Open Space Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2019 12 11

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Open Space Advisory Board Minutes November 13, 2019 Page 3 of 3 10. Discussion Item: Social Trails on Open Space. Presented by David Blankenship, OSAB Member (see pages 10-12 of the November 2019 OSAB Meeting packet) David introduced the topic and reviewed the summary in the packet. Peter suggested using the term "unimproved" instead of "single-track". Fiona and Helen suggested "dirt". Mike asked Ember about the implications of "dirt trails" regarding ADA accessibility. Ember noted that the City tries to make trails ADA-compliant where possible; our trails are generally assessed as being useable for wheelchairs, including the crusher fines trails. Fiona asked if dirt trails would be open to bikes; David said his thinking was not, due to narrow width. Fiona noted that if an existing social trail serves a clear bicyclist need, it should be developed and widened as a true bicycle -serving trail. Mike suggested that an inventory is a good starting point; this will help us determine which trails should be closed, which "adopted" as -is, and which should be developed as crusher fines or pavement. He noted that it's a lot of work to do this inventory. Fiona noted that closures have budget implications as well due to staff time and materials to perform and enforce the closure. David noted that many social trails are short-cuts, and these might be the easiest to close, if so decided. Nathan suggested prioritizing social trails that serve the overall network best. Mike suggested having an overall plan for designation or closure in the context of the entire trail system, and that it be carried out in a systematic way. Mike suggested that OSAB members could provide input to staff re: trails to designate as "dirt" and trails to designate for closure, and that staff can review and plan accordingly. Ember noted that there may be legal implications for maintenance if the trails are "official" and on the trail system maps. She noted that Louisville does not have a definition for this new type of trail, and this concept would need to be formalized. Fiona suggested selecting a few obviously resource -damaging short-cuts for OS staff to try to close, as this could be performed without amending trail definitions (such as the switchback "cutting" on North Open Space). Nathan and Ember agreed to work with staff to discuss a "pilot project" for closing a few of these trails. OSAB members can email Nathan and Ember with suggestions for possible "closure" candidates. 11. Discussions Items for the Next Meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019 A. Finalize OSAB 2019 Goals & Objectives B. Trail updates: Hecla to Waneka; Lake to Lake C. Dutch Creek/Elephant Park Design and Potential Impacts to Open Space (Allan Gill/Nathan Mosley) D. Board recommendations for OSAB 2020 Goals E. DOLA memo: review/discuss F. Nawatny Ridge: Planning Dept. & Applicant G. Updated MOST Priorities and Goals document: discussion 12. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 9:25 pm. 5 5