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Environment: Choices
and Consequences
Since the early 1970's, Aspen residents have deliberated over possible resolutions to the Entrance to Aspen. There have been numerous studies and reports which have been used to support a variety of positions.
Three basic options have been considered over the years:
· Extending a four lane highway into Aspen
· Building an exclusive busway
· Building a two lane parkway with light rail transit.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) studied all three options in an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which was completed last year. The EIS found the two lane parkway and light rail option to be the best choice for meeting transportation and environmental goals. CDOT found that a two lanes parkway and light rail would provide "balanced, integrated transportation for residents, visitors, and commuters that reduces congestion and pollution by reducing and/or managing the number of vehicles on the road system."
Moving Forward
In order to move forward on any highway and transit improvements, several federal, state, and local studies must be complete and funding sources secured. This is commonly known as having one's "ducks in a row". As the chart below illustrates, the two lane parkway and light rail Entrance to Aspen has all of its ducks in a row except voter approval for light rail funding. A City and County funding vote could come as early as November, 1999.
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Four Lane
The four lane highway was rejected in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), would require voter approval to use the Marolt property, fails to meet the goal of limiting traffic into Aspen to 1994 levels, and is unfunded. Fails to meet air quality goals.
Busway
The Environmental Impact Statement approved the construction of an interim busway, if voters reject funding for the preferred alternative (light rail). The busway is designed for removal when rail is implemented. Voters have not approved a busway across the Marolt property or funding construction of a temporary busway. In 1994, county voters rejected a busway from Aspen to Snowmass Village. Can meet air quality goals with transportation management program and alternative deicers.
Two Lane Parkway and Light Rail
The preferred alternative in the EIS. Voters approved use of Marolt property in 1996. With voter approval, can be funded using existing local revenues. Meets and exceeds air quality goals through 2015.
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