The Town of Lyons’ Board of Trustees — seven elected officials, including the mayor — will consider adopting a resolution today opposing Boulder County’s proposed alternating trail use pilot program, which would limit trail use for certain groups on certain days. Mountain bikers are the group most likely to be targeted by the pilot.
The board is considering the resolution at the request of the town’s Economic Vitality Commission. Lyons, which has a population of just over 2,000, is bordered by two trail systems being considered for the pilot: Hall Ranch and Heil Valley Ranch.
The commission noted that Lyons’ economy, identity and tourism sector are closely tied to outdoor recreation, particularly mountain biking.
“The EVC expressed concern that limiting bicycle access to these trails could negatively affect local businesses, recreation-based tourism, and the community’s broader economic vitality,” reads a June 11 letter from the commission to the board. The letter also notes that the town’s comprehensive plan seeks to strengthen Lyons’ reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation.
Mountain bikers have been pushing back on the pilot since it was announced in late April. A county survey on the pilot received more than 7,500 responses, with roughly 70% of respondents opposing the proposal. About half of respondents listed biking as their main activity on county trails.
Lyons Mayor Mark Browning has already spoken against the pilot in his individual capacity, citing economic concerns.
County commissioners could decide whether and how to move forward with the pilot at a June 30 work session. The meeting will be open to the public, but there will be no public comment.
