Steamboat Base Area Redevelopment B A S E A R E A M O B I L I T Y C H A R E T T E

O C T O B E R 2 3 , 2 0 0 7

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Charette Overview...... 4 Previous Studies...... 4 Key Considerations and Observations...... 5 Goals and Objectives...... 10 Recommendations and Timeline for Implementation ...... 10 2007...... 10 2008...... 12 2009...... 13 2010...... 14 2011...... 15 2012 and Beyond...... 16 Appendix...... 17

Base Area Mobility Charette 3 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 CHARETTE OVERVIEW A multi disciplinary team of consultants, comprised of Wenk Associates, Fehr and Peers, and Kracum Resources, participated in a four day charette to evaluate multimodal transportation approaches for Steamboat’s Base Area. The charette engaged stakeholders representing the interests of the Steamboat Springs Renewal Authority (SSRA), Urban Renewal Authority Advisory Committee (URAAC), City staff, property owners/managers, developers, Steamboat Ski Corporation, and the public.

The goal of the charette was to create a working framework to address short and long term mobility considerations within the URA boundary. The effort was not intended to circumvent or replace previous planning documents, but served to address specific opportunities and constraints as part of the overall revitalization strategy for the mountain base area.

Specific elements anticipated to be addressed include: „ Pedestrian access corridors and circulation „ Vehicle access and circulation „ Drop-off and loading for Steamboat Ski School and family programs (during and post construction) „ Shared and destination visitor parking programs „ Delivery parking, access and circulation „ Transit service planning (including private shuttles, and SST service) „ Multimodal integration at portals and transportation centers „ Roadway operations and intersections design review „ Role of the Wildhorse Meadows Gondola in the arrival strategy „ Seasonal and special event mobility needs

At the charette’s conclusion, the consultant team presented specific mobility approaches / project recommendations and timeline for implementation to the URAAC and subsequently the SSRA. These recommendations and considerations are outlined within this document.

PREVIOUS STUDIES In preparation for the Charette, the consultant team reviewed previous planning studies evaluations and recommendations for the base area. These documents included: „ 2006 City of Steamboat Springs Sidewalks Master Plan „ 2005 Steamboat Springs Mountain Town Sub-Area Master Plan Base Area Proposed Development Projects - Map and Timeline Update „ 2005 Mountain Base Area Design Standards „ 1999 Mountain Town Sub-Area Plan „ 1998 Steamboat Springs Mobility and Circulation Plan

Many of these documents consistently reinforced the need for stronger pedestrian connections within the base area and the importance of a multimodal transportation center. Refer to the appendix for a summary recommendations found in each planning document.

4 Charette Summary DRAFT m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e KEY CONSIDERATIONS AND OBSERVATIONS During the Charette, the consultant team interviewed a number of key stakeholders and users groups to determine their desires and needs in regards to overall mobility systems for the base area. Specific considerations are outlined below.

A. ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE / USER GROUPS As with any mountain resort community, arrival experience and user groups vary seasonally. Currently the primary modes of operation are suited to convey destination guests to, from and around the base area during the winter season. For the purposes of the charette, users were classified into three primary groups:

„ Destination Visitors - includes non valley residents who are primarily utilizing private and public transit systems as the primary mode of travel „ Yampa Valley Residents - includes valley residents who are using both private vehicles and public transit systems as mode of travel. „ Special programs and recreational events participants - represents a group of both valley residents and visitors who are participating in special events and programs which require parking and drop- off/staging areas as part of event operations. Examples include ski school community programs, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, and Ski Corporation sponsored racing and special events. The above groups provide a general classification to address mobility needs during the ski season (November to April). The shoulder and summer season have similar needs but have lower demand. This factor was considered during the charrette and addressed in the implementation plans.

B. PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSIT SYSTEMS Steamboat Springs and its mountain base present a unique combination of public (Steamboat Springs Transit) and private (property management company) operated transit systems. As guests of a specific condominium management company, visitors are provided with an alternative means of transportation via privately operated shuttles. The systems provide a Current Base Area Arrival Strategy wide range of service between city-wide destinations, lodging accommodations, downtown, and the base area. These shuttle services are primarily operated during the winter season. Steamboat Springs Transit (SST) operates a free year round service between points in the greater community, downtown, and the base area. Winter and summer schedules differ in service to the base area. In addition daytime and evening schedules vary to accommodate current use patterns.

Base Area Mobility Charette 5 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 B. PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSIT SYSTEMS (CONT.) The Steamboat Ski Corporation operates shuttles from the Meadows Parking Lot to the Gondola Transit Center during the winter season. Users primarily served are day skiers. The combination of public and private transit systems, are critical to mobility at the base area. The public and private systems interface at the base area’s primary transit portal, the Gondola Transit Center (GTC). Historically the GTC has been unmanaged and conflicts between the transit systems and other private vehicles have occurred. Previous design related efforts to improve circulation at the GTC have been unsuccessful at resolving this problem. Most charrette participants acknowledge with the development of Lot 1 (One Steamboat Place) starting in 2007 and the loss of historic drop-off patterns, future mobility considerations need to consider its impacts and provision for private transit pickup, short term parking and drop-off. As part of One Steamboat Place, a new short term drop-off/parking area will be constructed at the south end of the GTC, and when completed, One Steamboat Place will also offer twenty parking spaces for short term parking with its parking structure.

C. PARKING FACILITIES The base area’s primary year round public parking facilities are located at the Gondola Square Parking Structure (immediately west of the Sheraton), Ski Time Square Drive Parking Structure, and the City Right of Way Parking along Ski Time Square Drive. Additional parking facilities are provided by Torian Plum, Sheraton, and Ski Time Square for use by guests of the commercial/retail businesses. Several other condominium associations near Ski Time Square also have private parking for residents and lodging guests. The Ski Corporation utilizes the Knoll and Meadows Parking facilities as their primary day visitor parking during the winter season. These parking areas are minimally used in the summer season. Most of the parking available for public use at the base area is privately owned and operated. Many of these privately owned parking facilities are considered as likely redevelopment sites, especially the Ski Time Square Parking Structure, Gondola Transit Center Parking Structure, and the Knoll Parking Lot. If redeveloped, Base Area Parking Inventory these existing public parking reservoirs for day skiers, retail/commercial visitors, and special program/events will be significantly reduced. At the same time, new development will provide new parking reservoirs specifically for property and retail/commercial business guests. The Ski Corporation also anticipates increasing parking capabilities at the Meadows Parking Lot to accommodate day skiers potentially displaced by development of existing Ski Corporation owned parking facitlities.

6 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e D. GONDOLA/ALTERNATIVE CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS (AERIAL/RAIL) As part of Wildhorse Meadows, a 500 passenger per hour (pph) gondola is planned to serve the owners and guests of the property. Prior to this charette, significant discussions between Ski Corporation and Wildhorse Meadows representatives have centered upon a possible expansion of this facility to accommodate the users of the Meadows Parking Lot. A higher capacity gondola (3,000 pph) would serve to offset the existing Ski Corporation shuttle services operated between the Meadows Lot and the Gondola Transit Center (GTC). The higher capacity gondola would require relocation of the upper terminal to accommodate the larger size and potentially would impact layout the GTC. The currently planned 500 pph gondola upper terminal would be located on the plaza within One Steamboat Place, currently under construction. At the conclusion of the charette, the future of the shared high capacity gondola between the Wildhorse Meadows and the Ski Corporation remained unresolved. The Ski Corporation retains the right to add a second higher capacity gondola from the Meadow Lot to the GTC if the shared gondola remains unresolved. Based upon preliminary analysis by Fehr and Peers, a high capacity gondola in lieu of the current Ski Corporation shuttle system during peak times could reduce up to 36 shuttle bus trips per hour on Mt. Werner Circle* The use of a gondola or shuttle bus system was also estimated to reduce up to 350 vehicles from Mt. Werner Circle during a peak hour on a peak ski day in the future**. During the charrette it was determined that weather or mechanical closures of the gondola, would require a backup shuttle system. Alternative conveyance systems to the gondola were discussed in the context of connections with the greater community. In the foreseeable future, large scale aerial or rail conveyance systems between the base area and downtown were not considered by charette participants as viable alternatives due to the high costs and complex property / right of way conditions.

*Calculations assume the continued use of the existing 24 passenger buses at 5 minute service frequency, **Calculations assume up to 750 interpreted passengers in the Knoll Lot in one hour and a typical vehicle occupancy rate of 2 passengers/automobile.

Base Area Mobility Conflict Map E. PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT With the revitalization and redevelopment, the base area is expected to significantly increase in overall density. In addition, the perceived edges of the ’pedestrian village’ environment may significantly change as parcels along Mt. Werner Circle, Ski Time Square Drive, and Apres Ski Way corridors are developed. While these developments offer tremendous opportunity to create enhanced pedestrian networks and a broader ’village’ environment, the increased density creates new vehicular circulation demands on key corridors.

Base Area Mobility Charette 7 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 E. PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT (CONT.) While Mt. Werner Road and Circle currently accommodate vehicular circulation, the intersections with Ski Time Square Drive and Apres Ski Way present operational challenges once redevelopment occurs. Based upon calculations using 2005 Traffic counts supplied through the City and considering the accommodations that are required for pedestrians, Fehr and Peers determined improvements would be needed at Mt. Werner Circle and the intersections of Ski Time Square Drive and AprŁs Ski Way due to increased delay for the west bound left onto Mt. Werner Circle. Operational improvements include the addition of a either a signal or roundabout at both intersections.

In addition, increased density along the west side of Mt. Werner with the possible development of the Knoll Parking Lot will likely place significant pedestrian circulation pressure along Mt. Werner Circle.

The intersection of Village Drive and Apres Ski Way will most likely notice delay and the addition of an all-way stop at this intersection may need to be considered. There is a current plan to re-align the intersection. Moreover, the intersection should be tightened up to facilitate an enhanced pedestrian crossing and to provide a pedestrian link between the southern area and the base.

The anticipated private redevelopment while increasing demand along specific corridors within the URA boundary, also presents a true opportunity to resolve many of the circulation challenges which disrupt mobility at the base area. The attached diagram represents newly constructed and planned pedestrian corridors to improve circulation throughout the base area.

Base Area Pedestrian Connection Map

8 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e F. MANAGEMENT AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS Numerous charette participants identified the lack of management related to transit center operations and the public parking facilities, as a significant problem to the base areas’ operations and experience.

The GTC is subject to the demands of competing users and management of the transit portal has been minimal. The lack of management frustrated numerous parties involved in the charette. One of the primary frustrations was expressed by transit providers who are unable to utilize the GTC when passenger vehicles utilize the transit facility for drop-off and short term parking. According to charette participants, aggressive management of the GTC has historically not been initiated due to limited resources and a desire to not offend visitors.

Public parking around the base area also suffers from limited management, especially on Ski Time Square Drive. Users often disregard the 2 hour parking designation and vehicles remain for an extended time, limiting parking turnover. Minimal enforcement of these restrictions takes place.

As density and number of users increase, management of transit and parking facilities become more critical. A comprehensive management and enforcement strategy needs to be developed as new improvements are completed. While physical design improvements can significantly help overall mobility operations, only when combined with appropriate public and private management mechanisms can improvements be fully realized.

Base Area Mobility Management Issues

Base Area Mobility Charette 9 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES RECOMMENDATIONS AND 2007

Based upon feedback from the SSRA, URAAC, and charette TIMELINE FOR IMPLEMENTATION PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: participants, the following goals and objectives were developed as a The expansion of the Gondola Transit Center to accommodate short basis for guiding the charette recommendations: Based on past planning efforts coupled with the key considerations/ term parking and private vehicle drop-off will be completed by late fall observations determined during the charette, the following mobility 2007. This project will be completed in conjunction with the A. IMPROVE YEAR ROUND PEDESTRIAN MOBILITY FOR ALL USERS approaches and recommendations along with a possible timeline for development of One Steamboat Place to substitute the loss parking and AND VISITORS AT THE BASE AREA considerations is presented. These approaches are intended to private transit drop-off previously located in Lot One. „ Provide safe, high quality pedestrian connections to improve base specifically respond to the goals and objectives developed during the area circulation charette. Also slated to be completed by late fall 2007, the Ski Corporation’s „ Promote the pedestrian environment by reducing conflicts with regrade of the lower mountain and addition of the Christie Peak The recommendations are intended to anticipate projected development motor vehicles Express provides additional uphill conveyance and improved on ’triggers’, such as the completion of One Steamboat Place. In addition, mountain circulation. In addition, improvements to the Meadows the timeline for mobility improvements should be consistently updated as B. PLACE A HIGH PRIORITY ON PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSIT Parking Lot will increase day skier parking capacity. the development timeline changes or expands. IMPROVEMENTS AT THE BASE AREA Wildhorse Meadows is currently under construction and the Porches „ Provide multimodal transit centers/stops in premium access areas The following recommendations are provided on a yearly basis and are Phase II is expected to start construction in fall 2007, though impacts to to increase transit ridership, special programs and recreational intended to address pedestrian/ bicycle circulation improvements, the overall mobility considerations are expected to be minimal in 2007- event participants, and destination visitors transit/vehicular improvements, public information/policy/management 08. „ Accommodate private passenger drop-off and parking without considerations, and public parking/passenger drop-off considerations. placing undue burden upon multimodal transit centers PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: „ Develop and implement transit management policies to promote a As part of the SSRA funded improvements, a new sidewalk connection high quality visitor/user experience while effectively conveying between the GTC and Ski Time Square will be completed in late fall users to and from the base area 2007. In addition, enhanced sidewalk connections are provided on Ski CONCLUSIONS AND NEXT STEPS Time Square Drive and the west side of the Torian Plum to improve C.ADDRESS SHORT AND LONG TERM MOBILITY NEEDS OF THE At the conclusion of the mobility charette, the recommendations outlined pedestrian connectivity. BASE AREA within this document were presented to the URAAC for consideration. „ Anticipate and respond to private development "triggers" with The URAAC unanimously voted to support these mobility TRANSIT/VEHICULAR IMPROVEMENTS: physical and policy improvements to accommodate new demands recommendations. As part of the SSRA funded improvements, a new Ski Time Square and uses Transit Center will be completed in late fall 2007. This facility will „ Provide a high quality visitor experience throughout At the subsequent meeting, the URAAC recommended design of the serve Steamboat Springs Transit (SST), private transit, and private revitalization/redevelopment process 2008 mobility improvements, specifically the Apres Ski Way / Mt. passenger drop-off and provides a new portal to access the mountain Werner Circle Intersection and the Village Drive / Apres Ski Way and the Christie Peak Express through the Torian Plum. D. PROVIDE APPROPRIATE FAMILY DROP-OFF(S), SHORT TERM AND intersection improvements. The URAAC stipulated that these SPECIAL EVENTS PARKING FOR YAMPA VALLEY RESIDENTS AND improvements shall be appropriately coordinated with ongoing private In addition, as part of the One Steamboat Place development, a new SPECIAL PROGRAM/RECREATIONAL EVENTS PARTICIPANTS development projects so that unnecessary impacts to the community short term parking and private passenger drop-off is provided at the „ Provide private passenger drop off locations and short term could be avoided. The consultant team, assuming SSRA concurrence south end of the GTC. parking to encourage year round retail viability and accommodate with the URAAC recommended approach, will continue with detailed special program/recreational events participants design and engineering of the 2008 proposed projects. The detailed „ Consider shared use/flex parking programs to maximize use of design information is anticipated to be presented to the URAAC/SSRA privately initiated parking facilities particularly for Yampa Valley in late November/Early December 2007. Residents and special program/recreational events participants

10 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e 2007 (cont.)

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: With the anticipated changes to the transit and circulation systems at the GTC and the new Ski Time Square Transit Center, a public information campaign is recommended to make residents and guest aware of the changes to the base area. Recommended approaches for public information include: „ Ski Corporation Publicity Campaigns „ Continued use and updates to SSRA temporary kiosks (Airport, STS, Gondola Square, Meadows Lot) „ Newly constructed kiosk at Ski Time Square Transit Center „ Newsletters/Informational Flyers: „ Property and Vacation Management Companies „ Lodges „ Commercial/Retail Outlets „ Shuttle Operators „ Ski Clubs „ Local Schools „ Use of a SSRA Owned Variable Message Sign on Mt. Werner Circle to advise of changes to Lot One (One Steamboat Place) „ Press Releases & Newspaper Advertisements during peak times „ Interior Advertisements on Steamboat Springs Transit Buses In addition to public information campaign, proactive management of the GTC is required to reduce user conflict due to the loss of Lot One. Stationed personnel, especially during peak times, will be necessary to redirect wayward private passenger vehicles and appropriately accommodate SST, Ski Corp. shuttles, and private transit vehicles.

FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS CONSIDERATIONS: Family drop-off is available at mountain transit portals: the GTC and the newly constructed Ski Time Square facility. In addition short term parking will be offered through 13 dedicated spaces at the GTC. Special programs/events participants are advised to make use of the Ski Time Square Transit Facility, the existing on street parking opportunities, and the paid parking facilities at Gondola Square and Ski Time Square Drive. Other than the impacts to the short term parking at Lot One (One Steamboat Place), no other significant parking 2007 Mobility Recommendations / Timeline reductions are anticipated for the 2007-08 winter season. The Ski Corporation in conjunction with the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club is recommended to consider delivery of their program participants to the Ski Time Square Transit Center. This new portal and the improved connections through Torian Plum allow for a direct connection to the new Christie Peak Express which serves the primary race facilities for the Winter Sports Club.

Base Area Mobility Charette 11 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 2008

DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: By fall 2008, Ski Time Square/Thunderhead and Ptarmigan Inn are expected to be under construction, in addition to Wildhorse Meadows, Porches Phase II, and One Steamboat Place. No significant changes are expected to available public parking supply and transit operations during 2008. All changes to the GTC and the newly constructed Ski Time Square Transit Center would be complete and operational for one year. One Steamboat Place is anticipated to be complete in fall 2009. In response to development triggers, the need for operational control at the intersection of Mt. Werner Circle/Apres Ski Way intersection and improved pedestrian/bicycle safety, vehicular and pedestrian improvements along the corridors of Mt. Werner Circle, Apres Ski Way, and Village Drive are recommended.

PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: Recommended pedestrian improvements include new sidewalks and traffic calming elements along the corridors of Mt. Werner Circle, Apres Ski Way, and Village Drive. Many of these walkway improvements have been identified as part of the 2006 City Sidewalks Master Plan. Sidewalk improvements associated with the Porches Phase II project are anticipated to be completed in 2008. Bicycle routes and crossings should be considered as part of improvements and may be provided via on street bicycle lanes and shared use paths. In addition, a sidewalk connection between Burgess Creek Road and Ski Time Square Drive is recommended to improve pedestrian connections during the anticipated construction in this area. This connection was identified as part of the 2006 City Sidewalks Master Plan. The location of the sidewalk should be coordinated with the adjacent development parcels.

TRANSIT/VEHICULAR IMPROVEMENTS: In response to the need for operational control at the Mt. Werner Circle/Apres Ski Way intersection, a roundabout is recommended to improve the vehicle movements, especially west bound lefts from Apres Ski Way. A roundabout was favored by charette participants over a signalized intersection. In addition, intersection improvements are recommended at AprŁs Ski Way/Village Drive to improve pedestrian 2008 Mobility Recommendations / Timeline crossings and overall safety in anticipation of the completion of One Steamboat Place in 2009.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: The public information campaigns and transit center management initiated in 2007 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2008. No significant physical changes to transit operations are anticipated in 2008 from 2007 patterns.

FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS CONSIDERATIONS: The family and special programs/events participants’ drop-off, short term parking and arrival policies initiated in 2007 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2008. No significant physical changes to these aspects are anticipated in 2008 from 2007 patterns. 12 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e 2009 (cont.)

DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS (CONT): The Ptarmigan Inn, Ski Time Square/Thunderhead, Clocktower, Edgemont, and Burgess Creek Estates are all anticipated to be under construction. The public parking supply may be impacted based upon the outcome of development proposals, especially along Ski Time Square Drive.

PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: With the completion of One Steamboat Place and the opportunity to provide an interconnected promenade, the construction of the south portion of the promenade between One Steamboat Place and north tower of the Sheraton is recommended in 2009. The Burgess Creek Day lighting is also recommended to be constructed in conjunction with the first phase of the promenade and is anticipated to include bicycle trails connecting AprŁs Ski Way to the on-mountain trail system. When combined with the improved pedestrian connections along Mt. Werner Circle, Apres Ski Way and Village Drive as part of the 2008 projects and the completion of One Steamboat Place, significant pedestrian connections are realized improving overall mobility for the base area, especially pedestrian access from the south.

TRANSIT/VEHICULAR IMPROVEMENTS: Depending upon impacts generated by a possible high capacity gondola serving the Meadows Parking Lot, modifications to the GTC may need to be considered. Once a final alignment of the gondola and a location is determined for the upper terminal, impacts to the GTC should be assessed and appropriate improvements shall be made in accordance with the long term mobility goals determined during the charette.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: The public information campaigns and transit center management initiated in 2007 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2009. Changes to transit patterns at the GTC due to the possible construction of Meadows Lot gondola connection should be appropriately advised to the public.

FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS 2009 Mobility Recommendations / Timeline CONSIDERATIONS: The family and special programs/events participants’ drop-off, short 2009 term parking and arrival policies initiated in 2008 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2009. With the completion of One DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: Steamboat Place, 20 short term parking spaces are provided within the In fall of 2009, One Steamboat Place is expected to be completed including the privately development for family and commercial uses. Depending on the funded promenade improvements and new connection from the GTC to Gondola Square possible redevelopment of the Ski Time Square Drive Parking Structure, Plaza. Also, significant portions of Wildhorse Meadows and the planned gondola special event parking should be accommodated in the Gondola Square connection are anticipated to be complete. If the gondola is expanded to a high capacity Structure or through special arrangement at the Knoll and Meadows system or the Ski Corporation constructs a parallel gondola to serve the Meadows Parking Parking Lots. Specialized management is recommended for event days Lot, the upper terminal location may impact the GTC alignment and operations. to provide staging facilities for participants.

Base Area Mobility Charette 13 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 2010

DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: If the Wildhorse Meadows and/or the Meadows Parking Lot Gondola outlined in 2009 are completed in 2010 instead, modifications to the GTC may need to be considered. Please refer to 2009 for additional information. The Ptarmigan Inn, Ski Time Square/Thunderhead, Clocktower, Edgemont, Wildhorse Meadows, and Burgess Creek Estates are all anticipated to be under construction. The public parking supply will likely continue to be impacted as outlined in 2009.

PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: With the completion of promenade from One Steamboat Place to the north tower of the Sheraton in 2009, the north portion of the promenade is recommended to be completed in 2010. The promenade is expected to connect from the north tower of the Sheraton to the Thunderhead redevelopment. Also recommended are improved pedestrian corridors along the Sheraton access road and Torian Plum access road with the anticipation of the completed developments along Ski Time Square Drive starting in 2011. Opportunities to incorporate broader skier services, public restrooms, and staging for programs/special events should also be considered as part of the North Portal Plaza outlined as part of the 2006 Steamboat Base Area Redevelopment Streetscape and Public Improvement Master Plan and the 2005 Mountain Town Sub Area Plan Update.

TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS: Depending upon impacts generated by a possible high capacity gondola serving the Meadows Parking Lot, modifications to the GTC may need to be considered. Refer to 2009 for additional information.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: The public information campaigns and transit center management initiated in 2009 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2010. Changes to transit patterns at the GTC due to the possible construction of Meadows Lot gondola connection should be appropriately advised to the public.

2010 Mobility Recommendations / Timeline FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS CONSIDERATIONS: The family and special programs/events participants’ drop-off, short term parking and arrival policies initiated in 2009 should be continued and modified as appropriate for 2010. With the recommended construction of the North Portal Plaza, on snow staging and access for special programs/events is greatly improved. When combined with management practices for special events outlined in 2009, the North Portal Plaza can serve as an effective hub for program participants.

14 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e TRANSIT/VEHICULAR IMPROVEMENTS: In response to the need for operational control at the Mt. Werner Circle/Ski Time Square Drive intersection, a roundabout is recommended to improve the vehicle movements, especially west bound lefts from Ski Time Square Drive. A roundabout was favored by charette participants over a signalized intersection. In addition, intersection improvements are recommended at Mt. Werner Circle/Mt. Werner Road Drive to provide safer turning movements and easier access to the north side of the base area, especially Ski Time Square Drive, the Ski Time Square Transit Center, and Burgess Creek Road. These intersection improvements are expected promote traffic calming and improve pedestrian crossings. In anticipation of the Gondola Square Parking Structure, Knoll Lot, and possible Gondola Transit Center redevelopment, an opportunity to create a multimodal transit center addressing the needs of public and private transit systems is presented. As identified in the North Portal Transportation Study in July/August 2006 and subsequently as part of the mobility charette, the need for a centralized multimodal transit facility becomes more apparent as overall density increases and the demands on existing roadways, especially Ski Time Square Drive, increases. With possible redevelopment of the existing GTC site, an opportunity exists to shift the facility north enabling improved access to the North Portal Plaza identified in 2010 while effectively serving the Gondola Square Plaza. This facility could be configured to more effectively organize public and private transit uses, as well as private passenger drop-off and short term parking.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: With increased density and completion of numerous redevelopment projects in 2011, the public information campaign and transit center management polices will likely need to be significantly modified for 2011.

FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS CONSIDERATIONS: With the potential for significant changes to the GTC and the Gondola Square Parking Structure as part of likely redevelopment efforts along Mt. Werner Circle, consideration will need to be given to the availability of short term parking and drop-off facilities that may be disrupted along this corridor. 2011 Mobility Recommendations / Timeline Consideration of shared use/ flex parking strategies as part of new 2011 development on the north and south sides of the base area, similar to the 20 spaces allocated at One Steamboat Place, may be required to DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: Square Drive intersection becomes paramount due to increased vehicular trips accommodate special event and short term drop-off parking. In fall of 2011, Edgemont and Clocktower are expected to be completed. requiring a west bound left from Ski Time Square Drive The Ptarmigan Inn, Ski Time Square/Thunderhead, Wildhorse Meadows, and The Ski Time Square Transit Center and its connection to the North In anticipation of development of the Gondola Square Parking Structure, Knoll Burgess Creek Estates are all anticipated to be under construction though Portal Plaza and Promenade continue to provide opportunities for family Parking Lot, and Gondola Transit Center, significant multimodal transit nearing completion in 2012. The public parking supply may continue to be and special program/events drop-off. Any modifications to the improvements along Mt. Werner Circle may be necessitated. impacted as outlined in 2009, though additional parking for Gondola Transit Center need to consider special events/family drop-off commercial/retail spaces will become available as redevelopment efforts are in future alignments. PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: completed. Improved pedestrian corridors, as identified by the 2006 Sidewalks Master In anticipation of completed redevelopment along Ski Time Square Drive, the Plan, and bicycle connections would incorporate into improvements along Mt. need for operational control at the intersection of Mt. Werner Circle/Ski Time Werner Road and Circle.

Base Area Mobility Charette 15 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 2012 AND BEYOND (cont.)

PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS: The existing asphalt path along Mt. Werner Circle is expected to be improved to a concrete walk with the completion of the Wildhorse Meadows project. Improved pedestrian crossings on Mt. Werner Circle and significant changes to overall appearance and layout are recommended to create a pedestrian dominated streetscape environment which shares function with a multimodal transit center improvements outlined in 2011.

TRANSIT/ VEHICULAR IMPROVEMENTS: With increased pedestrian demand on Mt. Werner Circle due to redevelopment of the Knoll Parking Lot and Phase II of the Steamboat Grand, access limitations on Mt. Werner Circle are recommended. Vehicular traffic would be limited to public and private transit operations, no private passenger vehicles would be allowed in the restricted access corridor. Short term parking and drop-off is accommodated with new parking areas built in conjunction with private development just west of the Sheraton and the Knoll Parking Lot. The existing drop-off at Ski Time Square and the short term parking at One Steamboat Place would continue to be available. Depending on a success of flex use parking programs in conjunction with private redevelopment outlined in 2011, additional short term parking supplies accessed from unrestricted portions of Mt. Werner Circle, Ski Time Square Drive, and AprŁs Ski Way could also help provide additional parking reservoirs during peak winter and summer seasons.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/POLICY/MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS: With increased density and completion of numerous redevelopment projects in 2012 and potential restricted access on Mt. Werner Circle adjacent to the existing GTC, the public information campaign and transit center management polices will likely need to be significantly modified in 2012.

FAMILY AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS/EVENTS PARTICIPANTS CONSIDERATIONS: As outlined in 2012 Transit/Vehicular Improvements, potential short term parking and drop-off may be accommodated as part of the new development. In addition the existing drop-off at Ski Time Square and 2012 and Beyond Mobility Recommendations / Timeline the short term parking at One Steamboat Place would continue to be available. 2012 AND BEYOND: Additional flex use parking could be provided through private redevelopment accessed from unrestricted portions of Mt. Werner DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: Circle, Ski Time Square Drive, and Apres Ski Way could also help By fall of 2012, known developments planned along Ski Time Square Drive and Apres Ski provide additional parking reservoirs during peak winter and summer Way are expected to be complete. Development of the Steamboat Grand Phase II, Knoll seasons. Parking Lot, the Gondola Square Parking Structure, and/or the GTC may be underway at In addition, the Meadows Parking Lot with the high capacity gondola this time. When completed, this development, especially on the west side of Mt. Werner completed in 2009 / 2010 could accommodate a higher level of skier Circle, is expected to significantly increase pedestrian activity crossing Mt. Werner Circle to services and programs, and become a more significant mountain portal. the Gondola Square area and effectively shift the ’pedestrian village’ edge across the roadway. This pedestrian activity likely increases vehicular and pedestrian conflicts and improvements are required to mitigate the conflicts.

16 Charette Summary m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e APPENDIX

A. CHARETTE PARTICIPANTS

B. CHARETTE AGENDA

C. SUMMARY DIAGRAMS OF REFERENCED PLANNING DOCUMENTS 1. Mobility and Circulation Plan 1998 2. Mountain Town Sub-Area Plan 1999 3. Mountain Town Sub-Area Plan Update 2005 4. Sidewalk Plan 2006

D. TRAFFIC DATA INFORMATION UTILIZED FOR STUDY (FEHR AND PEERS)

E. PRELIMINARY INTERSECTION CONFIGURATIONS AT MT. WERNER CIRCLE/SKI TIME SQUARE DRIVE AND MT. WERNER CIRCLE/APRES SKI WAY (PROVIDED BY FEHR AND PEERS, DOCUMENTED BY WENK)

Base Area Mobility Charette 17 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7

CHARETTE PARTICIPANTS: CHARETTE AGENDA:

NAME ASSOCIATION Date: September 25 - September 28, 2007 Agenda:

Susan Dellinger City of Steamboat Springs Location: 9.25 Centennial Hall SEPTEMBER 25 Jack Ferguson Mt. Werner Lodge 9.26-9.27 Transit Building Conference Room 4:00pm SSRA Meeting, Centennial Hall Bill Jameson Public At-Large 9.28 Centennial Hall 3:00 - 6:00pm Public Open House Euzena Jameson Public At-Large „ Overview of charette goals and agenda Janet Faller US Forest Service Attendees: City Council/SSRA „ Review of existing conditions and overview of previous Sarah Floyd Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club City Staff (Planning, Emergency Services, Transportation, planning efforts Stacy Chalton Steamboat Resorts Public Works) „ Discussion of policy vs. design related mobility initiatives Charles Williams Steamboat Resorts URA Development Community „ Identification of core mobility related issues for resolution Teresa Long Alpine Taxi Property Owners/Condominium Management Max Samore Steamboat Resorts Associations Service Providers (Private shuttle and taxi SEPTEMBER 26 Mark Walder Resort Group entities; commercial suppliers-loading and delivery Interviews with specific focus groups to address core mobility issues functions) identified during the first day of charette. Luke Dudley The Porches/Pinnacle Bud Romberg Steamboat Grand Charette Goals: 8:00 am Community At Large Chris Corna Torian Plum To goal of the charette is to create a working framework to address 9:30 am Service providers (Private shuttle and taxi entities; Micah Olson Resort Quest /Torian Plum short and long term mobility considerations within the URA boundary. commercial suppliers-loading and delivery functions) Blain Hvambsal Resort Quest / Torian Plum This effort is not intended to circumvent or replace previous planning 11:00 am Property Owners/Condominium Management Chuck Porter Sheraton documents, but serves to address specific opportunities and Associations Jim Wells One Steamboat Place constraints as part of the overall redevelopment strategy for the 12:30 pm Break Brent Pearson Wildhorse Meadows mountain base area. At the conclusion of this effort, the consultant 1:00 pm URA Development Community David Hill Wildhorse Meadows team will present specific mobility approach and project 3:00 pm Planning, Public Works, and Transportation Dept. Staff Mark Mathews The Atira Group recommendations and timeline for implementation to the URAAC and Jim Schneider Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation subsequently the SSRA. Chris Diamond Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation SEPTEMBER 27 Doug Allen Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation 8:00am Consultant team working sessions to develop specific Doug Beall Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation responses to mobility components Mike Degraff Intrawest Placemaking 5:00pm Informal walkthrough of ideas and concepts developed Jane Blackstone The Atira Group during consultant team work session Peter Patten Clocktower / Patten Associates Garrett Simon The Atira Group SEPTEMBER 28 Paul Matthews EcoSign 8:00am Consultant team working sessions to develop specific responses to mobility components Jim Weber City of Steamboat Springs 1:00pm Presentation of recommendations to URAAC and key Janet Hruby City of Steamboat Springs stakeholders George Krawsoff City of Steamboat Springs Tom Leeson City of Steambaot Springs John Eastman City of Steambaot Springs Wendy DuBord City of Steambaot Springs Brent Lloyd Wenk Associates Beth Beegles Wenk Associates Joe Kracum Kracum Resources, LLC Carlos Hernandez Fehr and Peers Emily Gloeckner Fehr and Peers

Base Area Mobility Charette 19 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS MOBILITY AND CIRCULATION PLAN, 1998

20 APPENDIX m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e MOUNTAIN TOWN SUB-AREA PLAN, 1999

Base Area Mobility Charette 21 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 MOUNTAIN TOWN SUB-AREA PLAN UPDATE, 2005

22 APPENDIX m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e SIDEWALK PLAN, 2006

Base Area Mobility Charette 23 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 BASE AREA TRAFFIC VOLUMES

BASE AREA TRIP GENERATION

24 Appendix m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e INTERSECTION CAPACITY ANALYSIS

Base Area Mobility Charette 25 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7 PRELIMINARY INTERSECTION CONFIGURATION: MT. WERNER CIRCLE AT APRES SKI WAY INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS:

This intersection is proposed to be a single lane roundabout capable of supporting WB-50 and SST (Coach Bus) vehicles which represent the largest vehicles consistently found at this intersection. The approximate radius of the roundabout is 60’-0" to face of curb with a drive lane width of 20’-0". A minimum entrance and exist lane width of 16’-0" is recommended to accommodate City snow removal operations. A minimum 5’-0" open space adjacent to the roadway is provided as a pedestrian buffer and snow storage area during the winter. The design includes pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks which are 8’-0" in width and comply with City standards. Splitter islands are necessary to accommodate pedestrians and will provide the required deflection needed to slow traffic through the intersection.

All City of Steamboat Springs transportation, public works, and emergency vehicles are accommodated in the proposed design, in addition to typical construction equipment and tandems.

The largest vehicles that may be found at this intersection, such as a WB-67, are accommodated via mountable curbs and aprons on the center island and surrounding medians. Vehicles of this size are not expected in this area. Their arrival should be planned in advance to accommodate the challenging traffic movements.

The roadway improvements are expected to be entirely located within the City right of way, some minor encroachment onto private property may be required for the pedestrian sidewalks.

26 aPPENDIX m a s t e r p l a n - b a s e a r e a m o b i l i t y c h a r e t t e PRELIMINARY INTERSECTION CONFIGURATION: MT. WERNER CIRCLE AT SKI TIME SQUARE DRIVE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS:

This intersection is proposed to be a single lane roundabout capable of supporting WB-50 and SST (Coach Bus) vehicles which represent the largest vehicles consistently found at this intersection. Due to the surrounding private property at this intersection, the design will need to be tighter than the precious roundabout. The minimum radius of the roundabout should be 50’-0" to face of curb with a minimum drive lane width of 20’-0". Additionally, a minimum entrance and exist lane width of 16’-0" is recommended to accommodate City snow removal operations. Access to the garage located southeast of the roundabout can be taken from the roundabout. Splitter islands are necessary to accommodate pedestrians and will provide the required deflection needed to slow traffic through the intersection.

All City of Steamboat Springs transportation, public works, and emergency vehicles should be accommodated in the design. Pedestrian corridors are expected to encroach onto private property.

Base Area Mobility Charette 27 w e n k a s s o c i a t e s , i n c „ f e h r & p e e r s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n c o n s u l t a n t s „ k r a c u m r e s o u r c e s l l c s t e a m b o a t b a s e a r e a r e d e v e l o p m e n t o c t o b e r 2 3 , 2 0 0 7