop e ith physica or menta disa i ities. T T : o a orate ith pu ic private and non pro t entities to increase recreation opportunities for everyone. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-11 3. [ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES] A COMPLETE COMMUNITY ANCHORED BY A THAT SUPPORTS INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO . usinesses ased on outdoor recreation re yin on the natura and i d environment can nd a home in inter ar that a o s them to innovate and succeed. y attractin such usinesses the o n ui ds a stron er economic ase and provides opportunities for citi ens and uests a i e. upportin innovation in the outdoor recreation e d i a o 5-12 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN inter ar to stay at the forefront of ne recreationa trends. e iona coordination ith pu ic and private partners is critica to enhancin and e pandin outdoor access in a sustaina e and inte rated fashion. inter ar shou d or ith oca urisdictions and re iona partners to ensure that the myriad sta eho ders in the a ey operate in a co a orative rather than competitive manner. Strategies T T : T T : T T : dentify tar et industries T T : urther deve op and mar et ctive y mar et our cross seasona opportunities and the ran e of opportunities avai a e to a s i eve s. ctive y trac and eva uate outdoor recreationa trends to ensure the to n stays re evant and competitive. and provide incentive pro rams to attract ne outdoor recreation usinesses. outdoor recreation events such as mountain i e races trai runs etc. T T : or to esta ish and reesta ish c ear trai and ac country connections et een inter ar and other communities. T T : estore the corridor over o ins orona ass for recreationa opportunities as a motori ed ac country route into the a ey. T T : amine re iona so utions hen respondin to evo vin recreationa preferences and opportunities e. . determinin here a faci ity ou d t est . T T : apita i e on and enhance e istin recreationa faci ities. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 5-13 . are, 1' .1 Mn" ., 1 1r!" CHAPTER SIX OUR HEALTHY AND IVING ENVIRONMENT . a i in an n m n i n VISION An outdoor community physically linked to a healthy and thriving natural and human environment. r n n r n en PARRY PEAK 13,397’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS MT FLORA 13,146’ Vasquez Rd WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ Vasquez Creek Little Vasquez Creek COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ ACCESS TO TWIN BRIDGES USFS PROTECTED LANDS ek Vasquez Cre WILDLIFE CORRIDORS WOLF PARK PROPOSED RIVER ACCESS POINTS EXISTING COMMUNITY SERVICES N PROPOSED RIVER WALK PROPOSED COMMUNITY/ HEALTH SERVICES PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-3 EXISTING PARKS/ OPEN SPACE Kings Crossing Rd COOPER CREEK SQUARE 40 FRAMEWORK MAP MT EVA 13,130’ er Fraser Riv HIDEAWAY PARK Dr ate ns G Lio Our ealth and JAMES PEAK 13,301’ CONFLUENCE PARK EE T IN ST R USFS PROTECTED LANDS YANKEE DOODLE TRAILHEAD r ive rR se Fra EXISTING TRAILS 40 TOWN BOUNDARY EXISTING TRAILHEADS COZENS RANCH RIVER/ CREEKS PROPOSED TRAILHEADS LEGEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS MA nter ar JAMES PEAK 13,301’ e r ae PARRY PEAK 13,397’ Old USFS PROTECTED LANDS k ree er C p Coo MARY JANE BASE WINTER PARK RESORT BASE OLD TOWN Fras e r Riv er WINTER PARK RESORT 12,060’ COLORADO MINES PEAK 12,493’ USFS PROTECTED LANDS N Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community WILDLIFE CORRIDORS 40 ENVIRONMENT FRAMEWORK MAP 40 EXISTING TRAILS USFS PROTECTED LANDS 40 TOWN BOUNDARY EXISTING TRAILHEADS Cub Creek RIVER/ CREEKS PROPOSED TRAILHEADS LEGEND USFS PROTECTED LANDS 6-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN Importance of this Element inter ar is de ned y its ma estic mountain vistas and its incompara e ationa orest. t is de ned y its i d ife oundin out of the oods and y the pure aters of the raser iver as it flo s throu h o n. ut a ove a inter ar is de ned y the imprint that its natura environment eaves on everyone ho spends time in our va ey. s the o n ro s and chan es the stresses on our surroundin natura environment i on y increase. he o n needs to a ance the cha en es of ro th and the correspondin demand on our surroundin sidecountry and ac country a ainst the need to preserve the community that is inter ar . n addition the o n must e di i ent in proactive y addressin the devastatin impact of c imate chan e on our environment and our seasona economy. t is crucia that o n po icies and deve opment ta e this ro th and chan e into account in order to ensure that future enerations can e perience the same aspects of inter ar that e ove today. o achieve these oa s o n po icies must focus support on those deve opments and pro ects that e press y see to enhance or preserve our community s deep connections ith its surroundin natura environment. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-5 6-6 IMAGINE WINTER PARKTOWN PLAN PRINCIPLES [A HEALTHY HEADWATERS COMMUNITY] conservation oriented community that reco ni es the ro e ater p ays in the natura environment and a i ity to ro in a responsi e and sustaina e ay. [OUR INCOMPARABLE NATIONAL FOREST] o n that em races its connections to the surroundin forest environment and a the opportunities and cha en es that come ith it. [LIVING WITH OUR ENVIRONMENT] eader amon mountain to ns in responsi y interactin ith and uti i in its surroundin natura resources. [SUSTAINABILITY] community that operates in ays that are ood for peop e and the p anet. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-7 Water Conservation in the West Supporting a growing population with limited water resources is one of the greatest challenges Colorado communities are facing. To incentivize water conservation in communities, utilities can enact multi-factor water connection charges. These use projected annual water demand as the basis for the charge. For example, a house with a large lawn could be charged more than one with a small lawn an o fice uildin with little water use would pay less than a car wash despite requiring the same meter size, or a low water-intensive landscape would be assessed a smaller charge than a grasscovered landscape. Fountain, Colorado is a community currently utilizing this fee structure, with water acquisition fees reduced by 50% for lots with 50% or less turf area, by about 70% for lots with 30% or less turf area, and smaller residential lots are assessed smaller charges. Put in place in June 2014, nearly 75% of the proposed new residential developments were making use of the incentive as of November 2014. Source: http://westernresourceadvocates.org/ projects/water-connection-charges/ 6-8 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN 1. [A HEALTHY HEADWATERS COMMUNITY] . inter ar is a true head aters community. s the raser iver and as ue ree flo throu h o n they provide an unprecedented natura ac drop a vita i d ife ha itat and a crucia resource to support our residents and uests. ivers are a natura dra attractin peop e i d ife usinesses and recreation. dditiona y everythin that e do has an impact on do nstream or cross asin users. s a head aters community our o n shou d set the hi hest standard for responsi e ater use. his means that the o n i esta ish po icies that encoura e open access to the raser iver and other o n ater ays hi e at the same time ensurin a resi ient and hea thy ecosystem. he o n s deve opment standards shou d act as an e tension of these po icies and encoura e ater conservation and e ciency in our ui t environment. Strategies T T : rotect and increase physica and visua access to ater ays ithin and around the o n. T T : aintain hea thy stream flo s for eco o ica recreationa and scenic purposes. T T : mp ement ater T T : conservation po icies to com at a potentia shortfa in stream flo s. tren then the raser iver and its associated floodp ain as a recreationa and economic amenity hi e preservin the riparian ha itat. T T : rotect the via i ity of natura et ands and atercourses as a ey component of our natura and ui t environments. T T : ncorporate T T : comprehensive storm ater systems that improve ater ua ity and contri ute to the eco o ica functionin of atersheds. estore or enhance de raded or distur ed ater ays to improve eco o ica conditions aesthetics and recreation. T T : tend trai s and create additiona in a es as appropriate to in to ater ays such as the raser iver. T T : romote pu ic safety and protect o n ater ays y imp ementin floodp ain re u ations. T T : ontinue active participation in the o orado iver ooperative reement. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-9 2. [OUR INCOMPARABLE NATIONAL FOREST] . Pine Beetle Mitigation Winter Park, with its location in the mountains and close proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, is greatly affected by the pine beetle epidemic. Key mitigation actions could include requiring residents to remove brood trees, or trees with an active bark beetle infestation; offering free inspections of properties located within town limits; and providing educational materials for landowners. hen peop e come to inter ar they come ecause of our incompara e ationa orest. hether it s s iin or sno oardin at our or d c ass inter ar esort i in on the seemin y imit ess sin e trac trai s or simp y pu in off of the side of the road to ta e a picture of the ontinenta ivide the surroundin ationa orest is the reason that e a come here. s e move for ard and ro it is important that e not on y preserve our re ationships ith our surroundin forests ut that 6-10 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN e a so or to enhance that re ationship. oth residents and visitors shou d understand the ro e that the forests serve in providin vita i d ife ha itat e ceptiona recreationa opportunities and c ean air and ater for mi ions of peop e. he community shou d protect i d ife ha itat movement corridors and scenic vistas. hen deve opment occurs it shou d e si ed ocated and desi ned to avoid or imit impacts to i d ife and the natura environment. Strategies T T : upport forest iodiversity and contro the invasion and spread of undesira e non native p ants anima s and insects. T T : T T : esi n trai routes to minimi e eco o ica impacts hi e enhancin access and recreation. si ni cant corridors. rotect the inte rity of i d ife ha itat and movement T T : oster a iances and partnerships ith or ani ations that are or in to ard a hea thy and thrivin environment. T T : T T : romote education and understandin of pu ic ands throu h appropriate recreationa activities forma and non forma education and interpretive pro rams. eve op and imp ement a i d re miti ation and prevention p an. T T : rotect si ni cant vie sheds to maintain our connection natura environment. ith the PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-11 Land Conservation Challenges Conversion of natural areas and farmland to developed property has resulted in increased habitat fragmentation, loss of biodiversity, disruption of natural landscape processes, degradation of water resources, increased flooding, nonpoint-source pollution, and growing public and private costs for servicing disbursed development. But the trend is reversing. Over the four 5-year intervals between 1982 and 2002, the amount of developed land increased at nearly twice the rate of the population. From 2002 to 2007, it increased 44 percent faster than the population; then between 2007 and 2012 the trend reversed and population grew about 52 percent faster than the amount of developed land. Source: EPA, Urbanization and Population Change. https://cfpub.epa.gov/roe/indicator_pdf.cfm?i=52 3. [LIVING WITH OUR ENVIRONMENT] A LEADER AMONG MOUNTAIN TOWNS IN . inter ar is ocated ithin a i d natura environment hich inherent y creates conflict. hether it is a ear rootin throu h your ar a e or an increase in i ht po ution dro nin out the ni ht s y ro th in this natura environment i produce issues that re uire the app ication of c ear and concise po icies. 6-12 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN ppreciation and protection of this i d natura environment means imp ementin po icies contro in the impacts that our actions have on the forest and i d ife as e as sensi y preparin for the impacts they can have on us. Strategies T T : ncoura e density in appropriate ocations and c usterin of deve opment to ma imi e open space. T T : or ith the orest ervice to forma i e campin a on as ue oad to protect inter ar s ater ua ity outdoor e perience and the hea th and safety of i d ife residents and visitors. ar T T : or to ecome a y ommunity. T T : T T : roactive y p an for disasters and imp ement miti ation and resi ience measures to reduce community vu nera i ity e. . re uirin re rea s . ears i e trash e ma e trash don t e trashy i.e. stash your trash . T T : dentify and deve op via e sustaina e strate ies desi ned to divert an increasin portion of the community s aste stream from and s ith the eventua oa of ein a ero aste community. T T : mp ement po icies that reduce conflicts et een i d ife and domesticated anima s. T T : pdate andscape desi n uide ines to c ear y address conflicts ith the natura environment and i d ife. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-13 4. [SUSTAINABILITY] . n order to provide the ua ity of ife that residents and uests in inter ar e pect and desire it is crucia that the o n create and maintain conditions under hich humans and nature can e ist in productive harmony that a o us to meet the socia economic and environmenta needs of oth present and future enerations. 6-14 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN his i mean reducin our environmenta footprint y conservin ener y and ater reducin aste increasin recyc in and addressin c imate chan e. ccess to hea thy food and ade uate hea thcare are ust as important to the socia and economic sustaina i ity of the o n. Strategies T T : o a orate ith other or ani ations to deve op oca infrastructure that i accommodate recyc a es or anics and ha ardous aste disposa . T T : T T : T T : oster e uita e access to ommit to actin as a resource in assistin citi ens to practice appropriate aste disposa and enforcin environmenta re u ations. e u ar y update codes to inc ude effective environmenta and resource conservation provisions. hea thcare faci ities and services. T T : ontinue participation in the ompact of o orado ommunities and esta ish c imate action initiatives and oa s. T T : ncrease ener y e ciency rene a e ener y and car on neutra ener y in inter ar . T T : T T : romote reen ui din construction and e istin rovide access to hea thy food y promotin oca food supp y throu h farmers mar ets and connections to oca farmin communities. practices in ne ui din s. T T : onsider incentives to encoura e ne construction to su stantia y e ceed minimum code re uirements for ener y e ciency and rene a e ener y use. T T : sustaina i ity p an. reate a comprehensive PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 6-15 PctJ.W4?ftvq.c .1 .: Ion?; at . pl. a a For Imagine Winter Park to be realized, it will take the work of the entire community. It will also need to be reviewed and updated periodically. This chapter outlines the implementation framework and plan amendment process. Implementation Framework Three primary methods will be used to implement Imagine Winter Park: [ACTION PLAN] The action plan is the bridge between vision and implementation, and allows Winter Park to be adaptive, responsible, and decisive in guiding growth and development. An adaptive management strategy provides the structure to monitor the Town’s growth and development, and correct course if necessary by prioritizing alternative actions to ensure that the desired vision is realized. The action plan is outlined within the appendices. Community Development staff will work to integrate action items into yearly budgets and programs and provide an annua revie to e ected o cia s. ected o cia s i e responsible for making decisions consistent with this Plan, allocating the necessary funding to implementation of these actions, and collaborating with other governmental and non-governmental entities. [TOWN CODE] hi e speci c action items re ated to the eve opment and ui din ode are identi ed ithin the action p an it is important to hi h i ht these requirements in the role of implementing the Town Plan. Community Development staff’s key role in implementation of this Plan is to update land development regulations, and zoning codes, to ensure consistency. [PARTNERSHIPS AND COMMUNITY ROLES] The entire community has a role in realizing the vision of this Plan, and it is essential that the community remains vested throughout implementation. The community is responsible for following the principles and strategies through design and implementation of development projects. Partner agencies and organizations should work with Community Development staff to nd so utions to community issues inconsistent ith the an and to integrate the principles of the Plan into their own planning and operational efforts. This may require capacity building through grants or other direct assistance to develop training, leadership programs, revenue generation, and/or community engagement strategies. Working together to poo resources and nd mutua y ene cia so utions to ard the an s vision i ensure success in a cost effective and e cient manner. 7-4 IMAGINE WINTER PARK TOWN PLAN “A successful plan is... A CLEARLY ARTICULATED PLAN IMPLEMENTABLE VIA LOCAL BUY-IN” Amendments As amendments to the Town Plan become necessary, Planning Commission i e responsi e for adoptin p an amendments ith rati cation y o n Council following a public hearing. A major update to the Town Plan shall be prepared at least once every ten years, or earlier if necessitated by population growth, market changes, and/or as determined by the adaptive management program. Town Plan amendments may be one of three types, ordered below by magnitude: Administrative Plan Amendments. Editorial or minor changes or revisions to the an s te t ures or maps to reflect updated information or grammatical corrections can be processed by Town staff and are not subject to the public hearing process. • Town Plan Text Amendments. Edits to language that change the intent of the Plan’s principles or policies should incorporate public outreach. • Major Plan Update. chance to recon rm the an s vision and direction with the public every ten years, or as directed by the Planning Commission, Town Council, or Town staff, or based on annual reports. These amendments may or may not result in large-scale changes. PUBLIC DRAFT 18 SEPTEMBER 2018 7-5 ?Imaqine WINTER PARK