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Home My WebLink About2025-07-01 Agenda and Supporting Documentation Town Council Afternoon Meeting1.Call to Order (2:30pm) 2.Presentation/Discussion (2:30pm) 2.1 Transit Optimization Survey Results (2:30pm)45 min. Listen to presentation and provide direction on questions in the attached memo. Presenter(s): Tom Kassmel, Town Engineer and Chris Southwick, Mobility Innovation Coordinator Background: The Transit Route Optimization Plan is a short- term transit plan to help guide the Town towards its transportation goals as well as address the changing transit demand brought on by current and ongoing events. 2.2 Excise Tax Polling Results (3:15pm)45 min. Listen to presentation and provide feedback. Presenter(s): Carlie Smith, Finance Director Background: The Town contracted with Magellan Strategies, a voter survey research and campaign strategy consultant to gather opinions on a proposed STR tax, with the revenue restricted for housing programs, projects, and initiatives. 3.DRB/PEC (4:00pm) 3.1 DRB/PEC Update (5 min.) 4.Information Update (4:05pm) VAIL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Afternoon Session Agenda Vail Town Council Chambers and virtually by Zoom. Zoom meeting link: https://vail.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ykIBX3HAQYKx7Mj0UUze3Q 2:30 PM, July 1, 2025 Notes: Times of items are approximate, subject to change, and cannot be relied upon to determine what time Council will consider an item. Council Memo - Route Optimization Attachment A. Route Optimization Survey Results Attachment B. Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan Final Report Staff Presentation - Route Optimization Public Comment.pdf Council Memo - STR Tax Survey Results Memo Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Presentation - Voter Results Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey Summary DRB Results 6-18-2025 PEC Results 6-23-2025 1 4.1 June 10, 2025 VLHA Meeting Minutes 4.2 June 2025 Revenue Update 5.Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports (4:05pm) 5.1 Matters from Mayor, Council, and Committee Reports (15 min.) 5.2 Town Manager Report (5 min.) 5.3 Council Matters and Status Update 6.Executive Session (4:25pm) (30 min.) Executive Session pursuant to: 1. C.R.S. §24-6-402(4)(b) - to hold a conference with the Town Attorney, to receive legal advice on specific legal questions regarding 1. Development Agreement for Cornerstone Site; and 2. Arrangement with Vail Mountaineers Hockey Club 7.Recess 4:55pm (estimated) VLHA Meeting Minutes 6-10-2025 Revenue Update 7-01-2025 Town Manager Update 7-01-2025 Future Topics Council Matters 7-01-2025 Meeting agendas and materials can be accessed prior to meeting day on the Town of Vail website www.vail.gov. All Town Council meetings will be streamed live by High Five Access Media and available for public viewing as the meeting is happening. The meeting videos are also posted to High Five Access Media website the week following meeting day, www.highfivemedia.org. Please call 970-479-2460 for additional information. Sign language interpretation is available upon request with 48 hour notification dial 711. 2 AGENDA ITEM NO. 2.1 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 TIME:45 min. SUBMITTED BY:Chris Southwick, Public Works ITEM TYPE:Presentation/Discussion AGENDA SECTION:Presentation/Discussion (2:30pm) SUBJECT:Transit Optimization Survey Results (2:30pm) SUGGESTED ACTION:Listen to presentation and provide direction on questions in the attached memo. PRESENTER(S):Tom Kassmel, Town Engineer and Chris Southwick, Mobility Innovation Coordinator VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: Council Memo - Route Optimization Attachment A. Route Optimization Survey Results Attachment B. Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan Final Report Staff Presentation - Route Optimization Public Comment.pdf 3 To: Town Council From: Public Works Department Date: July 1, 2025 Subject: Transit Route Optimization Plan Update I. SUMMARY The Transit Route Optimization Plan is a short-term transit plan to help guide the Town towards its transportation goals as well as address the changing transit demand brought on by current/ongoing events. This Town Council session is intended to provide follow up information regarding previous Town Council feedback, present public outreach results, and ask for direction on next steps. II. BACKGROUND Staff presented initial plan elements at the May 6 afternoon Town Council meeting. Council feedback was given regarding the combination of the Middle Creek Circulator and Sandstone routes as well as operating the South Frontage Road Express and Middle Creek Circulator only during the winter months. Staff has further investigated both ideas. 1. Middle Creek Circulator-Sandstone Combination Run time on the new combination route would need to be extended to 30 minutes with two buses assigned to the route to keep frequencies high. No resource savings are expected. Other considerations to note include increased travel time for North Frontage Road residents and potential crowding issues for Sandstone residents. 2. South Frontage Road Express and Middle Creek Circulator as Winter Only While more residents are likely to walk and bike in the summer staff believes that given the limited amount of parking available at West Middle Creek high frequency bus service connecting it to Vail Village year-round is necessary. 4 Town of Vail Page 2 For the South Frontage Road Express, with the implementation of paid parking and strong public desire for increased frequency staff recommends running this year-round as well if Scenario 2 is the preferred scenario. There are significant cost savings by only running these routes during the winter season. Approximately $520k for the South Frontage Road Express and $390k for the Middle Creek Circulator. III. PUBLIC OUTREACH A survey asking the public about specific plan aspects including frequency adjustments and route modifications was distributed via email, Vail Daily, and with QR Code signs on buses and in the Vail Transportation Center. As of June 25th, 330 responses have been received. A full survey report is included in the packet as well as in the attached presentation. IV. PREFERRED SCENARIO The plan explores multiple bus route options primarily in West Vail and then compiles these options into three different scenarios. Scenarios 1 and 1A focus primarily on increasing local service in the West Vail neighborhoods while Scenario 2 focuses on express routes that connect neighborhoods to Vail Village and Lionshead. Details of each scenario are shown in the attached Power Point presentation and plan. All three scenarios will add some annual operational expenses including additional seasonal and full-time drivers however, fleet expansion costs should be minimal. Staff recommends selecting Scenario 1 as the preferred scenario based on operational analysis and public feedback. V. SB24-230 POTENTIAL FUNDING Staff has been tracking the implementation of SB24-230 which may be a potential funding source for this expansion. SB24-230 collects fees from oil and gas development to be used to support transit service expansions across the state. This is state formula funding meaning all eligible projects will be funded up to the dedicated allocation levels for each transit agency with a 20% local match requirement. Initial conversations with CDOT staff indicate that the Town of Vail’s allocation may be approximately $925k in SFY 25-26 and $1.2M in SFY 26-27. 5 Town of Vail Page 3 A notice of funding availability (NOFA) for this funding is expected to be released soon with additional details. VI. NEXT STEPS Staff would like council direction on the following questions to help guide next steps: 1. Does Council support the plan? 2. Does Council support selecting Scenario 1 as the preferred scenario? 3. Would Council support staff further exploring the implementation of Scenario 1 excluding the Middle Creek Circulator starting this winter season? VII. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends Council support the plan with Scenario 1 as the preferred scenario. It is also recommended to direct staff to further explore the implementation of Scenario 1 without the Middle Creek Circulator including developing crew and vehicle schedules starting this winter season. 6 Transit Route Sur vey SURVEY RESPONSE REPORT 26 November 2018 - 24 June 2025 PROJECT NAME: Transit Route Optimization Plan 7 SURVEY QUESTIONS Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 1 of 33 8 Q1 What is your primary association with the Town of Vail? (select one) 142 (43.2%) 142 (43.2%) 24 (7.3%) 24 (7.3%) 17 (5.2%) 17 (5.2%) 1 (0.3%) 1 (0.3%) 113 (34.3%) 113 (34.3%) 32 (9.7%) 32 (9.7%) I live and work in Vail I live in Vail but work elsewhere I live elsewhere but work in Vail I own a business in Vail I own a second home in Vail I visit Vail for recreation or shopping but live and work elsewhere Question options Optional question (329 response(s), 1 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 2 of 33 9 Q2 How often do you ride Vail Transit outlying routes (not the Intown)? (select one) 46 (14.5%) 46 (14.5%) 71 (22.3%) 71 (22.3%) 72 (22.6%) 72 (22.6%) 62 (19.5%) 62 (19.5%) 20 (6.3%) 20 (6.3%) 33 (10.4%) 33 (10.4%) 14 (4.4%) 14 (4.4%) Every day At least four times a week At least once a week A few times a month At least once a month Less than once a month Never Question options Optional question (318 response(s), 12 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 3 of 33 10 Q3 Which outlying routes do you ride most often? (Select all that apply): West Vail Red West Vail Green West Vail Express Lionsridge Loop Sandstone Golf Course East Vail Question options 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 166 157 66 38 47 20 87 Optional question (316 response(s), 14 skipped) Question type: Checkbox Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 4 of 33 11 Q4 Which of the following transit improvements are most important to you? 209 (68.8%) 209 (68.8%) 65 (21.4%) 65 (21.4%) 30 (9.9%) 30 (9.9%) Increasing service frequency on existing routes Providing new express route options to West Vail Providing new connections between community housing, Lionshead/Vail Village and West Vail Mall Question options Optional question (304 response(s), 26 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 5 of 33 12 Q5 The East Vail route operates at 15-minute frequencies during core hours during winter and 30-minute frequencies during summer. If the East Vail bus came every 10 minutes in the winter and 20 minutes in the summer, how would this impact your usage? 76 (25.7%) 76 (25.7%) 44 (14.9%) 44 (14.9%) 3 (1.0%) 3 (1.0%) 166 (56.1%) 166 (56.1%) 7 (2.4%) 7 (2.4%) I would take the East Vail bus more than I currently do I would take the East Vail bus the same as I currently do I would take East Vail bus less than I currently do I do not currently and will not use the East Vail bus regardless of service changes Other (please specify) Question options Optional question (296 response(s), 34 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 6 of 33 13 Q6 The West Vail Red and West Vail Green routes operate every 30 minutes during core hours in winter and every 40 minutes in the summer. If these routes operated every 20 minutes in winter and 20 minutes in summer, how would this impact your usage? 168 (55.4%) 168 (55.4%) 46 (15.2%) 46 (15.2%) 3 (1.0%) 3 (1.0%) 82 (27.1%) 82 (27.1%) 4 (1.3%) 4 (1.3%) I would take the West Vail buses more than I currently do I would take the West Vail buses the same as I currently do I would take the West Vail buses less than I currently do I do not currently and will not use the West Vail buses regardless of service changes Other (please specify) Question options Optional question (303 response(s), 27 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 7 of 33 14 Q7 Matterhorn neighborhood potential change: The West Vail Red would go eastbound through the Matterhorn neighborhood (opposite of current direction). This saves travel time for West Vail Red passengers, but Spruce Creek stop passengers would have to... 86 (28.0%) 86 (28.0%) 139 (45.3%) 139 (45.3%) 82 (26.7%) 82 (26.7%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (307 response(s), 23 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 8 of 33 15 Q8 Chamonix potential change: The West Vail Red and West Vail Green would bypass both the Chamonix and West Vail Fire Station stops travelling directly between the West Vail Mall and Intermountain. The Chamonix and West Vail Fire Station stops would c... 95 (31.4%) 95 (31.4%) 173 (57.1%) 173 (57.1%) 35 (11.6%) 35 (11.6%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (303 response(s), 27 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 9 of 33 16 Q9 West Vail Mall potential change: The West Vail Red and West Vail Green would stay on the North Frontage Road and not serve the Chamonix Lane stops (Pine Ridge, Vail Commons, Upper Buffehr Creek) during the day. These stops instead would be served b... 103 (33.7%) 103 (33.7%) 149 (48.7%) 149 (48.7%) 54 (17.6%) 54 (17.6%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (306 response(s), 24 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 10 of 33 17 Q10 Lionsridge Loop potential change: In conjunction with the West Vail Red and West Vail Green modifications changes to the Lionsridge Loop route are also being considered. The route would be extended to the West Vail Mall to serve the Chamonix Lane s... 113 (37.0%) 113 (37.0%) 162 (53.1%) 162 (53.1%) 30 (9.8%) 30 (9.8%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (305 response(s), 25 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 11 of 33 18 Q11 A new route is being considered to connect community housing developments and lower Sandstone Area on the North Frontage Road to the Vail Transportation Center and Lionshead at 20-minute frequencies throughout the day. Do you support this change? 142 (47.8%) 142 (47.8%) 136 (45.8%) 136 (45.8%) 19 (6.4%) 19 (6.4%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (297 response(s), 33 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 12 of 33 19 Q12 How important is local neighborhood travel between West Vail North (West Vail Mall, Timber Ridge) and West Vail South (Intermountain, Matterhorn) for you? 54 (18.1%) 54 (18.1%) 69 (23.2%) 69 (23.2%) 100 (33.6%) 100 (33.6%) 75 (25.2%) 75 (25.2%) Very important Slightly important Not important Not applicable Question options Optional question (298 response(s), 32 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 13 of 33 20 Q13 Vail Transit has increased frequency on its routes during the morning and afternoon peak periods this summer to offset for summer managed/paid parking. How much do you support this change? 248 (84.1%) 248 (84.1%) 40 (13.6%) 40 (13.6%) 7 (2.4%) 7 (2.4%) I support this change I am neutral about this change I do not support this change Question options Optional question (295 response(s), 35 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 14 of 33 21 Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:44 PM East Vail service after 530 pm in the summer means more driving trips for us. Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:44 PM I think Vail is doing a great job with the free buses. And I understand the need to pay for some parking in the summer to fund repairs/improvements for the parking garage. I appreciate all you do. Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:44 PM I would like an early golf course bus in the summer (6:45 AM). Without this bus, I'm unable to utilize the bus service in the summer. Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:44 PM I am grateful for the East Vail Bus availability. I live in Mountain Meadow and the bus stop is close. It has allowed my wife and I to go from owning 2 cars to one car. Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:50 PM East Vail frequency should increase. I don't know if I completely understood all of the route suggestions based on arrows. Thank you for your consideration to improve! One q- any additional stops being added? Seems like the bus could go up past Vail View: up Sandstone Rd to the natural boulder roundabout turnaround? Anonymous 6/10/2025 02:55 PM Can you change the timing of the landing of lions ridge loop If you have to be at work :30 on the hour this is counterproductive Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:02 PM Keep the hiker express to East Vail, because then we have service at my bus stop every 15 minutes. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:02 PM The Spruce Creek stop is very important to us and a ton of our neighbors. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:05 PM If you charge for parking you should provide more options to get to town - more bus options. My bus, Sandstone, only runs once an hour. Not an option when trying to get to work or events/concerts Anonymous I am a frequent traveler on the west vail red and green routes. It Q14 If you have comments about the summer 2025 bus schedule, please provide comments below. Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 15 of 33 22 6/10/2025 03:07 PM would make a huge difference to have the winter schedule run all year and include the chamonix loop all year Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:17 PM I would prefer extended hours and frequency for Lionsridge Loop bus. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:22 PM The number one issue for me is connections from East Vail that coordinate with west Vail and core transit routes both directions. I would like to bus to businesses is west Vail, Avon and downvalley. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:24 PM This is all very confusing. I live in west vail chamonix townhomes. I’m all for increasing frequency. I much preferred the express when it ran. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:29 PM The pine ridge schedule is most important to me. The summer frequency is 40 min and impossible to remember. I prefer a consistent 30 min frequency with the trip no longer than 12-13 mins. Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:38 PM Please rename red and green to something more self explanatory Anonymous 6/10/2025 03:50 PM With a possible increase of over 400 new residents in the Timber Ridge development I believe it would require two bus stops, the recently opened East stop and a new one further west after construction is completed. Increased west vail express service is a must. It includes the most popular stations, VTC, hospital, LH and west Vail mall. Anonymous 6/10/2025 04:47 PM I ride the valley east and west buses Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:04 PM None Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:28 PM The Spruce Creek bus stop is vital. It is a long walk to the Ptarmigan stop. This effects property values and desirability of the property. The stop is always uses and many local living people live at the stop. Please do not take away the Spruce Creek Stop!! Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:42 PM Our house is on upper Buffehr Creek Rd. IT IS EXCEPTIONALLY FRUSTRATING THAT WE HAVE NO BUS SERVICE, AT ALL. I don't Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 16 of 33 23 understand why you can't make this work. Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:56 PM 40 minute intervals are more difficult to decipher, and to Interpret on which odd or even hour the interval falls. And keeping on this schedule until mid December doesn’t match the opening of the ski season. Once the odd/even hour number is figured out it makes sense… as long as visitors are on the right time zone! The Winter schedule is much more comprehendible. Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:56 PM Would love to see more frequent summer bus service to/from East Vail. We end up driving to the Village because the service isn’t as frequent as it is in the winter Anonymous 6/10/2025 05:59 PM Leave the golf course bus as is please. Anonymous 6/10/2025 06:00 PM Thank you. This is such a wonderful free government service. All the drivers are so friendly, patient, and full of information. They never get tired of answering questions. Family and friends are so impressed with the service and accessibility of the buses. Anonymous 6/10/2025 06:52 PM I’m on Lionsridge. The service is too infrequent to be useful. Anonymous 6/10/2025 07:01 PM The APP can be improved especially for new users. Allow the App to locate you on the map. You select your destination, then the App directs you to the nearest bus stop (like Google maps does when you're walking) and tells you which route (color/name) gets you to the stop closest to your desired destination as expediently as possible. No more guessing about stops and directions of bus travel. Keep the real time bus location display. Thx! Anonymous 6/10/2025 07:11 PM Add Buffher Creek route Anonymous 6/10/2025 07:12 PM I bought a local parking pass so I wouldn't have to wait for the bus in the summer. The wait for the bus is too long. Anonymous 6/10/2025 07:28 PM Please keep the neighborhood stops frequent, like Pine Ridge Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 17 of 33 24 Anonymous 6/10/2025 08:43 PM Something needs to be done to cool off the VTC in the summer. It can be quite warm in the building. Can an exhaust fan be put in the top to vent the warm air? Anonymous 6/10/2025 09:31 PM The hardest part is lining up the east vail bus to get to a location near west Lionshead. I usually end up walking the in town loop before I see a bus in the mornings and the West Vail and east Vail bus don’t work well together. Anonymous 6/10/2025 09:32 PM So far so good on increased frequency, etc. I wish the first bus was earlier than 6:40 a.m. Anonymous 6/11/2025 01:43 AM I rarely use East Vail bus in summer due to its poor frequency. I use it a bunch in the winter when its every 15 minutes I like the 10 in winter and 20 in summer frequency. Anonymous 6/11/2025 06:02 AM Increase evening frequency after 5:45 pm for East Vail every half hour up to 11 pm for Ford Amp concerts and diners/shoppers/workers in Vail Village Anonymous 6/11/2025 06:17 AM I support some type of consistent service to the end of Buffehr Creek Road at the cul de sac. No service for any locals! Anonymous 6/11/2025 07:43 AM If you plan to charge for parking year round - you need more routes and more frequent buses. Every route should be running on 15 minute intervals, if you really want buses to be the preferred mode of transportation. You also need more frequent and better routes to and from other regions in eagle county for the majority of people who work in vail but live in avon/edwards/eagle. Right now it feels as though you raised costs without any efforts into offsetting that effect on your locals. town of vail should be supporting its locals not just looking for how they can bleed dry the tourist... Anonymous 6/11/2025 08:01 AM I would like to propose an additional stop on the east vail route at the corner of main gore place, main gore drive north and gore circle. The potential for customers using the bus more at that corner is huge with private homes, gore creek meadows condos and bel resorts Anonymous 6/11/2025 08:59 AM Please put a bus stop in Lionshead on the Sandstone bus route for the summer and winter. I would ride more than I do if there was a stop Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 18 of 33 25 in Lionshead and it would also allow parents of small children at Childrens Garden of Learning to ride the bus with their children to and from school. All bus routes should have at least one stop in Lionshead for this reason. I would ride the bus EVERY day if this stop was added as I live in Sandstone and work in Lionshead and my child is in daycare in Sandstone. I also see many people getting off the bus at Sandstone School to walk to Lionshead. Please make this change. Anonymous 6/11/2025 09:06 AM Golf Course bus shoud run more often in summer. Anonymous 6/11/2025 09:17 AM The survey descriptions are poorly written, are missing data and are confusing: #6 “during core hours” .. will the proposed change keep the core hours? #7 spruce creek is not shown on either the existing or proposed maps. #8 & #9 “saves … time … during the day” is this proposal only during the day? What about at night? Please give a final route proposals for WV red/green and lions ridge with times at each stop. There should be a way to not have every bus stopping at every WV north frontage road stop. Many times, there are 3 busses at each stop. Anonymous 6/11/2025 09:27 AM We would like more service later than 6 on lionsridge loop. Even though parking is free we prefer not to drive especially for environment and safety Anonymous 6/11/2025 10:07 AM AS a worker, I urge you to increase all day frequency (10 min) to E Vail/Ford. I'd encourage the Ford Express to make its' waiting position the Ford Lot as almost no one travels east in the early (0700-0830) hours. Anonymous 6/11/2025 10:22 AM Eliminating any existing bus stops altogether, would be a mistake and we are vehemently opposed to that. Anonymous 6/11/2025 10:38 AM It would be IMMENSELY helpful if we could take our dog with us on the bus. There are so many times each week we want to take the bus to hike a trail and we cannot because we cannot bring our dog. Can we please consider this change? Also, it would be incredibly helpful to have a bus stop further up Chamonix to service those of us on Cortina and Davos. The kids take this bus home everyday during school and many times a week during the summer. Anonymous There have been multiple times where I have tried taking the east vail Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 19 of 33 26 6/11/2025 10:56 AM bus and it has been late and even missed times. This weekend at the go pro games in a known busy weekend, the bus only came once an hour. The frequency and the set times are constantly changing. There is no continuity and it is very frustrating as someone who works in the village and needs to get to work on time. If the new and improved bus routes and times are here to offset paying for parking I think that these things need to be changed. Anonymous 6/11/2025 10:59 AM If Vail Transit has increased frequency on its routes during morning/afternoon peak periods this summer to offset summer managed/paid parking, this is the first I am hearing of it. If it is in fact true, I do not support this change as I feel a good transit system's bedrock foundation for use should be consistency and punctuality. If I have to look up via phone/app/website as to when a bus is going to be coming rather than knowing that it will be at set times, I will be more hesitant to use Vail Transit. Also, as to extinguishing Spruce Creek stop; this is a "request stop" and removing it entirely from the schedule seems overly reaching and inefficient/ineffectual in what it is trying to accomplish. Anonymous 6/11/2025 11:37 AM Sandstone schedule does not run for the dinner hours in the evening. We always have to drive or take a taxi when returning 7:40-9:40 pm. Please provide service at least hourly. Anonymous 6/11/2025 11:57 AM Restore free summer parking to Vail residents. For that matter, Vail residents should have free parking year round. Anonymous 6/11/2025 12:00 PM please figure out how to better optimize the buses stopping at the North Frontage road stops between Sandstone and Transportation center. I do not believe that all buses need to stop at every stop in both directions. Many times there are 3 buses at each stop at the same time. Anonymous 6/11/2025 01:52 PM I would and do appreciate that the Lionsridge loop to Vail Transportation bus run during the summer - not just the winter. My family uses this weekly or more during the winter and will utilize in the summer if available. Stopping it during the "off-season" is difficult for us. Anonymous 6/11/2025 02:05 PM Please add bus service UP Buffehr Creek Road. There are currently no options and there are pedestrians trying to run down to the stop just above the frontage road everyday. The turnaround at the top of Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 20 of 33 27 Buffehr Creek Road would be a great option for a terminus to the route. Anonymous 6/11/2025 02:07 PM We have needed bus service up Buffehr Creek Road for years. I've picked up countless vacationers dragging suitcases down the road in both summer AND WINTER. As a full time resident my neighbors and I are sorely in need of service on our road. thank you! Anonymous 6/11/2025 02:35 PM It would be nice to have a 8:40pm VTC departure for Sandstone. Anonymous 6/11/2025 03:22 PM Make the west vail express all day all year. But note that It is also useful for me and my young children to have bus options connecting sandstone school with both west vail north (Chamonix) and west vail south (Matterhorn/donovan). Even in summer. Keep the north/south loops in some form for the summer even if reduced. Also, the introduction of summer parking fees in the village and Lionshead structures has contributed to Donovan parking lot filling early with commuters. But the west vail frontage road parking is less full. It can be hard to get short term parking for recreational use of Donovan park. Increase bus service to frontage roads (express buses) and Donovan/matterhorn and/or implement paid parking to match other lots. Publicize and advertise the parking situation for workers and tourists. Make it expensive and less convenient for people to drive solo. Or make it cheaper for car poolers in the structures. It all affects the bus schedule. Add SHIFT rental bikes at the Chamonix bus stop. When traffic snarls I-70 and the roundabouts, Chamonix might not get a bus for a while. At least people could bike. Anonymous 6/11/2025 04:05 PM The West Vail Red and Green should continue to service the West Vail Fire Station and Chamonix year round as long as there is parking on that stretch. Eliminating this service would require the West Vail Express service to expanded to all day 15 minute service AND also extend service to 8-9pm. This is why: The WVFS-Chamonix bus service effectively eliminates pedestrian travel through the West Vail North roundabout. Express ends at 6pm. Sending pedestrians through the North spoke gauntlet in between the uncontrolled 4-way stop created by the two gas stations during rush hour, darkness, and/or Dowd-jams is not a good idea. There is no amount of rapid flashing beacon that can protect human life from the savagrey of WVN drivers getting gas or heading home at rush hour. Even uniformed police in squad cars flashing the reds and blues have a hard time getting reliable attention and compliance from drivers there in the thick of it. Transiting people through it is the only way until one of those gas stations redevelops and we can change the traffic flow Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 21 of 33 28 and cross walk location. Anonymous 6/11/2025 05:16 PM Fry Anonymous 6/11/2025 06:41 PM Allow bikes on the bus after the bike rack fills Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:26 AM Do not eliminate the Spruce Creek stop Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:28 AM Do not use in summer Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:33 AM It is essential that the Spruce Creek Red Line stop be maintained along with maintaining the Spruce Creek Green Line stop. I, my family, and my guests frequently use the Spruce Creek Red Line stop in both Winter and Summer. Our purchase of our home at Spruce Creek was significantly dependent on the proximity of the bus stop. Because of the age of our young grandchildren, use of either Matterhorn or Ptarmigan as an alternative is not acceptable. We are thankful that Vail maintains both Red and Green Line stops at Spruce Creek and greatly appreciate your maintaining these stops. In face, we would like to see TOV add an enclosed shelter to the Spruce Creek bus stop to provide further protection and safety for bus users. Thank you, David Kanter, Spruce Creek Resident (cell 561-523-6300) Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:43 AM Maintaining/increasing West Vail routes that transit near and past the shopping area near the West Vail Exit from I-70 is important to everyone using public transit in Vail. Please consider changing policies to welcome dogs on the transit system (on all routes), as it would make it a lot easier to use public transit for accessing areas like trail heads (example Booth Creek Trail head area) and Vail Village, Lionshead, etc. Welcoming dogs would increase my ridership more than any other change. As you're making changes to routes, PLEASE consider the impacts on rider safety especially for women having to walk alone for longer distances in the dark (especially during darker winter months). Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:44 AM Keep the Spruce Creek stop intact. Anonymous Please do not take away the Spruce Creek bus stop! Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 22 of 33 29 6/12/2025 09:46 AM Anonymous 6/12/2025 10:48 AM Please don’t eliminate the Spruce Creek stop!! Anonymous 6/12/2025 12:26 PM Extend Service routes up Buffehr Creek Road until 1386 Buffehr Creek home Anonymous 6/12/2025 01:25 PM Would like to add bus service to the top of Buffehr Creek Rd Anonymous 6/12/2025 04:35 PM Spruce Creek Bus stop should be preserved at all costs. I think better signage or a covered stop should seriously be considered as the Bus often misses this stop despite people waiting for it. Anonymous 6/12/2025 04:40 PM I think you should align bus departure times so that they can get to child care/school on time for pick up. Right now you have to leave work super early or be late to pick up with the times. I love the addition of keeping the express bus. Anonymous 6/12/2025 09:48 PM I support expanding bus service within the valley with new routes and increased frequency, but not at the expense of no longer supporting existing stops. Specifically, the Spruce Creek stop provides service to long time Vail residents on one of the busiest stretches of frontage road in the valley. These residents pay state and local taxes with pay in part for the bus service. Eliminating this stop will drive many users to drive into Vail and add to the overcrowded use of the parking area, something the bus service is designed to reduce. Anonymous 6/13/2025 09:38 AM We own a condo in Spruce Creek and this would be a HUGE hit to us. Our small kids love riding the bus to ski and play in town, but walking them in gear to Matterhorn or Ptarmigan isn't realistic for us. Most of this plan is fine, but skipping Spruce Creek all together with the Red and Green really hurts that area, especially those with young families. Anonymous 6/13/2025 12:10 PM Upper Buffehr Creek Road needs bus service Anonymous 6/13/2025 05:17 PM It would be great if the west vail buses ran more often! It's nice that the express bus runs in the summer, but between 10 and 2 there is Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 23 of 33 30 only 1 green bus every 40 minutes, that is ridiculous and not nearly often enough. With that timing it makes more sense to just drive in. Anonymous 6/13/2025 07:05 PM Improve bike racks...main reason I come to Vail in summer is for biking but have to drive because the racks rarely work Anonymous 6/13/2025 08:04 PM West Vail Express all day!!! Anonymous 6/13/2025 08:11 PM If proposing a new route in West Vail, why not include Donovan Park? Our Matterhorn bus stop is jammed during busy times with people parking there. That would reduce the volume. And would offer people in the Matterhorn neighborhood additional options. Every 30 minutes is not enough unfortunately. Anonymous 6/13/2025 08:57 PM I support making a shorter bus ride to inner mountain. I drive in instead of taking the bus due to the length of time I would be on a bus And waiting for a bus. Anonymous 6/13/2025 10:51 PM There is no need for paid parking . It’s taking away from the locals who support the town day in and day out. Find some other way to find funding. Anonymous 6/13/2025 10:52 PM For east vail i think between 6am-7am there needs to be more busses Anonymous 6/14/2025 09:26 AM You guys are awesome and I know that you are always using every resource given to you but more busses running the same line during peak hours is so mandatory Anonymous 6/14/2025 11:16 AM West Vail Express service all day long, not just peak Anonymous 6/15/2025 07:16 AM We need more say in placement of Shift bike locations. Feel like we have no say in them. Anonymous 6/15/2025 10:59 AM The bus doesn’t run early enough in the summer or winter for me to get to work on time every day, it would be nice if there was an earlier option. Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 24 of 33 31 Anonymous 6/15/2025 11:02 AM The first morning West Vail busses to not coordinate at all with the first morning Bustang service. With the advent of paid summer parking I no longer go to the Village or Lionshead for lunch. I actually don’t go to the Village or Lionshead for any purchases any more. Anonymous 6/15/2025 02:06 PM Please allow dogs. The additional bus services added this summer are great. Please continue them indefinitely. Anonymous 6/15/2025 07:28 PM After 9 o’clock, having more red buses Anonymous 6/15/2025 09:46 PM I enjoy the greater frequency of TOV transit in the Sandstone area this summer. However, with the Shift bikes at the Simba Run stop and my proclivity for walking, I use either the Sandstone, or Lions Ridge Loop bus less than two (2) times per month. As I have few to no permanent residents in my vicinity and I am unclear of their usage of the addition of the Lions Ridge Loop bus this summer, or the increased frequency of Sandstone. I'll communicate it whenever possible. Anonymous 6/16/2025 08:04 AM I would love to see better options for folks traveling from the north frontage road west to Edwards or Eagle Anonymous 6/16/2025 10:14 AM It is a disappointment for those of us who live on Chamonix Lane that the West Vail Red does not provide service during the summer months. Anonymous 6/16/2025 11:10 AM In-town bus makes no sense. The times are always wrong. You'll be waiting after work on the north side of the route and you watch 3 in town buses go by back to back to back and the south side of the route. Buses are supposed to be staggered. It's the most non sensible transit system I've ever seen. No one cares about the green/red, express etc. . People don't want to be forced to take the bus. Not to mention you're making the poorest individuals in this valley pay for all your pet projects. Most seasons I drive to a not close parking spot and then take the bus in. No one wants to get on a bus an hour and a half before their shift and then sit on the bus for an hour and a half after their shift. I bet the folks on the council don't walk more then 20 yards from their parking spots. They are so out of touch whether it's parking, cost of living, or sheep in East Vail. Again, nobody is gonna force any locals in this town to take the bus if they Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 25 of 33 32 don't want to so, why don't you make the rich pay some more and solve your problems that way. Instead of charging locals to park in a structure that been free since it's inception. Way to help out your workforce Like just hire more drivers, buy more buses. We all know Vail has the money. We all know the tourist have the money to help pay for it. We don't care if that bus is empty 3 months out the year. Y'all are so inefficient at trying to be efficient. Anonymous 6/16/2025 12:22 PM A lot of work starts on the half hour or hour and ends on the half hour or hour. It would be nice for the buses to arrive and leave on the quarter hour so that people don’t have to leave early or wait or arrive late to work if they don’t want to be extra early. Anonymous 6/16/2025 06:57 PM East vail bus should definitely come at least every half an hour after 6pm. After work, sometimes I don't make it and I have to wait for an hour for the next bus to come. It's really frustrating. While other bus lines are more frequent, I would prefer East vail to be every half an hour all day instead of every 15 minutes before 6 pm. The current bus schedule is disappointing. Anonymous 6/16/2025 08:42 PM DO NOT GET RID OF THE SPRUCE CREEK STOP! Anonymous 6/17/2025 08:02 AM Many employees in town finish work between 8-10pm and the limited Sandstone schedule is inconvenient at night Anonymous 6/17/2025 11:00 AM Great just do not get rid of the Spruce Creek Stop! Anonymous 6/17/2025 01:33 PM Thanks for the great service. The bus system is fantastic and reliable Anonymous 6/18/2025 09:02 AM I live in West Vail and I need to bd at work at the Golf Course by 10:00am and the bus schedule gets me there either super early or late. And I get off work at 7:30 and I hate getting home at 9-10 at night because of the Golf Course bus schedule. Anonymous 6/18/2025 09:07 AM Sandstone need to run the .15 time slot continually throughout the day and not break it up into certain times during the day. Anonymous There is no easy way to get from West Vail north side to the hospital. Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 26 of 33 33 6/18/2025 10:48 PM Takes too long and unable to arrive for when shift work starts at 7 or 8am. Also no Core Transit stop in West Vail when heading West on frontage road to easily catch bus to Avon. Anonymous 6/19/2025 08:38 PM I just want more service to/from the outlying parking areas such as matterhorn or west vail mall. It's becoming increasingly difficult for county locals utilize Vail without long waits/commutes by bus or constant fees during any season. This is the last semi-convenient option we have left. Anonymous 6/20/2025 08:25 AM Increase frequency later during Bravo!vail. Anonymous 6/20/2025 10:30 AM The summer Lions Ridge Loop has been great this summer but unfortunately has been closed this month due to Timber Ridge construction. I would like to see it continue in the summer. Anonymous 6/20/2025 10:35 AM Wonderful having the Lionsridge loop bus this summer but unfortunately is not running mow due to Timber Ridge construction. I think with all the employ housing contruction the Lionsridge Loop stop will help relieve congestion. Anonymous 6/20/2025 12:18 PM The bus stop near the Spruce Creek Townhomes is vital to our area for picking up and having good ridership in that area absolutely do not support taking out this bus stop. Sincerely Jack Dunn Anonymous 6/21/2025 08:42 AM I wish the green and red would do continuous circle in the winter like they do in summer. Instead of switching red to green. Just stay red Anonymous 6/21/2025 08:43 AM Please get some small buses like Beaver Creek uses and start some new surface street routes to serve Potato Patch, Buffehr Creek, West Vail South areas. We need transportation too. Anonymous 6/21/2025 09:39 AM The summer bus schedule has been very painful. Spend about 4 hours a week waiting for a bus. Anonymous 6/21/2025 10:40 AM Get the bums out of living in transportation center PLEASE Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 27 of 33 34 Anonymous 6/21/2025 03:23 PM Please do NOT end bus service to Spruce Creek. I rely on the bus all winter and frequently in the summer. My children ride it independently and frequently. The walk to ptarmigan from Spruce Creek is too far and often ice covered. It’s a danger to me as well as younger children. My neighbors are elderly and do use the spruce creek bus frequently. They won’t do that walk and their lives are going to be significantly limited if you do this. I know that my guests, my children won’t be walking to and from ptarmigan; they will drive and park. Isn’t this the opposite of what you want? I also sometimes rent my place and it is rentable because of the bus stop. This would significantly impact my ability to pay my bills. My taxes were recently doubled: Please do not end service to Spruce Creek bus stop too. I use it all the time. It was the PRIMARY reason I purchased this home. Anonymous 6/21/2025 04:26 PM I think the routes in west vail are very important as I am older and sometimes have small grandchildren with me. Thank you. Anonymous 6/21/2025 06:03 PM I am an owner at Spruce Creek Townhomes. Are family is strongly opposed to ending service at the Spruce Creek bus stop. We paid a significant fee when purchasing our home that went to transit services. A primary reason for purchasing our townhome was the proximity to a bus stop. All of our family and guests (we do not rent our townhouse) use the bus stop in the winter and summer season. We dont see how Vail Transit profits from removing this bus stop. I would be happy to pursue this further. Matt Heimerich 719-980-5173 Anonymous 6/21/2025 06:08 PM Parking should have been charged more in the winter vs charging at all in the summer. The bus system is fine but having to pay at all in the summer is inconvenient and affecting business for the already struggling summer season. Anonymous 6/21/2025 06:56 PM I use the spruce creek bus stop and I want you to keep it, I would use the bus less if I had to walk to ptarmigan. Anonymous 6/22/2025 07:43 AM What about splitting east vail into two routes? Often, at Bald Mountain, we get passed by full busses making our wait longer. Anonymous 6/22/2025 09:02 AM We would love an extra bus on concert nights from the Amp to East Vail. We often leave the concert early to avoid having to wait an hour to get home. Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 28 of 33 35 Anonymous 6/22/2025 10:16 AM Please help the locals. Do NOT charge for parking it affects all of us, and local economy in vail village and usage of the village in general. Anonymous 6/22/2025 02:52 PM I used to live and work in West Vail, and then moved to East Vail so I have used almost all the busses that are available. I find that I am less able to make use of the buses from East Vail during the times I need for work (7am and 5pm) as the frequency/schedule is much much worse. I worry about missing the connecting buses to WV from the transport center, if I do then I’m spending an hour or longer commuting an 8 mile distance. The east vail express vs just the regular service are relatively similar so I don’t understand why there isn’t just a more frequent east vail bus instead of the hiker bus at specific times, it seems as if it caters for tourists and not locals. Also the fact that the east vail bus cuts to once an hour after 6 is really un- usable for locals, and adds so much time to the day of so many people working in bars, restaurants and hospitality. I generally support having more frequent busses and better layovers at the transport center, to connect east/west vail without having to do a long frontage road loop. The express busses are good as you can jump from one to another at the transport center but the east vail express isn’t all day. I feel like the red/green and the east vail bus could line up too and importantly wait for like 2 minutes for everyone to get off the busses and change if needed before pulling out. Seeing your connecting bus leave as your bus is pulling in sucks cause you know you just added 20-60 minutes to your day. A lot of these proposals are for west vail which is already really really well serviced. I get that there’s more usage but East Vail is categorically less livable as a result of the busses being less available. I’m DREADING winter when my partner starts earlier because I will have to rely on the busses and I feel I will be frequently late and waiting around and wasting my time so I hope that they are more frequent and have better layovers at the transport center Anonymous 6/22/2025 06:04 PM disappointed that free parking is going awsy Anonymous 6/23/2025 08:13 AM Please keep the Spruce creek stop active, the west vail red is convenient for Owners in the area, especially during winter inclement weather, saves walk time from Ptarmigan and Matterhorn, not having to park in the structures, and eliminates additional traffic in town. Is it possible to build a shelter at the Spruce Creek stop? Thanks for the consideration. Anonymous 6/23/2025 08:22 AM Dog should be allowed Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 29 of 33 36 Anonymous 6/23/2025 08:53 AM I most frequently use the Vail Commons stop on Chamonix Lane. A 40-minute West Vail schedule is insufficient. The proposed change to a 30 minute schedule (summer) helps. If this stop ends up on the Lion Ridge Route AND it goes every 30 minutes or more, year-round, that is something I could use to get to town. Lions Ridge as currently configured seems to have too few stops. It makes sense to expand that route to include Chamonix Lane stops. Anonymous 6/23/2025 08:56 AM Waiting 30 minutes for a bus is quite cumbersome. 15 - 20 minute intervals would be great. Anonymous 6/23/2025 09:34 AM We’d ride the bus more if the was an elder shuttle in east Vail dropping and picking up from the Bighorn express bus turnaround. Walking up and down the hills in ski boots definitely has us using our car much more often than the bus. Anonymous 6/23/2025 09:50 AM None Anonymous 6/23/2025 10:05 AM With the current rock mitigation closure on Lionsridge loop. I have heard neighbors suggest closing lionsridge loop to through traffic. With the exception of buses and emergency vehicles. Make it a park setting Anonymous 6/23/2025 12:00 PM Nice to have the express bus back. Anonymous 6/23/2025 12:16 PM Golf Course route should run every 30 minutes in summer. Lots of people use the golf course for various reasons. Anonymous 6/23/2025 06:28 PM My name is Peter Bistar, and I am the owner of Visit Vail, a vacation rental business serving the Vail Valley. Our company manages several properties along South Frontage Road, and many of our repeat guests—some of whom have stayed with us for years—rely heavily on the Spruce Creek bus stop for convenient transportation. The Spruce Creek stop plays a vital role in both winter and summer seasons, but it is especially critical during the winter. Guests and homeowners depend on this access point to reach the ski slopes and return home safely after a long day on the mountain. Its proximity provides not only convenience but also a sense of safety and accessibility that is highly valued by our community. Eliminating this Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 30 of 33 37 stop would significantly affect our business, reduce property owners’ rental income, and negatively impact the guest experience. We believe this change would create unnecessary challenges for both residents and visitors, and we respectfully urge the town to reconsider any plans to remove the Spruce Creek bus stop. Thank you for your attention and for your continued commitment to keeping Vail welcoming and accessible. Sincerely, Peter Bistar Owner, Visit Vail Vacation Rentals Anonymous 6/23/2025 06:53 PM Needs to be more frequent. We've waited way too long and way too often. Anonymous 6/23/2025 07:34 PM I am supportive of increased frequency and use of the free local transit system. However, I am strongly against eliminating existing stops for local residents. Anonymous 6/24/2025 08:07 AM I am soooo happy to have the WV Express in the summer! Now you just need to add it past 5 pm in the Winter. At least until 6:30 for people that work past 5 coming from Core buses. Anonymous 6/24/2025 11:10 AM We need the increased frequency to East vail all day. Stopping in mid day decreases use Anonymous 6/24/2025 11:51 AM Like having the WV Express available! Anonymous 6/24/2025 01:32 PM I know what your objections aren’t putting a bus run up potato patch. I think you need to think outside of the box and maybe get a different kind of bus and serve that area. Let’s save the world, all the SUVs up here are gas, guzzlers, and their up and down this hill all day long. Anonymous 6/24/2025 03:20 PM SPRUCE CREEK Stop is a successful and valuable asset in both seasons since homeowners , friends, extended family memes and paying guests are not subject to traffic on either bridge to Matterhorn or Ptarmigan. Both bridges serve populated Highlands Area n extended Cascade at far east end. Traffic is constant and both bridges are narrow and offer no elevated sidewalks. Believe even in sumner additional times would increase ridership given pay parking in Town. Anonymous The red bus passes the spruce creek bus stop it is not out of the way. Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 31 of 33 38 6/24/2025 05:07 PM It passes right by us. Why would you not want it to stop there? Alot of people use this bus all year round summer and winter so we don't have to park in the structure. Anonymous 6/24/2025 08:07 PM I like having the Lionsridge Loop bus as an option in the summer. I wish the route ran later or there were better night-time options; It often stops running before my shift is done. Optional question (136 response(s), 194 skipped) Question type: Essay Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 32 of 33 39 Q15 If these enhanced frequencies as well as other service improvements were extended to run all day (approximately 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.) during the summer, would this impact your ridership? 186 (61.2%) 186 (61.2%) 84 (27.6%) 84 (27.6%) 2 (0.7%) 2 (0.7%) 32 (10.5%) 32 (10.5%) I would ride more than I currently do I would ride the same as I currently do I would ride less than I currently do Not applicable Question options Optional question (304 response(s), 26 skipped) Question type: Dropdown Question Transit Route Survey : Survey Report for 26 November 2018 to 24 June 2025 Page 33 of 33 40 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan Prepared for: Submitted on: Town of Vail June 24, 2025 41 P Table of Contents Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................ 1 Key Findings................................................................................................................................................................. 1 Phased Recommendations and Costs ................................................................................................................ 3 Chapter 1: Existing Conditions ..................................................................................................... 5 Vail Transit Planning Background ......................................................................................................................... 5 Demographics ............................................................................................................................................................ 8 Local Bus Routes ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 System Ridership Trends ....................................................................................................................................... 17 Productivity .............................................................................................................................................................. 24 Financial Performance ...........................................................................................................................................26 Vail Transportation Center ...................................................................................................................................29 Other Transit Services .......................................................................................................................................... 30 Travel Patterns .........................................................................................................................................................32 Community Input .................................................................................................................................................... 34 Summary ................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Chapter 2: Impact Analysis ........................................................................................................ 37 Ridership Analysis ................................................................................................................................................... 37 Route Reliability Analysis ...................................................................................................................................... 40 Housing Density Analysis ....................................................................................................................................... 51 Employee Housing Transit Service .................................................................................................................... 55 Core Transit Coordination ..................................................................................................................................... 61 Summer Paid Parking Impact on Transit Needs ............................................................................................. 72 Impact Analysis Summary ..................................................................................................................................... 75 Chapter 3: Scenario Development ............................................................................................. 77 42 P Short-Term Route Opportunities ........................................................................................................................ 77 Route Concepts ....................................................................................................................................................... 78 Scenario Development ......................................................................................................................................... 86 Impact to Transit Frequency by Stop ................................................................................................................92 Scenario Trade Offs ................................................................................................................................................ 97 Chapter 4: Preferred Scenario ................................................................................................... 98 List of Figures Figure 1: Preferred Scenario Summary ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Figure 2: Jobs Counts by NAICS Industry Sector, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Figure 3: Inflow / Outflow Job Counts in the Town of Vail. Source: 2021 LEHD Data ............................................................................................................ 10 Figure 4: Job Concentration, LEHD, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Figure 5: Existing Vail Transit Bus Routes, Go Vail 2045 ...............................................................................................................................................................12 Figure 6: Distance from Residential Properties to Bus Stops (Including Outside of TOV boundaries and on the Winter Route) ............................ 14 Figure 7: Transit Catchment Area ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Figure 8: Annual Vail Transit Ridership, 2013 -2023 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Figure 9: Vail Transit Ridership by Month, Pre- and Post-COVID............................................................................................................................................... 18 Figure 10: Vail Transit Seasonal Ridership Comparison ................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Figure 11: Annual Ridership by Route (excluding Intown) .............................................................................................................................................................. 20 Figure 12: Winter Ridership by Route (excluding Intown) ...............................................................................................................................................................21 Figure 13: Summer/Shoulder Ridership by Route (excluding Intown)........................................................................................................................................ 22 Figure 14: Intown Route Ridership by Year ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 23 Figure 15: Monthly Revenue Hours by Year ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Figure 16: Monthly Service Productivity by Year ............................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Figure 17: 2023 Funding Sources and Operational Expenditures (in Millions) ....................................................................................................................... 26 Figure 18: Potential Schematic Concepts for Expanding Vail Transportation Center .......................................................................................................... 29 43 P Figure 19: The Origins of Travelers to Vail, by Season, 2021 -2022 ............................................................................................................................................ 32 Figure 20: Percent of Total Ridership by Route ................................................................................................................................................................................37 Figure 21: Average Daily Boardings, February 2024 ...................................................................................................................................................................... 38 Figure 22: Stops with Highest Average Daily Ridership ................................................................................................................................................................ 39 Figure 23: Average Daily Boardings by Time of Day without Intown, February 2024 ......................................................................................................... 40 Figure 24: Distribution of Run Time by Route, July 2023 ............................................................................................................................................................. 42 Figure 25: Average Run Times by Time of Day by Route, July 2023 ........................................................................................................................................ 43 Figure 26: Average Slack Time (Time between scheduled and average run times), July 2023 ....................................................................................... 44 Figure 27: Standard Deviation of Run Times (Variability in Total Run Time), July 2023 ..................................................................................................... 45 Figure 28: Distribution of Run Time by Route, February 2024 ................................................................................................................................................... 47 Figure 29: Average Run Times by Time of Day by Route, February 2024 .............................................................................................................................. 48 Figure 30: Average Slack Time (Time between scheduled and average run times), February 2024 ............................................................................. 49 Figure 31: Standard Deviation of Run Times (Variability in Total Run Time), February 2024 ............................................................................................ 50 Figure 32: Total Housing Unit Density ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 51 Figure 33: Percent Number of Bedrooms in Housing Units ......................................................................................................................................................... 53 Figure 34: Bus Frequency to Vail Transportation Center by Stop, Winter Peak Hour .......................................................................................................... 57 Figure 39: Existing Vail Transit Routes and Bus Stops ................................................................................................................................................................... 65 Figure 43: Potential New Transit Market in Summer Trips to VTC due to Paid Parking ...................................................................................................... 74 Figure 44: Vail Population Density ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 77 Figure 45: Middle Creek Circulator ......................................................................................................................................................................................................79 Figure 46: South Frontage Road Express ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 81 Figure 47: West Vail Red and Green ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 83 Figure 48: Lionsridge Loop .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 85 Figure 49: Scenario 1 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 86 Figure 50: Scenario 1 New and Changed Routes - West Vail ...................................................................................................................................................... 87 Figure 51: Scenario 2 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 89 Figure 52: Scenario 2 Route Changes in West Vail ........................................................................................................................................................................ 90 Figure 53: Preferred Scenario (Scenario 1): Enhance Local Service .......................................................................................................................................... 99 44 P List of Tables Table 1: Town of Vail Demographics, US Census, 2022 ................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Table 2: Peak Seasonal Frequencies (in minutes) and Service Span by Route ........................................................................................................................ 13 Table 3: Fleet Replacement Cycles ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Table 4: Funding Sources for Operational Expenses (2020 - 2023) .........................................................................................................................................27 Table 5: Funding Sources for Capital Expenses (2020 - 2023) ..................................................................................................................................................27 Table 6: Operating Expenses and Performance Metrics ............................................................................................................................................................... 28 Table 7: Core Transit and Vail Transit Bus Stop Pairings .............................................................................................................................................................. 30 Table 8: Top Trip Pairings in Vail by Percent of Trips .................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Table 9: Run Time Summary Statistics by Route, July 2023 ........................................................................................................................................................ 42 Table 10: Run Time Summary Statistics by Route, February 2024 ............................................................................................................................................. 46 Table 11: Vail Workforce Rental Housing ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 52 Table 12: Existing Ridership to Bed Ratios ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 54 Table 13: Forecasted Ridership at Timber Ridge and West Middle Creek Bus Stops ........................................................................................................... 54 Table 14: Bus Stop Ridership and Employee Housing .................................................................................................................................................................... 55 Table 15: Count of Buses and Frequency per Hour toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop and Destination ................................ 56 Table 16: Count of Buses per Hour toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop and Destination ........................................................... 59 Table 17: Summary of Frequency by Stop .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 60 Table 18: Core Transit Route Descriptions .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 61 Table 19: Shared Challenges and Opportunities for Vail and Core Transit ............................................................................................................................... 62 Table 20: Core Transit Transfer Points in Vail, Winter 2024 ....................................................................................................................................................... 66 Table 21: North versus South Frontage Road Service Trade-offs ............................................................................................................................................... 69 Table 22: Seasonal Schedule Periods, Vail and Core Transit Systems, 2024 ......................................................................................................................... 70 Table 23: Core Transit Winter 2024 Service Changes .................................................................................................................................................................... 71 Table 24: Town of Vail Parking Facilities ............................................................................................................................................................................................72 45 P Table 25: Scenario 1 Summary of Changes and Operations......................................................................................................................................................... 88 Table 26: Scenario 2 Summary of Changes and Operations ......................................................................................................................................................... 91 Table 27: Count of West Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario ....................................... 93 Table 28: Count of East Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario ........................................ 94 Table 29: Count of West Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario ................................... 95 Table 30: Count of East Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario ..................................... 96 Table 31: Scenario Trade-Offs ................................................................................................................................................................................................................97 46 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 1 Executive Summary The Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan was developed to evaluate and enhance the efficiency, coverage, and performance of the town’s transit system. The planning process involved a comprehensive assessment of existing conditions, community input, and perform ance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement. The goal was to develop a phased implementation strategy that aligns with community needs and funding opportunities. Key Findings The analysis revealed several areas for improvement, including route realignments, service frequency adjustments, and seasona l optimization. The study emphasized the importance of aligning service levels with demand patterns, improving on -time performance, and enhancing connectivity to existing and future key destinations. The Preferred Scenario, shown in Figure 1, is Scenario 1 from the analysis which emphasizes enhancements to local service. This scenario was selected through collaboration with Town staff, council, and community input to balance operational feasibility with serv ice expansion goals. Key features of the Preferred Scenario include: • Year-round operation of the West Vail Express, transitioning from seasonal/peak-hour to year-round/all-day service. • Increased frequency on the West Vail Red and Green routes, with simplified routing to improve reliability and reduce travel t ime. • Year-round operation of the Lionsridge Loop at 30-minute frequency, with extended routing to connect to West Vail Mall • Introduction of the Middle Creek Circulator, a new route designed to connect high -density employee housing directly to Lionshead and the Vail Transportation Center (VTC). • Increased frequency on the East Vail route, with the elimination of the East Vail Express (Hiker Express). • Elimination of the Ford Park route, with coverage absorbed by other services. • Seasonal adjustments to align with regional transit schedules and anticipated demand shifts due to paid summer parking and ne w housing developments. • The scenario is designed to be implemented in phases from 2025 to 2030, with service expansions aligned to key events such as regional transit improvements, new housing developments, and the renovation of the Vail Transportation Center. By full implementation (2028–2030), the system is projected to cost $5.2 million in summer and $4.4 million in winter, representing an annual increase of approximately $2.0 million over current operating and administrative costs. Most of this increase is attributed to expanded summer service. 47 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 2 Figure 1: Preferred Scenario Summary 48 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 3 Phased Recommendations and Costs The table below summarizes the proposed route changes and associated costs by year and season. These recommendations are structured to suppor t phased implementation and are suitable for inclusion in grant applications. There are three improvement packages, showing which improvements should be made together . Anticipated Event Increased Regional Service (Improvements by Bustang and Core Transit) Summer Paid Parking (at TOV parking facilities) New Housing and Activity Nodes (Middle Creek, Timber Ridge, West Lionshead) Vail Transportation Center Renovation to increase capacity Year 2025-2026 2026-2027 2027-2028 2028-2029 2029-2030 Season Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Existing Operational Costs Subtotal** $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M Improvement Packages Route Service Change Additional Operational Cost from Existing (2024-2025) Package 1: WVG + WVR + LRL + WVE and related changes West Vail Red and Green Year-Round Routing Change and Increase Frequency - +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K Lionsridge Loop Year-Round Routing Change and Increase Frequency +$50K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K West Vail Express Year-Round All-Day Service +$300K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K Winter Piggybacks Eliminate winter piggybacks by incorporating into service - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K Early Winter Service Eliminate Early Winter Service (Summer schedule transitions to winter schedule) - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K 49 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 4 Package 2: East Vail and related changes East Vail Year-Round Increase Frequency - +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K East Vail Express (Hiker Express) Eliminate East Vail Express (Hiker Express) in summer +$100K - -$225K - -$225K - -$225K - -$225K - Package 3: Routes that can be added without direct relationship to other routes. Sandstone Increased Frequency During Summer +$50K - +$115K - +$115K - +$115K - +$115K - Middle Creek Circulator New Year-Round Route - - - - - - +$390K +$270K +$390K +$270K Golf Course No Change - - - - - - - - - - Intown No Change - - - - - - - - - - Net Additional Seasonal Operational Cost Subtotal +$500K -$140K +$1.50M -$140K +$1.50M -$140K +$1.89M +$130K +$1.89M +$130K TOTAL SEASONAL COST TOTAL SEASONAL COSTS $3.8M $4.1M $4.8M $4.1M $4.8M $4.1M $5.2M $4.4M $5.2M $4.4M *Summer includes new "early summer" season **Existing Cost includes "early winter" season. Costs may change with operational changes 50 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 5 Chapter 1: Existing Conditions Vail Transit Planning Background The Vail transportation system has historically centered around the movement of skiers. In 1980, Vail Associates funded the i mplementation of a regional bus service in Eagle Valley to transport skiers between Beaver Creek and Vail Mountain, and to transpor t employees between Edwards and Vail. Today, Vail is an internationally recognized mountain resort community with year-round activities. Vail Transit provides free year-round bus service throughout Vail, making it one of the largest free transportation systems in the country. The Town continue s to experience growth and the resulting mobility and transportation challenges. The system serves 2.8 million annual transit riders and consists of eig ht routes. Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Plan The Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Master Plan addresses transportation with innovation, sustainability, and communit y input. The plan was completed in 2024 by the Town of Vail and replaced the 2009 Vail Transportation Master Plan. The adopted Visi on Statement follows: “Vail is recognized as having a comprehensive multimodal transportation system with well -integrated alternative transportation options which reduce the number of single occupant vehicle trips and overall vehicle miles traveled to, from, and within Vail.” Transit improvements aim to advance the following six goals: 1. Multimodal Options – Allow people to conveniently get to and around Vail without a car. 2. Equity – Provide seamless connections between local and regional transit and increase transit options for employees in Vail. 3. Climate/Quality of Life – Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and parking demand in Vail by making transit feasible for more trips. 4. Access – Increase access to high-frequency transit to more areas on Vail. 5. Innovation – Transition to zero emission buses and explore opportunities for autonomous transit vehicle technology. 6. Safety – Provide safe/comfortable access to buses for people walking to and waiting for the bus and improve safety of bus operations i n locations with high pedestrian traffic. 51 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 6 The following specific transit recommendations came out of the plan: • Increase service frequency and transition to year-round schedule • Year-round, all-day West Vail Express • Year-round, high frequency East Vail service • Timed transfers between East Vail and West Vail Express. • 20 to 30-minute service on Lions Ridge and Sandstone (combine current into one loop) • West Vail Local Service to 30-minute year-round • New transit route to serve planned employee housing • Coordinate overlapping service to maximize stop frequency • Increase summer frequency in coordination with paid summer parking • Increase service frequency adjacent to dense development, including Middle Creek Village and Timber Ridge • Explore on-demand (microtransit) service along Buffehr Creek/Potato Patch or Golf Course As the Vail Short Term Transit Route Optimization Plan will be a direct outcome of the Go Vail 2045 plan, it will aim to prov ide a path for achieving these goals. The recommendations may also serve as a baseline for planning efforts. Regional Planning Efforts Intermountain 2045 Regional Transportation Plan The Intermountain 2045 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) is a long-range plan for multimodal transportation in the region, which includes Vail and over two dozen other mountain communities, of which there are ten transit providers: Town of Avon, Town of Breckenridge, Town of Snowmass Village, Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA), City of Glenwood Springs, Summit County, Lake County, Eagle County Regional Transit Authority (Core Transit), Town of Vail, and City of Aspen. Vail tourism is recognized as a crucial component of regional economic vitality. Transit is recognized as essential for emplo yees who support the industry but are not able to live in the high-cost communities where they work. Regional transit plays a crucial role in servicing the area and expanding job opportunities. Expanded regional transit also provides additional transportation options to residents and visit ors. Eagle County identified the following two high priority highway and multimodal projects: • Construction of I-70 Vail Pass auxiliary lanes including an eastbound climbing lane, westbound deceleration lane, truck parking, chain up, and runaway truck ramp improvements to increase capacity ($400M) • Vail intermodal transit site on I-70 ($15M) 52 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 7 The Vail intermodal transit site refers to the renovations proposed for the Vail Transportation Center (VTC) which is discuss ed in more detail in a later section of this plan. West Vail Master Plan The West Vail Master Plan, adopted in 2021, serves as a guide for commercial development, housing, and transportation in the West Vail neighborhood. The purpose of the plan is to guide development to create a comfortable environment for individuals to move around and through, regardless of level of access to a car. The plan proposes a series of recommendations specific to Vail Transit to expand ridership and allocate resources: • Analyze performance on an annual basis • Coordinate with Core Transit to better align the two services • Explore late night, on-demand service partnerships • Improve infrastructure at bus stops (shelters, bike racks, walkways, etc.) • Create first-and-last mile connections from bus stops Eagle County Strategic Plan The ongoing Eagle County Strategic Plan similarly centers workforce support and sustainable economic growth. Topics to be add ressed will include access to housing, early childhood education, and healthcare. The two-year planning process is expected to be completed in December 2025. The Strategic Plan finds support in the Go Vail Mobility and Transportation Plan, as a flexible, high -quality transportation system will increase access to opportunity, including essential services such as healthcare and education. Service to workforce hou sing, healthcare, and educational facilities will inform recommendations in the Vail Short Term Transit Route Optimization Plan. Core Transit 10 Year Transportation Development and Capital Plan Core Transit, formerly known as Eagle Valley Transportation Authority (EVTA) and operated as ECO Transit, is the newly formed Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in Eagle Valley. In 2022, voters in unincorporated Eagle County; the towns of Avon, Eagle, Minturn, Red Cliff and Vail; and Beaver Creek Metropolitan District approved the creation of Core Transit along with a new half-penny sales tax to be collected to fund operations and future service improvements. Core Transit is currently developing the 10 Year Transportation Development and Capital Plan, providing an opportunity to rethink regional transportation systems in conjunction with Vail route optimization. 53 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 8 Demographics Population and Demographic Characteristics The Town of Vail has a total population of 4,835 people and 7,300 housing units (Table 1). The population is predominantly white, high earners who have a car (Table S0801, 2022). The median value of owner-occupied housing units in Vail is $857,300, which is more than double the amount in the United States (Table B25075, 2022). The percent of people below the poverty line, 5.9, is about half the percent in the United States, 12.5 percent (Table B17001, 2022). Table 1: Town of Vail Demographics, US Census, 2022 Demographics Town of Vail Eagle County Total population 4,835 55,731 Employment rate 68.1% 70.5% Median household income $96,667 $98,887 Total housing units 7,300 32,967 Hispanic or Latino population 500 16,858 Employment Sectors The number one job sector in Vail is Accommodation and Food Service (Figure 2). This sector eclipses the second highest, Health Care and Social assistance, by about 130 percent. Transit service in this region is recognized as essential for employees who are not able to live in the high-cost communities where they work. This planning effort offers local and regional transit in Vail the opportunity to prioritize the service destinations served by this sector. 54 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 9 Figure 2: Jobs Counts by NAICS Industry Sector, 2021 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 Information Transportation & Warehousing Manufacturing Finance & Insurance Wholesale Trade Construction Educational Services Waste Management Utilities Professional & Tech Services Services Arts, Entertainment, & Rec Real Estate Public Administration Retail Trade Health Care & Social Assistance Accommodation & Food Services 55 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 10 Commute Patterns Just 11% of Vail’s population takes public transit to work, however, users are concentrated geographically to the north of I -70. Under half of the population (45%) live in the census tract north of I-70 but the area comprises 57% of the population who use transit to commute to work. By contrast, just 23% of the population live in eastern Vail, but just 4% of the population use transit to commute to work (Tabl es S0802, 1701). Figure 3 shows the percent of the population who live in Vail that also work within the town, versus the percent that work outside of the town. Most people who live in Vail work outside of Vail (62%), whereas almost 40 percent of people both live and work in Vail. This does not account for remote jobs, which could skew the data by showing a smaller percentage of people who live and work in Vail than actual. O verall, the data shows that there is a significant outflow of employees from Vail. Figure 3: Inflow / Outflow Job Counts in the Town of Vail. Source: 2021 LEHD Data 62% 38% Job Inflow and Outflow of Vail Residents Live in Vail but work outside Live and work in Vail 56 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 11 Employment Locations in Vail Jobs in Vail are concentrated in a commercial core south of I -70 (Figure 4). This node includes Vail Resort, hotels, restaurants and retail as well as the hospital, library, and town hall. The core is served by several Vail Transit routes: West Vail Red, West Vail Green, a nd Intown. In general, more jobs are in West Vail compared to East Vail. West Vail has more dense development and services north and south of I-70, whereas East Vail is almost exclusively developed south of I -70. Jobs in East Vail are likely associated with the resorts in the area. Figure 4: Job Concentration, LEHD, 2021 57 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 12 Local Bus Routes Vail is currently served by nine bus routes (Figure 5). This section discusses seasonal service and frequency, coverage, and the current fleet transition plan. Figure 5: Existing Vail Transit Bus Routes, Go Vail 2045 58 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 13 Transit Service Span & Frequency Vail Transit service frequency expands and contracts in response to changes in seasonal demand (Table 2). More service and higher frequencies are provided mid-December through April to meet high travel demand during the ski season. Services and frequencies in summer and early winter are lower in response to lower ridership. The balance between service to seasonal visitors and year-round residents and workers will be an important consideration in this plan. Vail Transit utilizes piggyback bus services to increase capacity during peak times. This is done by adding three buses to th e East Vail route and two to the West Vail Express routes. Table 2: Peak Seasonal Frequencies (in minutes) and Service Span by Route Route Early Winter Winter Summer Winter Span of Service Summer Span of Service In-Town Shuttle varies varies 6:30a-1:30a West Vail Express 40 10 - 6:10a-5:20p (peak only) - East Vail 30 15 30 5:50a-2:00a Varies East Vail Hiker Express - - 30 7:45am-4:45pm Sandstone 60 20 60 6:00a-2:10a 6:40a-11:40p West Vail Red 40 30 40 6:00a-12:30a 6:20a-11:40p West Vail Green 40 30 40 5:45a-2:10a 6:00a-11:20a Golf Course 60 30 60 6:45a–11:50p 7:40a-5:10p Ford Park 10 10 - 6:20a-8:35p - Lionsridge 60 60 - 6:15a – 8:15p - Source: Vail Transit (2023-2024) 59 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 14 Winter Buses are at peak frequency in the winter months. Service frequency on the West Vail Express, East Vail, Sandstone, and Golf Course routes are the most elastic to demand throughout the year. Peak system frequency is on the West Vail Express and Ford Park routes, each of which reach 10-minute frequencies in the winter. Summer The summer months, mid-April to November, see the most limited transit frequencies. The average service is over 45 minutes and the West Vail Express, Ford Park, and Lionsridge routes cease operation. Vail also operates a Special Events Express service as n eeded during the summer months. The Event Bus runs between Ford Park, Vail Village parking structure, and Lionshead parking structure. This provides coverage for four event venues in Ford Park: Ford Amphitheater, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, Nature Center, and Ford Park Athletic Field. Transit Coverage Vail residents and visitors have adequate access to the Vail Transit system. According to analysis conducted during the Go Va il 2045 plan, 94% of Vail’s residential units are within half of a mile or a 10 -minute walk from a bus stop. Furthermore, 82% of residential units are a quarter mile or closer to a bus stop, and 33% are within one-sixteenth of a mile (or 330 feet) from a bus stop (Figure 6). Typically, planners measure transit coverage as within a quarter mile of local transit and half a mile of high -capacity, high-frequency or regional transit. Within the context of Vail, it may be reasonable to assume transit access within a half mile in the summer and a quarter mile or smaller in the winter given snow, ice, and topography can make a half mile much harder to navigate by foot in the winter. Figure 7 also displays all land parcels by their distance to bus stops using the roadway network. The areas in the town where bus stops are located further than a half mile from the parcels include Vail Intermountain, parts of Matterhorn/Glen Lyon, and Sandstone/P otato Patch. Figure 6: Distance from Residential Properties to Bus Stops (Including Outside of TOV boundaries and on the Winter Route) Source: Town of Vail 6% 11% 19% 30% 33% 0%5%10%15%20%25%30%35%40% Beyond 1/2 Mile 1/4-1/2 Mile 1/8-1/4 Mile 1/16-1/8 Mile Within 1/16 Mile 60 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 15 Source: Town of Vail Figure 7: Transit Catchment Area 61 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 16 Transit Fleet Electrification In May 2022, the Town of Vail adopted a Zero Emission Transit Fleet Transition Plan, which outlines the steps that the Town o f Vail will take to transition 100 percent of its fleet to battery electric vehicles by 2032. The implementation of an all Zero Emi ssions Vehicle (ZEV) fleet is supported by both the GoEV City resolution and the Go Vail 2045 plan. Regional -level support for fleet electrification can be found in the Eagle County Climate Action Plan and the Colorado Electric Vehicle Plan. When the Zero Emission plan was adopted in 2022, the Town had thirty -three 40-foot buses, of which four were battery electric and two were diesel hybrid. At the time of this plan, two of five planned replacement cycles had already occurred. In 2023 Vail Transit purchased two electric buses and in 2024 added an additional six. In total, Vail Transit now operates twelve battery electric buses. A summary of fu ture transition cycles is shown below in Table 3. Table 3: Fleet Replacement Cycles Cycle Year Replacement # 3 2029 8 4 2030 7 5 2032 6 Source: Town of Vail Zero Emission Transit Fleet Transition Plan, 2022 62 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 17 System Ridership Trends Annual Ridership Annual ridership trends indicate a return to pre-COVID levels (Figure 8). Vail Transit, like most systems, experienced a significant dip in ridership during the peak of the pandemic, between 2020 and 2022. Annual ridership levels were relatively consistent during t he years prior to the pandemic, hovering around 2.8 million. The lowest annual ridership during the pandemic was recorded in 2021 at approximately 1.5 million, over a million fewer riders than in 2019. Ridership returned to previous levels in 2023, following an almost 50 percent incre ase from 2021 to 2022. The return of ridership over the last few years offers Vail Transit the opportunity to re -invest in the system. Figure 8: Annual Vail Transit Ridership, 2013-2023 Source: Vail Transit 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 1.7 1.5 2.2 2.8 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Nu m b e r o f R i d e r s ( i n M i l l i o n s ) 63 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 18 Monthly Ridership Monthly ridership trends indicate a return to pre-COVID patterns (Figure 9). Ridership from August 2020 to July 2021 saw an overall drop in ridership, particularly in the winter months when ridership typically peaks between December and March. Ridership returned to pre-COVID patterns beginning in summer 2022. Summer ridership is typically about half of winter ridership, and the seasonal peak is between June and August. Summer 2023 ridership peaked in July at almost 200,000 and by March 2024, ridership more than doubled to about 510,00 0, surpassing any other month over the last five years. Figure 9: Vail Transit Ridership by Month, Pre- and Post-COVID Source: Vail Transit 0 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 600,000 Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Nu m b e r o f R i d e r s 2018-2019 2020-2021 2022-2023 2023-2024 64 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 19 Seasonal Ridership Seasonal ridership trends over the last decade are shown in Figure 10. Prior to 2020, winter ridership was relatively stable, and summer ridership was steadily increasing. Following the dip in ridership during the pandemic, trends indicate an increase to pre -pandemic levels. Summer 2023 ridership approached 2018 levels and winter 2024 ridership increased to the highest level since 2016. Figure 10: Vail Transit Seasonal Ridership Comparison Source: Vail Transit 0 500,000 1,000,000 1,500,000 2,000,000 2,500,000 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Nu m b e r o f R i d e r s Winter (Dec-Apr)Summer/Shoulder (May-Nov) 65 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 20 Ridership by Route From 2022 to 2023, all routes experienced increased ridership at similar levels, so the overall hierarchy of highest to lowes t ridership routes remained the same (Figure 11). After the Intown route (not included in this figure), East Vail, West Vail Red, and West Vail Green routes have the highest ridership in the system, in that order. The Golf Course, Lionsridge Loop, and Ford Park routes have the lowest riders hip in the system. Low ridership can likely be attributed to the fact that Lionsridge Loop and Ford Park run only during the winter. Figure 11: Annual Ridership by Route (excluding Intown) Source: Vail Transit (2022-2023 data is APC, 2021 data is hand counts). Note that prior to 2023, West Vail Green and Red ridership counts were combined. Vail Transit ridership peaks in the winter, driven by ski tourism. Figure 12 shows that ridership increased modestly between 2023 and 2024 compared to the increase from 2022. The ridership rebound following the pandemic is beginning to level off, and future riders hip increases will likely be less drastic by comparison. 0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 East Vail West Vail Red West Vail Green Sandstone West Vail Express Golf Course Lionsridge Loop Ford Park 2021 2022 2023 66 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 21 Note that prior to 2023, West Vail ridership data was not separated according to route. West Vail Red and Green ridership was combined into one count. If considered together, West Vail has the highest ridership and East Vail has the second highest ridership. Figure 12: Winter Ridership by Route (excluding Intown) Source: Vail Transit. Note that prior to 2023, West Vail Red and Green ridership counts were combined. - 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 East Vail West Vail Red West Vail Green Sandstone West Vail Express Golf Course Lionsridge Ford Park Nu m b e r o f R i d e r s 2022 2023 2024 67 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 22 Summer and shoulder season ridership in Vail is typically about half of winter ridership. Compared to winter routes, summer r outes have similar levels of ridership relative to one another. East Vail has the highest ridership, followed by West Vail Red and Green, and Sandstone (Figure 13). The Lionsridge Loop and Ford Park routes do not run during the summer months, which accounts for the lower ridership during t hese seasons. Winter 2024 ridership levels were close to 2023, following a few years of ridership rebound from the pandemic. Figure 13: Summer/Shoulder Ridership by Route (excluding Intown) Source: Vail Transit. Note that prior to 2023, West Vail Red and Green ridership counts were combined. 2021 West Vail Express data included event ridership. 0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000 70000 80000 90000 100000 East Vail West Vail Red West Vail Green Sandstone West Vail Express Golf Course Lionsridge Ford Park Nu m b e r of R i d e r s 2021 2022 2023 68 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 23 The Intown route serves the commercial core of Vail and has the highest ridership in the bus system. Like other routes, rider ship on this route experienced a dip during the pandemic and has been rebounding since 2021 (Figure 14). Ridership in 2023 was still below 2019 levels but has increased year-over-year. Due to the high ridership, optimization of this route will not be the primary focus of the planning effort. Figure 14: Intown Route Ridership by Year Source: Vail Transit 0 200000 400000 600000 800000 1000000 1200000 1400000 1600000 1800000 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Nu m b e r o f R i d e r s 69 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 24 Productivity Transit productivity is a measure of transit ridership per service hour, which is useful in understanding demand and opportun ities for improvement. Vail Transit began tracking revenue hours of service in 2020 to fulfill reporting requirements for federal f unding. It is important to note that because Vail Transit collects both Automatic Passenger Counts (APC) and hand counts, there may be slight difference s in the reporting of the ridership figures and their impact on productivity. As seen in Figure 15, except for the initial months of the pandemic during 2020, Vail Transit provides a consistent level of service year over ye ar, with the most hours of service between December and March. The number of service hours is growing slightly during the summer months to accommodate the larger visitation Vail experiences during the summer. Figure 15: Monthly Revenue Hours by Year Source: Town of Vail When comparing the service hours to ridership (ridership per revenue service hours), the overall system is becoming more prod uctive (Figure 16). In fact, although the total number of service hours only slightly increased from 2022 (66,679 hours) to 2023 (67,284 hours), the system - 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 Re v e n u e H o u r s 2020 2021 2022 2023 70 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 25 served significantly more riders. This increase in productivity from 34.5 riders per hour to 41.7 riders per hour represents a 21% increase in productivity. This was especially visible from January to April 2023 compared to the same period the previous yea r. In fact, the system was more productive during January and February 2023 than in the same months of 2020, indicating the system has likely recovered from the impacts of the pandemic. Figure 16: Monthly Service Productivity by Year Source: Town of Vail 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Pr o d u c t i v i t y ( R i d e r s h i p / R e v e n u e H o u r s ) 2020 2021 2022 2023 71 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 26 Financial Performance Operational Funding Sources and Expenditures In 2023, Vail Transit operational costs were $6.96 million, which typically covers personnel, fuel, and maintenance. Vail Tra nsit received funding from local, state, and federal sources. Most funding was local with $6.34 million, which represents 91% of th e operating expenses (Figure 17). An additional 8% of the funding came from federal sources and just 1% came from state sources. Figure 17: 2023 Funding Sources and Operational Expenditures (in Millions) Source: National Transit Database Local Funding, $6.34 State Funding, $0.06 Federal Funding, $0.57 72 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 27 Historically most funding was local, but between 2020 and 2022, a substantial portion of federal funding became available for Vail Transit to pursue (Table 4). In 2023, however, operational funding was again almost all locally sourced. Table 4: Funding Sources for Operational Expenses (2020 - 2023) 2020 2021 2022 2023 Local Funding $3,543,959 $3,692,534 $4,743,027 $6,337,420 State Funding - - - $56,892 Federal Funding $1,507,242 $2,018,887 $1,789,613 $566,508 Total $5,051,201 $5,711,421 $6,532,640 $6,960,820 Source: National Transit Database Capital Funding Sources and Expenditures In 2023, capital expenses were over $200 thousand. Capital expenses typically cover buses, bus stops, and other infrastructur e or equipment. As seen in Table 5, capital expenses differ significantly from year-to-year based on the capital needs at the time. In 2020 and 2021, Vail Transit purchased buses and made investments in electric charging. In 2022 and 2023, these investments focused on lower -cost items like bus sign replacements and bus shelters. As capital investments differ from year -to-year, so do funding sources. Table 5: Funding Sources for Capital Expenses (2020 - 2023) 2020 2021 2022 2023 Local Funding $3,074,664 $3,491,533 $341,429 $211,254 State Funding $473,657 $1,449,920 - - Federal Funding - $525,288 - - Total $3,548,321 $5,466,741 $341,429 $211,254 Source: National Transit Database 73 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 28 Costs Per Hour, Mile, and Rider Table 6 displays the total operating expenses and how they average when compared to revenue hours, revenue miles, and ridership. Note that data on annual vehicle revenue hours of service is not available prior to 2020. Overall, all the factors have increased year -over-year as more service hours require more operating expenses. However, while operating expenses increased by 7% from 2022 to 2023, ridership increased by 22% and resulted in a more efficient cost per rider in 2023 than in 2022. As the system returns to pre-pandemic ridership levels, consideration should be given to the efficiency of the system compared to pre-pandemic. In 2023, the total ridership was essentially the same as in 2019, however the operating expenses were 35% more expensive. This is likely the impact of inflation and other economic factors, but as the system continues to grow and requires heavier investment, it will be important to watch this metric. Table 6: Operating Expenses and Performance Metrics 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Total Operating Expenses $5,165,592 $5,051,201 $5,711,421 $6,532,640 $6,960,820 Vehicle Revenue Hours N/A 50,988 61,914 66,679 67,284 Vehicle Revenue Miles N/A 592,152 734,265 760,840 781,118 Ridership 2,803,385 1,692,924 1,532,514 2,299,325 2,802,387 Cost per Revenue Hour N/A $99.07 $92.25 $97.97 $103.45 Cost per Revenue Mile N/A $8.53 $7.78 $8.59 $8.91 Cost per Rider $1.84 $2.98 $3.73 $2.84 $2.48 Source: Town of Vail, National Transit Database 74 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 29 Vail Transportation Center The Vail Transportation Center (VTC) is a centrally located hub and transfer point for local and regional bus services. The V TC also has a three- level parking garage with about 1,300 spaces that are paid for during peak times in the winter and summer. The VTC is currently near capacity during peak winter ski season, and the town is engaged in a planning and design process to renovate and expand the center. As depicted in the Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Master Plan, the transportation center is to be expanded to include 18-20 bus bays and an additional 15- 20 bays for smaller shuttles and taxis. Plans also include a pedestrian connection to I-70 in anticipation of an in-line bus station along I-70 or a long-term Advanced Fixed Guideway (AGS) station. Two high-level schematic concepts for expanding the VTC are shown in Figure 18. Figure 18: Potential Schematic Concepts for Expanding Vail Transportation Center Concept A Concept B Source: Go Vail 2045 In addition to VTC renovation, the town is exploring adding or expanding existing mobility hubs to facilitate transfers betwe en buses and non- bus modes, and generally increase access to the transit system. Future minor mobility hubs, which will be at key m ixed-use/commercial developments, are planned at West Vail, the Lionshead Welcome Center, and Ever-Vail. Future residential TOD mobility hubs, which will be at future dense residential developments, are planned at Timber Ridge and Middle Creek Village. A key element of this Route Optimization Plan will be to envision how the transit system will improve service to these locations and utilize planned mobility hubs. 75 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 30 Other Transit Services The State of Colorado and Eagle County provide regional transit service through Vail and the Vail Transportation Center (VTC) serves as a key transfer hub. The following section describes the relationship between local, county, and state transit systems. Core Transit Core Transit, formerly known as Eagle Valley Transportation Authority (EVTA) and operated as ECO Transit, is the newly formed Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in Eagle Valley. The transit agency now offers countywide regional connections, improving the services previously provided by ECO Transit. This includes the following routes: • Valley Route - Dotsero-Gypsum (EGE)-Eagle-Edwards-Avon-Beaver Creek-Vail • Highway 6 Route - Edwards-Beaver Creek-Avon-Eagle Vail-Vail • Leadville Route - Leadville-Red Cliff-Minturn-Vail • Minturn Route - Red Cliff-Minturn-Vail In Vail, some Core Transit regional bus stops and local bus stops are in different locations, making transfers less intuitive. Further, not every Core Transit route stops at all Core Transit stops, meaning some routes skip the stops as part of more express -like service. This can result in rider confusion for those attempting to transfer between regional and local routes in West Vail. Both Core Transit and Vail Transit are undergoing an operating plan process, so there is an opportunity to ensure that connections between local and regional service s are more seamless for riders. Table 7: Core Transit and Vail Transit Bus Stop Pairings Core Transit Bus Stop Nearest Vail Transit Bus Stop Distance to Vail Transit Bus Stop Vail Transportation Center Vail Transportation Center Same stop South Frontage Road and Vail Road Hospital/Municipal Center Same stop, different name South Frontage Road and Lionshead Lionshead Transit Center Same stop, different name South Frontage Road and Cascade Village Cascade Village Same stop, different name Donovan Park Matterhorn 0.1 miles, around two corners to the southwest South Frontage Road and Chamonix Road 1. Underpass – West Vail 2. Ptarmigan 3. Spruce Creek 1. 0.2 miles to the west 2. 0.2 miles, around the corner to the east 3. 0.3 miles to the east 76 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 31 Bustang Bustang is an interregional bus service operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Two routes, the Bustang West Line and Pegasus, connect the Town of Vail to other regions of Colorado. West Line The Bustang West Line travels between Denver and Grand Junction using over the road coaches. The service makes intermediate s tops in Parachute, Rifle, Glenwood Springs, Eagle, Avon, Vail, Frisco, Idaho Springs, and Lakewood. As of August 2024, seven buses a day in each direction serve Vail, including four between Glenwood Springs and Denver and three that extend to Grand Junction. CDOT has pl ans to expand this service, ensure seamless connectivity with local routes, and construct a facility that can support these regional connections. Pegasus The Pegasus is a shuttle van that operates daily between Denver and Avon, making intermediate stops in Lakewood, Idaho Spring s, Frisco, and Vail. Pegasus offers six roundtrips Monday through Thursday and eleven roundtrips Friday through Sunday. The shuttle ’s advantages over Bustang include higher weekend frequency, the ability for passengers to reserve a seat in advance, the ability for vans to utilize the express lanes on I-70 near Idaho Springs, and faster service. It is also easier to hire drivers since there is no requirement that drivers have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Currently, however, there is limited space for luggage, and, unlike Bustang, all seats must be reserv ed. Private Shuttle Services Several private shuttle operators run within and through the Town of Vail. Although private shuttles are typically more costl y than transit and require a reservation, benefits are the ease and speed of door-to-door service and the comfort of additional space for luggage. Local Shuttle Services Numerous hotels in Vail operate shuttle services for people to get from their hotel to key destinations in town using small b uses, vans, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). The clientele of high-end hotels and resorts expect the service to be included in their stay. Many of the private hotel transportation services overlap with Vail Transit routes. Town staff have observed an increase in -town hotel shuttle services over the last decade, which may be a contributing factor to declining winter ridership. Regional Shuttle Services Several private operators provide regional shuttle services to Vail, particularly from Denver International Airport (DIA), Ea gle County Regional Airport (EGE) and other destinations along I-70. Major operators include Epic Mountain Express and Peak I Express, which serve DIA and EGE, and Summit Express, which exclusively serves DIA. In the winter, the operators each provide hourly service between DIA and Va il. All three operators will provide door-to-door service for a nominal fee or drop-off at the VTC. 77 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 32 Travel Patterns Fehr & Peers conducted an analysis of travel patterns for the Vail Mobility and Transportation Master Plan (TMP) from summer 2021 through the winter of 2022. The analysis relied on StreetLight Data, a Big Data source of origin -destination data derived from mobile devices and existing traffic counts. As part of that analysis effort, the team developed an interactive web map for Town staff to easily visualize the origin-destination travel patterns. The findings of that analysis, summarized below, will inform the Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan. Travel to and from Vail According to StreetLight Data, most travelers to Vail originated from the nearby communities of Avon, Edwards, or Summit County (Figure 19). More specifically, most trips to Vail were destined for Vail Village and Lionshead, distantly followed by Safeway/Vail Common s. Similarly, most commuters coming to Vail commuted to Vail Village and Lionshead, followed distantly by Booth Falls/Bald Mountai n Road, which likely represent school trips. Commuters leaving Vail most commonly travel west to Edwards, Avon, or Beaver Creek. Interestingly, Vail travelers who were he aded west tended to leave later than those headed east. Regional travel to and from Vail can inform important transfer points betwe en local and regional service. Figure 19: The Origins of Travelers to Vail, by Season, 2021-2022 Source: Fehr & Peers, StreetLight Data, 2022 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% Pe r c e n t o f T r a v e l e r s Origin Location The Origins of Travelers to Vail Winter 2021/2022 Summer 2021 78 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 33 Travel within Vail Annual travel within Vail is primarily between Vail Village and Lionshead (Table 8). Trips between the two areas represented 13% of all winter trips and 11% of all summer trips in summer 2021 and winter 2021-22. About 55% of trips to Vail Village during the summer and winter of 2021 originated from within Vail Village or Lionshead neighborhoods. Transit service between destinations in these two areas will capture a large portion of trips in Vail. Table 8: Top Trip Pairings in Vail by Percent of Trips Trip Point A Trip Point B Summer 2021 Winter 2021/22 Lionshead Vail Village 11% 13% Vail Village Safeway / Vail Commons 8% 3% Lionshead Safeway / Vail Commons 4% 2% Vail Village East Vail 1% 3% Source: Fehr & Peers, StreetLight, 2022 Parking Origins and Utilization Vail parking garage spaces are primarily utilized by drivers who originate west of Vail, particularly from Avon and Edwards. This parking trend is consistent with commuting patterns, which indicate that most travelers originate from Avon and Edwards (Figure 19). These parking patterns indicate that transit service may prioritize travelers who originate west of Vail. The next highest parking space users are drivers from within Vail, mostly from East Vail and particularly Vail Village. Over 30 percent of Vail Village and Lionshead parking garage utilization are from trips that originated in Vail, whereas trips that orig inate in the Denver Metro area comprise less than 10 percent of the utilization. 79 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 34 Community Input Previous community engagement efforts, detailed below, will inform plan recommendations and build on existing community senti ment. When draft recommendations are developed, this planning effort will engage community members to gauge how well community need s are addressed. Below are the key takeaways of previous surveying efforts. Vail Community Survey (2024) Vail completes a biannual community survey to evaluate municipal service levels and identify community priorities. Survey fin dings indicate that most of the community views transit positively, and about half of the community takes transit on occasion. Tran sit was rated highly on frequency, dependability, cleanliness, and safety. The only aspect of the transit experience that community members rated poo rly was the level of crowding. Over a third of respondents, 36%, indicated they take the bus frequently. Ridership changes seasonally – more respondents take the bus to work in the winter (35%) than the summer (22%). Furthermore, when asked about forward-thinking ideas to suggest to the Town Council, enhancing public transit was highly rated, which indicates an overall supportive sentiment for future investment. These results have implications for the Vail Transportati on Center’s ability to support local, regional, and statewide transit service. Go Vail 2045 (2022-2023) During the Go Vail 2045 planning effort, the community identified transit as a top priority for residents and visitors. When asked about specific transit improvements, 53% of respondents indicated that a seamless express service between East Vail and West Vail would encourage them to take transit more often. Furthermore, 45% of respondents indicated that increasing the frequency of the West Vail Express wou ld encourage them to take transit more often. In addition to these local improvements, there was particular interest in increasing regional connectivity, specifically with other towns in Eagle County. The Vail Short Term Transit Route Optimization Plan offers the opportunity to facilitate seamless transfers between the local and regional systems. 80 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 35 Summary This section provides a summary of the key findings from the existing conditions analysis of Vail Transit and a summary of in itial travel market observations. Potential Travel Markets Primary transit travel markets (groups with common demographic characteristics) can inform the service alternatives, final service plan, and associated marketing strategies. Based on a high-level analysis of demographics, existing transit service, and existing travel patterns, the following potential transit travel markets have been identified. Commuters and Service Workers The primary job sector in Vail is Accommodation and Food Service. Service job workers often do not have access to a vehicle and depend on transit or a support network to get to work. Based on previous analysis of StreetLight data, the largest portion of commuters travel to Lionshead and Vail Village (2019-2021). Jobs are concentrated here in the commercial core south of I-70. The core is served by several Vail Transit routes: West Vail Red, West Vail Green, and Intown. Transit service between destinations in these two areas will capture a large portion of trips in Vail. Residents Most Vail residents live and work in the Town and the highest concentration of jobs in Vail is in the commercial core south o f I-70. There is an opportunity to serve individuals who do not have access to a car or are not able to drive. Vail residents curre ntly view transit favorably and support expanding service. Visitors Transit ridership peaks during the ski season in winter months. Transit supports a sharp increase in visitors. The East Vail and West Vail routes experience the highest ridership during these months. In the summer, the top trip pairings within Vail are between Lionshead and Vail Commons. In the winter, the top trip pairing is between Va il Village and Lionshead. 81 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 36 Key Findings Analysis of existing conditions of transit in Vail revealed the following key findings: • Vail Transit is a key regional player – Vail Transit, and more specifically the Vail Transportation Center, will play a key role in creating local and regional multimodal systems that include well-integrated transportation options. • Ridership is increasing to pre-pandemic levels – Annual and seasonal ridership trends are returning to pre-COVID levels. Based on Vail survey results, 36% of respondents take the bus frequently and 50% take the bus occasionally. • Transit catchment is high - 82% of residential units are a quarter mile or closer to a bus stop. • System efficiency is improving in the short term – In recent years, the system has gotten more efficient, however, over the long term the cost per rider has increased. From 2022 to 2023, operating costs increased by 7%, however, ridership increased by 22%, which resulted in a more efficient cost per rider in 2023 than in 2022. In 2023, the total ridership was about the same as in 2019, however the operating expenses were 35% more expensive. • Vail Village is a key local destination – Based on analysis completed in Go Vail, trips between Vail Village and Lionshead were the most common in the winter, and trips between Lionshead or Vail Village and Safeway/Vail Commons were the most common in the summer . • There is opportunity for local and regional coordination – While the Vail Transit Route Optimization plan is underway, Core Transit is developing a 10-Year Transit Development and Capital Plan. 82 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 37 Chapter 2: Impact Analysis Ridership Analysis This section analyzes ridership data from the Vail Transit system, focusing on key trends and insights to inform route alternatives. Figure 20 reveals significant variations in ridership across routes in July 2023 and February 2024. Notably, Intown, East Vail, and West Vail routes consistently demonstrate high ridership, suggesting a strong demand for transportation within and between these areas year-round. West Vail Express, Lionsridge Loop, and Ford Park only operate during the winter whereas the East Vail Hiker Express only operates during the summer. Figure 20: Percent of Total Ridership by Route 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% Ford Park Lionsridge Loop West Vail Express Golf Course East Vail Hiker Express Sandstone West Vail Red West Vail Green East Vail Intown Jul-23 Feb-24 83 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 38 Figure 21 shows the average daily boardings by stop in February 2024. The highest concentration of boardings is located around Lionshea d and Vail Village, and ridership is generally evenly distributed among the other stops in the system. This graphic illustrates boa rdings by stop, so stops that serve both directions include more ridership than stops that have separate boarding areas for each direction. Figure 21: Average Daily Boardings, February 2024 84 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 39 Figure 22 shows stops with the highest average daily ridership in July 2023 and February 2024. All stops experience significantly higher ridership in the winter compared to the summer. Vail Transportation Center and Lionshead Village (east- and west-bound) emerge as major hubs year-round, further highlighting their central role in the Vail transit network. Other high ridership stops include Covered Bridge (east and westbound) and Solaris (westbound). The Golden Peak stop has some of the highest winter ridership and lowest summer ridership . This is likely due to its proximity to ski lodges and schools and different frequencies between seasons. Figure 22: Stops with Highest Average Daily Ridership 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Lionshead Village - Westbound Racquet Club Vail Road - Eastbound Library Timber Ridge - Eastbound Vail Road - Westbound West Lionshead/Concert Hall Plaza The Hythe Covered Bridge- Eastbound Golden Peak Solaris - Westbound Covered Bridge - Westbound Lionshead Village - Eastbound Vail Transportation Center Feb-24 Jul-23 85 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 40 Figure 23 shows the average number of boardings by time of day for the month of February 2024. The highest activity period for Vail Tra nsit is between 6AM and 7PM every day, distantly followed by the evening period 7PM to 10PM. Early and late night boardings are rel atively similar at an average of under 300 per day. Figure 23: Average Daily Boardings by Time of Day without Intown, February 2024 Route Reliability Analysis Reliability refers to how consistently each bus on each route sticks to the scheduled run time. This analysis takes APC stop -level time data to analyze the minimum, maximum, average, and statistical variability in how long it takes for each route to comple te a full roundtrip. This analysis provides data to assess if scheduled run time is appropriately allocated and also how reliable each route is for riders to ex pect. Methodology Vail Transit provided two months (July 2023 and February 2024) of stop -level time data for each run of each route. These months are representative of the peak seasons, which means that they receive the most ridership and are also most likely to be impacted by external factors 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 Early AM (2AM-6AM) Peak AM (6AM-10AM) Midday (10AM-3PM) Peak PM (3PM-7PM) Evening (7PM-10PM) Late Night (10PM-2AM) 86 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 41 like weather and traffic congestion. To best analyze “typical” trips on each route, data for any special event runs, 2 AM run s, and piggyback runs were filtered out. Furthermore, since all routes start and end at the Vail Transportation Center, to best understand overall travel times from s tart to finish of each route, all stops besides the Vail Transportation center were also filtered out. Each trip run was also given a unique trip ID, which was the combination of the original trip ID and the date. This field was used to develop a “Run Time” field which calculated the difference between the departure of a given unique trip ID from the Vail T ransportation Center to the arrival of that same unique trip ID back to the Vail Transportation Center. Once the run times were calculated, any rows of d ata that were either empty because they were just the departure timestamp or had significantly too low or too high of run times compared to the scheduled time were removed. Statistical summaries by route were developed over the course of the full day and broken down into designated time periods th roughout the day. Results Overall Run Time Statistics, July 2023 Table 9 shows the run time summary for July 2023 and Figure 24 shows the distribution of the run times by route. On average, all summer routes have enough time in the schedule to complete the route. Only the West Vail Green and West Vail Red routes are nearly c lose to the scheduled run time, which means that drivers are likely not getting much downtime between the trips. However other routes have a run time up to eight minutes (East Vail) faster than scheduled, indicated by the “slack time” in the table. Vail Transit intentionally sc hedules time into routes for driver breaks between runs. This is done by scheduling time between the second -to-last stop and the Vail Transportation Center, meaning that the buses depart each stop along the route on-time but they arrive to the final stop early. Another notable statistic is the standard deviation of the run time, where 68% of the run times fit within one standard devia tion and 95% of the run times fit within two standard deviations. As an example, when a route has a standard deviation in its run t ime of 2 minutes, it means that 68% of the runs are within two minutes less or two minutes more than the average run time. It also means that 95% of the runs are within four minutes less or four minutes more than the average run time. Within the exception of some outliers, the most consistent route that has the smallest deviation in run times is the Sandstone route which typically takes 15 minutes to complete its 20 -minute route. The route with the most variability in the summer is the East Vail route which has a 12-minute difference in 95% of its run times; 95% of the run times fall between 26 and 38 minutes. Although this still means that most runs are running within the scheduled time, some buses are taking a lot less time than scheduled compared to other buses. Similarly, the West Vail Green and West Vail Red routes also have large variability in the run times. With longer routes and times, this is expected as there are more opportunities for buses to fall behind schedule. This may also mean that Vail T ransit is providing too much slack time between the second to last stop and the Vail Transportation Center on these routes. 87 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 42 Table 9: Run Time Summary Statistics by Route, July 2023 Route Schedule d Run Time Average Run Time Average Slack Time (Min) Average Slack Time (%) Minimum Run Time Maximu m Run Time Standard Deviation of Run Time 68% of Run Times 95% of Run Times East Vail 40 32 8 20% 25 57 2.8 29 to 35 min 26 to 38 min East Vail Hiker Express 30 25 5 17% 20 33 2.0 23 to 27 min 21 to 29 min Golf Course 20 17 3 15% 12 27 2.2 15 to 19 min 12 to 21 min Sandstone 20 15 5 25% 11 22 1.6 13 to 16 min 11 to 18 min West Vail Green 40 39 1 3% 26 52 2.4 37 to 42 min 34 to 44 min West Vail Red 40 39 1 3% 29 57 2.4 37 to 41 min 34 to 44 min Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers Figure 24: Distribution of Run Time by Route, July 2023 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers West Vail Green West Vail Red Sandstone Golf Course East Vail East Vail Hiker Express Mi n u t e s 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 88 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 43 Run Time Statistics by Day Part, July 2023 When looking closer at the breakdown throughout the day, there is some slight variation in how each route performs which is r elevant when considering adjusting schedules for different times of day. As previously stated, average run times stay consistent th roughout the day, although the West Vail Green and Golf Course routes have a slight increase in run time in the evening than at other times of the day (Figure 25). Figure 25: Average Run Times by Time of Day by Route, July 2023 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers 31 32 33 32 25 25 25 16 17 17 19 14 14 15 15 39 39 39 40 39 39 40 39 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Minutes East Vail Hiker Express Golf Course Sandstone West Vail Green West Vail Red 89 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 44 When comparing the run times to the scheduled times, referred here as “slack time”, Figure 26 shows that most routes have their highest slack time in the AM peak. In the summer, the East Vail route is interlined with the Sandstone route for one bus, and it is interlined with the Golf Course route for another bus. This means that with there being generally seven to nine minutes of slack time on East Vail, five to six minutes on Sandstone, and two to four minutes on Golf Course, these bus drivers often have layovers between all of their bus runs, and t here may be opportunities for optimizing these layovers to be a bit tighter by reducing run times or changing the interlining of the routes. For the West Vail Green and the West Vail Red routes, however, the slack times are typically around one minute. These routes are not interlined with one another during the summer, meaning that one bus consistently runs one route without interruption. Without slack time nor interlining, Re d and Green may be more susceptible to not being able to get back on schedule when delayed. This is shown by the larger number of o utliers in Figure 26. Figure 26: Average Slack Time (Time between scheduled and average run times), July 2023 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers 9 8 7 8 5 5 5 4 3 3 1 6 6 5 5 1 1 1 0110 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Mi n u t e s East Vail Hiker Express Golf Course Sandstone West Vail Green West Vail Red 90 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 45 In analyzing the standard deviation by route and by time of day, the Sandstone route has the smallest standard deviation (most consistent) and the East Vail route has the highest (least consistent) over the course of the day (Figure 27). Notably, although the bus operations do not change for the West Vail Green and the West Vail Red routes, the West Vail Green has a spike in variability during the PM peak and the West Vail Red slightly increases in variability during the evening. However , since most routes have a variability within a few minutes throughout the day (besides East Vail), this is not generally a concern in terms of changing the operations of the schedule. Figure 27: Standard Deviation of Run Times (Variability in Total Run Time), July 2023 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers 3.4 2.7 2.9 1.8 2.3 1.8 2.02.0 2.4 1.8 2.0 1.6 1.2 1.6 1.8 2.5 2.3 2.7 1.8 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.4 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Mi n u t e s East Vail Hiker Express Golf Course Sandstone West Vail Green West Vail Red 91 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 46 Overall Run Time Statistics, February 2024 Table 10 shows the run time summary for February 2024 and Figure 28 shows the distribution of the run times. There is less consistency than summer in the winter run time results. There are three routes (Lionsridge Loop, Sandstone, and West Vail Green) that have a s tandard deviation of more than three minutes which means that 95% of the run times fit within a larger time range. This means that drivers may have a harder time sticking to their scheduled times. Since Vail Transit typically schedules the layovers into the time between the second -to-last and the last stop on the routes, riders may not be as impacted by knowing if their bus will arrive early, on-time, or late. In other words, assuming the buses do not depart on-route stops early, buses only arrive to the Vail Transportation Center early which will not negatively im pact riders. The Sandstone route has the largest variability with run times varying by four minutes and taking anywhere between 10 and 27 minutes on a 2 0-minute route. This route, however, still runs about the exact time it should on average, meaning the o utliers and filtered data may be skewing the results. The Lionsridge Loop is the only route that on average runs three minutes longer than scheduled. This may indicate that the schedu led time may need to be increased to 25 minutes to ensure that the buses are more consistently “on-time”. Table 10: Run Time Summary Statistics by Route, February 2024 Route Scheduled Run Time Average Run Time Average Slack Time (Min) Average Slack Time (%) Minimum Run Time Maximum Run Time Standard Deviation of Run Time 68% of Run Times 95% of Run Times East Vail 45 35 10 22% 21 48 2.5 32 to 37 min 30 to 40 min Ford Park 10 5 5 50% 3 11 1.4 4 to 6 min 2 to 8 min Golf Course 20 18 2 10% 13 26 1.8 16 to 20 min 15 to 23 min Lionsridge Loop 20 23 -3 -15% 16 34 3.3 20 to 27 min 17 to 30 min Sandstone 20 19 1 5% 11 52 4.2 14 to 23 min 10 to 27 min West Vail Express 30 24 6 20% 20 37 1.8 22 to 26 min 21 to 28 min West Vail Green 45 41 4 9% 29 55 3.9 37 to 45 min 33 to 49 min West Vail Red 45 41 4 9% 35 49 2.7 38 to 44 min 36 to 46 min Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers 92 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 47 Figure 28: Distribution of Run Time by Route, February 2024 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers West Vail Green West Vail Red West Vail Express Sandstone Lionsridge Loop Golf Course Ford Park East Vail Mi n u t e s 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 93 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 48 Run Time Statistics by Day Part, February 2024 As indicated in Figure 29, the run times are consistent throughout the day, even for the routes that operate at different scheduled times during the evening time period. Throughout most of the day, the West Vail Green and the West Vail Red routes are interlined with one another and run on 45-minute schedules. In the evening, these routes are not interlined and are scheduled at 40 minutes. The East Vail route runs w ith this same schedule configuration, but it goes from mostly not being interlined during the day to being interlined with the Sandstone route. Since it consistently runs at 35 minutes, the interlining does not impact the typical 10-minute layovers between the runs. Figure 29: Average Run Times by Time of Day by Route, February 2024 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers. Note: East Vail, West Vail Red and Green are scheduled at 40 minutes in the evening Slack times, or the time between the scheduled and the average run times, have some variability throughout the day. The most obvious ones are of the East Vail, West Vail Green, and West Vail Red routes which reduce their scheduled time from 45 minutes throughout the day to 40 35 35 35 35 5 5 5 5 18 19 19 17 23 23 24 24 19 20 20 18 42 42 42 4141404240 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Mi n u t e s East Vail Ford Park Golf Course Lionsridge Loop Sandstone West Vail Express West Vail Green West Vail Red 94 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 49 minutes in the evenings. As discussed previously, the schedule seems appropriate for the West Vail Green and the West Vail Re d routes, but it may make sense to reduce the East Vail route to be 40 minutes over the entire day since bus drivers have 10 -minute layovers between all their runs (Figure 30). The Lionsridge route seems to consistently run longer than it is scheduled by a few minutes, which impacts riders who rely on on -time arrival to the Vail Transportation Center. The Lionsridge route is mostly interlined with the Golf Course route throughout the day and t here are 10-minute scheduled layovers at the Vail Transportation Center. It may be worth extending the scheduled time for Lionsridge to 25 minut es, which would not impact the interlining with the Golf Course route; it would just reduce the layover time between each run. Figure 30: Average Slack Time (Time between scheduled and average run times), February 2024 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers. Note: East Vail, West Vail Red and Green are scheduled at 40 minutes in the evening. 10 10 10 55555 2 1 1 3 -3 -3 -4 -4 1 0 0 2 6 7 5 3 3 3 -1 4 5 3 0 -6 -4 -2 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Mi n u t e s East Vail Ford Park Golf Course Lionsridge Loop Sandstone West Vail Express West Vail Green West Vail Red 95 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 50 Finally, the variability in the routes (shown by standard deviation in Figure 31) shows larger variability in the winter than in the summer. For most routes, the variability is lowest during midday. The Sandstone route has the largest variability, especially during the peak PM time frame. This may be due to the outliers skewing the data. The average run time is right at the scheduled time and during the PM peak, most Sandstone runs have a scheduled 10 minute layover at the Vail Transportation Center. Figure 31: Standard Deviation of Run Times (Variability in Total Run Time), February 2024 Source: Vail Transit, Fehr & Peers. 2.7 2.1 2.2 2.8 1.1 1.5 1.3 1.51.5 1.6 1.9 1.4 3.7 2.9 3.1 3.8 3.6 3.2 4.8 3.5 4.0 3.0 2.9 3.4 2.8 2.0 2.9 2.0 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 Peak AM (6AM - 10AM)Midday (10AM - 3PM)Peak PM (3PM - 7PM)Evening (7PM - 10PM) Mi n u t e s East Vail Ford Park Golf Course Lionsridge Loop Sandstone West Vail Express West Vail Green West Vail Red 96 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 51 Housing Density Analysis The total housing unit density for the Town of Vail (as of the 2020 US Census) is shown in Figure 32. The densest housing areas are around Vail Village, Lionshead, Lions Ridge, and East Vail. Figure 32: Total Housing Unit Density Source: Colorado State Demography Office 97 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 52 Existing and Planned Employee Housing Several high-density housing developments are planned for Vail in the next five years to increase the availability of employee housing. Table 11 shows the six existing and future residences that will produce a total of 954 units and 1,557 beds. Table 11: Vail Workforce Rental Housing Name of Housing Year of Completion Number of Units Number of Beds (Existing) Timber Ridge 2003 (deed date) 96 194 Middle Creek Village 2004 142 254 Lions Ridge 2015 114 198 Solar Vail 2019 64 68 Residences at Main Vail 2023 72 130 Timber Ridge Village 2025 294 555 West Middle Creek 2027 268 352 TOTAL in 2027 954 1,557 Source: Town of Vail 98 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 53 As shown in Figure 33, the workforce housing developments reflected in Table 11 represent smaller, more dense housing units compared to Vail as whole. This is typical for accommodating seasonal workers who travel alone for work. Figure 33: Percent Number of Bedrooms in Housing Units Source: Vail Transit; US Census, S2504, 2022 ACS 5-Year Estimates Ridership Estimates for Bus Stops Near Employee Housing Developments One approach to forecasting future ridership that new employee housing developments generate is to look at the existing rider ship to bed ratio and apply it to future development. This ratio calculates the relationship of how many riders use a bus stop near est to employee housing for every bedroom in that housing complex. As shown in Table 12, for every bed at the Middle Creek Village and the Residences at Main Vail, 0.45 daily riders use the Middle Creek bus stop. For every bed at the Lions Ridge and the existing Timber Ridge complexes, 0.88 da ily riders use the Timber Ridge bus stop. For every bed at Solar Vail, 3.1 daily riders use the Sandstone School bus stop. However, the Sandstone School bus stop is also located near the Red Sandstone Elementary School and the Red Sandstone Parking Garage, which is likely significantly impacting the number of riders at that bus stop. As a result, when comparing all riders at the three bus stops to all the employee housing bedr ooms near the stops, the ratio is 0.86, but this may be impacted by the Sandstone School bus stop. It is recommended to forecast ridership for the new housing developments using the ratio at each individual bus stop rather than the total ratio, which will provide more local context t o the bus stops. 0%10%20%30%40%50%60% 4 or more bedrooms 2 or 3 bedroom 1 bedroom Studio Workforce Housing All Vail Housing 99 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 54 Table 12: Existing Ridership to Bed Ratios Name of Housing Number of Units Number of Beds Nearest Bus Stop Current Daily Stop Ridership Ridership to Bed Ratio Middle Creek Village 142 254 Middle Creek 171 0.45 Residences at Main Vail 72 130 Middle Creek 171 Combined with above Lions Ridge 114 198 Timber Ridge 344 0.88 (Existing) Timber Ridge 96 194 Timber Ridge 344 Combined with above Solar Vail 64 68 Sandstone School 211 3.1 TOTAL 488 844 726 0.86 Source: Town of Vail, Fehr & Peers In Table 13, the ridership for the Timber Ridge bus stop is estimated to be 661 daily riders, which includes the existing riders from Li ons Ridge and the estimated new riders from the future Timber Ridge Village. Vail Transit also plans to place a new bus stop to ser ve the West Middle Creek development. It is forecasted that 157 riders will use this bus stop based on the existing ridership to bed ratio at th e existing Middle Creek bus stop. This would be in addition to the existing ridership at the existing Middle Cre ek bus stop. Combined, these two bus stops are estimated to increase ridership by 474 daily riders. Route scenarios during the next phase of the project will need to be able to accommodate this increase in transit demand. It is also important to note that comparing existing ridership to existing beds may not fully account for other factors that contribute to future ridership such as the share of workers without cars, higher level of transit service, and more people wh o may be more comfortable in embracing transit. Table 13: Forecasted Ridership at Timber Ridge and West Middle Creek Bus Stops Name of Housing Number of Units Number of Beds Nearest Bus Stop Current Daily Ridership to Bed Ratio New Daily Ridership Estimate Number of New Riders Timber Ridge Village 294 555 Timber Ridge 0.88 661 317 West Middle Creek 268 352 (New) West Middle Creek 0.45 157 157 TOTAL 562 907 818 474 Source: Town of Vail, Fehr & Peers 100 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 55 Employee Housing Transit Service New and Existing Housing Based on previous analyses, new and existing Vail employee housing will result in a total of 954 units including 1,557 beds b y the year 2027. This likely undercounts the total number of beds occupied by Vail employees because it does not include those who do not live in employee housing developments. These employee housing developments represent smaller, more dense housing units than are typical for Vail to ac commodate for seasonal workers who travel alone for work. This analysis addresses the existing bus frequency at stops that serve employee housing and provides some key considerations to inform alternatives development. Table 14 lists the three existing bus stops and one planned stop along the north frontage road, current daily ridership by stop, and proximate employee housing: Table 14: Bus Stop Ridership and Employee Housing Bus Stop Current Daily Ridership Proximate Employee Housing Middle Creek 171 Middle Creek Village, Residences at Main Vail West Middle Creek (new) 157 (projected) West Middle Creek (new) Timber Ridge 344 Lions Ridge and Timber Ridge Sandstone School 211 Solar Vail Transit Frequency at Key Stops The frequency of bus service per hour from several key stops in West Vail to two primary destinations —Vail Transportation Center (VTC) and West Vail Mall—is detailed in the section below. In certain cases, such as the Spruce Creek and Middle Creek stops, W est Vail routes loop through neighborhoods and pass these stops twice during a single run. In these instances, the stop is counted only once towar d service to the Vail Transportation Center, based on the assumption that passengers are more likely to board the bus on its second pass, when it is heading directly toward the destination. For example, riders at the Middle Creek stop typically board a Sandstone or Lionsridge Loop route bus on its return leg through the neighborhood, en route to the VTC. Additionally, stops that do not provide service to either West Vail Mall or the Vail Transportation Center are marked as “N/A.” 101 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 56 Winter Frequency by Stop Table 15 summarizes the count of buses and general frequency headed toward Vail Transportation Center (VTC) and West Vail Mall by stop during a typical winter peak hour. Figure 34 illustrates the hourly number of buses heading to the VTC during a typical hour of service in the winter. Middle Creek, Timber Ridge, West Vail Mall, Chamonix, and Lionshead Transit Center have the highest number of buses p er hour. This generally means that these stops have a bus every 7.5 to 10 minutes, although there are times throughout the hour where the interval between buses is shorter or longer. Figure 35 illustrates the same period and stops, but for buses traveling toward the West Vail Mall. Timber Ridge, West Vail Mall, and Lionshead Transit Center have the highest number of hourly buses. As dense employee housing is north of I -70, more frequent service to West Vail Mall may be necessary, specifically at the Middle Creek, West Middle Creek, and Sandstone stops. Table 15: Count of Buses and Frequency per Hour toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop and Destination To VTC To West Vail Mall Origin Bus Stop Number of Buses General Frequency (Minutes) Number of Buses General Frequency (Minutes) VTC N/A N/A 8 7.5 Middle Creek 6 10 3 20 Vail Run 4 15 N/A N/A Timber Ridge 7 8.5 6 10 West Vail Mall 6 10 N/A N/A Upper Buffehr Creek 4 15 N/A N/A Chamonix 8 7.5 N/A N/A Intermountain 2 30 2 30 Spruce Creek 4 15 N/A N/A Matterhorn 2 30 2 30 W Lionshead Plaza 2 30 2 30 Lionshead Transit Center 6 10 4 15 102 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 57 Figure 34: Bus Frequency to Vail Transportation Center by Stop, Winter Peak Hour 103 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 58 Figure 35: Bus Frequency to West Vail Mall by Stop, Winter Peak Hour 104 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 59 Summer Frequency by Stop Table 16 summarizes the count of buses and general frequency of buses headed toward VTC and West Vail Mall by stop during a typical summer peak hour. The bus stops with the highest number of buses per peak hour toward VTC include Chamonix, Matterhorn, and West Lionshead Plaz a with three buses per hour. The Middle Creek stop also has a similar frequency to VTC. The frequency that buses head toward We st Vail mall is markedly lower than in the winter, however, mostly at 40 minute frequencies and only at VTC, Middle Creek, Timber Ridge, Uppe r Buffehr Creek, and Intermountain (of the key stops). If summer ridership increases, service in this direction may ne ed to be increased. This is especially true with the upcoming development of employee housing, who may be year -round employees. Table 16: Count of Buses per Hour toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop and Destination To VTC To West Vail Mall Origin Bus Stop Number of Buses General Frequency (Minutes) Number of Buses General Frequency (Minutes) VTC N/A N/A 4 15 Middle Creek 2.5 24 1.5 40 Vail Run 1 60 N/A N/A Timber Ridge 1.5 40 1.5 40 West Vail Mall 1.5 40 N/A N/A Upper Buffehr Creek 1.5 40 1.5 40 Chamonix 3 20 N/A N/A Intermountain 1.5 40 1.5 40 Spruce Creek 1.5 40 N/A N/A Matterhorn 3 20 0 0 W Lionshead Plaza 3 20 0 0 Lionshead Transit Center 1.5 40 0 0 105 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 60 Summary of Frequency by Stop Table 17 displays the stops with the most and least number of buses per hours in both of the key directions. The stops that have the l east service currently are likely to be the ones to be most impacted by any changes in service whether a service reduction or incr ease is considered. A similar effort of the proposed scenarios will inform the net change to service levels at these key stops. Table 17: Summary of Frequency by Stop Winter Peak Hours To VTC To West Vail Mall Stops with most buses per hour Middle Creek (6 buses) Timber Ridge (7) West Vail Mall (6) Chamonix (8) Lionshead Transit Center (6) VTC (8) Timber Ridge (6) Stops with least buses per hour Intermountain (2) Matterhorn (2) West Lionshead Plaza (2) Intermountain (2) Matternhorn (2) West Lionshead Plaza (2) Summer Peak Hours Stops with most buses per hour Chamonix (3) Matternhorn (3) West Lionshead Plaza (3) VTC (4) Stops with least buses per hour Vail Run (1) Timber Ridge (1.5) West Vail Mall (1.5) Upper Buffehr Creek (1.5) Intermountain (1.5) Spruce Creek (1.5) Lionshead Transit Center (1.5) Matterhorn (0) West Lionshead Plaza (0) Lionshead Transit Center (0) 106 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 61 Core Transit Coordination Background Core Transit is a regional service provider with five routes that serve the Vail Transportation Center (VTC). Core Transit is a recently formed Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) that took over operation of the former regional transit provider, ECO Transit. In 2022, seven jurisdictions in Eagle Valley voted to fund and establish the RTA to improve connection between communities and as of August 2024, Core Transit officially took over all ECO Transit operations. The current RTA member jurisdictions are Beaver Creek Metropolitan District, Town of Avon, Eagle County, Town of Eagle, Town of Minturn, Town of Red Cliff, and Town of Vail. Core Transit provides regional transit service between Vail and Dotsero on the I-70 and US 6 corridors and between Vail and Leadville on the CO 24 corridor. Table 18 summarizes the five fixed-route services (four in the summer) that serve Vail, Avon, Beaver Creek, Edwards, Eagle, Gypsum, Dotsero, Minturn, Redcliff, and Leadville: Table 18: Core Transit Route Descriptions Route Name Service Description Highway 6 All day local service between Vail, Eagle-Vail, Avon, and Edwards via US 6, with some peak direction express trips on I-70 Valley All day express service between Vail, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, and Gypsum with limited peak direction service to Dotsero Minturn Peak period service between Vail and Minturn, with limited midday service and limited service to Red Cliff Leadville Peak direction commuter service to Leadville via US 24 Vail/Beaver Creek Express Winter-only, all day I-70 express service for skiers between Beaver Creek Resort, Avon, and Vail In May of 2024 Core Transit (then ECO Transit) converted to fare-free service to all member jurisdictions following a fare-free pilot on the Vail- Beaver Creek Express over the winter. Fares are still collected from passengers traveling to or from the two jurisdic tions that are not a part of the RTA (Gypsum and Leadville) but within Core Transit’s service area. 107 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 62 Concurrent Planning Efforts Core Transit is currently developing a 10-Year Transit Development and Capital Plan to provide a long-term plan for the expansion and development of the newly formed RTA. The Town of Vail is simultaneously developing a short-term Route Optimization Plan to improve transit service over the next five years. As part of these efforts, on August 30 Vail and Core Transit staff met to discuss the share d challenges and opportunities, summarized in Table 19. Table 19: Shared Challenges and Opportunities for Vail and Core Transit Challenges Opportunities • The Core Transit fare free system may inadvertently attract local Vail Transit passengers who would like to save money • Vail Transportation Center (VTC) is at capacity during most of the year and over capacity during the winter months • Vail and Core Transit have a different cadence for seasonal schedules (Vail has a shoulder season and Core does not) • Competition for a limited market of bus operators and a general inability to share shifts across systems • Core Transit system is not on the Transit or Moovit phone applications for passengers to plan trips and transfers • Provide local express service at frequencies that allow passengers to avoid timed transfers • Rethink how the Core Transit Highway 6 route operates to discourage local passengers • Present united seasonal schedule changes and funnel passengers to specific stops • Serve highest demand transit stops and new or planned developments • Coordinate the push of one trip planning application for passengers to plan trips across Vail and Core Transit systems This report focuses on the shared route-level challenges and opportunities that can be feasibly addressed by Vail Transit within the next five years. The following sections present how Vail and Core Transit can coordinate to improve transfers, serve high demand stops , and target respective key travel markets at shared stops. 108 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 63 Travel Markets Vail and Core Transit share several key travel markets – commuters, residents, and visitors. This analysis seeks to understand how Vail and Core Transit may coordinate to serve these markets during both peak and off -peak months. Commuters Figure 36 shows that after Vail, the next most common employment location for Vail residents is Avon (939) following distantly by Edwar ds (215). While Vail commuters may be served locally by Vail Transit, Avon and Edwards commuters are served by Core Transit’s Hi ghway 6 or Valley routes. According to LEHD data, approximately 62 percent of Vail residents live in Vail but work outside. Figure 36: Number of Vail residents by employment location. Source: LEHD, 2021. The primary job sector in Vail is accommodation and food service, so most commute trips to Vail are service worker trips. Accordi ng to 2021 LEHD data, most of those regional commuter trips to Vail are from Edwards (726) and Avon (411). Based on this analysis, the key regional connections for Vail commuters are to and from Avon and Edwards via the Highway 6 and Valley routes. 61 133 151 177 215 939 2136 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Minturn Keystone Breckenridge Eagle Edwards Avon Vail 109 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 64 Visitors Vail and Core Transit systems experience an increase in ridership during the winter ski tourism season. The Vail transportation system has historically centered around the movement of skiers that are traveling to Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek during the winter mo nths. While the Valley and Highway 6 Core Transit routes serve visitors traveling to Vail Mountain from points down valley, the Vail / Beaver Creek Express route serves visitors wanting to travel between Vail and Beaver Creek. Figure 37 shows the annual number of Core Transit riders per service hour from 2019 to 2023. The Vail/Beaver Creek Express had the larg est relative recent increase in winter service hours and riders, which points to the need for Vail Transit to connect well with t he Vail/Beaver Creek Express transfer points as part of the Vail system optimization. Figure 37: Core Transit riders per service hour by route, 2019-2024. Data Source: Core Transit. 0 5 10 15 20 25 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Highway 6 Valley Leadville Beaver Creek Express Minturn 110 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 65 Transfer Points Core Transit has five routes (four in the summer) that serve the Town of Vail via five eastbound stops. Figure 38 shows the Core Transit system within Vail and the immediate surrounding communities Avon, Beaver Creek, and Minturn. Figure 39 also displays the existing Vail Transit system, and the Core Transit bus stops within Vail are indicated with the red dots. Figure 38: Core Transit System Figure 39: Existing Vail Transit Routes and Bus Stops 111 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 66 Table 20 shows the five transfer points between Core Transit and Vail. The Highway 6, Valley, and Leadville routes serve all five stop s, whereas the Vail/Beaver Creek Express route serves three and Minturn only serves VTC. The Vail Transportation Center (VTC), which is served by all five Core Transit routes and all Vail Transit routes, facilitates the highest level of coordination between Vail Transit and Core Transit. Figure 40 shows the sum of average daily boardings by stop in Vail at each of the five transfer points. Following VTC, the Lionshead stop has the highest number of boardings. The Cascade Village and Chamonix stops have the lowest number of boardings, but this stop is not served by the Vail/Beaver Creek Express. The following section discuss updates to Core Transit service at the Cascade and Chamonix stops. Table 20: Core Transit Transfer Points in Vail, Winter 2024 Vail Stop Name Highway 6 Valley Vail/Beaver Creek Express Leadville Minturn Vail Transportation Center X X X X X South Frontage Rd and Vail Rd X X X X South Frontage Rd and Lionshead X X X X South Frontage Rd and Cascade Village X X X South Frontage Rd and Chamonix X X X 112 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 67 Figure 40: Core Transit Sum of Average Daily Boardings by Stop, Winter 2024 Route Adjustments Core Transit currently serves Vail eastbound on South Frontage Road, south of I -70. Figure 41 illustrates 2021 job concentration on South Frontage Road, centered around Vail Village, indicated by the largest green dots on the map. This commercial node includes Va il Resort, hotels, restaurants and retail as well as the hospital, library, and town hall. Vail Transit also serves South Frontage Road with West Vail Red, West Vail Green, West Vail Express, and Intown routes. There is also a significant job node at West Vail Mall, which is forecasted to g row with upcoming development. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 South Frontage Rd & Chamonix South Frontage Rd & Cascade Village South Frontage Rd & Vail Rd South Frontage Rd & Lionshead Vail Transportation Center 113 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 68 Figure 41: Job Concentration, LEHD, 2021 Core Transit may change route patterns to account for the new and existing commercial and residential developments on North Frontage Road. The concurrent planning efforts by Vail and Core Transit offer the opportunity to return to this idea, which has previously b een under consideration. Table 21 compares the pros and cons of routes that serve North versus South Frontage Road. 114 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 69 Table 21: North versus South Frontage Road Service Trade-offs Pros Cons North Frontage Road • Provides a direct connection to job concentration at West Vail Mall for employees living outside of the Town of Vail • West Vail residents living north of I-70 may take a Core Transit route west without having to go out of direction to transfer at VTC • May require an adjustment to Core Transit driver rest stops in Vail • Vail residents may occasionally use Core Transit to travel from East Vail to West Vail at VTC, impacting Core Transit capacity South Frontage Road • Provides the direct service to Lionshead and Vail Transportation Center • No change maintains a sense of consistency and trust with Vail residents that use the existing Core Transit transfer points • Requires Core Transit passengers to transfer to a local Vail route to reach most employee housing and West Vail Mall area • Serves stops with relatively low housing density (Chamonix and Cascade Village)and limited pedestrian connectivity to surrounding land uses The Valley and/or Highway 6 Core Transit bus routes are best candidates to move to North Frontage Road because they serve the highest number of Vail stops and connect major employment centers for Vail residents – Avon and Edwards. Currently, the Valley and Highway 6 routes enter West Vail on I-70, transfer to South Frontage Road via the underpass, and depart from VTC via I-70. Prospective new Core Transit transfer locations, all of which include existing density and plans for further development, include We st Middle Creek, Timber Ridge, and West Vail Mall. Below are potential route changes that will be further analyzed during alternatives development: 1. North Frontage Road – Transfer I-70 to N. Frontage Road at the West Vail underpass, depart from VTC at Vail Road via I-70. 2. North then South Frontage Road – Transfer I-70 to N. Frontage Road at the West Vail underpass, turn around at VTC via S. Frontage Road, and depart S. Frontage Road via I-70 at the fire station. 3. South then North Frontage Road – Transfer I-70 to S. Frontage Road at the West Vail underpass, turn around at VTC via N. Frontage Road, and depart N. Frontage Road via I-70 at the fire station. Seasonal Coordination Seasonal Ridership Vail and Core Transit adjust transit service schedules to accommodate seasonal fluctuations in ridership. Figure 42 shows monthly ridership from both systems during 2023 and 2024. Vail Transit ridership increased four -fold from November to December. By comparison, Core Transit is more consistent month-to-month, though ridership doubled in the winter months. 115 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 70 Figure 42: Monthly Ridership on Vail and Core Transit, 2023-2024 Seasonal Service Changes Vail and Core Transit adjust service seasonally to accommodate for fluctuations in ridership associated with the mountain tow ns they serve. Both systems reduce the number of routes in operation from winter to summer. Core Transit reduces from five to four routes with suspended service on the Vail/Beaver Creek Express. Vail Transit reduces from eight to six routes with suspended service on the West Vail Expre ss and Lionsridge Loop. Table 22 shows the periods of time during which Vail and Core Transit will operate seasonal schedules in 2024 and 2025. From November 15 to December 8, Vail Transit transitions to an early winter schedule, while Core Transit remains on a summer schedule for anothe r two weeks. Future seasonal schedule alignment may simplify schedules and transfers for passengers across systems. Both schedules are subject to change according to the concurrent planning efforts currently in progress. Table 22: Seasonal Schedule Periods, Vail and Core Transit Systems, 2024 Vail Transit Core Transit Early Winter Schedule November 15 – December 8 - Winter Schedule December 9 – April 13 December 1 – April 13 Summer Schedule April 14 – November 14 April 14 – November 30 0 100000 200000 300000 400000 500000 600000 Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Vail Transit Core Transit 116 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 71 Winter 2024 Service Updates As a newly formed RTA, Core Transit has made several service changes including increased frequency and the transition to fare free. This winter, Core Transit will increase service on Highway 6, Valley, and Vail/Beaver Creek Express routes. Table 23 summarizes the changes most relevant to Vail Transit operations: Table 23: Core Transit Winter 2024 Service Changes Highway 6 Route Valley Route Frequency - Typical frequency increases from 30 to 20 minutes - Higher frequency between Vail and Edwards - More express routes between Vail and Eagle - Additional express route from Vail to Dotsero Late Night Service - Last bus departs VTC at 1:05am (about two hours later) - Stops - No longer serves the Donovan stop - Added stop at Walmart in Avon - Some routes will serve the Chamonix and Cascade Village stops These service increases support Core Transit’s growing ridership. Between 2019 and 2023, Core Transit ridership increased by about 20 percent. Schedule alignment and coordination with Core Transit through this planning effort will optimize the collective regional investment in transit. 117 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 72 Summer Paid Parking Impact on Transit Needs The Town of Vail maintains the following parking facilities: Vail Village, Lionshead, Red Sandstone, Ford Park, and Soccer/At hletic Fields (shown in Table 24). These parking facilities are paid during both the winter and summer seasons, although the rates have different structures. Table 24: Town of Vail Parking Facilities Parking Facility Location Number of Parking Spaces Vail Village 501 N Frontage Road 1,230 Lionshead 395 E Lionshead Circle 1,020 Red Sandstone 559 N Frontage Road 159 Ford Park* 700 S Frontage Road 194 Soccer/Athletic Fields* 646 Vail Valley Drive 54 *Ford Park and Soccer/Athletic Fields parking lots are occasionally closed during summer events To meet the various goals set by the Go Vail 2045 plan, the town recently introduced hourly parking fees at its parking facilities during the summer season; these fees include $2 per hour with a $10 daily maximum. Beyond providing funding repairs and maintenance of the town’s parking structures, these fees also encourage the use of transit. This creates an expanded transit market (people who the transit system serves). To best estimate how paid parking in the summer may impact the parking demand and potential transit market, this analysis loo ked at three factors: existing travel pattern data, existing parking occupancy data, and research on impacts to parking demand. Existing Travel Pattern Data Through the analysis of travel patterns conducted for the Vail Mobility and Transportation Master Plan, the key origins to th e Vail Village parking structure from within the Town of Vail include East Vail, Safeway/Vail Commons (West Vail Mall), and the Sandstone/Potato Patch neighborhoods during the summer. 118 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 73 Existing Parking Occupancy Data During manual observations of the Lionshead parking structure, Vail Village parking structure, and the Ford Park lot on March 18th, 2023, and March 25th, 2023 (historically two of the busiest days in the winter season), the Town of Vail recorded an average vehicle occupancy of 2.3 occupants per vehicle. Although similar summer data is not available, this study assumes a lower average vehicle occupancy of 1.5 occupants per vehicle during the summer season. The rationale for this lower occupancy is that summe r trips likely consist mostly of in-town trips versus longer tourism-driven trips and less of commuters who are more likely to carpool. Research on Impacts to Parking Demand Per research by Lehner and Peer on price elasticity of parking, it is expected that there will be a reduction in parking demand of 30%1. This assumes that alternate modes and alternate parking options are available, which is true of Vail. Potential New Transit Market for Summer Trips to Vail Transportation Center As a result of the proposed paid parking at the Vail Village and Lionshead parking structures, this analysis assumes a reduct ion in daily vehicular trips of 30% which would shift to an increase in people making trips in different ways, such as using transi t. Furthermore, since it is assumed that each vehicular trip contains an average vehicle occupancy of 1.5 occupants, the anticipated increase in the potential summer transit market is equivalent to the reduction in vehicular trips multiplied by the factor of average vehicle occupants. Figure 43 displays these potential increases in the summer transit travel market from each of the travel pattern analysis neighborhoods. It is important to note that this would likely be the maximum transit market due to paid parking, and that people may make other mode choices instead of transit as substitutes to private vehicles, such as biking, walking, carpooling, and ridesharing. 1 Lehner, S., & Peer, S. (2019). The price elasticity of parking: A meta-analysis. Elsevier, 121(177). https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tra.2019.01.014 119 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 74 Figure 43: Potential New Transit Market in Summer Trips to VTC due to Paid Parking Since the travel pattern data shows that the highest number of existing daily trips to the VTC is from East Vail, Safeway/Vai l Commons (West Vail Mall), and the Sandstone/Potato Patch neighborhoods, these locations are anticipated to also have the largest number of trips taken on different modes (such as transit) during the summer with the introduction of paid parking. (Note: this data only displays the origins to the VTC and does not account for increased transit use because of paid parking at the Lionshead parking structure, increased summer frequency of transit routes, nor new housing developments). Furthermore, the travel pattern data shows slightly different destinations for trips originating at the VTC due to people’s trip purposes not always being sin gular when they travel to versus from their origin. In other words, the transit system may serve a commuter from their home to their place of employment in the morning but then their afternoon destination may be a grocery store before heading back home. 120 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 75 Implications for Transit Service With over 300 new trips that the transportation system is expected to shift to other modes in the summer, it is important tha t the Vail Transit system responds appropriately to meet this increased demand. This generally means recognizing that service along the Frontage Roads in both directions from the VTC is a critical service year-round and three-quarters of the travel pattern analysis neighborhoods are expected to generate more than 10 new non-vehicle trips just because of the implementation of paid park ing. Furthermore, if the outlying parking facilities remain free and act more like park-and-ride locations in the summer, especially for those who may coming from outside of Vail, it is important that the quality-of-service levels is maintained or improved to provide seamless transfers and travel times to Vail Village and Lionshead. Impact Analysis Summary Employee Housing Transit Service • New and existing Vail employee housing will result in a total of 954 units and 1,557 beds by the year 2027. • Frequency to VTC may be adequate during the winter season, whereas frequency to West Vail Mall may need to be increased, particularly during summer periods. • Transit Service at the new West Middle Creek bus stop will only be possible in the westbound direction making it important to provide alternate route connections to and from VTC. Core Transit Coordination • The newly formed RTA offers Vail Transit the opportunity to optimize regional investment and ridership momentum. • Vail and Core Transit have a timely opportunity to coordinate planning efforts to improve transfers, serve high demand stops, and target respective key travel markets. • Vail commuters and visitors most heavily rely on the Highway 6, Valley, and Vail/Beaver Creek Express routes. • Key transfer points between Vail and Core Transit are Vail Transportation Center, South Frontage Road and Vail Road, and Sout h Frontage Road and Lionshead. • The benefits of a shift of the Valley and/or Highway 6 from South to North Frontage Roads include 1) a direct connection to job concentration at West Vail Mall for employees, and 2) passengers north of I-70 may travel west without first going east to transfer at VTC. • Future seasonal schedule alignment will simplify transfer for passengers across systems and optimize regional transit investme nts for Vail passengers. 121 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 76 Summer Paid Parking Impact • Based on an anticipated 30% reduction in vehicular trips, which would shift to other modes, Vail Transit may expect a potential transit market of up to 300 additional daily transit users. The highest number of daily trips to the VTC are from East Vail, Safeway/Vail Commons (West Vail Mall), and the Sandstone/Pot ato Patch neighborhoods, therefore, these areas are anticipated to produce the highest number of non -vehicular trips during the summer. 122 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 77 Chapter 3: Scenario Development Short-Term Route Opportunities Ridership Potential Figure 44 illustrates population density in the Town of Vail (ACS, 2018 -2022). Note that block group level data lacks the specificity to account for stop-level population and housing density but rather provides an overview of high -level population trends. The highest pockets of population density are in West and East Vail though overall, West Vail has higher density than East Vail. Bus stop frequency in areas wi th potential for high ridership informed the structure of scenarios. Figure 44: Vail Population Density Source: American Community Survey, 2018-2022 123 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 78 Route Concepts This section describes the various concepts explored for changing existing routes or adding new routes to optimize the transit system and to meet the town’s goals. These concepts are later applied in the scenario development process. Middle Creek Circulator Largely motivated by the construction of the new housing at West Middle Creek, which will add approximately 270 additional housing units with approximately 350 beds, this new route would provide service that can directly connect the housing units with Lionshead and the Vail Transportation Center (Figure 45). Per the development’s and town’s designs of West Middle Creek, the bus stop serving this housing development will be westbound-only. With the existing transit routes, residents would need to travel out of direction on the Sandstone, Lionsridge Loop, or West Vail Red routes to reach Lionshead or the Vail Transportation Center. With the Middle Creek Circulator, h owever, residents will have much quicker and more direct access to these key destinations. Additionally, with a new stop at Vail Run, there will still be a direct connection to those neighborhoods. 124 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 79 Figure 45: Middle Creek Circulator 125 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 80 South Frontage Road Express This route concept was designed to understand what it would look like to provide express service along South Frontage Road, directly between Vail Transportation Center and Intermountain (Figure 46). This route would work in conjunction with the existing West Vail Express, which runs along the North Frontage Road between Timber Ridge and Chamonix, providing more direct and consistent connections, rather than the rider having to be strategic about riding the West Vail Red or West Vail Green routes to reach the southwestern Vail neighborhoods. 126 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 81 Figure 46: South Frontage Road Express 127 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 82 West Vail Red and West Vail Green Currently the West Vail Red and West Vail Green routes represent the core of the West Vail transit system, providing local se rvice to all West Vail stops (the green route travels clockwise and the red route travels counterclockwise). In looking at the typical run times of these route s, minor route modifications allow for decreased run times, more direct connections for riders, and increased frequency, assuming the collaboration of these routes with other West Vail routes. These modifications are shown in Figure 47 and include: • Bypassing the Spruce Creek stop and only serving the Ptarmigan and Matterhorn stops. This reduces the additional time it takes for the West Vail Red route to make the loop through that area twice. Existing ridership at the Spruce Creek stop makes up for less than 1% of the outlying route ridership, and riders would need to walk approximately five minutes either to Ptarmigan or Matterhorn to catch the buses. • Bypassing the Chamonix and West Vail Fire Station stops. This reduces the additional time it takes for both routes to serve these stops. This route change would be paired with a service increase on the West Vail Express route which would be an all -day, year-round service. • Bypassing the stops along Chamonix Lane (behind West Vail Mall). This reduces the additional time it takes for the West Vail Red route to make the loop through that area twice. This route change would be paired with the Lionsridge Loop route change described next, which would take over serving these stops. 128 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 83 Figure 47: West Vail Red and Green 129 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 84 Lionsridge Loop Modifications to the Lionsridge Loop would extend the route to serve the stops along Chamonix Lane (behind West Vail Mall ) and provide additional connections to key destinations along North Frontage Road (Figure 48). This route would also serve the new stop at Vail Run, providing additional access. 130 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 85 Figure 48: Lionsridge Loop 131 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 86 Scenario Development In developing scenarios, the project team worked with town staff to balance different needs. Scenario 1 focuses on enhancing local services and Scenario 2 focuses on enhancing express services. Throughout the process, the project team also explored a Scenario 1A that balances local and express services while maintaining existing routing. Scenario 1A was ultimately not pursued, so it is not illustrated in this plan. Scenario 1: Enhance Local Service Scenario 1 provides faster local service and more connections to Vail Transportation Center (VTC) and West Vail Mall. Figure 49 illustrates routes that require pattern changes alongside those that remain unchanged. The West Vail Red and Green routes are altered to eliminate the current loops taken at West Vail Mall and provide more expres s service. Lionsridge Loop is extended west to the loop on Chamonix Lane to serve West Vail Mall before returning to North Frontage Road. The new route, Middle Creek Circulator, connects the most densely populated employee housing to the VTC. Figure 49: Scenario 1 132 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 87 Figure 50 illustrates new and changed routes patterns in West Vail under Scenario 1. Three route pattern changes (West Vail Red/Green and Lionsridge Loop) and one new route pattern (Middle Creek Circulator) are included. The impacts of Scenario 1 on peak frequency, run time, and the number of buses required at peak times are reflected in Table 25. Notably, the incorporation of the winter piggyback services into operations allows for no increase in vehicle needs. The additional summer vehicle needs can be sourced from the available fleet. Figure 50: Scenario 1 New and Changed Routes - West Vail 133 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 88 Table 25: Scenario 1 Summary of Changes and Operations Route Name Route Pattern Changes Peak Frequency (from existing) Run Time (from existing) Buses Required (from existing) West Vail Red & Green • Remains on N Frontage Rd at West Vail Mall • Removes Chamonix stop on N Frontage Rd 20 mins year-round (down from 30 mins) 40 mins (down from 45 mins) Winter: 4 (+1) Summer: 4 (+2) Middle Creek Circulator (new) • VTC to N Frontage Rd via Vail Rd • N to S Frontage Rd via the W Frontage Rd underpass • S Frontage Rd to VTC 20 mins year-round (new) 20 mins (new) Winter: 1 (+1) Summer: 1 (+1) West Vail Express • No changes 15 mins year-round (up from 10-20 mins, winter-only) 30 mins (no changes) Winter: 2 (+0) Summer: 2 (+2) Sandstone • No changes 20 mins winter, 30 mins summer (down from 60 mins in summer) 20 mins (no changes) Winter: 1 (+0) Summer: 0.6 (+0) Lionsridge Loop (new routing, year-round) • Extended from Lionsridge Loop to Chamonix Ln • Loops down to N Frontage Rd via Chamonix Rd roundabout 30 mins year-round (down from 60 mins, winter only) 30 mins (up from 20 mins) Winter: 1 (+0.6) Summer: 1 (+1) In Town Shuttle • No changes Varies (no changes) Varies (no changes) Winter: 6 (+0) Summer: 4 (+0) East Vail • No changes 10 mins winter (down from 15 mins), 20 mins summer (down from 30 mins) 40 mins (down from 45 mins) Winter: 4 (+1) Summer: 2 (+0.6) Golf Course • No changes 30 min winter, 60 min summer (no changes) 20 mins (no changes) Winter: 0.6 (+0) Summer: 0.3 (+0) 134 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 89 Ford Park (winter only) • Eliminate route fully, replace with added service on East Vail None (eliminate) None (eliminate) Winter: 0 (-1) Summer: 0 (+0) Winter Piggybacks • Eliminate winter piggybacks by incorporating into service None (eliminate) None (eliminate) Winter: 0 (-4) Summer: 0 (0) Total Winter: 19.6 (- 0.8) Summer: 14.9 (+6.0) Scenario 2: Enhance Express Service Scenario 2 provides more express routes to West Vail Mall and Vail Transportation Center. Figure 51 illustrates routes that require pattern changes alongside those that remain unchanged. Figure 51: Scenario 2 135 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 90 Figure 52 illustrates the three route pattern changes (West Vail Red and Green and Lionsridge Loop) and two new route patterns (Middle Creek Circulator and South Frontage Road Express) in West Vail. The impacts of Scenario 2 on peak frequency, run time, and the number of buses required at peak times are reflected in Table 26. Like Scenario 1, there are no additional vehicle needs during the winter and the needs in the summer are covered by existing resources. Figure 52: Scenario 2 Route Changes in West Vail 136 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 91 Table 26: Scenario 2 Summary of Changes and Operations Route Name Route Pattern Changes Peak Frequency (changes from existing) Run Time (changes from existing) Number of Buses Required (changes from existing) West Vail Red & Green • Remains on N Frontage Rd at West Vail Mall • Removes Chamonix stop on N Frontage Rd 40 mins year- round (up from 30 mins during winter) 40 mins (down from 45 mins) Winter: 2 (-1) Summer: 2 (+0) Middle Creek Circulator (new) • VTC to N Frontage Rd via Vail Rd • N to S Frontage Rd via the W Frontage Rd underpass • S Frontage Rd to VTC 10 min winter, 20 min summer (new) 20 mins (new) Winter: 1 (+1) Summer: 1 (+1) West Vail Express • No changes 10 mins (down from 10-20 mins) 30 mins (no changes) Winter: 3 (+1) Summer: 2 (+2) Sandstone • No changes 20 mins winter, 60 mins summer (no changes) 20 mins (no changes) Winter: 1 (+0) Summer: 0.3 (+0) Lionsridge Loop (new routing, year-round) • Extended from Lions Ridge Loop to Chamonix Ln • Loops down to N Frontage Rd via Chamonix Rd roundabout 30 mins year- round (down from 60 mins, winter only) 30 mins (up from 20 mins) Winter: 1 (+0.6) Summer: 1 (+1) South Frontage Road Express (new) • VTC to Intermountain/Meadow Creek and back to VTC via South Frontage Road only • Stays on Gore Creek without serving Spruce Creek bus stop in either direction 20 mins year- round (new) 40 mins (new) Winter: 2 (+2) Summer: 2 (+2) In Town Shuttle • No changes Varies (no changes) Varies (no changes) Winter: 6 (+0) Summer: 4 (+0) 137 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 92 East Vail • No changes 10 mins winter (down from 15 mins), 20 mins summer (down from 30 mins) 40 mins (down from 45 mins) Winter: 4 (+1) Summer: 2 (+0.6) Golf Course • No changes 30 min winter, 60 min summer (no changes) 20 mins (no changes) Winter: 0.6 (+0) Summer: 0.3 (+0) Ford Park (winter only) * Eliminate route fully, replace with added service on East Vail None (eliminate) None (eliminate) Winter: 0 (-1) Summer: 0 (+0) Winter Piggybacks Eliminate winter piggybacks by incorporating into service None (eliminate) None (eliminate) Winter: 0 (- 4) Summer: 0 (0) Total Winter: 20.6 (-0.4) Summer: 14.6 (+5.6) Impact to Transit Frequency by Stop When making the changes as described in both of the scenarios, it is important to quantify the impacts that these changes have on riders. This section describes on both scenarios impact transit frequency at each key stop. Winter Frequency by Stop Table 27 identifies the number of West Vail buses that stop at each key stop when headed to the Vail Transportation Center or to the West Vail Mall. The table depicts the number of buses per hour in the existing system and under both scenarios. Table 28 identifies the same concept for buses in East Vail. The tables are also color coded; the bus stops where more frequency is expected through the scenarios are highlighted in green, while the bus stops where less frequency is expected through the scenarios are highlighted in blue. In most cases, both scenarios offer 138 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 93 higher frequency at the stop level to better serve the existing and expected demand. In all cases where there will be less buses servicing the bus stop, there are either stops nearby that receive better service or these stops are served by the Intown route. Table 27: Count of West Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario Existing Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 1 Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 2 Number of Buses per Hour Origin Bus Stop To VTC To West Vail Mall To VTC To West Vail Mall To VTC To West Vail Mall VTC N/A 8 N/A 12 N/A 11 Middle Creek 6 3 11 5 12.5 3.5 Vail Run 4 N/A 8 5 11 3.5 Timber Ridge 6 6 7 9 7.5 9.5 West Vail Mall 6 N/A 12 N/A 11 N/A Upper Buffehr Creek 2 N/A 2 N/A 2 N/A Chamonix 8 N/A 4 N/A 6 N/A Intermountain 2 2 3 3 4.5 1.5 Spruce Creek 2 N/A 3 N/A 1.5 N/A Matterhorn 2 2 3 3 4.5 1.5 W Lionshead Plaza 2 2 6 3 10.5 1.5 Lionshead Transit Center 6 4 10 4 16.5 6 Legend: Improved Frequency from Existing Neutral Frequency from Existing Decreased Frequency from Existing 139 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 94 Table 28: Count of East Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Winter Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario Existing Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 1 Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 2 Number of Buses per Hour Origin Bus Stop To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn VTC N/A 6 N/A 6 N/A 6 Ford Park 8 4 6 6 6 6 Ptarmigan East 2 N/A 2 N/A 2 0 Clubhouse 2 N/A 2 N/A 2 0 Booth Falls 4 4 6 6 6 6 Main Gore/Bighorn 4 N/A 6 N/A 6 N/A Legend: Improved Frequency from Existing Neutral Frequency from Existing Decreased Frequency from Existing 140 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 95 Summer Frequency by Stop For the summer, as shown in Table 29 for West Vail routes and Table 30 for East Vail routes, many stops will receive higher frequency of buses. In fact, all stops will receive more bus service to West Vail Mall. In East Vail, due to the elimination of the Hiker Express, there will be one less bus per hour. However, the East Vail route is still improving to having three buses per hour instead of two. Table 29: Count of West Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario Existing Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 1 Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 2 Number of Buses per Hour Origin Bus Stop To VTC To West Vail Mall To VTC To West Vail Mall To VTC To West Vail Mall VTC N/A 3 N/A 8 N/A 5 Middle Creek 2.5 1.5 9 5 7.5 3.5 Vail Run 1 0 6 5 6 3.5 Timber Ridge 1.5 1.5 3 5 1.5 3.5 West Vail Mall 1.5 N/A 8 N/A 5 N/A Upper Buffehr Creek 1.5 N/A 2 N/A 2 N/A Chamonix 1.5 N/A 3 N/A 3 N/A Intermountain 1.5 1.5 3 3 1.5 1.5 Spruce Creek 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A Matterhorn 1.5 1.5 3 3 1.5 1.5 W Lionshead Plaza 1.5 1.5 6 3 4.5 1.5 Lionshead Transit Center 1.5 0 6 0 4.5 0 Legend: Improved Frequency from Existing Neutral Frequency from Existing Decreased Frequency from Existing 141 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 96 Table 30: Count of East Vail Buses Toward Destinations During Summer Peak Hour, by Stop, Destination, and Scenario Existing Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 1 Number of Buses per Hour Scenario 2 Number of Buses per Hour Origin Bus Stop To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn To VTC To Main Gore/Bighorn VTC N/A 4 N/A 3 N/A 3 Ford Park N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Ptarmigan East 1 N/A 1 N/A 1 N/A Clubhouse 1 N/A 1 N/A 1 N/A Booth Falls 4 4 3 3 3 3 Main Gore/Bighorn 4 N/A 3 N/A 3 N/A Legend: Improved Frequency from Existing Neutral Frequency from Existing Decreased Frequency from Existing 142 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 97 Scenario Trade Offs When comparing the two scenarios from a routing, resulting service, and resources perspective, Table 31 describes the trade-offs between choosing one scenario over another. These scenarios were iterated and brought to key stakeholders to refine towards a preferred scenario, as described in the following section. Table 31: Scenario Trade-Offs Scenario 1 Scenario 2 Pros • Provides most fast/frequent/reliable service on West Vail Green, West Vail Red, and Lionsridge Loop routes • Most service connecting North Frontage Deed-Restricted Housing and West Vail Mall • Could continue to service Spruce Creek if necessary • Highest frequency on routes connecting neighborhoods to the Vail Transportation Center • Most legible scenario to guests Cons • Requires more route pattern changes • Has the most service hour increase, which results in a larger resource need • Has the most unique routes which also adds complexity to the system and potential congestion at the Vail Transportation Center • Routes provide fewer north- south connections in West Vail 143 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 98 Chapter 4: Preferred Scenario Through iteration with staff and town council, as well as with public input, the Town of Vail will move forward with a prefer red scenario. The preferred scenario is as described in Scenario 1, which focuses on enhancing local transit services. Figure 53 illustrates new and changed routes patterns in West Vail under the preferred scenario. The route pattern changes include West Vail Red, West Vail Green, and Lionsridge Loop and the creation of the new Middle Creek Circulator. Additionally, Lionsridge Loop would be operated year -round at 30-minute frequency and the West Vail Express would be operated year-round. The map does not show East Vail, but the route would provide higher frequency. This preferred scenario represents an overall increase of over 17,300 yearly operating hours, which is nearly a 25% increase in service. Beyond the iterations with staff and town council, this preferred scenario also balances the various needs of the transit system in improving route reliability, serving the areas with existing and anticipated growth of housing density, providing connections to regional services, and accommodating the increased demand from paid summer parking. 144 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 99 Figure 53: Preferred Scenario (Scenario 1): Enhance Local Service 145 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 100 As seen in Table 32, there are route changes and associated costs displayed by year and season, and the anticipated event that would prompt the route change. The system’s costs are comprised of operational and administrative costs. The Town of Vail also keeps track of capital costs separately, but those are more on an inconsistent basis when vehicle s or other equipment need to be updated or replaced. Between 2025 and 2027, the anticipated events include increased regional service and the introduction of summer paid parking. These events would prompt the need to increase frequency on the West Vail Red and West Vail Red and implement West Vail Express as a year-round and all- day service. Additionally, with the route change on the West Vail Red and West Vail Green routes not serving behind West Vail Mall, the Lionsridge Loop would be extended to cover that area and run at a 30-minute frequency year-round. These increases in service would also prompt the elimination of the winter piggybacks and the existing Early Winter service (which would transition to being an Ear ly Summer service). As the table shows in dark blue, the changes to West Vail Red, West Vail Green, Lionsridge Loop, West Vail Express, winter piggybacks and Early Winter service are all interrelated and would need to be implemented together as Package 1. Additionally, these anticipated 2025 to 2027 events would increase the need for increased frequency on the East Vail route, which also means the elimination of the East Vail Express (Hiker Express). These East Vail changes are shown in the table in light blue as part of Package 2. Between 2027 and 2030, the anticipated events include the new West Vail housing, West Lionshead Base Village housing and acti vities, and the Vail Transportation Center renovation. These events would prompt the creation of the Middle Creek Circulator route, but it would likely not have to change many of the operations of the other routes beyond the scheduling. The addition of this route and the other routes not named previously are included as Package 3 and shown in the table in light pink as routes that can be added without direct relationships to other routes. The increase in service on the Sandstone route during the summer season can also be done independent of other routes and inde pendent of the anticipated events. As a result of the above changes and by the time of full implementation in the 2028 to 2030 timeframe, this will result in a total system cost of $5.2 Million in the summer season and $4.4 Million in the winter season. This represents a total yearly increase of approximately $2.0 Million compared to the current annual system cost, most of which comes from the service increases in the summer season. 146 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 101 Table 32: Route Changes and Associated Costs in Response to Anticipated Town Events/Changes Anticipated Event Increased Regional Service (Improvements by Bustang and Core Transit) Summer Paid Parking (at TOV parking facilities) New Housing and Activity Nodes (Middle Creek, Timber Ridge, West Lionshead) Vail Transportation Center Renovation to increase capacity Year 2025-2026 2026-2027 2027-2028 2028-2029 2029-2030 Season Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Summer* Winter Existing Operational Costs Subtotal** $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M $3.32M $4.24M Improvement Packages Route Service Change Additional Operational Cost from Existing (2024-2025) Package 1: WVG + WVR + LRL + WVE and related changes West Vail Red and Green Year-Round Routing Change and Increase Frequency - +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K +$575K +$195K Lionsridge Loop Year-Round Routing Change and Increase Frequency +$50K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K +$275K +$70K West Vail Express Year-Round All-Day Service +$300K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K +$550K +$125K Winter Piggybacks Eliminate winter piggybacks by incorporating into service - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K - -$235K Early Winter Service Eliminate Early Winter Service (Summer schedule transitions to winter schedule) - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K - -$445K 147 Vail Transit Route Optimization Plan | 102 Package 2: East Vail and related changes East Vail Year-Round Increase Frequency - +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K +$205K +$150K East Vail Express (Hiker Express) Eliminate East Vail Express (Hiker Express) in summer +$100K - -$225K - -$225K - -$225K - -$225K - Package 3: Routes that can be added without direct relationship to other routes. Sandstone Increased Frequency During Summer +$50K - +$115K - +$115K - +$115K - +$115K - Middle Creek Circulator New Year-Round Route - - - - - - +$390K +$270K +$390K +$270K Golf Course No Change - - - - - - - - - - Intown No Change - - - - - - - - - - Net Additional Seasonal Operational Cost Subtotal +$500K -$140K +$1.50M -$140K +$1.50M -$140K +$1.89M +$130K +$1.89M +$130K TOTAL SEASONAL COST TOTAL SEASONAL COSTS $3.8M $4.1M $4.8M $4.1M $4.8M $4.1M $5.2M $4.4M $5.2M $4.4M *Summer includes new "early summer" season **Existing Cost includes "early winter" season. Costs may change with operational change. 148 Transit Scenarios Public FeedbackFILL WITH PICTURE VA I L T R A N S I T R O U T E O P T I M I Z AT I O N P L A N T own Co unc il Me et ing J uly 1 , 20 25 149 Background •Presented initial concepts at the May 6th Council meeting •Reviewed Council feedback •Ran a survey June 10-29 •Received additional information about a potential funding source 150 • Implement pattern changes and increase service on West Vail Red/Green (20 Min Service) and Lionsridge Loop (30 Min Service) • Increase service on East Vail (Winter:10 Min Service, Summer: 20 Min Service) • New route, Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min Service) • All day West Vail Express (15 Min Service) • Eliminate Piggybacks 151 No Lionsridge Loop pattern change (60 Min service) Fewer West Vail Red & Green pattern changes (20 Min service) New Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) All Day West Vail Express (15 Min service) 152 • Decrease service on West Vail Red and Green with routing changes (40 Min service) • Increase service on West Vail Express (10 Min service winter; 15 Min service summer), Lionsridge Loop with routing changes (30 Min service), and East Vail (10 Min service winter; 20 Min service summer) • Create new Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) • Create new South Frontage Road Express (20 Min service) • Eliminate Piggybacks 153 What We Heard from Council •Possible Middle Creek Circulator-Sandstone combination •Impacts of only running the Middle Creek Circulator and South Frontage Road Express during the winter schedule 154 Middle Creek Circulator-Sandstone Combination •Would require an extended 30 minute loop and two buses to maintain high frequencies •Longer travel time for North Frontage Road residents •Potential crowding issues for Sandstone residents 155 Winter Only Middle Creek Circulator and South Frontage Road Express •Limited parking at West Middle Creek makes high frequency transit connections to Vail Village important year round •Increased West Vail South service is recommended to off set impacts of summer paid parking and meet public support for increased frequency •Significant cost savings $520k for South Frontage Road Express and $390k for Middle Creek Circulator 156 Survey •Posted a survey on Engage Vail June 10-29 •Outreach via email, Vail Daily, QR code signs on buses and in the VTC •330 responses as of June 25th 157 Survey Results (Demographics) 158 Survey Results (Demographics) 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 Survey Results (Written Comments) Themes from written comment section: •Calls for Buffehr Creek service •Keep Spruce Creek service •Better connections between East Vail and West Vail •Increased frequency and expanded span of service •Better spacing of buses along the North Frontage Road 172 Lionsridge Loop pattern change (30 Min service) West Vail Red & Green pattern changes (20 Min service) New Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) All Day West Vail Express (15 Min service) 173 Scenario Costs (In addition to 2025 Summer Enhancements) Financial Scenario 1: Enhance Local Service Scenario 2: Enhance Express Service Labor Scenario 1A: Enhance Local Service Fewer Route Changes •$1.4 million annual increase ($700-800k without Middle Creek Circulator) •7 additional full time drivers •5 additional winter seasonal drivers •$1 million annual increase ($300-400k without Middle Creek Circulator) •5 additional full time drivers •3 additional winter seasonal drivers •$1.6 million annual increase ($900k-1M without Middle Creek Circulator) •7 additional full time drivers •9 additional winter seasonal driversVehicle •0 additional buses needed for fleet (recommended to pursue grant funding for additional spare bus) •0 additional buses needed for fleet •1 additional bus needed for fleet * Middle Creek Circulator expected to cost approximately $600-700k annually included in each scenario. (Required since there is no EB stop at WMC – If EB stop is added this route would not have to be added) 174 SB24-230 Funding •State collects new fees on oil and gas development to support expanded transit services •Colorado state formula funding •Town of Vail allocation for expanded transit is an estimated $925k in SFY 25-26 and $1.2M in SFY 26-27 with a 20% local match •A short-term transit plan is a requirement for the funding and the Route Optimization Plan is expected to meet those requirements •A Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) is expected to be released in late June with more details 175 Next Steps Does Council support the plan? Does Council support selecting Scenario 1 as the preferred scenario? Would Council support staff further exploring the implementation of Scenario 1 excluding the Middle Creek Circulator starting this winter season? 176 Additional Detail Slides 177 Project Purpose Strategic Action Plan Goal – Transportation By 2029, people who live, work, and recreate in Vail use the Eagle Valley Transportation Authority and Town of Vail Bus Systems as their preferred method of transportation as evidenced by a reduction in the percentage of vehicles parking in the Vail and Lionshead Parking structures that originate from Eagle County Go Vail 2045 Mobility & Transportation Master Plan Goals 1. Compete with vehicle travel - Provide a convenient alternative to single occupancy vehicle trips to decrease congestion, parking needs, and greenhouse gas emissions. 2. Serve employees - Increase transit options for employees living and working in Vail. Coordinate with Core Transit to serve employees traveling regionally for work or essential needs. 178 H O U S I N G The West Middle Creek and Timber Ridge Village housing developments will generate an estimated 450 additional rides per day in West Vail. R I D E R S H I P Current trends indicate annual and seasonal ridership increases to pre-pandemic levels. Managed summer parking is expected to further increase ridership. I N V E S T M E N T S Core Transit and Bustang are increasing regional service frequency. Plans to expand Vail Transportation Center are underway. Current Needs & Opportunities 179 Background Review 180 Activity Centers West Vail Mall Vail Village Employee Destinations Highest Ridership by Outlying Stop (2023) 1. Timber Ridge (56k) 2. Sandstone School (41.2k) 3. Middle Creek (33.2k) *Three West Vail Mall Stops (60k) 181 Layered Transit Service Example Planned RoutesFrequencyService Type West Vail Express, East Vail, Intown<15 minsHigh Frequency West Vail Red & Green, Golf Course, Sandstone, Lionsridge Loop, NEW employee housing route 20-30 minsLocal Service Planned Layered Transit Network, GO VAIL 2045 Chapter 6, Table 15 182 Route Concepts Explored 183 184 Run Time Winter: 45 mins Summer: 40 mins Provides bi-directional local connections to most stops in West Vail. Opportunities to Reduce Run Time & Increase Efficiency: • Chamonix Lane Loop (Green 3 Min, Red 5 Min) • Gore Creek Drive Loop (Red 2 Min) • Chamonix Stop Loop (Red & Green 3 Min) Frequency Winter: 30 min Summer: 40 min 185 Reduces route pattern inefficiencies for higher frequency local service. Frequency Winter: 20-40 min Summer: 20-40 min 186 Reduces route pattern inefficiencies for higher frequency local service. Spruce Creek stop is removed from routes and no longer served (1,587 total ridership in 2023, <1% of Outlying Ridership) Frequency Winter: 20-40 min Summer: 20-40 min Pro: More direct path for WVR Passengers Con: Bypasses Spruce Creek (5 min walk to Ptarmigan) 187 Reduces route pattern inefficiencies for higher frequency local service. Chamonix stop: • West Vail Express will serve during the day Frequency Winter: 20-40 min Summer: 20-40 min Pro: More direct path for WVR & WVG Passengers Con: Chamonix and West Vail Fire Station only served by WVE during the day 188 Reduces route pattern inefficiencies for higher frequency local service. Green and Red remain on N Frontage Rd and skip the Chamonix Lane loop Frequency Winter: 20-40 min Summer: 20-40 min Pro: - More direct path for WVR & WVG Passengers - More legible Con: -Chamonix Lane stops would only be served by LRL -More Passengers would have to cross the South Frontage Road 189 Run time: 20 mins Connects current and future high-density employee housing with Vail Transportation Center. Frequency Winter: 60 min Summer: 60 min* 190 Connects current and future high-density employee housing at Middle Creek and Timber Ridge with West Vail Mall. The route extends past Buffehr Creek Rd to serve West Vail Mall Vail Run is added to N Frontage Rd and served westbound Run time: 30 mins Frequency Winter: 30 min Summer: 30 min Pro: -Provides Chamonix Lane stops with east/west bound service during summer -More reliable run time -Provides additional service connecting deed-restricted housing and West Vail Mall Con: Lionsridge Loop stops would have longer westbound travel time 191 New route that provides direct connection between high-density employee housing and Vail Transportation Center. Vail Run is relocated to N Frontage Rd and served westbound Existing and future employee housing locations (West Middle and Middle Creek) Run time: 20 mins Frequency Winter: 20 mins Summer: 20 mins Pro: - Provides West Middle Creek with frequent service to Vail Village -Provides additional service to Vail Village/Lionshead for West Lionshead, Lower Sandstone and North Frontage Road deed-restricted housing Con: -Significant cost (approximately $600-700k annually) 192 New route that maintains frequency between South Frontage Road stops and Vail Transportation Center Spruce Creek stop is removed from routes and no longer served Run time: 40 mins Frequency Winter: 20 mins Summer: 20 mins Pro: - Provides West Vail South neighborhoods with additional service - Increases legibility for guests Con: -Doesn’t provide North-South connections -Doesn’t decrease travel times -Resources may be better used to increase WVR/WVG service 193 Scenarios 194 Increases service frequency primarily on existing, local routes Prioritizes express service Scenario 1: Enhance Local Service Scenario 2: Enhance Express Service Alternative to Scenario 1 with fewer route pattern changes Scenario 1A: Enhance Local Service Using Existing Patterns 195 • Implement pattern changes and increase service on West Vail Red/Green (20 Min Service) and Lionsridge Loop (30 Min Service) • Increase service on East Vail (Winter:10 Min Service, Summer: 20 Min Service) • New route, Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min Service) • All day West Vail Express (15 Min Service) • Eliminate Piggybacks 196 Lionsridge Loop pattern change (30 Min service) West Vail Red & Green pattern changes (20 Min service) New Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) All Day West Vail Express (15 Min service) 197 No Lionsridge Loop pattern change (60 Min service) Fewer West Vail Red & Green pattern changes (20 Min service) New Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) All Day West Vail Express (15 Min service) 198 • Decrease service on West Vail Red and Green with routing changes (40 Min service) • Increase service on West Vail Express (10 Min service winter; 15 Min service summer), Lionsridge Loop with routing changes (30 Min service), and East Vail (10 Min service winter; 20 Min service summer) • Create new Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) • Create new South Frontage Road Express (20 Min service) • Eliminate Piggybacks 199 Lionsridge Loop pattern change (30 Min service) West Vail Red & Green pattern changes (40 Min service) New Middle Creek Circulator (20 Min service) New South Frontage Road Express (20 Min service) 200 Winter Frequency (mins)Pattern ChangeRoute Scenario 2Scenario 1AScenario 1Existing 40202030YesWest Vail Red & Green 10151515NoWest Vail Express 30603060Yes (Not in 1A)Lionsridge Loop 202020N/AN/AMiddle Creek Circulator 20N/AN/AN/AN/ASouth Frontage Rd Express* 10101015NoEast Vail Summary of Changes by Route (Winter) Main Takeaway: Scenarios 1 and 2 take different approaches to West Vail Red/Green. Scenario 1 increases the frequency, whereas Scenario 2 decreases frequency and supplements with express routes to major activity nodes. *Route is only included in Scenario 2 201 Winter Frequency (mins)Pattern ChangeRoute Scenario 2Scenario 1AScenario 1Existing 40202040YesWest Vail Red & Green 151515N/ANoWest Vail Express 306030N/AYes (Not in 1A)Lionsridge Loop 202020N/AN/AMiddle Creek Circulator 20N/AN/AN/AN/ASouth Frontage Rd Express* 20202030NoEast Vail Summary of Changes by Route (Summer) Main Takeaway: Scenarios 1 and 2 take different approaches to West Vail Red/Green. Scenario 1 increases the frequency, whereas Scenario 2 decreases frequency and supplements with express routes to major activity nodes. *Route is only included in Scenario 2 202 Scenario Trade Offs PROS Scenario 1: Enhance Local Service Scenario 2: Enhance Express Service CONS Scenario 1A: Enhance Local Service Fewer Route Changes •Provides most fast/frequent/reliable service on WVG/WVR/LRL •Most service connecting North Frontage Deed- Restricted Housing and West Vail Mall •Could continue to service Spruce Creek •Requires more route pattern changes •~$350k more expensive annually than Scenario 1A •Least expensive option •Requires fewest route pattern changes •Tighter schedule on WVR/WVG/LRL •Spruce Creek stop would be eliminated •Glacier Court/Grand Traverse get less service than Scenarios 1 and 2 •Highest frequency on routes connecting neighborhoods to VTC •Most legible to guests •Most expensive option •Has most unique routes which adds complexity to system and potential congestion at VTC •Fewer north-south connections in West Vail 203 Scenario Costs (In addition to 2025 Summer Enhancements) Financial Scenario 1: Enhance Local Service Scenario 2: Enhance Express Service Labor Scenario 1A: Enhance Local Service Fewer Route Changes •$1.4 million annual increase ($700-800k without Middle Creek Circulator) •7 additional full time drivers •5 additional winter seasonal drivers •$1 million annual increase ($300-400k without Middle Creek Circulator) •5 additional full time drivers •3 additional winter seasonal drivers •$1.6 million annual increase ($900k-1M without Middle Creek Circulator) •7 additional full time drivers •9 additional winter seasonal driversVehicle •0 additional buses needed for fleet •0 additional buses needed for fleet •1 additional bus needed for fleet * Middle Creek Circulator expected to cost approximately $600-700k annually included in each scenario. (Required since there is no EB stop at WMC – If EB stop is added this route would not have to be added) 204 Other Considerations • Spring Schedule- Closing Day through Memorial Day • Add second Vail Run stop on North Frontage Road • Elimination of Piggybacks • Frequencies in scenarios modeled for 14 hours (~6A-8P) • Recommendations could be phased 205 From:Randy Baidas To:Stephanie Kauffman; csouthwick@vail.com; Council Dist List Subject:Proposed Elimination of Spruce Creek Bus Stop Date:Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:59:36 AM For Members of Town Council Jujy 01. 2025 meeting Re : Dept Transportation Optimization Plan & Elimination of Spruce Creek Bus Stop -So Frontage Rd West. As Alpine Creek HOA we wish to communicate our opposition to the above proposal wherein our neighborhood Spruce Creek Bus Stop would be eliminated . Ever since 1992 our community of homes have valued the direct access to the bike trail and the bus stop. Particularly in winter, access to Vail Mt via public transportation has become paramount. Our collective use has only increased as families, friends and guests of licensed STR s appreciate n utilize this tangible asset. Together with Spruce Creek Townhome, our access to alternative Matterhorn or Ptarmigan Bus Stops present problems of safe n easy access. The Matterhorn and W Gore Creek Dr bridges are narrow, busy and without an elevated pedestrian walkway. In winter the safely issue is compounded due to ice and snow conditions; increase in residential n commercial traffic to The Highland and Matterhorn communities.; limited day light hours; and the nature of walking in ski boots with equipment. The bike trail along s Frontage Rd West is plowed almost daily when needed. However several people have fallen with injury just walking their dogs or exercising given the surface is unpredictable and subject to black ice. The pathway Eastward significantly descends toward Matterhorn Cr., Should Kids, Seniors, Out of town guests and other riders be subject to unsafe options in order to save 60/90 seconds!! of route time? The circle route of these 3 Stops requires no left turns while serving our neighborhood efficiently and safely. Spruce Creek Stop is really aside Frontage Rd with no shelter or crosswalk to maintain. Is there an actual benefit in eliminating thus viable Stop ? Free bus transport access is also a tangible financial asset for homeowners. A ski rental home without a safe and easy access to Vail Mtn would suddenly incur a loss of income. Increased ridership on North side is great but growth should not eliminate long standing routes where neighborhoods depend on the direct public transport to Town or Vail Mtn . Particularly when elimination n the consequences of safety, liability and financial loss might save route time mere seconds !! Thank you Alpine Creek HOA Committee Randy Baidas Dir Robin Friedberg Rebecca Kohls Please enter into the minutes. Sent from my iPhone 206 From:Will To:Stephanie Kauffman; csouthwick@vsil.com; Council Dist List Subject:Elimination of Spruce Creek Bus Stop July 1, 2025 meeting Date:Friday, June 27, 2025 10:06:06 AM Thirty three years ago we bought our home on Gore Creek in Vail. Next to being on the Creek, having close access to a bus stop and being on the bicycle path were our two biggest considerations in buying the home. For years we , the Alpine Creek townhomes as well as the residents in the Spruce Creak townhomes, have enjoyed the use of our wonderful free Vail bus system. It has been convenient, enabled us to contribute less to air pollution and congestion in town, while at the same time saving us money. We have now become aware that there is a plan being considered to eliminate our bus stop in order to make speedier bus rides for some, yet to be, residents. It seems a bit surprising that our wonderful community, which has always prioritized our natural environment and quality of life, is now prioritizing speed of bus travel time for certain residents by eliminating bus service for other residents. Maybe it is more important for all of us to enjoy the ride together than it is to simply make the ride as quick as possible for some. After all, why are we in Vail? Will Reeves 1850 South Frontage Road West House #1 207 From:Frederick Doyle To:Council Dist List Cc:Stephanie Kauffman; Chris Southwick Subject:Town of Vail Proposed Transit Route Optimization Plan Date:Monday, June 30, 2025 8:37:40 AM Date: June 30th, 2025 To: Vail Town Council Subject: Town of Vail Proposed Transit Route Optimization Plan I am contacting you on behalf of the owners of Spruce Creek Townhomes at Vail regarding the Transit Survey being conducted by the Town of Vail and the potential changes to bus routes within the Vail valley. Our owners, along with their family members and guests, make regular use this valuable service year-round, day and night, to access the many activities within the town of Vail and in the surrounding areas. We are in favor of increasing bus usage and route frequency as one way to reduce the demands on limited in-town parking at the existing parking structures. However, we are opposed to the proposed changes to increase bus usage and frequency for new locations while eliminating bus service for longtime residents by no longer servicing existing stops. One of the proposed changes is to eliminate the Spruce Creek bus stop on the West Vail Red bus route. The owners at Spruce Creek specifically and strongly oppose this proposed change. Eliminating the Spruce Creek bus stop on the West Vail Red bus route will unnecessarily introduce significant health and safety risks to Spruce Creek owners, family members and guests. implementing this change will require the Spruce Creek residents to walk the bike path to either the Matterhorn or the Ptarmigan bus stops. Because of the north orientation of the bike path, it is often covered with snow and ice during the winter months. This condition greatly increases the likelihood of slips and falls for residents desiring to utilize the bus service. The bike path also adjoins the South Frontage Road between the two stops. This section of the Frontage Road is the only residential part of the Frontage Road network, north or south, that still has a speed limit of 45 miles per hour, which also introduces unnecessary risks and discourages bus usage. This section of bike path and Frontage Road also has very limited street lighting during nighttime hours, which again introduces unnecessary risks and discourages bus usage if the change is implemented. Many existing neighboring residents and users of the bus system walk to the Matterhorn and Ptarmigan bus stops during winter months, but they do so along roads with posted speed limits of 20 miles per hour, not the 45 miles per hour of the Frontage Road. Implementation of the proposed change will create two-way bus traffic on the West Gore Creek Road, adding potential congestion and potentially new hazards to those riders. Finally, eliminating the Spruce Creek bus stop will lower the property values of longtime Vail residents who have supported the Town of Vail transit system for decades through the payment of property taxes, sales taxes, and tax on the sale of ski passes and lift tickets. The posted time on the West Vail Red bus route to complete the West Gore Creek loop is four minutes. The proposed change to the West Vail Red bus route is likely to save less than half that time, or under two minutes. We strongly urge the Town Council not to implement the proposed new West Vail Red bus route and keep the Spruce Creek bus stop in place. Sincerely, 208 Frederick Doyle Spruce Creek Townhomes at Vail HOA Board Chair cc: Spruce Creek Townhomes at Vail Board Members Jennifer Berg, Bart Cuomo, Jim Gallagher, Diane Gavic 209 From:Robin Friedberg To:Stephanie Kauffman Cc:csouthwick@vail.com; Council Dist List Subject:Elimination of Spruce creek bus stop Date:Friday, June 27, 2025 3:10:39 PM Attachments:image001.png As an owner in the Alpine creek neighborhood for 25 years I would like to oppose the elimination of the spruce creek bus stop. The red bus passes by our stop twice to go into town. Why eliminate something That takes 1 minute to stop to pick up people? Is there a benefit in eliminating this stop? Thank you! Robin Friedberg Ouimette Vice President Research Underwriters Phone: 800-727-3732 ext. 333 Cell Phone: 970-331-5103 Fax: 412-351-5818 rfriedberg@researchunderwriters.com CA License #: 0D91006 210 From:Randy Baidas To:Stephanie Kauffman; csouthwick@vail.com; Council Dist List Subject:Proposed Elimination of Spruce Creek Bus Stop Date:Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:59:36 AM For Members of Town Council Jujy 01. 2025 meeting Re : Dept Transportation Optimization Plan & Elimination of Spruce Creek Bus Stop -So Frontage Rd West. As Alpine Creek HOA we wish to communicate our opposition to the above proposal wherein our neighborhood Spruce Creek Bus Stop would be eliminated . Ever since 1992 our community of homes have valued the direct access to the bike trail and the bus stop. Particularly in winter, access to Vail Mt via public transportation has become paramount. Our collective use has only increased as families, friends and guests of licensed STR s appreciate n utilize this tangible asset. Together with Spruce Creek Townhome, our access to alternative Matterhorn or Ptarmigan Bus Stops present problems of safe n easy access. The Matterhorn and W Gore Creek Dr bridges are narrow, busy and without an elevated pedestrian walkway. In winter the safely issue is compounded due to ice and snow conditions; increase in residential n commercial traffic to The Highland and Matterhorn communities.; limited day light hours; and the nature of walking in ski boots with equipment. The bike trail along s Frontage Rd West is plowed almost daily when needed. However several people have fallen with injury just walking their dogs or exercising given the surface is unpredictable and subject to black ice. The pathway Eastward significantly descends toward Matterhorn Cr., Should Kids, Seniors, Out of town guests and other riders be subject to unsafe options in order to save 60/90 seconds!! of route time? The circle route of these 3 Stops requires no left turns while serving our neighborhood efficiently and safely. Spruce Creek Stop is really aside Frontage Rd with no shelter or crosswalk to maintain. Is there an actual benefit in eliminating thus viable Stop ? Free bus transport access is also a tangible financial asset for homeowners. A ski rental home without a safe and easy access to Vail Mtn would suddenly incur a loss of income. Increased ridership on North side is great but growth should not eliminate long standing routes where neighborhoods depend on the direct public transport to Town or Vail Mtn . Particularly when elimination n the consequences of safety, liability and financial loss might save route time mere seconds !! Thank you Alpine Creek HOA Committee Randy Baidas Dir Robin Friedberg Rebecca Kohls Please enter into the minutes. Sent from my iPhone 211 From:Ellie Manzi To:Stephanie Kauffman; csouthwick@vail.com; Council Dist List Subject:Spruce Creek Bus Stop In Favor of Keeping This Bus Stop Date:Friday, June 27, 2025 5:12:54 PM Attachments:image001.png Good Afternoon, I wanted to express my support for keeping the Spruce Creek bus stop and discourage any changes in the bus route, by eliminating this convenient location. This particular bus stop affords an easy access for the Town of Vail bus service, to the residents and guests, in this area of West Vail. I wish to champion this cause for keeping the bus stop at Spruce Creek, on behalf of my many clients and friends who avail themselves, of the Town of Vail’s free bus service, in this neighborhood. This is an exceptional benefit so the stops should offer safe and appropriate locations. Many of my real estate clients have purchased property near this Spruce Creek stop, due to the free bus line access. They are used to this bus stop, for many years now. Any elimination of this locale will cause confusion and disappointment on the part of the Vail citizens and visitors, who are using the bus service, specifically at the Spruce Creek access. I encourage you to keep this bus stop since it offers courtesy and good will, on the part of the Town of Vail. Please do not intrude or disrupt the pattern of the bus route in this superb location of bus service convenience. Thank you, Ellie Manzi ELLIE MANZI | BROKER ASSOCIATE | “Ideas For Mountain Living” Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate 230 Bridge Street | Vail, CO 81657 emanzi@slifer.net | www.elliemanzi.com Mobile | 970.331.3998 Fax | 866.744.1633 Recipient of Company Customer Service Award & Humanitarian Award Designations | Graduate Realtor Institute, CIPS & CRS Certifications | e-Pro, Resort & Second Home Property Specialist Member FIABCI | The International Real Estate Federation 48 Years of experience selling Vail area real estate. 212 213 AGENDA ITEM NO. 2.2 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 TIME:45 min. SUBMITTED BY:Carlie Smith, Finance ITEM TYPE:Presentation/Discussion AGENDA SECTION:Presentation/Discussion (2:30pm) SUBJECT:Excise Tax Polling Results (3:15pm) SUGGESTED ACTION:Listen to presentation and provide feedback. PRESENTER(S):Carlie Smith, Finance Director VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: Council Memo - STR Tax Survey Results Memo Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Presentation - Voter Results Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey Summary 214 _________________________________________________________________________ Memorandum TO: Town Council FROM: Finance Department DATE: July 1, 2025 SUBJECT: STR Excise Tax Ballot Question Survey Results I. SUMMARY The Town contracted with Magellan Strategies, a voter survey research and campaign strategy consultant. Magellan surveyed Vail voters to gather opinions on a proposed STR tax, with the revenue restricted for housing programs, projects, and initiatives. Magellan also surveyed lodging condotels to get their feedback on the potential tax. This purpose of this presentation is to present survey results to Council and obtain Council feedback and input for a potential ballot question for review at the July 15th Council meeting. II. BACKGROUND In late 2024/early 2025, Council considered implementing an STR impact fee of $1,200 per bedroom for approximately 2,616 short-term rental properties within the Town of Vail. This fee was supported by a study performed by EPS and RRC which demonstrated that STRs drive increased demand for employees to support the spending generated by the STR bed base, thus raising the need for housing for those employees. However, after receiving feedback from the community, Council decided to instead pursue an STR excise tax, which was preferred based on public comments and feedback. III. DISCUSSION Included in your packet are the results from a recent survey of Vail voters regarding a potential Short-Term Rental excise tax. A total of 506 voters responded. While a general tax increase received mixed feedback, support for a dedicated STR excise tax was consistently strong. By the end of the survey 69% of respondents expressed support for implementing an STR excise tax. This represented strong, broad-based support across age groups, political affiliations, and both renters and homeowners across Vail. The survey tested a 6.0% excise tax rate, which aligns with what the previous $1,200 impact fee was estimated to generate. When compared to other peer communities a 6% tax rate is roughly in the middle. Estimated annual revenues from the proposed 6.0% tax are approximately $7.2 million. 215 - 2 - In early April, staff researched the Aspen tiered STR tax model and presented challenges to Council. Staff recommended not pursuing a two-tiered STR tax structure due to numerous complex considerations. Outside of Aspen, there are no other communities with this structure. Staff’s main concerns are the administrative burden to taxpayers with monthly tax returns required for both sales tax and a new excise tax for each individual unit, as well as the potential loss in tax revenues due to reduced oversight of compliance and/or moving away from the current marketplace facilitator collection structure. This will be a significant change from the efficiency and high compliance rate of the current process of using marketplace platforms to remit taxes and will result in lower sales tax collections and overall tax compliance. The survey also included paraphrased ballot language to issue debt backed by the STR excise tax revenues. This would enable the Town to put those funds to work sooner on housing projects, such as the redevelopment of the East Vail parcel, rather than saving up funds over time or issuing additional Certificates of Participation, which may not be a near future possibility due to the limited collateral available. The benefits of adding approval for debt issuance to the ballot language include a potentially slightly better interest rate and dedicated revenues to support debt service costs. The most advantageous reason, however, would be that no leased property or collateral would be needed. Lastly, to gather input from the STR lodging community, staff also surveyed STR condotel properties and received 22 responses. This group expressed 70% opposition to the proposed tax increase. Results from the survey are also included in the packet materials. Next Steps With Council direction, staff will work with legal counsel to draft ballot language for Council’s review at the July 15th meeting. Once the ballot language is introduced, the Town will not be able to place additional financial resources towards the ballot but can approve a support resolution later in the year. IV. ACTION REQUESTED FROM COUNCIL 1. Does Council support moving forward with placing an STR excise tax question on the November ballot? 2. If yes, what excise tax rate does Council wish to include in the ballot measure? 3. Would Council like to include voter authorization to issue debt backed by STR excise tax revenues as part of the ballot question? Tax Rate Estimated Annual Revenue 2% 2,405,723 3% 3,608,585 5% 6,014,308 6% 7,217,169 8% 9,622,892 10% 12,028,616 216 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey June 2025 217 Methodology Magellan Strategies is pleased to present the results of a survey of 506 registered voters in Vail, CO. The interviews were conducted from May 27th – June 6th, 2025. The overall survey responses have a margin of error of ±/- 4.11 % at the 95% confidence interval. Population subgroups will have a higher margin of error than the overall sample. The survey data were weighted to represent the anticipated turnout demographics for an odd-year election in Vail. 2Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 218 Town of Vail Voter Registration and Past Turnout Demographics 3Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 219 How much of a problem is the lack of available homes, including townhomes, condominiums, and apartments for residents in the Town of Vail? 58% 94% 61% 71% 84% 77% 61% 79% 65% 54% 64% 89% 69% 68% 25% 5% 22% 18% 13% 17% 17% 15% 21% 26% 23% 8% 19% 20% 8% 7% 6% 4% 8% 6% 9% 7% 5% 5% 6% 7% 10% 7% 7% 4% 5% 6% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Republican Democrat Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women A Big Problem Somewhat of a Problem Not Too Much of a Problem Not a Problem at All Unsure Broomfield Housing Stability Task Force Housing Opinion Survey, April/May 2025, 757n, +/- 3.54% MoE 69%19% 5%5%2% A Big Problem Somewhat of a Problem Not Too Much of a Problem Not a Problem at All Unsure Big & Somewhat 88% 4 220 82% 16% 2% Total Yes Total No No Opinion Yes, Definitely 59% Yes, Probably 23% No, Definitely Not 9% No, Probably Not 7% Do you think the Town of Vail should play an active role in providing affordable housing solutions for year-round residents? 76% 98% 77% 85% 90% 93% 95% 68% 80% 69% 82% 96% 81% 84% 21% 20% 15% 6% 7% 29% 19% 26% 16% 3% 18% 12% 3% 3% 4% 3% 3% 5% 4% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Yes Total No No Opinion 5Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 221 46% 43% 11% Total Approve Total Disapprove No Opinion Strongly Approve 12% Somewhat Approve 34% Strongly Disapprove 21% Somewhat Disapprove 22% Do you approve or disapprove of the job the Town of Vail is doing to address the long-term rental and homeownership housing needs of community residents? 53% 35% 51% 36% 44% 47% 48% 39% 48% 51% 52% 36% 47% 47% 37% 55% 40% 53% 39% 47% 40% 46% 44% 37% 42% 50% 44% 41% 10% 10% 9% 11% 17% 6% 12% 16% 8% 12% 6% 14% 9% 12% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Approve Total Disapprove No Opinion 6Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 222 53% 38% 9% Total Agree Total Disagree No Opinion Strongly Agree 15% Somewhat Agree 38% Strongly Disagree 12% Somewhat Disagree 26% Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The Town of Vail is fiscally responsible and spends taxpayer money wisely. 59% 42% 56% 50% 50% 55% 58% 48% 53% 57% 54% 49% 50% 57% 35% 45% 38% 43% 36% 33% 30% 40% 41% 35% 41% 37% 42% 33% 6% 13% 6% 7% 14% 12% 12% 12% 6% 8% 5% 14% 8% 10% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Agree Total Disagree No Opinion 7Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 223 43% 51% 6% Total Support Total Oppose No Opinion Strongly Support 18% Somewhat Support 25% Strongly Oppose 31% Somewhat Oppose 20% Generally speaking, would you support or oppose a tax increase to generate additional revenue for workforce housing in the Town of Vail? 8Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 37% 62% 38% 47% 55% 49% 56% 25% 42% 37% 43% 51% 46% 40% 57% 32% 54% 48% 42% 47% 38% 66% 53% 57% 53% 41% 51% 51% 6% 6% 8% 5% 3% 4% 6% 9% 5% 6% 4% 8% 3% 9% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Support Total Oppose No Opinion 224 Respondent Information Before we continue, it is important to understand that the Town of Vail has not decided whether to put a housing- related ballot measure before voters this November. Your participation in this survey and sharing your honest opinions will influence that decision. Let’s continue. 9Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 225 Uninformed 6% Excise Tax on STR The following is a description of a potential measure that may appear on this November’s ballot. After reading it, please indicate if you would vote yes and approve it or vote no and reject it. The ballot measure would ask voters to approve a 6% tax on short- term rental accommodations, which would raise approximately $7.2 million in the first calendar year and whatever amounts are raised annually each year after that. It would also ask voters to approve an increase in Town of Vail debt by $110 million with a total repayment cost not to exceed $230 million. The increased revenue would create an annual funding source specifically dedicated for housing initiatives, housing developments and housing programs and related activities inside and outside the town. Knowing this information, if an election were being held today, would you vote yes and approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations to fund housing initiatives, developments and programs, or would you vote no and reject it? 10Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 226 64%32% 4% Total Yes, Approve Total No, Reject Undecided Definitely Yes 39% Probably Yes 25% Definitely No 21% Probably No 11% Uninformed Ballot Measure 6% Excise Tax on STR If an election were being held today, would you vote yes and approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations to fund housing initiatives, developments and programs, or would you vote no and reject it? 11Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 56% 88% 54% 69% 80% 80% 78% 48% 62% 54% 56% 85% 64% 65% 40% 10% 42% 30% 15% 18% 18% 46% 35% 43% 39% 13% 32% 31% 4% 2% 4% 1% 5% 2% 4% 6% 3% 3% 5% 2% 4% 4% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Yes Total No Undecided 227 Information Questions We will now share information about this measure and the reasons why the town is considering placing an excise tax on short- term rentals on the ballot. If approved by voters, this tax would generate additional funding for housing initiatives, developments and programs. After reading the information, please indicate if you are more likely to vote yes and approve the ballot measure or if you are more likely to vote no and reject it. Let’s get started: 12Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 228 13Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE An excise tax simply means a tax on a specific good, service, or activity, in this case short- term rental accommodations. The Vail Town Council has set a goal to have short-term rentals contribute financially to workforce housing, and this tax would meet that goal. Knowing this, are you: Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Information Questions The shortage of long-term rental and homeownership opportunities in the Vail community is a public crisis. This housing crisis is impacting the quality of life in Vail and increases the shortage of available employees to staff our community’s restaurants, shops, bars, and small businesses. Furthermore, the housing crisis is driving Vail’s highly trained, experienced, and valued employees and their families out of our community. Voter approval of an excise tax on short-term rentals specifically dedicated to housing solutions will help address this crisis. Knowing this information, are you: 12% 9% 46% 46% 70% 73% Total More Likely Much More Likely No Difference 229 14Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE The slide below shows the short-term rental tax rate for peer communities in Colorado. Knowing this information, are you: 15% 46% 68% Total More Likely Much More Likely No Difference Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Information Questions 230 15Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Over the past several years, the Vail Town Council and the Vail Local Housing Authority have successfully provided long-term rental and homeownership housing opportunities for Vail residents. These successes include: Chamonix Town Homes in West Vail (32 deed-restricted townhomes) The Residences at Main Vail (72 deed-restricted homes for rent) The Vail InDeed and Buy-Down program (179 units deed-restricted homes since 2017) Solar Vail (65 deed-restricted homes for rent) Timber Ridge (302 deed-restricted homes for purchase) Voter approval of an excise tax on short-term rentals specifically dedicated to housing solutions would contribute to similar projects in the future. Knowing this information, are you: 12% 44% 68% Total More Likely Much More Likely No Difference Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Information Questions 231 16Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE The Vail Town Council recently made the decision to move forward with the West Middle Creek housing project which will add 268 deed-restricted- for-rent units to the town. The project's total budget is $168 million, the town has committed $10 million in cash to the construction. The remainder of the project will be funded with bond financing. The bonds will be paid back with rental income generated from the project. The $10 million cash contribution will also be reimbursed through rental income and reinvested into the housing fund for future housing projects. West Middle Creek is an example of the kind of project that an excise tax on short-term rentals would fund. Knowing this information, are you: The town has also used housing sales tax dollars to purchase three parcels of land from CDOT. One parcel is being used for the Timber Ridge redevelopment, another for the West Middle Creek project, and the third is located in East Vail, where future development is possible. Again, similar purchases could potentially be funded by an excise tax on short-term rentals. Knowing this information, are you: 13% 14% 38% 39% 66% 66% Total More Likely Much More Likely No Difference Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Information Questions 232 17Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE The town is also currently redeveloping Timber Ridge. The new Timber Ridge will have 302 deed-restricted for-sale units. The town has invested $41.1 million into this project. This investment is structured creatively, allowing the town to recover funds as the units are sold. These funds will be reinvested into future housing projects. As part of the Timber Ridge redevelopment, the town has also contributed $2 million to Habitat for Humanity, providing an opportunity for employees within certain income limits to purchase zero-loan units at Timber Ridge. The town would like to expand this initiative with additional funding. Additionally, the town has committed to purchasing $25 million worth of units at Timber Ridge, which will be rented to the community. Knowing this information, are you: 14% 39% 65% Total More Likely Much More Likely No Difference Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Information Questions 233 Thank you for learning why the Town of Vail is considering a potential excise tax on short- term rentals to generate additional funding for housing initiatives, housing developments, and housing programs. We ask you to read the description of the potential ballot measure again and indicate if you would vote yes and approve the ballot measure or if you would vote no and reject it. The ballot measure would ask voters to approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations, which would raise approximately $7.2 million in the first calendar year and whatever amounts are raised annually each year after that. It would also ask voters to approve an increase in Town of Vail debt by $110 million with a total repayment cost not to exceed $230 million. The increased revenue would create an annual funding source specifically dedicated for housing initiatives, housing developments and housing programs and related activities inside and outside the town. 18Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Informed 6% Excise Tax on STR 234 69%27% 4% Total Yes, Approve Total No, Reject Undecided Definitely Yes 42% Probably Yes 27% Definitely No 18% Probably No 9% Informed Ballot Measure 6% Excise Tax on STR We now ask you to read the description of the potential ballot measure again and indicate if you would vote yes and approve the ballot measure or if you would vote no and reject it. 19Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 60% 88% 59% 72% 85% 80% 82% 57% 65% 58% 60% 88% 68% 70% 35% 9% 34% 26% 13% 16% 14% 39% 30% 36% 34% 11% 29% 24% 5% 3% 7% 4% 4% 4% 5% 6% 6% 3% 6% Own Rent More 20 Yr 11-20 Yr 5-10 Yr Less 5 Yr Democrat Republican Unaffiliated 65+ 45-64 18-44 Men Women Total Yes Total No Undecided 235 Yes, Approve No, Reject Undecided 69% 27%4% Yes, Approve No, Reject Undecided 64% 32% 4% Informed Town of Vail 6% Excise Tax on STR Ballot Measure Comparison Uninformed -5 +5 20Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 236 Why 69% of Respondents Would Vote Yes and Approve the Ballot Measure 21Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Strong Need for Affordable and Workforce Housing: There is a real concern about the lack of affordable housing for local workers, families, and long-term residents. Many emphasized that teachers, hospitality staff, healthcare workers, and public servants cannot afford to live in Vail, even with full-time jobs. The tax is seen as a necessary step to fund deed-restricted or reasonably priced housing options to retain essential workers and support the community’s future. Short-Term Rentals Contribute to the Housing Crisis: Numerous respondents argued that STRs have displaced long-term rental units, driven up prices, and undermined neighborhood stability. STRs are viewed as commercial operations masquerading as residential, creating pressure on housing availability and quality of life for full-time residents. Taxing STRs is viewed not only as fair but also as a corrective measure for their role in the problem. 237 Why 69% of Respondents Would Vote Yes and Approve the Ballot Measure 22Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Preserving Community Character and Sustainability: Many respondents fear Vail is becoming a town of second homes and transient visitors, eroding the sense of community. Locals stressed the need to maintain a diverse and year-round population, warning that the town risks becoming hollowed out without housing for those who live and work there. The tax is seen as essential to preserving Vail’s vibrancy, culture, and long-term viability. Fair and Reasonable Revenue Source: The proposed 6% tax on STRs is widely seen as a modest, justifiable way to raise funds, especially compared to peer resort towns. Tourists and out-of- town property owners are viewed as better equipped to absorb the cost, relieving pressure from locals. Some mentioned that this approach is preferable to raising other local taxes, and that the revenue should be dedicated strictly to housing efforts. 238 23Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Unfair Burden on Short-Term Rental (STR) Owners: Strong sentiment that STR owners are being unfairly targeted while hotels, restaurants, and Vail Resorts are not contributing enough. Some argue STRs already pay significant taxes and fees, and that targeting a single group is inequitable. Others fear that raising taxes will reduce STR activity, hurting the broader tourism economy and their personal income. Government Should Not Be in the Housing Business: Many respondents oppose the idea of the town funding or building housing, arguing it’s not a core government responsibility. Instead, they support market-based or employer-led solutions, with Vail Resorts and private businesses taking a greater role in housing their workers. Some advocated for reducing regulations and incentivizing private development instead of public intervention. Why 27% of Respondents Would Vote No and Reject the Ballot Measure 239 47% 53% Female Male Self-Identify 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 16%16%16%19% 33% Gender Party Affiliation Age Range Survey Demographics 52% 17% 30% Unaffiliated Republican Democrat Other 24Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Tenure in Vail Less 1 Year 1-2 Years 3-5 Years 6-10 Years 11-20 Years More 20 Years Prefer Not to Say 1%3% 10%17%17% 50% 2% 240 Race-Ethnicity Survey Demographics White Hispanic/Latino Asian Another Race/Ethnicity Prefer Not to Say 81% 8%2%3%6% Income Less $50K $50K to $74,999 $75K to $99,999 $100K to $149,999 $150K to $199,999 More than $200K Prefer Not to Say 10%12%12% 19% 13% 20% 14% 69% 31% Own Rent/Other Rent or Own Home? 72%28% 4-Year College Degree No College Degree 4-Year College Degree 25Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE 241 East Vail West Vail (North of I-70) Sandstone, Potato Patch Vail Intermountain Vail Village Buffehr, Lionsride, The Valley Matterhorn, Glen Lyon 21%16%13%11%7%7%7% 26Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey, June 2025, 506n, +/-4.11% MoE Where do you live? Booth Falls, Bald Mountain Rd Safeway, Vail Commons Lionshead Village Golf Course Aspen Lane, Booth Creek Other 6% 4%3%3%1%1% 242 Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Drive Broomfield, CO 80023 MagellanStrategies.com (303) 861-8585____________________________ David Flaherty Ryan Winger Courtney Sievers Ben Robinson 243 Action Requested: 1.Does Council support moving forward with placing an STR excise tax question on the November ballot? 2.If yes, what excise tax rate does Council wish to include in the ballot measure? 3.Would Council like to include voter authorization to issue debt backed by STR excise tax revenues as part of the ballot question? 244 Magellan Strategies Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Magellan Strategies is pleased to present the topline results of a survey of 506 registered voters in the Town of Vail. The interviews were conducted from May 27th – June 6th, 2025. This survey has a margin of error of +/- 4.11% at the 95 percent confidence interval. The survey data were weighted to represent the voter turnout demographics of an odd-year election in the Town of Vail. T1. First, please verify that you are at least 18 years old and registered to vote in Vail, Colorado. Yes .................................................................................... 100% T2. How much of a problem is the lack of available homes, including townhomes, condominiums, and apartments for residents in the Town of Vail? Big and Somewhat of a Problem Combined .................... 88% Big Problem ....................................................................... 69% Somewhat of a Problem ................................................... 19% Not Too Much of a Problem ............................................... 5% Not a Problem at All ............................................................ 5% No Opinion ........................................................................... 2% T3. Do you think the Town of Vail should play an active role in providing affordable housing solutions for year-round residents? Total Yes ............................................................................ 82% Total No .............................................................................. 16% Unsure or No Opinion .......................................................... 2% Yes, Definitely .................................................................... 59% Yes, Probably ..................................................................... 23% No, Definitely Not ................................................................. 9% No, Probably Not .................................................................. 7% 245 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 2 T4. Do you approve or disapprove of the job the Town of Vail is doing to address the long-term rental and homeownership housing needs of community residents? Total Approve .................................................................... 46% Total Disapprove ............................................................... 43% Unsure or No Opinion ........................................................ 11% Strongly Approve ............................................................... 12% Somewhat Approve ........................................................... 34% Strongly Disapprove .......................................................... 21% Somewhat Disapprove ...................................................... 22% T5. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The Town of Vail is fiscally responsible and spends taxpayer money wisely. Total Agree ......................................................................... 53% Total Disagree .................................................................... 38% Unsure or No Opinion .......................................................... 9% Strongly Agree ................................................................... 15% Somewhat Agree ............................................................... 38% Strongly Disagree .............................................................. 12% Somewhat Disagree .......................................................... 26% T6. Generally speaking, would you support or oppose a tax increase to generate additional revenue for workforce housing in the Town of Vail? Total Support ..................................................................... 43% Total Oppose ..................................................................... 51% Unsure or No Opinion .......................................................... 6% Strongly Support ................................................................ 18% Somewhat Support ............................................................ 25% Strongly Oppose ................................................................ 31% Somewhat Oppose ............................................................ 20% Before we continue, it is important to understand that the Town of Vail has not decided whether to put a housing-related ballot measure before voters this November. Your participation in this survey and sharing your honest opinions will influence that decision. Let’s continue. 246 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 3 Uninformed Ballot Test T7. The following is a description of a potential measure that may appear on this November’s ballot. After reading it, please indicate if you would vote yes and approve it or vote no and reject it. The ballot measure would ask voters to approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations, which would raise approximately $7.2 million in the first calendar year and whatever amounts are raised annually each year after that. It would also ask voters to approve an increase in Town of Vail debt by $110 million with a total repayment cost not to exceed $230 million. The increased revenue would create an annual funding source specifically dedicated for housing initiatives, housing developments and housing programs and related activities inside and outside the town. Knowing this information, if an election were being held today, would you vote yes and approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations to fund housing initiatives, developments and programs, or would you vote no and reject it? Total Yes, Approve ............................................................ 64% Total No, Reject ................................................................. 32% Undecided ............................................................................ 4% Definitely Yes, Approve ..................................................... 39% Probably Yes, Approve ...................................................... 25% Definitely No, Reject .......................................................... 21% Probably No, Reject ........................................................... 11% We will now share information about this measure and the reasons why the town is considering placing an excise tax on short-term rentals on the ballot. If approved by voters, this tax would generate additional funding for housing initiatives, developments and programs. After reading the information, please indicate if you are more likely to vote yes and approve the ballot measure or if you are more likely to vote no and reject it. Let’s get started: 247 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 4 T8. The shortage of long-term rental and homeownership opportunities in the Vail community is a public crisis. This housing crisis is impacting the quality of life in Vail and increases the shortage of available employees to staff our community’s restaurants, shops, bars, and small businesses. Furthermore, the housing crisis is driving Vail’s highly trained, experienced, and valued employees and their families out of our community. Voter approval of an excise tax on short-term rentals specifically dedicated to housing solutions will help address this crisis. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 70% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 18% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 12% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 46% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 24% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 11% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 7% T9. An excise tax simply means a tax on a specific good, service, or activity, in this case short- term rental accommodations. The Vail Town Council has set a goal to have short-term rentals contribute financially to workforce housing, and this tax would meet that goal. Knowing this, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 73% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 18% No Difference in Opinion ..................................................... 9% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 46% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 27% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 12% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 6% 248 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 5 T10. Over the past several years, the Vail Town Council and the Vail Local Housing Authority have successfully provided long-term rental and homeownership housing opportunities for Vail residents. These successes include: Chamonix Town Homes in West Vail (32 deed-restricted townhomes) The Residences at Main Vail (72 deed-restricted homes for rent) The Vail InDeed and Buy-Down program (179 units deed-restricted homes since 2017) Solar Vail (65 deed-restricted homes for rent) Timber Ridge (302 deed-restricted homes for purchase) Voter approval of an excise tax on short-term rentals specifically dedicated to housing solutions would contribute to similar projects in the future. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 68% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 20% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 12% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 44% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 24% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 13% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 7% T11. The Vail Town Council recently made the decision to move forward with the West Middle Creek housing project which will add 268 deed-restricted- for-rent units to the town. The project's total budget is $168 million, the town has committed $10 million in cash to the construction. The remainder of the project will be funded with bond financing. The bonds will be paid back with rental income generated from the project. The $10 million cash contribution will also be reimbursed through rental income and reinvested into the housing fund for future housing projects. West Middle Creek is an example of the kind of project that an excise tax on short-term rentals would fund. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 66% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 20% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 14% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 39% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 27% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 12% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 8% 249 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 6 T12. The town has also used housing sales tax dollars to purchase three parcels of land from CDOT. One parcel is being used for the Timber Ridge redevelopment, another for the West Middle Creek project, and the third is located in East Vail, where future development is possible. Again, similar purchases could potentially be funded by an excise tax on short-term rentals. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 66% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 21% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 13% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 38% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 28% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 13% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 8% T13. The town is also currently redeveloping Timber Ridge. The new Timber Ridge will have 302 deed-restricted for-sale units. The town has invested $41.1 million into this project. This investment is structured creatively, allowing the town to recover funds as the units are sold. These funds will be reinvested into future housing projects. As part of the Timber Ridge redevelopment, the town has also contributed $2 million to Habitat for Humanity, providing an opportunity for employees within certain income limits to purchase zero-loan units at Timber Ridge. The town would like to expand this initiative with additional funding. Additionally, the town has committed to purchasing $25 million worth of units at Timber Ridge, which will be rented to the community. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 65% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 21% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 14% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 39% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 26% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 13% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 8% 250 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 7 T14. The slide below shows the short-term rental tax rate for peer communities in Colorado. Knowing this information, are you: Total More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 68% Total More Likely Reject the Excise Tax .......................... 17% No Difference in Opinion ................................................... 15% Much More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax .................. 46% Somewhat More Likely to Approve the Excise Tax ......... 22% Much More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ..................... 12% Somewhat More Likely to Reject the Excise Tax ............... 5% T15. Thank you for learning why the Town of Vail is considering a potential excise tax on short- term rentals to generate additional funding for housing initiatives, housing developments, and housing programs. We ask you to read the description of the potential ballot measure again and indicate if you would vote yes and approve the ballot measure or if you would vote no and reject it. The ballot measure would ask voters to approve a 6% tax on short-term rental accommodations, which would raise approximately $7.2 million in the first calendar year and whatever amounts are raised annually each year after that. It would also ask voters to approve an increase in Town of Vail debt by $110 million with a total repayment cost not to exceed $230 million. The increased revenue would create an annual funding source specifically dedicated for housing initiatives, housing developments and housing programs and related activities inside and outside the town. Total Yes, Approve ............................................................ 69% Total No, Reject ................................................................. 27% Undecided ............................................................................ 4% Definitely Yes, Approve ..................................................... 42% Probably Yes, Approve ...................................................... 27% Definitely No, Reject .......................................................... 18% Probably No, Reject ............................................................. 9% 251 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 8 T16. Please describe the reasons why you would vote yes and approve the ballot measure. Strong Need for Affordable and Workforce Housing: There is a real concern about the lack of affordable housing for local workers, families, and long-term residents. Many emphasized that teachers, hospitality staff, healthcare workers, and public servants cannot afford to live in Vail, even with full-time jobs. The tax is seen as a necessary step to fund deed-restricted or reasonably priced housing options to retain essential workers and support the community’s future. Short-Term Rentals Contribute to the Housing Crisis: Numerous respondents argued that STRs have displaced long-term rental units, driven up prices, and undermined neighborhood stability. STRs are viewed as commercial operations masquerading as residential, creating pressure on housing availability and quality of life for full-time residents. Taxing STRs is viewed not only as fair but also as a corrective measure for their role in the problem. Preserving Community Character and Sustainability: Many respondents fear Vail is becoming a town of second homes and transient visitors, eroding the sense of community. Locals stressed the need to maintain a diverse and year-round population, warning that the town risks becoming hollowed out without housing for those who live and work there. The tax is seen as essential to preserving Vail’s vibrancy, culture, and long-term viability. Fair and Reasonable Revenue Source: The proposed 6% tax on STRs is widely seen as a modest, justifiable way to raise funds, especially compared to peer resort towns. Tourists and out-of- town property owners are viewed as better equipped to absorb the cost, relieving pressure from locals. Some mentioned that this approach is preferable to raising other local taxes, and that the revenue should be dedicated strictly to housing efforts. The complete verbatim responses will be included in a separate document. T17. Please describe the reasons why you would vote no and reject the ballot measure. Unfair Burden on Short-Term Rental (STR) Owners: Strong sentiment that STR owners are being unfairly targeted while hotels, restaurants, and Vail Resorts are not contributing enough. Some argue STRs already pay significant taxes and fees, and that targeting a single group is inequitable. Others fear that raising taxes will reduce STR activity, hurting the broader tourism economy and their personal income. Government Should Not Be in the Housing Business: Many respondents oppose the idea of the town funding or building housing, arguing it’s not a core government responsibility. Instead, they support market-based or employer-led solutions, with Vail Resorts and private businesses taking a greater role in housing their workers. Some advocated for reducing regulations and incentivizing private development instead of public intervention. Skepticism and Lack of Specifics: Many respondents cited wasteful past decisions (e.g., East Vail sheep land) and expressed skepticism that new funds would be used effectively. There are also concerns that the Town of Vail has not yet demonstrated responsible use of existing housing taxes. Some fear that the Town is taking on excessive debt without a clear, measurable, or accountable plan. 252 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 9 Misguided or Ineffective Approach to Solving the Housing Crisis: A frequent claim was that the proposed solution won’t fix the problem, especially given high housing prices even in “affordable” projects. Some noted a lack of detailed planning, questioning whether enough housing would be created to justify the tax. Others warned that focusing only on Vail would ignore regional solutions or that the initiative would overstimulate growth, worsening infrastructure and community feel. The complete verbatim responses will be included in a separate document. Now, we have a few questions for statistical purposes only. T18. Are you: Male .................................................................................... 53% Female ................................................................................ 47% Identify Differently ............................................................. <1% T19. Are you between the ages of: 18 to 34 .............................................................................. 16% 35 to 44 .............................................................................. 16% 45 to 54 .............................................................................. 16% 55 to 64 .............................................................................. 19% 65 or Older ......................................................................... 33% T20. For statistical purposes only, are you registered to vote as an Unaffiliated voter, a Democrat, a Republican, or with another party? Unaffiliated ......................................................................... 52% Democrat ........................................................................... 30% Republican ......................................................................... 17% Other Party ........................................................................... 1% T21. Do you have a four-year college degree? Yes ...................................................................................... 72% No ....................................................................................... 28% T22. Do you rent or own your home? Own .................................................................................... 69% Rent .................................................................................... 27% Other ..................................................................................... 2% Prefer Not to Say ................................................................. 2% 253 Magellan ID#: COVAIL-HOUSING-030625 Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline Results Field Dates: 5/27/25 - 6/6/25, 506n, +/- 4.11% MoE Magellan Strategies 4800 Aspen Creek Dr. | Broomfield, CO 80023 www.MagellanStrategies.com | (303) 861-8585 10 T23. How long have you lived in Vail? Less than 1 Year .................................................................. 1% 1 to 2 Years .......................................................................... 3% 2 to 5 Years ........................................................................ 10% 6 to 10 years ...................................................................... 17% 11 to 20 years .................................................................... 17% More than 20 years ............................................................ 50% Prefer Not to Say ................................................................. 2% T24. Where do you live? East Vail ............................................................................. 21% West Vail (North of I-70) ................................................... 16% Sandstone, Potato Patch .................................................. 13% Vail Intermountain ............................................................. 11% Vail Village ........................................................................... 7% Buffehr, Lionsridge, The Valley ........................................... 7% Matterhorn, Glen Lyon ......................................................... 7% Booth Falls, Bald Mountain Road ....................................... 6% Safeway, Vail Commons ..................................................... 4% Lionshead Village ................................................................ 3% Golf Course .......................................................................... 3% Aspen Lane, Booth Creek .................................................... 1% Other ..................................................................................... 1% Survey Methodology This survey utilized an MMS text data collection method to contact voters within the Town of Vail inviting them to participate in the survey. The survey data were weighted to represent the voter turnout demographics of an odd-year election within the town. The interviews were conducted from May 27th – June 6th, 2025. This survey has a margin of error of +/- 4.11% at the 95 percent confidence interval. 254 Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey June 2025 255 Methodology Separate from the survey distributed to registered voters by Magellan Strategies, the Town of Vail sent a shorter survey to an email database of 36 representatives or managers of a lodge or condo-hotel property in Vail that is currently short term rented to visitors. Of the 36 who received the survey, 22 responded. These slides provide a summary of their responses. 2Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey, June 2025 256 Key Findings ❖45% believe that the lack of available homes, townhomes, condominiums, and apartments for residents in the Town of Vail is a big problem, while another 40% believe it is somewhat of a problem. ❖The same percentage, 85%, believe that the Town of Vail should play an active role in providing workforce housing solutions for year- round residents (25% Yes, Definitely / 60% Yes, Probably). ❖A majority of 60% approves of the job the Town of Vail is doing to address the long-term rental and homeownership housing needs of residents. 3Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey, June 2025 257 Key Findings ❖Respondents were informed that the Town is considering a 6% excise tax on short term rental accommodations that may appear on the November ballot, and that the revenue would be specifically dedicated to housing initiatives, developments and programs. ❖75% oppose the excise tax, including 70% who strongly oppose it. ❖The few respondents who support the tax mentioned that it is a better solution than the per bedroom fee or simply recognized the need. However, they wanted clarifications as to what properties would be affected. 4Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey, June 2025 258 Key Findings ❖Those who oppose the tax cite unfair targeting of condotels and fear a general negative economic impact in the community. Some also mention that the housing challenge requires shared responsibility beyond STR owners. ❖When shown the table (at left) listing the STR excise tax rate for peer communities, 60% of respondents did not change their opinion, while 25% were less likely to support the tax given this information. ❖Provided an opportunity to share final thoughts, many again mentioned that condotels should be treated differently from other STRs and that the tax burden should be broader than just STRs, as well general economic impact concerns. 5Town of Vail Lodging Community Survey, June 2025 259 AGENDA ITEM NO. 3.1 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Greg Roy, Community Development ITEM TYPE:DRB/PEC Update AGENDA SECTION:DRB/PEC (4:00pm) SUBJECT:DRB/PEC Update (5 min.) SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: DRB Results 6-18-2025 PEC Results 6-23-2025 260 Design Review Board Minutes Wednesday, June 18, 2025 2:00 PM Vail Town Council Chambers Present: Roland J Kjesbo Anthony J Grandt Herbert B Roth Mary Egan Absent: Kit Austin 1. Virtual Meeting Link Register to attend Design Review Board Meetings. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining this webinar. 2. Call to Order 3. Main Agenda 3.1 DRB25-0092 - 1691 Buffehr Creek Road Final review of new construction Address/ Legal Description: 1691 Buffehr Creek Road/Lot 3, Eleni Zneimer Subdivision Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: 1691 Buffehr Creek Road, represented by Brian Ojala Architect Staff requests this item be tabled to a date uncertain Roland J Kjesbo made a motion to Table to a date uncertain; Anthony J Grandt seconded the motion Passed (4 - 0). 3.2 DRB25-0116 - 1119 Ptarmigan LLC Final review of an Addition Address/ Legal Description: 1119 Ptarmigan Road/Lot 4, Block 5, Vail Village Filing 7/ Vail Village Filing 10 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: 1119 Ptarmigan LLC, represented by KH Webb Architects DRB25-0116 Plans.pdf Mary Egan made a motion to Approve with the findings it meets 14-10-5 and 14-10-6; Anthony J Grandt seconded the motion Passed (3 - 1). Voting For: Herbert B Roth, Mary Egan, Anthony J Grandt Voting Against: Roland J Kjesbo 3.3 DRB25-0127 - Prima Cornice LLC Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2025 1 261 Final Review of New Construction Address/ Legal Description: 807 Potato Patch Drive/Lot 30, Block 1, Vail Potato Patch Filing 1 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Prima Cornice LLC, represented by Collective Design DRB25-0127 Plans.pdf DRB25-0127 Documents.pdf Roland J Kjesbo made a motion to Continue to the meeting on July 2nd, 2025; Anthony J Grandt seconded the motion Passed (4 - 0). 3.4 DRB25-0062 - Evergreen Lodge Final review of an exterior alteration (redevelopment) Address/ Legal Description: 250 South Frontage Road West/Lot 2W, Block 1, Vail Lionshead Filing 2, and Lot F-1, Vail VIllage Filing 2 Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: HCT Member LLC, represented by Mauriello Planning Group DRB25-0062 Documents.pdf DRB25-0062 Plans Part 1.pdf DRB25-0062 Plans Part 2.pdf DRB26-0062 Plans Part 3.pdf Project Elevations.pdf Project Renderings.pdf DRB Conditions.pdf Roland J Kjesbo made a motion to Approve with the findings it meets 14-10- 5 and 14-10-6, as well as the conditions listed in the packet with the addition of No. 9; Prior to building permit issuance, the applicant shall mark the fire apparatus turnaround area as "No Parking Fire Lane," or revise subject to Fire Department approval.; Anthony J Grandt seconded the motion Passed (4 - 0). 4. Staff Approvals 4.1 DRB22 -0307.004 - White Longspur Capital LLC Final review of a change to approved plans (softscape path) Address/ Legal Description: 466 Forest Road/Lot 6, Block 1, Vail Village Filing 3 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: White Longspur Capital LLC, represented by KH Webb 4.2 DRB23-0391.002 - Peterson Residence Final review of a change to approved plans Address/ Legal Description: 2972 Bellflower Drive/Lot 14, Block 6, Vail Intermountain Development Subdivision Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Ralph & Joyce Peterson & Wiliam & Kelly Garehimes, reprsented by The Groff Company 4.3 DRB24-0104.001 - Village Inn Final review of a change to approved plans (landscaping) Address/ Legal Description: 68 East Meadow Drive/Lot O, Block 5D, Vail Village FIling 1 Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Village Inn Plaza, represented by Mac Design Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2025 2 262 4.4 DRB24-0105.001 - Nelson Residence Final review of a change to approved plans (extension) Address/ Legal Description: 710 West Lionshead Circle 501/Lot 1, Block 2, Vail Lionshead Filing 3 Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Barry Nelson, represented by KH Webb Architects 4.5 DRB24-0123.001 - The Arrabelle Final review of a change to approved plans Address/ Legal Description: 675 Lionshead Place/Lot 1, Lionshead Filing 6 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Arrabelle at Vail Square, represented by Plumbing Systems Inc 4.6 DRB24 -0156.001 - West Middle Creek Subdivision Final review of a change to approved plans Address/ Legal Description: 199 North Frontage Road West/Tract A, Middle Creek Subdivision Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: West Middle Creek, represented by Shears Adkins Rockmore Architects 4.7 DRB24 -0452.001 - Wilcox / Ozzello Residence Final review of a change to approved plans Address/ Legal Description: 400 Vail Valley Drive 4/Tract B, Vail VIllage Filing 1 Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: John Wilcox & Janice Ozzello, represented by Berglund Architects 4.8 DRB24-0483.001-Wren Residence Final review of a change to approved plans (exterior) Address/ Legal Description: 4594 Meadow Drive A6, Sunwood at Vail Condominiums Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Wren Family Trust Davis & Gilbert LLP, represented by Shepherd Resources Inc 4.9 DRB25-0031-Hicks Residence Final review of a tree removal Address/ Legal Description: 1319 Greenhill Court B/Lot 24, Glen Lyon Subdivision Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Gloria Hicks, represented by Elevated Arborist LLC 4.10 DRB25-0038 - Bjorn's Honey Final review of a sign application Address/ Legal Description: 186 Gore Creek Drive 154/Lot 1, Lodge Subdivision Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Bjorn's Honey, represented by Zuni Signs 4.11 DRB25-0063 - Iberlin Residence Final review of an addition Address/ Legal Description: 4264 Columbine Way 12, Bighorn Terrace Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2025 3 263 Applicant Name: James & Jacqueline Iberlin, represented by Alicia Davis Architect 4.12 DRB25-0091.001 - Hess Residence Final review of a change to approved plans Address/ Legal Description: 1220 Ptarmigan Road/Lot 3, Block 8, Vail Village Filing 7 Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: Donald & Ronne Hess, represented by Shepherd Resources Inc. 4.13 DRB25-0098 - Penzell Residence Final review of an exterior alteration (landscape) Address/ Legal Description: 2437 Garmisch Drive/Lot 12, Block H, Vail Das Schone FIling 2 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Peter Penzell, represented by Jason Taylor Construction 4.14 DRB25-0120 - Freestyle Ski III LLC Final review of an exterior alteration (tree removal/landscape) Address/ Legal Description: 660 Lionshead Place 101/Lot 1, Vail Lionshead Filing 1 First Addition Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Freestyle Ski III, represented by Colorado Land Art Studio 4.15 DRB25-0128 - First Bank of Vail Final review of a sign application Address/ Legal Description: 12 Vail Road/Lot N & O, Block 5D, Vail Village Filing 1 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Vail Gateway, represented by First Bank 4.16 DRB25-0130 - Galvin Residence Final review of an exterior alteration (landscaping) Address/ Legal Description: 303 Gore Creek Drive 12/Lot 12, Block 5, Vail VIllage Filing 1 Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: Michael Galvin, represented by Ceres Plus 4.17 DRB25-0131 - PMRE-V LLC Final review of an exterior alteration (AC unit) Address/ Legal Description: 122 East Meadow Drive 14/Tract C, Block 5E, Vail Village Filing 1 Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: PMRE-V LLC, represented by Canla Services LLC 4.18 DRB25-0133 - Greenhill Court LBP LLC Final review of an exterior alteration (pavers) Address/ Legal Description: 1465 Greenhill Court B/Lot 9, Glen Lyon Subdivision Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Greenhill Court LBP LLC, represented by StreamSide Construction 4.19 DRB25-0175 - Klein Residence Final review of a tree removal Address/ Legal Description: 405 Forest Road/Lot 3, Block 2, Vail Village Filing 3 Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2025 4 264 Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Klein Family 2012 Vail Trust, represented by Elevated Arborist LLC 4.20 DRB25-0187-Potato Patch Club Condos Final review of a tree removal Address/ Legal Description: 950 Red Sandstone Road/Potato Patch Club Condominiums Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: Potato Patch Club Condos, represented by Vail Valley Tree Service 4.21 DRB25-0188 - Town of Vail Final review of a tree removal Address/ Legal Description: 841 Vail Valley Drive/Unplatted - Ford Park Nature Center Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: Town of Vail, represented by Gregg Barrie 4.22 DRB25-0114 - Caulkins Residence Final review of an exterior alteration (window/shutters/stairs/driveway) Address/ Legal Description: 3010 Booth Creek Drive/Lot 4, Block 3, Vail Village Filing 11 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: David Caulkins, represented by Burke Harrington Construction 4.23 DRB25-0144 - 5166A Black Gore LLC Final review of an exterior alteration (AC unit) Address/ Legal Description: 5166 Black Gore Drive/Lot 4, Block 1, Gore Creek Subdivision Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: 5166A Black Gore LLC, represented by R and H Mechanical 4.24 DRB25-0160 - Wilson Residence Final review of a tree removal. Address/ Legal Description: 1965 Sunburst Dr/ Lot 11, Vail Valley Filing 3 Subdivision Planner: Heather Knight Applicant Name: Christina L Wilson, preseneted by Old Growth Tree Service 4.25 DRB25-0190 - Houtsma/Booker Residence Final review of an exterior alteration (windows) Address/ Legal Description: 114 Willow Road 700/Lot 7, Block 6, Vail VIllage Filing 1 Planner: Jamie Leaman-Miller Applicant Name: John Houtsma 5. Staff Denials 6. Adjournment Roland J Kjesbo made a motion to Adjourn ; Anthony J Grandt seconded the motion Passed (4 - 0). Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2025 5 265 Planning and Environmental Commission Minutes Monday, June 23, 2025 1:00 PM Vail Town Council Chambers Present: Robyn Smith Craig H Lintner Jr John Rediker Brad Hagedorn David N Tucker William A Jensen Robert N Lipnick 1. Virtual Link Register to attend the Planning and Environmental Commission meeting. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining this webinar. 2. Call to Order 3. Worksession 3.1 A request for a work session to present conceptual plans for the proposed development of the Lionshead Circle Residences, subject to the approval of a new development plan, pursuant to Article 7H, Section 12-7H-7, Vail Town Code, located at 500 and 534 East Lionshead Circlet/ Vail Lionshead Filing No. 1, A resubdivision of a Part of Lots 1,2, 3 and Tract E, Block 1,. Presenter: Ruther Associates LLC, represented by George Ruther Planner: Greg Roy Work session Staff Memo.pdf Lionshead Circle Residences Narrative.pdf Lionshead Circle Residence - PEC Worksession Materials.pdf Planner Roy gives a short presentation, he talks about the purpose of a work session. The applicant is represented by George Ruther, Charlie Starr, and Jamison McBride with OZ Architecture. Ruther talks about the vicinity map. He walks through the background of the property. Starr goes over zoning compliance within the LMU-1 district. Starr and McBride walk through various aspects of the site plan. Rediker and Oz discuss access for trash services and deliveries. OZ discusses the proposed landscaping and plant material. They walk through the architectural floor plans. Discussion of architectural massing per the guidelines in LRMP. Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 1 266 Rediker asks if there are ways to improve the pedestrian experience to people accessing the Lionshead garage. Ruther says the LRMP highlights maintaining pedestrian connectivity, they will continue to look at ways to achieve that and work with Public Works. Hagedorn asks about the height calculations in the LRMP, including the stepback criteria of 60’. He has some concerns about the east elevation in regards to the architecture criteria. OZ discusses the proposed materials at the base, middle, and top of the structure. Ruther talks about how the project will meet employee housing requirements, will speak to the criteria that allow employee housing to be offsite. The ownership wants to comply with all regulations and request no variance. They will request minor subdivision application for single development site, major exterior alteration, conditional use permit for surplus parking. Jensen, interesting project, you guys will continue to look at the sheer unbroken walls. Look forward to parking discussion. Rediker, what is approximately the length of the building? Starr, about 210 feet. Rediker, are there any public amenities? Ruther, the amenities are for homeowners. Rediker, what about short-term rentals? Ruther, there is an opportunity for rental programs to be determined. Rediker, what are we looking at for roof pitches? McBride, 6:12 for the most part, with some flat roofs. The majority of the mechanical is in the parking garage, some on the roof as well but it is completely screened. Rediker asks about landscaping on the north of the building. Ruther, the requirements for the Town have regulated itself out of landscaping on many properties. The landscape architects have come up with alternate species which will do well in this location. Smith asks about the Vantage Point garage. Roy says the records show 1972. Smith asks why so many parking spots are proposed? Ruther, we have one place were obligated to replace and we are restoring that. Others are subject to private agreements. There is an amendment to the LRMP in 2019 regarding this area. Lipnick says there 55 spaces required, you’re building 159? Ruther, out of owner preference they want to sell two spaces per dwelling unit. Also want spaces for guest parking. Plus additional spaces for private agreements or other uses. Lipnick asks about the height numbers, applicants run through maximum and average height. Smith, we have 50% mandatory onsite employee housing requirement, but Timber Ridge program made that section unenforceable? It is the intent of the Council to allow those credits to satisfy on-site requirements. Ruther, the off-site housing is to be determined, how that will be met. There is a provision that allows 100% to be off-site if you’re able to demonstrate compliance with the exception criteria. Part of that is the more recently adopted policy. Roy, it doesn’t overrule that code section, Timber Ridge is a way to meet one of those exceptions. Rediker asks for public comment. Timothy Cook, president of Vantage Point HOA. We have an easement across this parking lot right now. Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 2 267 This plan eliminates this. It’s important that Lionshead Circle walk gets cleaned up. Losing access through the site creates challenges. It’s very congested where the buses come and skier drop-off. There was no mention of foundations, this area is very tricky – there were a lot of problems with the last iteration. Jimmie Lee, president of Lifthouse. We’ve had a lot of previous discussions, hope that we don’t forget the conversations from before. The stairwell is a location where they wanted the transformer and chiller to be located for the building, not in front of the Lifthouse lobby. The Lifthouse has the right for 30 of the spaces under the garage, want to make sure all the spaces are correctly accounted for from the previous private agreements. Public comment closed. Commissioner comment opened. Smith, not PEC responsibility to assess applications for private agreements. Do you have ADA access? McBride, in the public way, yes. Confirms the whole walkway around it will be heated. Hagedorn, a spot for Alpine pizza would be wonderful. If you are looking to accommodate pedestrian traffic from Vantage Point, would want to see that. Make sure snowmelt is future-proofed for geothermal. This site is overdue for redevelopment. Concerns are compliance with 8-14 through 8-19 of the LRMP, looks forward to seeing more with the next application. As well as a detailed look at the housing mitigation plan. Tucker, interested to see more information on mass and height. Generally, interesting to see what will happen on this site, would like more information on the Housing plan. Rediker, interested in what Vantage Point had to say in regard to easement. We need to make sure we have good pedestrian access that’s safe around the site. Make sure all mechanical equipment is inside or screened. Ruther talks about the anticipated schedule moving forward. Jensen has to leave meeting. 4. Main Agenda 4.1 A request for a review of a Prescribed Regulation Amendment pursuant to 12-3-7 Amendment, Vail Town Code, to create a new Vail Village Inn (VVI) zone district and an amendment to Vail Town Code Section 12-2-2 Definitions to change the Site Coverage and Landscaping definitions, a Zone District Boundary amendment pursuant to 12-3-7 Amendment, Vail Town Code to apply the proposed Vail Village Inn (VVI) zone district to the properties located at 68 E Meadow Drive/Vail Village Filing 1, Block 5D, Lot O and 100 E Meadow Drive/Vail Village Filing 1, Block 5D, Lot M and O (aka Village Inn Plaza Condominium and Vail Plaza Condominiums), and amendments to other sections of Title 12 that require references to the new zone district. PEC25-0012 Planner: Greg Roy Applicant Name: Village Inn Plaza Phases l, ll, and lll (aka Village Inn Plaza Condominium and Vail Plaza Condominiums), represented by Mauriello Planning Group PEC25-0012 Staff Memo.pdf Attachment A. Vicinity Map.pdf Attachment B. Applicant's Narrative.pdf Attachment C. Applicant's Memo to PEC 6-11-25.pdf Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 3 268 Timestamp: 01:53 Planner Roy gives a presentation. The text amendment to landscaping has been removed from the application. He walks through the zoning standards form the existing zoning (PA) and the proposed (VVI) District. Rediker, understands the difficulty in this situation of assessing the existing GRFA. Does staff see danger in not having limits on GRFA, are we going to see excessive density and GRFA because we have not provided any limits? Roy, site coverage, height, setbacks would be the controlling factors. Vail Village Master plan also talks about bulk and mass as well as urban design guide. There are several other things in the comprehensive plan that help to limit this. Smith, are any of these properties maxed on GRFA? Roy, there were several ordinances that showed increases and they may have been close when looking at the whole SDD, however the record keeping is pretty poor over time. Smith, limiting GRFA helps hold the line in limiting the enclosure of decks. Roy, generally we see the 250 ordinance being used for those types of projects. Smith, we changed the process for alterations to process as they come in. Roy that was for the CC1 zone district that did not apply here. Smith, do we have strong enough safeguards to allow for unlimited GRFA? Roy, LMU-1 allows 250/100 sf of GRFA/buildable area, which is very high. Design considerations allowed for a development of appropriate size in Lionshead. Hagedorn, master plan limits massing and dictates massing without having to lean on GRFA. Roy talks about the districts where the site coverage change for below grade would be applied. Smith asks about excavation into floodplain. Roy, you can go below the base flood elevation outside the floodplain. You can’t go into the floodplain below the base flood elevation. Smith, there are old SDDs that are also HDMF. If base zoning changes, affording additional site coverage is it still an SDD amendment? Roy, it depends on the SDD. If they define site coverage in their SDD, they would have to change that definition in order to take advantage. The applicant is represented by Allison Kent with Mauriello Planning Group. Kent gives a presentation. Smith and Kent discuss the Vail Townhouse District exclusion from the change. Allowing PEC and DRB to allow for variation to landscaping if meeting three criteria. Kent presents on density considerations. It has been a challenge in these larger SDDs to track GRFA. GRFA calculation methods have also been amended many times. Rediker, is the applicant proposing that it would be acceptable to specify density and GRFA limits? Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 4 269 Kent, they strongly recommend unlimited, but those numbers would be acceptable. Smith and Kent discuss section which prevents conversion of hotel rooms to condominiums. Smith, we should know what these occupancy rates are, shouldn’t be a mystery about live beds. Kent, we used to fight for all dwelling units to be short-term rentals, live bed ins LRMP requires that you have front desk and services in Lionshead. Smith wonders if we should be protecting that use any more, difficult to improve or redevelop. Roy confirms AAUs count towards GRFA. Hagedorn, question about public comment. Roy reiterates what Town’s legal council has told them about the status of SDD No. 6. Smith, asks about pay in lieu parking for commercial conversions? Kent, doesn’t think the intent was changing parking for small commercial additions. Smith, unlimited GRFA and density would also be controlled by parking. Roy says the PEC received public comment right before the meeting. Rediker, there is the option for density of 30 units/acre and 165/100 sf of GRFA / buildable area. Roy confirms that is acceptable to staff. Smith, why should we have a limit? Rediker is uncomfortable with unlimited – there are always scenarios that are unanticipated with regard to development. Hagedorn, density feels like a contrived number given the different units count etc. When the public talks about it, they are talking about the size of the building not necessarily unit counts. More comfortable with GRFA limit and not a density limit. Rediker asks for public comment. Frederick Aldrich, attorney for VIP plaza since early 2000s. Currently representing Phase V association. He was Phase V attorney during litigation in 2014, familiar with the issue involving SDD No. 6. Client is concerned that there is significant misinformation in the application. Look at the court of appeals documents that were submitted to you. Entered in 2021, the opinion details the history of the decision. Goes through the history of the litigation. The claims were not initiated by the association. The opinion of the district court did not invalidate the entire SDD No. 6 zone ordinance. The arguments were centered on a sub-paragraph about occupancy restrictions, cannot enact ordinances that discriminate against condominium ownership. Nobody in phases 1-4 was part of that litigation, there is no reference to those in the court orders. Today he sent a copy of the court of appeals opinion to the PEC, bottom line is those of us in Phase V are not trying to derail this application, but we do want to make it clear that there never has been an invalidation of SDD No. 6. Don’t want to leave the PEC idea that we’re not paying attention to this, we’re not here to oppose or support the application of 1,2,&3. We’re hear to be sure that everyone understands the truth about SDD No. 6. Thanks for your time and attention. No further comment. Public comment closed. Rediker, hasn’t read the opinion, but as a lawyer that concerns him on one level. Rediker, are we supposed to proceed on staff and Town’s legal decision that the SDD has been invalidated? Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 5 270 Roy says that is the clear opinion here. Smith, are you comfortable not having a density limitation but addressing the parking? Tucker, as mentioned, there are other constraints from the additional zoning standards. Likes the idea of not having it unlimited because of future circumstances. Hagedorn, fine with limiting GRFA but not limiting density, doesn’t like it as a concept how it’s limited in certain districts. Smith, GRFA also comes down to tracking. Roy, the onus is also on applicants to provide that information if they come in with proposals impacting the numbers. Smith supports not limiting GRFA and density, but respects fellow commissioners opinions. Lipnick, favors limiting GRFA and parking, not density. Lintner, interesting discussion, more in favor or limiting parking and GRFA than a density limit. Smith, what does staff think of limiting GRFA and parking? Roy, understands the PEC regard for that, possibly pay in lieu applicable for residential expansions but not commercial ones. Kent, use county numbers as a starting point for moving forward to establish a baseline. Smith, this area benefits from zoning that fits it. You shouldn’t need a land use attorney to understand your zoning requirements. Likes that it affords flexibility for creative design solutions. Height and setbacks controlled by design, hopefully simplify what is a nightmare of a public process. Hagedorn appreciates the changes that have been made. Going more conservative on the height helps as well. Rediker generally agrees. Agrees with staff’s analysis for the text amendment and agrees as well on the analysis for the boundary amendment. Prefers GRFA set at 165/100 sf of buildable site area. Robert N Lipnick made a motion to Recommend for approval with the findings on pg. 15 -16, and the change to limit GRFA to 165 square feet of GRFA for every 100 square feet of buildable site area.; Robyn Smith seconded the motion Passed (6 - 0). 4.2 A request for recommendation to the Vail Town Council, pursuant to Section 3-2-6A, Function, Vail Town Code, to amend Section 5.17 and pertinent subsections of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC25-0014) Applicant: Town of Vail, East West Partners, and Vail Resorts Planner: Heather Knight PEC25-0014 Staff Memo 6-23-25.pdf Attachment A. Section 5.17 Compare.pdf Attachment B. Section 5.17 Proposed-Clean.pdf Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 6 271 Attachment C. Subsection Compare.pdf Attachment D. Subsection Proposed-Clean.pdf Timestamp 03:12 Planner Knight introduces the applicants. The applicants are represented by Matt Gennett for the TOV, Kevin Murphy and Jim Telling from East West and Melissa Sherburne from Vail Resorts. Gennett introduces the project. Murphy gives an overview of the concept plan. Smith ask about a pedestrian path, Telling talks about a proposed path on the west of the site. Town Engineer Tom Kassmel discuss future transit planning in conjunction with this plan. Smith and Kassmel discuss possible locations of bus stops in the project area. Rediker, we’re taking out employee parking for Vail Resorts, where are they going to start parking? Sherburne, we’ve looked at relocation of uses, we’re in the midst of that planning process. Likely a combination of offsite properties combined with on mountain locations for maintenance purposes. It’s a top priority to make sure every spot is accounted for. Some parking in the concept plan for critical employees. Rediker, how many employees are parking in that lot? Sherburne can’t pinpoint a number but the relocation analysis accounts for that. Gennett goes through summary of the proposed text amendments. Rediker, we’re proposing to take out a lot of language that talks about stepping back as you get to Gore Creek. Why wouldn’t we also talk about sensitive areas around Gore Creek, concepts like stepping back? Gennett agrees, there are bulk and mass parameters in LMU-2 that speak to the same values and principles. Rediker, I’m looking at changes to a master plan not only in context of the current plan but what happens if it falls through. Wants the wording and master pan document to survive this development not occurring and something else occurring down the road. Gennett, we’re cognizant of that. Smith, the language about relationship to the creek – the 2018 open lands plan does not identify any part of this area for acquisition? Gennett believes that is correct. We still want to have conservation principles as part of this Hagedorn, does the open lands plan address mitigating construction and development impact? Gennett, generally, but there is more stringent regulations in the development review process. Smith, are there plans for the bridge? Telling, when road moves that current bridge will have to be adjusted, it also needs repairs. Smith asks about stream setbacks. Kassmel, there would be an exemption for bridges. Applicants bring up redline version. Rediker, is there a need for safety measures along the relocated frontage road? Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 7 272 Kassmel, with the proximity to the interstate, the sidewalk is on the south side, it will be similar to other recent sections of frontage road. Smith, is this an extension of Lionshead and it removes a lot of the specificity that Evervail had? Gennett, it has sufficient level of specificity but making it less prescriptive and more like a master plan. Some of the figures also had to be updated and refined from 14 years ago. Telling, the parking and housing requirements change depending on what is proposed on the site. You’ll see more details eventually but we’re trying to keep the concept open at this point. Gennett, at a minimum, it will meet the standards of LMU-2. There aren’t specific development plans that have been drawn up at this point. The goal is to meet the housing requirements on site. Murphy talks about a potential phased approach. Discussion of redline version going through Section 5. Lipnick, where is new lift proposed? Gennett references master development plan for Vail Mountain. Rediker asks about the removal of preservation of existing office space? Telling, office space is not as popular as it once was, doesn’t know how leasable that is. As it is conceptual, haven’t given a lot of thought to specificity of what those uses are. Rediker says there used to be more various office uses in Town. 5-17-9, why was this removed? Gennett, predicated on 2010 analysis, dated language. Smith asks about access to the creek. Telling, they would explore if there was some way to get access to the creek from an ADA perspective. We want people to enjoy the creeks, but we also heard in public outreach be careful how close you get to it. Rediker this section is pretty good. 5 -17-7, not just recreation and views but this is an opportunity to restore and enhance an area of Red Sandstone Creek that is essentially blighted. The plan should highlight that. Telling, they don’t disagree. Smith, spell out what guidance we’re trying to take away from the 2018 Open Lands plan. Hagedorn ok with changes to 5-17-8. This is covered by inclusionary zoning and commercial linkage. Rediker, the language about buildings stepping down towards Gore Creek was important. Not necessarily comfortable with what has been removed here. Hagedorn, the intent is to use the LRMP to govern massing, etc.. Gennett confirms. Rediker asks about the removal of the setbacks section. What was the thinking here? Gennett, were looking at setbacks from property line, when that gets subdivided into one parcel you’re looking at setbacks from the outside. Rediker, do we need to reference the necessity for adequate setbacks between buildings, putting aside this concept plan for any future development on this parcel. Gennett, there is also language in Title 14 about adequate setbacks, the intent was to remove redundant language. Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 8 273 Rediker wants to make sure there are protections against overdevelopment and adequate setbacks in the code or master plan. Smith, there are some areas in Lionshead where a 0’ setback is beneficial. Rediker, zoning only states the setbacks around the perimeter, wants to make sure the interior separation is also addressed. Rediker, you’re removing reference to sun-shade analysis, that was a great concept. Looking at it as if this current development doesn’t happen. Rediker, why was green building language removed? Gennett, it is a dated term, it was redundant with existing language. The new language speaks to the environmentally responsive goals. Hagedorn, some of that is also redundant with the new codes. Gennett, this was originally aspirational, now it is required in codes. Rediker asks if a concept master plan is coming down the road? Telling, this is our conceptual master plan, but a lot of the details will be refined further moving forward. Rediker suggest removing “master” and just calling it a concept plan. Telling agrees. Smith asks about process. Telling, we will be refining the plan as we go which will come back to you in different applications. Gennett walks through associated applications. Smith likes the specificity of other areas of the LRMP. Gennett, it will have appropriate specificity for the master plan level, but there will be more detail at future applications. Lintner, hears what is being said but it does feel like there could be mid-point of a little more detail here. Telling, we’re trying to get to the point where the document can inform details moving forward. Hagedorn, ok with this specificity, this is an entire village. Don’t expect you to have that level of detail at the time of master planning. Sherburne, the sub-sections follow a similar tone. There was a lot of redundancy with other policy documents and a lot of it was outdated. We took a similar approach to what you have seen so far. Rediker asks about language on view corridors that was removed. Would like to know why this was removed. Gennett, we can get more information on that. Sherburne, the language was specific to Evervail design, this design has not progressed to the point to know what is appropriate. Rediker, the concept was to protect some view corridors with Evervail, so it is worth looking at what is needed here. Hagedorn agrees. Rediker asks about 5.20, viable and ideal. Rediker, you guys did a really good job of cleaning things up. Smith would like some more certainty about the transportation and pedestrian connections. Brad Hagedorn made a motion to Continue to the meeting on July 14, 2025; Robyn Smith seconded the Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 9 274 motion Passed (6 - 0). 5. Approval of Minutes 5.1 PEC Results 6-9-25 PEC Results 6-9-25.pdf Robert N Lipnick made a motion to Approve ; Robyn Smith seconded the motion Passed (6 - 0). 6. Information Update 6.1 Fire Free Five Discussion Timestamp 04:52 Mark Novak and Paul Cada from the Fire Department give a presentation. Novak says we will assume the PEC understands the importance of this issue, and the challenges our community is facing. Cada talks about the Fire Free Five requirements. We’re talking about utilizing those requirements for existing landscaping in the community. The Town has gone through an extensive process of installing FFF landscaping at Town Buildings. Lots of good examples in the community for people to look at. Smith, village fire station? Cada addressing existing trees is the biggest questions. Novak talks about vegetation and the review process. The Gore Valley is more heavily stocked with trees than it used to be. Having come from a community that changed its regulations, people pretty quickly adjust to the changes. We’ve been thoughtful about providing options for the aesthetic but there will be changes that are necessary for prevention. Hagedorn asks about fire danger in the core areas. Novak, increasingly we’re seeing significant losses in commercial buildings and multi-family areas. Rediker and Cada discuss best limbing practices. Smith talks about the most appropriate setbacks with regard to the new landscaping requirements. Hagedorn, who handles enforcement? Cada says that will be the Fire Department and talks about the process. Smith asks about property line issues and costs of compliance. Cada says it is a factor, the cost of compliance is usually less than $5,000 for single family homes. There are funding sources available and other programs to help. Tucker and Cada discuss waterwise landscaping in conjunction with fire resistant landscaping. Hagedorn and Novak discuss insurance considerations. Smith asks about other communities doing mandatory compliance? Cada says one of the first in Colorado, it is happening in California. We’re following best science and need to be a leader here. Roy, thinking about ideas to shorten meetings, including time estimates for specific items. We will have more conversations about this. Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 10 275 Rediker, we’re constrained by deadlines and when items need to be heard. 7. Adjournment David N Tucker made a motion to Adjourn ; John Rediker seconded the motion Passed (6 - 0). Planning and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of June 23, 2025 11 276 AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.1 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Missy Johnson, Housing ITEM TYPE:Information Update AGENDA SECTION:Information Update (4:05pm) SUBJECT:June 10, 2025 VLHA Meeting Minutes SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: VLHA Meeting Minutes 6-10-2025 277 Vail Local Housing Authority Minutes Tuesday, June 10, 2025 3:00 PM ZOOM ONLY PRESENT ABSENT Steve Lindstrom Craig Denton Dan Godec Christine Santucci Kristin Kenny Williams STAFF Jason Dietz, Director of Housing Martha Anderson, Senior Housing Coordinator Anna Bengtson, Housing Development Specialist Missy Johnson, Housing Coordinator 1. Call to Order (3:00pm) 2. Citizen Participation (5 min.) No comments. 3. Approval of Minutes (15 min.) 3.1 Approval of April 8, 2025 Minutes Presenter(s): Missy Johnson 2025-04-08 VHLA Minutes (1).pdf MOTION: Williams SECOND: Santucci PASSED: 3 - 0 - 1 3.2 Approval of May 20, 2025 - Special Meeting Minutes Presenter(s): Missy Johnson Time: 5 min. 2025-05-20 VLHA Meeting Minutes.pdf MOTION: Williams SECOND: Godec PASSED: 3 - 0 - 1 3.3 Approval of May 27, 2025 Meeting Minutes Presenter(s): Missy Johnson Time: 5 min. 2025-05-27 VLHA Meeting Minutes.pdf MOTION: Williams SECOND: Santucci PASSED: 4 - 0 4. Main Agenda (25 min.) 4.1 Introduction of New Housing Team Member: Anna Bengtson Presenter(s): Jason Dietz, Housing Director Time: 5 min. Anna Bengston has joined the VLHA meeting as a Housing Development Specialist. The housing staff is thrilled to have her join and complete the team. Bengston will work closely with Dietz regarding upcoming housing projects, after 8 years working with the White River National Forest as the realty specialist and forest wide lands command manager program. Her role moving forward will help to advance Town owned housing development projects. She will keep the VLHA updated on the Town projects, especially West Middle Creek. Dietz reminded the group the additional roles of Anderson and Johnson related to housing compliance, website, administration of housing programs, Vail InDEED, resales, buy downs and 278 lotteries. He further explained in detail the day-to-day management of details that Bengston is managing. 4.2 Update on West Middle Creek Presenter(s): Anna Bengtson, Housing Development Specialist Time: 10 min. Bengston provided an overview of current happenings as things are underway including movement of dirt, groundwork, install of temporary roads and installation of the water main. She will continue to update the group on the continual site work, foundation work and retaining wall work of the two-story foundation. Vertical work is a three-year build schedule. The construction updates and traffic control updates are available from the Town on a weekly basis to those that subscribe to the updates. 4.3 Arosa Drive Duplex Land Lease Renewal Presenter(s): Missy Johnson, Housing Coordinator Time: 10 min. Arosa Drive Land Lease Fee Recommendation.pdf 2010 Lease Agreement with Dovid P. Mintz & Doba R. Raskin for Arosa Drive Duplex Residence Unit A Land.pdf 2010 Lease Agreement with Rebecca Friesen Hunt & Brian D. Hunt for Arosa Drive Duplex Residence Unit B Land-1.pdf The Arosa Drive Duplex is scheduled for a Land Lease Rental Fee Review and to make a recommendation to the Authority regarding the land lease fee for the deed restricted Arosa Drive Duplex Residences, Unit A and Unit B. The term of the Land Lease is ninety -nine years effective upon the execution of the initial please which was the 24th day of June, 2010. Per the terms of the lease agreement, the fee shall be reviewed by the Vail Local Housing Authority or Town Council consistent with the timeline noted in the fully executed agreements attached as Attachment A and Attachment B. Based on review over time, it does not appear that the $25 annual land lease fee has been meant to make money. Lindstrom provided a summary about the initial re-development of this site and how it came to re-sold and utilized as an EHU through the Town of Vail. The re-up of the lease coincides with the confirmation that the residents are in compliance in terms of use. The VLHA directed staff to keep the 99-year land lease annual fees at $25. 5. Matters from the Chairman and Authority Members (5 min.) Coming up - West Middle Creek groundbreaking on-site with a gathering to follow at the Grand View room on Tuesday, June 17, where the official name will be determined. 6. Adjournment 3:50 pm (estimate) Meeting adjourned at 3:28 p.m. 7. Next Meeting Date (June 24, 2024) 279 AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.2 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Jake Shipe ITEM TYPE:Information Update AGENDA SECTION:Information Update (4:05pm) SUBJECT:June 2025 Revenue Update SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: Revenue Update 7-01-2025 280 1 TOWN OF VAIL REVENUE UPDATE July 1, 2025 4.0% General Sales Tax Upon receipt of all sales tax returns, May 2025 collections are estimated to be $1,158,304, down (1.6)% from 2024 and up 0.5% from the budget. 2025 YTD collections of $21,913,644 are up 2.8% from 2024 and up 3.1% from the budget. Inflation as measured by the consumer price index was up 2.4% for the 12-months ending May 2025. The annual budget totals $42.1 million. 0.5% Housing Fund Sales Tax Upon receipt of all sales tax returns, May 2025 collections of the 0.5% housing sales tax are estimated to be $137,978, are down (1.3)% from 2024 and down (3.8)% from the budget. 2025 YTD collections of $2,665,783 are up 2.9% from 2024 and up 1.5% from the budget. The annual budget for the housing fund sales tax totals $5.2 million. Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) RETT collections through June 25 total $3,930,068, down (8.1)% from 2024. The number of property sales (excluding time-shares) is tracking down (24.8)% from 2024, while the average collection is tracking up 21.7%. The budget for RETT collections totals $7.7 million for 2025. Construction Use Tax Use Tax collections through June 25 total $1,057,747 compared to $1,458,640 in 2024. The budget totals $2.5 million for 2025. Lift Tax Lift tax collections through May 2025 total $5,038,503, up 2.0% or $97,683 from May 2024. The budget totals $6,915,427. Summary Across all funds and excluding one-time grants and reimbursements, year-to-date total revenue of $53.9 million is up 4.3% from the amended budget and is up 0.1% from prior year. The majority of the positive variance compared to the budget is due to higher-than-expected interest earnings, real estate transfer tax collections, and sales tax collections. 281 2025 Budget % change % change 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Budget Variance from 2024 from Budget January 4,076,145$ 3,422,209$ 5,217,125$ 5,911,572$ 5,805,199$ 5,791,927$ 5,983,025$ 191,098$ 3.06% 3.30% February 4,285,633 3,691,850 5,686,585 6,041,108 6,080,349 6,063,693 6,314,116 250,423 3.84% 4.13% March 2,243,518 4,364,797 5,912,059 6,055,992 6,412,535 6,162,148 6,296,960 134,812 -1.80% 2.19% April 427,518 1,751,528 2,234,296 2,264,892 1,842,893 2,082,859 2,161,240 78,381 17.27% 3.76% May 503,828 1,061,516 1,227,974 1,118,011 1,176,629 1,152,860 1,158,304 5,444 -1.56% 0.47% YTD 11,536,642$ 14,291,900$ 20,278,039$ 21,391,575$ 21,317,604$ 21,253,487$ 21,913,644$ 660,157$ 2.80% 3.11% June 1,023,517 2,149,312 2,317,931 2,272,457 2,361,482 2,355,770 - July 2,084,644 3,491,668 3,507,973 3,412,277 3,643,192 3,629,309 - August 2,138,838 2,877,550 2,997,389 2,932,111 3,052,213 3,038,643 - September 1,767,393 2,359,528 2,441,331 2,508,064 2,415,397 2,414,174 - October 1,371,727 1,734,964 1,729,558 1,773,358 1,753,419 1,752,419 - November 1,425,461 1,880,397 1,902,643 1,901,141 1,844,461 1,843,961 - December 3,625,189 5,749,365 5,602,018 5,811,950 5,789,893 5,776,237 - Total 24,973,411$ 34,534,683$ 40,776,882$ 42,002,933$ 42,177,661$ 42,064,000$ 21,913,644$ 660,157$ 2.80%3.11% 2025 Budget % change % change 2022 2023 2024 Budget Variance from 2024 from Budget January 645,487$ 720,906$ 705,167$ 711,525$ 728,345$ 16,820$ 3.29% 2.36% February 702,730 736,788 741,549 753,337 769,568 16,231 3.78% 2.15% March 719,717 738,244 783,123 769,644 769,365 (279) -1.76% -0.04% April 269,018 271,930 222,032 249,107 260,527 11,420 17.34% 4.58% May 146,657 132,333 139,793 143,483 137,978 (5,505) -1.30% -3.84% YTD 2,483,609$ 2,600,201$ 2,591,664$ 2,627,096$ 2,665,783$ 38,687$ 2.86% 1.47% June 280,460 275,113 284,485 291,846 - July 424,602 412,849 439,142 448,039 - August 361,165 352,887 369,212 377,205 - September 294,861 304,068 293,066 299,772 - October 207,397 213,568 210,364 217,051 - November 230,383 229,092 222,639 228,495 - December 671,982 703,050 699,750 712,030 - Total 4,954,459$ 5,090,828$ 5,110,322$ 5,201,534$ 2,665,783$ 38,687$ 2.86% 1.47% 0.5% HOUSING SALES TAX 2025 Budget Comparison 4.0% Collected Sales Tax Actual 0.5% Collections 0.5% Collected Sales Tax Town of Vail Revenue Update July 1, 2025 4.0% GENERAL SALES TAX 2025 Budget Comparison Actual 4.0% Collections 282 Through May 31 May 4% General Sales Tax Collections By Year Through May 31 Town of Vail Revenue Update YTD 4% General Sales Tax Collections By Year July 1, 2025 •May collections of $1,158,304 are down (1.6)% from prior year and are up 0.5% from the budget. $1,061,516 $1,227,974 $1,118,011 $1,176,629 $1,158,304 $0 $200,000 $400,000 $600,000 $800,000 $1,000,000 $1,200,000 $1,400,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 $14,291,900 $20,278,039 $21,391,575 $21,317,604 $21,913,644 $0 $5,000,000 $10,000,000 $15,000,000 $20,000,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 •YTD collections of $21,913,644 are up 2.8% from prior year and are up 3.1% from the budget. •Inflation as measured by the consumer price index was up 2.4% for the 12-months ending May 2025. 283 May Collections YTD Collections Town of Vail Revenue Update July 1, 2025 May 0.5% Housing Fund Sales Tax Collections By Year Real Estate Transfer Tax by Year YTD Through June 2025 •This chart shows YTD collections of 1% RETT, segmented by real property values. 2025 collections are down (8.1)% from the prior year. $5,073,151 $4,796,758 $2,826,381 $4,274,434 $3,930,068 $0 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $3,000,000 $4,000,000 $5,000,000 $6,000,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Sales Less Than $2.5 Million Sales $2.5 to $5 Million Sales $5 to $10 Million Sales Over $10 Million •May collections of $137,978 are down (1.3)% from prior year and are down (3.8)% from the budget. •2025 YTD collections of $2,665,783 are up 2.9% from 2024 and up 1.5% from the budget. The annual budget for the housing fund sales tax totals $5.2 million. $146,657 $132,333 $139,793 $137,978 $0 $20,000 $40,000 $60,000 $80,000 $100,000 $120,000 $140,000 $160,000 2022 2023 2024 2025 $2,483,609 $2,600,201 $2,591,664 $2,665,783 $0 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,500,000 $2,000,000 $2,500,000 $3,000,000 2022 2023 2024 2025 284 Town of Vail Revenue Update July 1, 2025 Construction Use Tax by Year YTD Through June 2025 YTD Lift Tax Collections YTD Through May 2025 •Use Tax collections through June 24 total $1,057,747 compared to $1,458,640 from this time last year. This is an decrease of (27.5)%. $2,435,590 $1,092,082 $1,653,078 $1,458,640 $1,057,747 $0 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,500,000 $2,000,000 $2,500,000 $3,000,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 •2025 YTD lift tax collections of $5,038,503 are up 2.0% or $97,683 from the same time last year. $3,925,279 $4,702,447 $4,650,293 $4,940,821 $5,038,503 $0 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $3,000,000 $4,000,000 $5,000,000 $6,000,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 285 Vail Business Review May 2025 July 1, 2025 The Vail Business Review breaks down the 4.5% sales tax collected for the month of May. The 4.5% sales tax includes the town’s general 4% sales tax and the 0.5% housing sales tax supported by Town of Vail voters during the November 2021 election, effective January 1, 2022. The housing sales tax sunsets on December 31, 2051. May 4.5% sales tax was down (1.5)% from the prior year. Retail increased 4.7%, lodging decreased (14.1)%, food and beverage decreased (0.3)%, and utilities/other decreased (4.9)%. Excluding the out-of-town category, sales tax for the month of May was down (3.8)% compared to prior year. Town of Vail sales tax forms, the Vail Business Review, and sales tax worksheets are available on the internet at vail.gov. You may email me to request to have the Vail Business Review and the sales tax worksheet emailed to you automatically. Please remember when reading the Vail Business Review that it is produced from sales tax collections as opposed to actual gross sales. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to call me at (970) 479-2125 or Carlie Smith, Finance Director, at (970) 479-2119. Sincerely, Lauren Noll Revenue Manager 286 May 2025 Town of Vail Business Review May Sales Tax Collections by Year May 2025 Sales Tax May 2024 Sales Tax Collections by Business Type 617,637 Lodging 233,516 Food & Beverage 273,707 Utilities & Other 171,423 $0 $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 4.7% (0.3)% (4.9)% Retail 1,061,987 1,383,815 1,273,541 1,316,314 1,296,282 $0 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,500,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Sales Tax Housing Sales Tax • May 2025 retail sales increased 4.7%, lodging decreased (14.1)%, food and beverage decreased (0.3)%, and utilities and other decreased (4.9)%. • The figures above reflect 4.5% sales tax. Retail 589,863 Lodging 271,702 Food & Beverage 274,473 Utilities & Other 180,277 $0 $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 (14.1)% • This report represents collections of Town of Vail sales tax, as opposed to actual gross sales. • On January 1st, 2022, Town of Vail sales tax increased from 4.0% to 4.5% on all items except food for home consumption. 2022-2025 above include the 0.5% increase to sales tax, depicted in light blue. 2021 shows 4.0% sales tax collections. • Total May 2024 collections were $1,316,314; May 2025 collections were $1,296,282, down from the prior year (1.5)%. 287 May 2025 Sales Tax Town of Vail Business Review May 2024May 2025 Geographic Area Trends by Year May Sales Tax Sales Tax by Location Other Areas 19% Lionshead 11% Out of Town 45% Vail Village 25% • Vail Village sales tax increased 17.6%, Lionshead decreased (43.3)%, Other Areas decreased (9.0)%, and Out of Town increased 1.3%. Excluding Out of Town collections, all areas were down (3.8)%. • The figures above reflect 4.5% sales tax. 184,815 203,217 75,742 110,876 480,476 644,020 320,953 425,702 $0 $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 $700,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Vail Village Out of Town Lionshead Other Areas 653,058316,437 109,771 194,276 • This chart shows May sales tax collections by geographic area over time. • 2022-2025 include the 0.5% increase for housing sales tax, depicted in lighter shades. General 4.0% sales tax collections are shown in darker shades. 244,900145,600 598,505 327,310 384,770 82,491 606,061 222,959 Other Areas 17% Lionshead 6% Out of Town 47% Vail Village 30% 288 Accommodation Services Sales Tax by Year Retail Business 4.5% Sales Tax Detail May 2025 Sales Tax Town of Vail Business Review Apparel $78,618 Grocery $97,963 Gallery $6,442 Gifts $2,485 Jewelry $29,345 Retail Liquor $22,363 Retail Other $274,091 Sporting Goods $23,641 Online Retailers $82,688 Retail Home Occupation $0 • May 2025 accommodations services decreased (14.1)% from the prior year. Short-term rentals decreased (8.1)% and hotels and lodges decreased (17.5)%. • The figures above reflect 4.5% sales tax. • Short-term rental sales tax collection numbers include online marketplace facilitators like Airbnb and VRBO. Revenue collections from facilitators may include some hotels and lodges that advertise and rent properties on these platforms. 142,760 119,414 171,650 100,052 141,554 91,961 $0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 Hotel and Lodges Short-Term Rentals 2025 2024 2023 289 Retail 112,319 123,231 -8.85% Lodging 37,784 39,976 -5.48% F & B 68,785 75,056 -8.36% Other 4,071 6,636 -38.65% Total 222,959 244,900 -8.96% Retail 13,534 13,756 -1.61% Lodging 24,666 59,945 -58.85% F & B 42,754 65,264 -34.49% Other 1,537 6,635 -76.84% Total 82,491 145,600 -43.34% Retail 328,485 316,646 3.74% Lodging 112,756 117,629 -4.14% F & B 196 156 25.69% Other 164,624 164,073 0.34% Total 606,061 598,505 1.26% Retail 163,298 136,229 19.87% Lodging 58,310 54,152 7.68% F & B 161,971 133,996 20.88% Other 1,191 2,933 -59.39% Total 384,770 327,310 17.56% Retail 617,637 589,863 4.71% Lodging 233,516 271,702 -14.05% F & B 273,707 274,473 -0.28% Other 171,423 180,277 -4.91% Total 1,296,282 1,316,314 -1.52% Retail Apparel 78,618 76,815 2.35% Retail Food 97,963 107,244 -8.65% Retail Gallery 6,442 1,916 236.23% Retail Gift 2,485 1,539 61.48% Retail Home Occupation - 197 -100.00% Retail Jewelry 29,345 12,170 141.12% Retail Liquor 22,363 23,922 -6.51% Retail Other 274,091 267,983 2.28% Retail Sport 23,641 25,335 -6.69% Retail Online Retailer 82,688 72,741 13.67% Total 617,637 589,863 4.71% Total - All Areas Lionshead Out of Town Vail Village Retail Summary Cascade Village / East Vail / Sandstone / West Vail Town of Vail Business Review May 4.5% Sales Tax 2025 Collections 2024 Collections YoY % Change 290 AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.1 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Steph Johnson, Town Manager ITEM TYPE:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports AGENDA SECTION:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports (4:05pm) SUBJECT:Matters from Mayor, Council, and Committee Reports (15 min.) SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: 291 AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.2 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager ITEM TYPE:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports AGENDA SECTION:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports (4:05pm) SUBJECT:Town Manager Report (5 min.) SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: Town Manager Update 7-01-2025 Future Topics 292 Town Managers Update July 1, 2025 1. Letter of Opposition to Selling Federal Public Lands Would the Town Council support the Mayor signing the attached letter opposing the sale of Federal public lands? H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, has included a mandate to sell 2.2 and 3.3 million acres of federally managed public lands over five years. This could have devastating impacts to Vail and other western communities that rely on federal lands for outdoor recreation and the many other uses of BLM and USFS lands. This provision was removed by the Senat Parliamentarian over the last several days but will likely come back into the bill in some form. Staff recommends sending the attached letter. 2. Fourth of July Update The parade starts at 10:00 and Council members are asked to be at Mill Creek Circle at 9:30ish. Fireworks are planned at 9:45. 3. Construction Update The Communications Department will continue to update the Town’s website on construction . Also, the Town has an ad campaign to inform the community of the significant construction projects occurring in the Town of Vail. 4. Other There may be other topics the Town Manager needs to share with the Town Council. 293 Page 2 June 24, 2025 The Honorable Michael Bennet 261 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable John Hickenlooper 374 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 RE: Opposition to Public Land Sale Provision in H.R. 1 (“One Big Beautiful Bill Act”) Dear Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper, On behalf of the Town of Vail, I am writing to express our strong opposition to H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, that would have mandated the sale of between 2.2 and 3.3 million acres of federally managed public lands over five years. While we appreciate that this provision was struck from the Senate’s reconciliation version of the bill by the Parliamentarian under the Byrd Rule, its initial inclusion — and the ongoing discussion around it — raises serious concerns for our community, our economy, and our wildlife. Vail’s identity and economy are built upon the integrity of Colorado’s public lands, which are far more than undeveloped acreage: • They serve as the foundation of our outdoor recreation economy which contributes to the over $65 billion annual spend statewide. • They are home to our rivers and wildlife such as elk and deer, and our iconic bighorn sheep herd which drive our visitation, hunting and angling. • They offer scenic, cultural and ecological value that cannot be replicated or replaced. The proposed sell-off undermines decades of bipartisan land stewardship and ignores the reality that public lands are not excess, they are essential. In Vail, our economy thrives because of the surrounding National Forests and BLM lands. These landscapes support tourism, protect water quality, and sustain biodiversity, including key wildlife corridors that cross the very parcels now considered for disposal. We urge you to stand firmly against any future attempts, whether through reconciliation, standalone legislation or backdoor riders, to divest federal public lands. Doing so would compromise Colorado’s 294 Page 3 natural heritage and directly harm the very landscapes that drive our rural economies and enrich the lives of Coloradans and visitors alike. Thank you for your ongoing leadership in defending public lands and for continuing to prioritize the interests of communities like Vail. Sincerely, Travis Coggin Mayor, Town of Vail 295 Future Topics, July 2025 TOPIC DEPARTMENT  Joint Meeting with Design Review Board Community Development  Bus Barn Discussion Public Works & Vail Fire Department  Exterior Energy Offset Presentation Environmental Sustainability  Greenhouse Gas Study Environmental Sustainability  2026 Budget Retreat Finance  US Forest Service Update Town Manager’s Office  Single-Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance Environmental Sustainability Development Update and Stakeholder Engagement Results Presentation  Joint Meeting with Vail Recreation District Town Manager’s Office 296 AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.3 Item Cover Page DATE:July 1, 2025 SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager ITEM TYPE:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports AGENDA SECTION:Matters from Mayor, Council, Town Manager and Committee Reports (4:05pm) SUBJECT:Council Matters and Status Update SUGGESTED ACTION: VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT ATTACHMENTS: Council Matters 7-01-2025 297 COUNCIL MATTERS Status Report Report for July 1, 2025  Town Council acknowledged the CC4CA retreat that Town of Vail hosted over multiple days – Great job Environmental Department!  Town Council appreciated TOV staff and Vail Valley Foundation for a fantastic Go Pro Mountain Games event!  Town Council congratulated the Finance Department for a clean audit! They also expressed appreciation for the Parking staff and Communications team on the implementation of paid summer parking! Social Media Listening Sprout Listening link: https://share.sproutsocial.com/view/99b987b7-d9c0-42be-b987- b7d9c022be49 This report is from 6/11 - 6/26, so shows a big drop in the volume, engagements and potential impressions of the previous period due to the GoPro Mountain Games. In the News______________________________________________________ June 14 West Middle Creek Groundbreaking https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-to-host-groundbreaking-naming-ceremony-for-new-housing- development-on-june-17/ Lions Ridge Loop Closure https://www.vaildaily.com/news/lions-ridge-loop-above-timber-ridge-village-to-close-temporarily/ June 16 Emergency Ordinance https://www.vaildaily.com/news/red-lion-renovation-vail-emergency-ordinances/ June 17 Housing Lunch and Learn in Tahoe https://www.sierrasun.com/news/mountain-towns-share-their-housing-lessons-in-ttcf-lunch-and- learn/ PD Open House 298 https://www.realvail.com/vail-police-department-invites-community-to-open-house-june- 21/a22688/ Bridge Street Nonsense - letter https://www.vaildaily.com/opinion/letter-bridge-street-nonsense/ June 18 West Middle Creek (Southface!) Ceremony https://www.vaildaily.com/news/town-of-vail-breaks-ground-on-massive-locals-only-housing- project-on-north-side-of-i-70/ Automatic Speeding Tickets https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-selects-a-vendor-to-issue-automatic-tickets-to-speeders/ June 20 Rodeo Rink https://www.realvail.com/campaign-continues-for-rodeo-rink/a22728/ June 23 Cornerstone https://www.vaildaily.com/news/cascade-village-vail-mountain-portal-remodel/ West Middle Creek https://danielkaufmanreal.estate/2025/06/22/vails-268-unit-workforce-housing-project-a- blueprint-for-resort-town-sustainability/ June 25 Neighborhood Picnics https://www.realvail.com/town-of-vail-to-sponsor-annual-neighborhood-picnics-july-8-aug- 12/a22748/ Fund for Injured Officer https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/vail-police-officer-hurt-motorcycle-crash-helmet/73- df9a25ea-4056-44ad-9bee-c32eaa771ee9 https://kdvr.com/video/how-to-help-vail-officer-injured-in-crash-on-i-70/10838034/ Upcoming Dates July 8 - Community Picnic! - Board & Commissions Appreciation Night at Ford Park Amphitheater Hot Summer Nights August 3 - Art Studio Ribbon Cutting August 12 - Community Picnic! September 9 - Vail Social! 299