HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-11-02 Agenda and Supporting Documentation Town Council Evening Meeting Agenda
VAIL TO W N C O U N C IL R E G U L AR ME E TIN G
Evening Agenda
Town Council C hambers and Virtual on Zoom
6:00 PM, November 2, 2021
Meeting to be held in C ouncil Chambers and Virtually on
Zoom (access H igh Five Access Media livestream day of the
meeting)
Notes:
Times of items are approximate, subject to c hange, and cannot be relied upon to determine what time C ounc il will
consider an item.
Public comment will be taken on each agenda item.
Citizen participation offers an opportunity for citizens to express opinions or ask questions regarding town
services, policies or other matters of community conc ern, and any items that are not on the agenda. Please
attempt to keep c omments to three minutes; time limits established are to provide efficienc y in the c onduct of the
meeting and to allow equal opportunity for everyone wishing to speak.
1.Citizen Participation (10 min.)
2.Any action as a result of executive session
3.Recognitions
3.1.Recognition of Ellen Miller, for Trailhead Host Role 5 min.
Presenter(s): Dave Chapin, Mayor
Background: Ellen Miller was named the Vail Valley Mountain Trail's
Association's volunteer of the year, the first ever awarded, and also serves
as one of the Town of Vail's Trail Host since the program’s inception in
2019.
4.Consent Agenda (5 min.)
4.1.October 5, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
4.2.October 19, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
4.3.Event Funding Agreement with the Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of
Lights Vail
Action Requested of Council: Review memorandum and award funding to
Vail Valley Foundation of Magic of Lights Vail.
Background: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding
agreement for Magic of Lights Vail and to request that Council authorize the
Town Manager to enter into this funding agreement.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of Lights for $50,000.
November 2, 2021 - Page 1 of 229
4.4.Event Funding Agreement with I mprint Events Colorado Resorts LLC
for Vail Snow Days
Action Requested of Council: Review memo and award funding to I mprint
Events Colorado Resorts L L C for Vail Snow Days
Background: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding
agreement for Vail Snow Days, and to request that Council authorize the
Town Manager to enter into this funding agreement.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with I mprint Events Colorado Resorts LLC for Vail Snow Days
in the amount of $300,000.
4.5.Event Funding Agreement with Full Send Productions for Powabunga
Action Requested of Council: Review memorandum and award funding to
Full Send Productions for Powabunga
Background: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding
agreement for Powabunga, and to request that Council authorize the Town
Manager to enter into this funding agreement.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with Full Send Productions Powabunga in the amount of
$300,000.
4.6.Resolution No. 51, Series 2021, a Resolution Approving the Second
Amendment to Development Agreement Between the Town of Vail and
Crossroads East One LLC
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny
Resolution No. 51, Series 2021.
Background: The Town and Crossroads East One, L L C entered into a
Development Agreement dated J uly 25, 2006, as amended by that certain
First Amendment to Development Agreement dated September 1, 2020.
Pursuant to Section 7 of the First Amendment, Crossroads is required to
use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Entertainment Venue to
be operational on or before the Entertainment Venue Deadline of November
30, 2021. Both parties wish to enter into a Second Amendment extending
the Entertainment Venue Deadline by a period of one year.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny
Resolution No. 51, Series 2021.
4.7.Contract with Encompass Services, LLC for Professional Land Surveying
Services for Ford Park Masterplan and a Bus Stop/Turnaround on Bighorn
Road at Main Gore Drive.
Action Requested of Council: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a
P S A with Encompass Services, LLC in the amount of $56,989 for the
Professional Land Surveying at 2 locations.
Background: A Request for proposals for professional land surveying
services was issued on October 4, 2021 with 2 firms responding with
proposals. Encompass Services, L L C Broomfield, C O, submitted the lowest
price proposal in the amount of $56,989. 2 local professional land surveying
firms declined to submit proposals due to staffing challenges.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a P S A
with Encompass Services, LLC in the amount of $56,989 for the
Professional Land Surveying at 2 locations.
4.8.Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and I nstallation Contract Award
Action Requested of Council: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
November 2, 2021 - Page 2 of 229
agreement with A MS for Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and I nstallation.
Background:
The Public W orks Department has identified the Lionshead boiler as the
first boiler to convert to 100% electric usage as the Town begins to transition
its snowmelt system from a natural gas fired system to a system running on
renewable energy.
T his boiler is approximately 12 years old and even though it has not
reached its useful life its size is an ideal candidate for conversion to
gather critical data needed regarding operation characteristics and
energy usage as the town continues to work with Holy Cross Energy
in discussions regarding the much larger snowmelt systems the town
operates.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement in a form approved by the Town Attorney with A MS for
Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and I nstallation in the amount not to
exceed $297,696.
5.Town Manager Report (10 min)
5.1.Update about invitation for community open house Wednesday, Nov. 3 to
discuss restrooms at Booth Lake trailhead in East Vail
5.2.Update on Election Results Certification Process
6.Action Items
6.1.Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021 - A Resolution of the Vail Town Council
Adopting the West Vail Master Plan.
45 min.
Presenter(s): Matt Gennett, Community Development Director
Action Requested of Council: Approve Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021.
Background: After four presentations with discussion and deliberations, on
October 11, 2021, the Planning and Environmental Commission (P E C)
voted 6-0 (Pratt absent) to forward a recommendation of approval of the
W est Vail Master Plan to Council with one condition of approval. The
condition of approval was “that the proposed modifications agreed to by the
PEC be incorporated into the final draft of the plan upon adoption”. The
consultant team and staff has incorporated the P E C’s proposed
modifications, and those suggested by the Town’s Environmental
Sustainability Department, into the final draft for Council’s consideration on
November 2, 2021.
Staff Recommendation: Approve Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021.
6.2.Ordinance No. 22, Series of 2021, First Reading, Budget Supplemental No.
3, an ordinance making budget adjustments to the Town of Vail General
Fund, Capital Projects Fund, Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund, Housing
Fund, Marketing Fund, Dispatch Services Fund, Timber Ridge Fund, and
Residences at Main Vail Fund of the 2021 Budget for the Town of Vail
20 min.
Presenter(s): Carlie Smith, Financial Service Manager
Action Requested of Council: Approve, or approve with amendments
Ordinance No. 22, Series 2021.
Background: Please see attached memorandum.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, or approve with amendments Ordinance
November 2, 2021 - Page 3 of 229
No. 22, Series 2021.
7.Adjournment
7.1.Adjournment 7:35 pm (estimate)
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www.vailgov.com. All town c ouncil meetings will be streamed live by High F ive Ac cess Media and available
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website the week following meeting day, www.highfivemedia.org.
P leas e c all 970-479-2136 for additional information. S ign language interpretation is available upon reques t with
48 hour notification dial 711.
November 2, 2021 - Page 4 of 229
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I T E M /T O P I C: Recognition of E llen Miller, for Trailhead Host Role
P RE S E NT E R(S ): Dave Chapin, Mayor
B AC K G RO UND: E llen Miller was named the Vail Valley Mountain Trail's Association's volunteer
of the year, the first ever awarded, and also serves as one of the Town of Vail's Trail Host since the
program’s inception in 2019.
November 2, 2021 - Page 5 of 229
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I T E M /T O P I C: October 5, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
October 5, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
November 2, 2021 - Page 6 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021 Page 1
Vail Town Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
6:00 P.M.
Vail Town Council Chambers
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was called to order at approximately 6:00 P.M. by
Mayor Chapin.
Members present: Dave Chapin, Mayor
Kim Langmaid, Mayor Pro Tem
Jenn Bruno
Travis Coggin
Kevin Foley
Jen Mason
Brian Stockmar
Staff members present: Scott Robson, Town Manager
Patty McKenny, Assistant Town Manager
Matt Mire, Town Attorney
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
1. Citizen Participation
Dick Neal, Vail resident, had questions about Ballot Issue 2A such as how much money would
be raised over 30 years; how would the money be used; and he asked about the long-term
planning for the community.
Kelly Alter and Lelia Conlin both announced their candidacy for the Eagle County School Board
on November 2.
Taylor Gardarian, Eagle County resident, asked council to consider a tunnel from Avon to East
Vail.
Donna Mumma, Vail resident, spoke to council against the storybook panels that have been
placed around the Big Horn park pond. Mumma felt the panels around the pond were
dangerous and not appropriate location. She suggested moving the signs.
2. Any action as a result of executive session
There was none.
3. Consent Agenda
3.1. September 7, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Langmaid made a motion to approve September 7, 2021 Town Council meeting minutes;
Stockmar seconded the motion passed (7-0).
3.2. September 21, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
November 2, 2021 - Page 7 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021 Page 2
Langmaid made a motion to approve September 21, 2021 Town Council meeting minutes;
Stockmar seconded the motion passed (7-0).
4. Town Manager Report
Assistant Town Manager Patty McKenny provided council with updates regarding the upcoming
coordinated November 2 election and the loading and delivery program. McKenny stated ballots
would be mailed this Friday and reminded the audience there was a 24-hour secured ballot drop
off box located in front of the municipal building. Additionally, she reminded the business
community about upcoming loading and delivery meetings taking place this week and next.
5. Presentations / Discussion
5.1. Children's Garden of Learning Relocation Project Update
Presenter(s): Tom Kassmel, Town Engineer
Action Requested of Council: Approve reallocation of additional funds for the Children's Garden
of Learning Relocation Project
Background: The Town of Vail is in the process of relocating the Children's Garden of Learning.
The project is near completion; however, it will require additional funding to be completed.
Staff Recommendation: Approve reallocation of additional funds for the Children's Garden of
Learning Relocation Project
Kassmel spoke with council regarding the relocation of the Children’s Garden of Learning. The
project was initially scheduled to be completed by October 1st, however additional work and
subcontractor availability have delayed the project. The new projected completion date is
October 18th, with a projected Temporary Certificate of Occupancy and State Daycare
inspection on October 6th. If the project received the TCO and passed the State
Daycare inspection on October 6th, the final State licensing may take up to 10 days to
receive. Therefore, the move in date for CGL into the new facility is likely to fall
between October 11th and October 18th, one to two weeks later than initially expected.
The construction of the project was anticipated to exceed the current budget by $250,000. The
additional costs were largely due to unanticipated design changes and material costs. The bulk
of these costs can be attributed to;
Lumber Material Costs $100,000
Heating and Plumbing Connections within the Crawlspace $85,000
Fire Sprinkler within the crawlspace and roof overhangs $80,000
Kassmel stated the overage would be overset by savings incurred on the Frontage Road
roundabout project.
Council had no questions.
Coggin made a motion to authorize the Town Manager to increase the CGL budget by
$250,000; Mason seconded the motion passed (7-0).
6. Action Items
November 2, 2021 - Page 8 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021 Page 3
6.1. Resolution No. 46, Series of 2021, A Resolution in Support of Town of Vail Ballot
Issue 2A - Funding Town of Vail Housing Initiatives Through a 0.5% Increase in Sales Tax
Presenter(s): Dave Chapin, Mayor
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 46,
Series of 2021
Background: The Town Council adopted Resolution No. 36, Series 2021, A Resolution of the
Vail Town Council submitting a ballot issue (2A) to the registered electors of the Town at the
Town's Regular Election on November 2, 2021 on August 17, 2021. The Town Council wants to
support workforce housing solutions by ensuring dedicated funding sources are available for
the initiatives and programs
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 46, Series
of 2021.
Langmaid stated she was in support of Ballot Issue 2A and the town had a clear vision in the
next 5 years as to where the money would be spent, including $70M for redevelopment of
Timber Ridge.
Bruno said the ballot measure would put the town in a position to respond to opportunities that
present themselves. She felt housing for locals would help sustain the community.
Coggin stated he was strongly in support of Ballot Issue 2A. Coggin said the tax would raise an
estimated $215 million over the 30-year term.
Mason felt Ballot Issue 2A was a legacy vote since sales tax hasn't been raised since 1974.
Mason stated 2A would secure the future of Vail.
Chapin supported Ballot Issue 2A stating employees in Vail need housing to continue to be a
world class resort.
Stockmar said he voted in support of putting Ballot Issue 2A on the November 2 ballot for Vail
voters to consider.
Foley encouraged people to get out and vote.
Coggin made a motion to approve Resolution No. 46, Series of 2021; Foley seconded the
motion passed (7-0).
6.2. Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021, First Reading, an Ordinance Amending Title 7
Chapter 8 of the Vail Town Code Regarding Low-Speed Electric Vehicles in Vail Village
Presenter(s): Commander Ryan Kenney, Vail Police Department and Greg Hall, Director of
Public Works
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny First Reading of
Ordinance 21, Series 2021.
November 2, 2021 - Page 9 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021 Page 4
Background: The current LSEV ordinance (7-8-3) has no controls on size, weight, number, or
use of low-speed electric vehicles. The increase of popularity of LSEV’s creates the potential for
multiple businesses utilizing LSEV’s to accomplish any number of tasks. Multiple LSEV’s
navigating the Village and Lionshead could create congestion, safety, and aesthetic issues.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny First Reading of
Ordinance 21, Series 2021.
Kenney reviewed Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021 with council stating the ordinance
established a permitting process for low-speed vehicles(“LSEV”) used in Vail Village or
Lionshead. The permitting process would allow the Town to influence the number, size and use
of LSEV’s. The police department would issue and maintain LSEV permits. No permits would be
issued for LSEV’s moving any goods or products. Permits for moving people with an LSEV
would be issued based on current state statute and Town Code but would not allow access to
Vail Village or Lionshead. Businesses seeking an LSEV permit for moving people would be
allowed to drop passengers at any of the approved skier drop off locations.
There was no public comment.
Bruno asked if the ordinance would interfere with the Lion using their LSEV? Kenney replied it
would not.
Coggin made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021 upon first reading;
Stockmar seconded the motion passed (7-0).
6.3. Ordinance No. 21, Series 2021, First Reading, Ordinance adopting a budget and
financial plan and making appropriations to pay the costs, expenses and liabilities of the
Town of Vail, Colorado for its fiscal year January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022.
Presenter(s): Kathleen Halloran, Finance Director and Carlie Smith, Financial Services Manager
Action Requested of Council: Approve or approve with amendments Ordinance No. 21, Series
2021.
Background: Please see attached memo.
Staff Recommendation: Approve or approve with amendments Ordinance No. 21, Series 2021.
Smith presented the first reading of Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2021 with the council reminding
them they had seen a draft of the budget during the September 21 meeting. Smith reviewed the
changes per their direction at that September 21 meeting.
Expenditures
• General Fund
Council requested to fund Snow Days and Spring Back events as signature events in
2022 at $300,000 each (an increase of $400,000 total).
A vacant fleet position for administrative needs in both the Public Works and the
Fleet departments. This would not increase the total headcount but would increase
expenditures by $71,504, allocated between the General Fund ($17,876) and Heavy
Equipment Fund ($53,628).
November 2, 2021 - Page 10 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021 Page 5
$60,000 for the town’s portion of a regional transportation authority study.
$10,000 was requested to contract with Inntopia to perform a transient inventory
study. This study is planned for the Spring of 2022.
Smith listed the significant capital projects that were planned in 2022:
$2.0M: Oversized Vehicle Parking Area to replace previous location now
home to the Children's Garden of Learning temporary facility (possible VRA
reimbursement dependent on final location)
$1.7M: Replacement of 20-year-old fire truck
$2.3M: Gore Valley Trail Realignment in Lionshead (pending Vail Resorts
contribution)
$1.5M: Ford Park Turf Installation (staff to explore partnership opportunities with VRD
and ERWSD)
$1.0M: Athletic Fields Restroom/Storage Facility Reconstruction
Smith stated $9.1M of reserves would be utilized to fund Council Contributions and Events and
large RETT capital projects during 2022.
Bruno confirmed the police vehicle take-home program would be considered an employee
benefit.
Public comment was called.
Chris Chantler, Vail resident, asked council to reconsider artificial turf on the athletic fields. He
stated there were environmental concerns when using artificial turf and natural grass fields need
to stay in Vail.
Joanna Rock, Eagle County resident, would like to see the bike program benefit all county
residents. She urged council to work with other municipalities to achieve that goal.
Public comment was closed.
Council requested staff to provide more information concerning artificial turf during the second
reading of the budget on October 19.
Foley made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2021 with the addition of $250,000
for the construction of Children’s Garden of Learning facility; Stockmar seconded the motion
passed (7-0).
There being no further business to come before the council, Foley moved to adjourn the
meeting; Coggin seconded the motion which passed (7-0) and the meeting adjourned at 7:30
p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Attest: __________________________________
Dave Chapin, Mayor
___________________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
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I T E M /T O P I C: October 19, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
October 19, 2021 Town Council Meeting Minutes
November 2, 2021 - Page 12 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 19, 2021 Page 1
Vail Town Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
6:00 P.M.
Vail Town Council Chambers
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was called to order at approximately 6:00 P.M. by
Mayor Chapin.
Members present: Dave Chapin, Mayor
Kim Langmaid, Mayor Pro Tem
Jenn Bruno
Travis Coggin
Kevin Foley
Jen Mason
Brian Stockmar
Staff members present: Scott Robson, Town Manager
Patty McKenny, Assistant Town Manager
Matt Mire, Town Attorney
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
1. Citizen Participation
Jennifer Berg, representing Spruce Creek Townhomes HOA – asked for a covered bus stop and
lower speed limits in the neighborhood.
Rick Sackbauer, Vail resident, asked council to begin planning for Vail’s 60th birthday and
consider addressing the emerging needs of Vail’s aging population.
2. Any action as a result of executive session
There was none.
3. Special Recognition
3.1. Recognition of John Fielder's Photograph in Council Chambers
Presenter(s): Dave Chapin, Mayor
Sunset, Gore Range Reflection, Eagles Nest Wilderness, July 2021.
"The image was made from 7 vertical photos stitched together into a grand panoramic. It now is
one of my favorite images of the tens of thousands I have made in the past 40 years throughout
Colorado’s 28 mountain ranges and 45 federal wilderness areas." ~John Fielder
Fielder said a few words about the location where the photo was taken. He shared stories with
council of his successful photography career and the journeys he has been on.
Council thanked Fielder for being at the meeting and requested he sign his mural.
November 2, 2021 - Page 13 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 19, 2021 Page 2
4. Proclamations
4.1. Proclamation No. 8, Series of 2021 National Friends of Libraries Week
Presenter(s): Dave Chapin, Mayor
Action Requested of Council: Approve Proclamation No. 8, Series of 2021.
Background: Friends of the Library groups, such as Vail’s, give of their time, talent and treasure.
Our group was formed 10 years ago & we so appreciate all that they do.
Staff Recommendation: Approve Proclamation No. 8, Series of 2021.
Council members took turns reading Proclamation No. 8, Series of 2021 into the record.
Lori Barnes, Director of Library Services, thanked council and spoke to the proclamation stating
libraries across the nation were cornerstones for all communities.
5. Consent Agenda
5.1. Resolution No. 47, Series of 2021, A Resolution Approving an Operating Plan and
Budget of the Vail Local Marketing District for its Fiscal Year January 1, 2022 Through
December 31, 2022.
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 47,
Series of 2021.
Background: See attached memo.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 47, Series
of 2021.
Foley made a motion to approve Resolution No. 47, Series of 2021; Coggin seconded the
motion passed (7-0).
5.2. Resolution No. 48, Series of 2021, a Resolution to Declare the Town of Vail a
"GoEV City" and Pledge to Implement Strategies to Reduce Transportation Related
Emissions.
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny
Resolution 48, Series 2021
Background: The GoEV Coalition invited the Town of Vail to become a member of the “GoEV
City” Campaign and make a pledge to support the transition to electric transportation options in
our community.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny Resolution 48, Series
2021
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 19, 2021 Page 3
Coggin made a motion to approve Resolution No. 48, Series of 2021; Stockmar seconded the
motion passed (7-0).
5.3. Resolution No. 49, Series of 2021, A Resolution Approving the Colorado Opioids
Settlement Memorandum of Understanding and the Associated Colorado Subdivision
Escrow Agreement and Subdivision Participation Forms
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 49,
Series of 2021
Background: The State of Colorado, as well as several Colorado local governments, have
pursued litigation against various pharmaceutical companies for their role in causing the opioid
epidemic in Colorado. Litigation recently resulted in settlements with Purdue Pharma, McKinsey
& Co., Johnson & Johnson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health, and McKesson, resulting in
up to approximately $400 million in settlement funds for both the State and Colorado local
governments to abate the opioid crisis. Local governments and the State prepared the Colorado
MOU, which provides the framework for fairly dividing and sharing settlement proceeds among
the state and local governments in Colorado.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 49, Series
of 2021
Coggin made a motion to approve Resolution No. 49, Series of 2021; Stockmar seconded the
motion passed (7-0).
6. Town Manager Report
Robson shared with council that he had heard from Senator Michael Bennet that the town would
receive a grant of $1.65 million to purchase 2 new all-electric buses. Town of Vail had been
recertified as a Great Place to Work based on results from an all-employee survey. Robson
stated staff was working through the safety regulations concerning the extension of temporary
tents placed outside certain restaurants in the villages. Additionally, Robson shared about his
recent trip to Vail’s sister city, St. Moritz, Switzerland. During the trip he met with the mayor of
St. Moritz and invited him to visit Vail this ski season.
7. Action Items
7.1. Resolution No. 43, Series 2021, a Resolution Approving a Development Agreement
with Triumph Development West LLC for Phase 1 Residences at Main Vail
Presenter(s): Greg Hall, Public Works Director; Kathleen Halloran, Finance Director and George
Ruther, Housing Director
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny Resolution No. 43,
Series 2021.
Background: The purpose of this memorandum is to present Resolution No 43, Series of 2021
regarding a development agreement for Phase 1 of the Residences at Main Vail housing
project. Phase 1 includes excavation, demolition and construction of both permanent and
temporary shoring walls over the winter season.
November 2, 2021 - Page 15 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 19, 2021 Page 4
Staff Recommendation: Approve Resolution 43, Series 2021.
Hall reviewed the development agreement and the construction calendar with council. The
scope of work phase 1 included the demolition, excavating and placement of both temporary
and permanent shoring as well as those utilities which are to progress with the shoring
improvements. Triumph Development would perform the scope of work, adhere to the schedule
and provide construction administration. Hall stated in consideration for Triumph’s availability
to timely complete the project in accordance with the town's proposed schedule, the town had
agreed to pay Developer a fee of $3,500,000.
There was no public comment.
Council had no questions.
Coggin made a motion to approve Resolution No. 43, Series of 2021; Mason seconded the
motion passed (7-0).
8. Public Hearings
8.1. Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021, Second Reading, an Ordinance Amending Title 7
Chapter 8 of the Vail Town Code Regarding Low-Speed Electric Vehicles in Vail Village
Presenter(s): Commander Ryan Kenney, Vail Police Department and Greg Hall, Director of
Public Works
Action Requested of Council: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny Second Reading of
Ordinance 20, Series 2021.
Background: The current LSEV ordinance (7-8-3) has no controls on size, weight, number, or
use of low-speed electric vehicles. The increase of popularity of LSEV’s creates the potential for
multiple businesses utilizing LSEV’s to accomplish any number of tasks. Multiple LSEV’s
navigating the Village and Lionshead could create congestion, safety, and aesthetic issues.
Staff Recommendation: Approve, approve with amendments, or deny Second Reading of
Ordinance 20, Series 2021.
Robson reviewed Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021 with council stating there were no changes
since the first reading.
Coggin made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2021upon second reading;
Stockmar seconded the motion passed (7-0).
8.2. Ordinance No. 21, Series 2021, Second Reading, Ordinance adopting a budget and
financial plan and making appropriations to pay the costs, expenses and liabilities of the
Town of Vail, Colorado for its fiscal year January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022
Presenter(s): Kathleen Halloran, Director of Finance and Carlie Smith, Financial Services
Manager
November 2, 2021 - Page 16 of 229
Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 19, 2021 Page 5
Action Requested of Council: Approve or approve with amendments Second Reading of
Ordinance No. 21, Series 2021.
Background: Please see attached memo.
Staff Recommendation: Approve or approve with amendments Second Reading of Ordinance
No. 21, Series 2021.
Smith reviewed the recent changes made during the first reading of the budget and provided a
high-level overview of Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2021.
General Fund
• $22,000 was added for a special assessment on the two employee units the Town
owns at Vail Heights III. The total cost of the assessment is $44,000 to be paid half in 2022 with
the remainder in 2023. Smith stated the special assessment will be used for new decks and
railings.
• Children’s Garden of Learning facility had been added to the in-kind Council
Contribution list. The final in-kind value of this property or the final number of parking passes
and vouchers that will also be included.
Smith noted a new category of Council Contributions called “In-kind Facilities” would be
presented to council during the 2023 budget process. The category would require a full review
of all leases in which the town provides in-kind use of its facilities and land.
Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund
• $1.5M for the Ford Park fields turf project had been removed from the 2022 budget.
This project would be included in the review of the Ford Park Master Plan.
• $2.3M for the Gore Valley Trail realignment project had been shifted from 2022 to
2023.
There was no public comment.
Council had no questions.
Foley made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2021 upon second reading;
Coggin seconded the motion passed (7-0).
There being no further business to come before the council, Foley moved to adjourn the
meeting; Coggin seconded the motion which passed (7-0) and the meeting adjourned at 7:00
p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Attest: __________________________________
Dave Chapin, Mayor
___________________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
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VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Event F unding A greement with the Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of L ights Vail
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: Review memorandum and award funding to Vail Valley
Foundation of Magic of L ights Vail.
B AC K G RO UND: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding agreement for
Magic of L ights Vail and to request that Council authorize the Town Manager to enter into this
funding agreement.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with the
Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of L ights for $50,000.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
memo
November 2, 2021 - Page 18 of 229
To: Vail Town Council
From: Economic Development Department
Date: 11/02/2021
Subject: Event Funding Agreements: Vail Snow Days, Powabunga, Magic of
Lights
PURPOSE
The purpose of this memo is to summarize event funding agreements for Vail Snow
Days, Powabunga, and Magic of Lights Vail, and to request that Council authorize the
Town Manager to enter into these three funding agreements.
BACKGROUND
Town Council has approved funding for the following events in 2021:
Vail Snow Days, December 2-5, 2021
Vail Snow Days was approved to receive $300,000 for the event taking place December
2-5, 2021. The funding was approved to support the production of A-list, headliner
talent for the two ticketed concerts at Ford Park. The concert lineup includes Nathaniel
Rateliff and the Night Sweats on December 3, and Dierks Bentley on December 4th.
Sponsorship benefits for Vail Snow Days include:
• Title Partner designation and category exclusivity
• Logo feature, placement, and inclusion in marketing materials
• Custom data collection and email acquisition campaign
• Activation space at Ford Park concert venue and Festival Village
• Naming rights to a late-night VIP party
• Inclusion and collaboration on communications of lineup announcements
• Promo videos in Main Stage video board rotation if video board is present
• Video usage rights
• Hospitality package and VIP passes and concert tickets.
o (22) VIP tickets to the Friday 12/3 Nathaniel Rateliff Concert
o (20) VIP tickets to the Saturday 12/5 Dierks Bentley concert.
o 80 General Admission tickets: 40 for Friday, December 3rd and 40 for
Saturday December 4th.
November 2, 2021 - Page 19 of 229
Town of Vail Page 2
Powabunga, December 9-12, 2021
Powabunga initially received a funding allocation of $79,790 from the CSE for the April
2020 event. When that event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town
signed an amendment to the original contract allowing Powabunga to retain the funding
allocation for an April 2021 event. Then the Commission on Special Events (CSE)
allocated an additional $39,870 to Powabunga for a total of $119,660. The April event
was postponed to December due to the pandemic and the funding of $119,660 was
approved for use to for the new December Dates. In July of 2021, Town Council
approved an additional $180,340 to bring the funding for Powabunga to $300,000. The
new funding agreement will supersede Powabunga’s existing agreement and first
amendment.
Sponsorship benefits for Powabunga include:
• Title Sponsorship designation and category exclusivity
• Top tier Logo placement for Discover Vail and inclusion in marketing materials
• Customer data sharing through the event ticketing platform
• Up to a 10x10 activation space at events with vendor presence.
• Logo inclusion on stage signage commensurate with sponsorship level.
• A minimum of 4 public announcement mentions per event
• 36 VIP full weekend passes
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Friday, December 11th
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Saturday, December 12th GA tickets
Magic of Lights Vail
Magic of Lights Vail, a winter walk-through light experience featuring more than 500,000
lights over a 3/4-mile walkway, returns to Ford Park in November. Featuring an
interactive kids area, public concessions, purposeful activations including live music, ice
sculpting demonstrations, partner expos, entertainers and more, the family friendly
event is open for 45 nights from mid November though the new year. In 2020, Town
Council approved $250,000 for year one of the event and $50,000 for each of the
following two years. The sponsorship funding agreement template will be used for the
year two funding amount of $50,000.
Sponsorship benefits for Magic of Lights Vail include:
• Town of Vail title level sponsorship with “Vail” included in the overall Primary
Event Logo/Mark for the first three years of the Event.
• Both the Town of Vail logo & the Discover Vail logo shall be included in the
official “Logo Lockup” and marketing materials with top line positioning.
• Discover Vail acknowledgement in ticketing confirmation email for data collection.
• A custom Magic of Lights Vail lighted sign placed near the main venue entry for
guests to take photos and selfies. Town of Vail logo will be included on select
wind fencing near the venue.
• Complimentary tickets as mutually agreed upon for staff and Town Council.
• Town of Vail audio recognition multiple times daily public address system.
November 2, 2021 - Page 20 of 229
Town of Vail Page 3
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with the following organizations
for the following amounts: Imprint Events Colorado Resorts LLC for Vail Snow Days in
the amount of $300,000, Full Send Productions for Powabunga Vail in the amount of
$300,000, Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of Lights for $50,000.
November 2, 2021 - Page 21 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Event F unding A greement with I mprint E vents Colorado Resorts L L C for Vail
S now Days
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: Review memo and award funding to I mprint Events
Colorado Resorts L L C for Vail S now Days
B AC K G RO UND: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding agreement for Vail
S now Days, and to request that Council authorize the Town Manager to enter into this funding
agreement.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with I mprint Events Colorado Resorts L L C for Vail Snow Days in the amount of
$300,000.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Memo
November 2, 2021 - Page 22 of 229
To: Vail Town Council
From: Economic Development Department
Date: 11/02/2021
Subject: Event Funding Agreements: Vail Snow Days, Powabunga, Magic of
Lights
PURPOSE
The purpose of this memo is to summarize event funding agreements for Vail Snow
Days, Powabunga, and Magic of Lights Vail, and to request that Council authorize the
Town Manager to enter into these three funding agreements.
BACKGROUND
Town Council has approved funding for the following events in 2021:
Vail Snow Days, December 2-5, 2021
Vail Snow Days was approved to receive $300,000 for the event taking place December
2-5, 2021. The funding was approved to support the production of A-list, headliner
talent for the two ticketed concerts at Ford Park. The concert lineup includes Nathaniel
Rateliff and the Night Sweats on December 3, and Dierks Bentley on December 4th.
Sponsorship benefits for Vail Snow Days include:
• Title Partner designation and category exclusivity
• Logo feature, placement, and inclusion in marketing materials
• Custom data collection and email acquisition campaign
• Activation space at Ford Park concert venue and Festival Village
• Naming rights to a late-night VIP party
• Inclusion and collaboration on communications of lineup announcements
• Promo videos in Main Stage video board rotation if video board is present
• Video usage rights
• Hospitality package and VIP passes and concert tickets.
o (22) VIP tickets to the Friday 12/3 Nathaniel Rateliff Concert
o (20) VIP tickets to the Saturday 12/5 Dierks Bentley concert.
o 80 General Admission tickets: 40 for Friday, December 3rd and 40 for
Saturday December 4th.
November 2, 2021 - Page 23 of 229
Town of Vail Page 2
Powabunga, December 9-12, 2021
Powabunga initially received a funding allocation of $79,790 from the CSE for the April
2020 event. When that event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town
signed an amendment to the original contract allowing Powabunga to retain the funding
allocation for an April 2021 event. Then the Commission on Special Events (CSE)
allocated an additional $39,870 to Powabunga for a total of $119,660. The April event
was postponed to December due to the pandemic and the funding of $119,660 was
approved for use to for the new December Dates. In July of 2021, Town Council
approved an additional $180,340 to bring the funding for Powabunga to $300,000. The
new funding agreement will supersede Powabunga’s existing agreement and first
amendment.
Sponsorship benefits for Powabunga include:
• Title Sponsorship designation and category exclusivity
• Top tier Logo placement for Discover Vail and inclusion in marketing materials
• Customer data sharing through the event ticketing platform
• Up to a 10x10 activation space at events with vendor presence.
• Logo inclusion on stage signage commensurate with sponsorship level.
• A minimum of 4 public announcement mentions per event
• 36 VIP full weekend passes
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Friday, December 11th
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Saturday, December 12th GA tickets
Magic of Lights Vail
Magic of Lights Vail, a winter walk-through light experience featuring more than 500,000
lights over a 3/4-mile walkway, returns to Ford Park in November. Featuring an
interactive kids area, public concessions, purposeful activations including live music, ice
sculpting demonstrations, partner expos, entertainers and more, the family friendly
event is open for 45 nights from mid November though the new year. In 2020, Town
Council approved $250,000 for year one of the event and $50,000 for each of the
following two years. The sponsorship funding agreement template will be used for the
year two funding amount of $50,000.
Sponsorship benefits for Magic of Lights Vail include:
• Town of Vail title level sponsorship with “Vail” included in the overall Primary
Event Logo/Mark for the first three years of the Event.
• Both the Town of Vail logo & the Discover Vail logo shall be included in the
official “Logo Lockup” and marketing materials with top line positioning.
• Discover Vail acknowledgement in ticketing confirmation email for data collection.
• A custom Magic of Lights Vail lighted sign placed near the main venue entry for
guests to take photos and selfies. Town of Vail logo will be included on select
wind fencing near the venue.
• Complimentary tickets as mutually agreed upon for staff and Town Council.
• Town of Vail audio recognition multiple times daily public address system.
November 2, 2021 - Page 24 of 229
Town of Vail Page 3
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with the following organizations
for the following amounts: Imprint Events Colorado Resorts LLC for Vail Snow Days in
the amount of $300,000, Full Send Productions for Powabunga Vail in the amount of
$300,000, Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of Lights for $50,000.
November 2, 2021 - Page 25 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Event F unding A greement with F ull Send P roductions for Powabunga
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: Review memorandum and award funding to Full S end
P roductions for Powabunga
B AC K G RO UND: The attached memorandum summarizes the event funding agreement for
P owabunga, and to request that Council authorize the Town Manager to enter into this funding
agreement.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with
Full S end Productions P owabunga in the amount of $300,000.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Memo
November 2, 2021 - Page 26 of 229
To: Vail Town Council
From: Economic Development Department
Date: 11/02/2021
Subject: Event Funding Agreements: Vail Snow Days, Powabunga, Magic of
Lights
PURPOSE
The purpose of this memo is to summarize event funding agreements for Vail Snow
Days, Powabunga, and Magic of Lights Vail, and to request that Council authorize the
Town Manager to enter into these three funding agreements.
BACKGROUND
Town Council has approved funding for the following events in 2021:
Vail Snow Days, December 2-5, 2021
Vail Snow Days was approved to receive $300,000 for the event taking place December
2-5, 2021. The funding was approved to support the production of A-list, headliner
talent for the two ticketed concerts at Ford Park. The concert lineup includes Nathaniel
Rateliff and the Night Sweats on December 3, and Dierks Bentley on December 4th.
Sponsorship benefits for Vail Snow Days include:
• Title Partner designation and category exclusivity
• Logo feature, placement, and inclusion in marketing materials
• Custom data collection and email acquisition campaign
• Activation space at Ford Park concert venue and Festival Village
• Naming rights to a late-night VIP party
• Inclusion and collaboration on communications of lineup announcements
• Promo videos in Main Stage video board rotation if video board is present
• Video usage rights
• Hospitality package and VIP passes and concert tickets.
o (22) VIP tickets to the Friday 12/3 Nathaniel Rateliff Concert
o (20) VIP tickets to the Saturday 12/5 Dierks Bentley concert.
o 80 General Admission tickets: 40 for Friday, December 3rd and 40 for
Saturday December 4th.
November 2, 2021 - Page 27 of 229
Town of Vail Page 2
Powabunga, December 9-12, 2021
Powabunga initially received a funding allocation of $79,790 from the CSE for the April
2020 event. When that event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town
signed an amendment to the original contract allowing Powabunga to retain the funding
allocation for an April 2021 event. Then the Commission on Special Events (CSE)
allocated an additional $39,870 to Powabunga for a total of $119,660. The April event
was postponed to December due to the pandemic and the funding of $119,660 was
approved for use to for the new December Dates. In July of 2021, Town Council
approved an additional $180,340 to bring the funding for Powabunga to $300,000. The
new funding agreement will supersede Powabunga’s existing agreement and first
amendment.
Sponsorship benefits for Powabunga include:
• Title Sponsorship designation and category exclusivity
• Top tier Logo placement for Discover Vail and inclusion in marketing materials
• Customer data sharing through the event ticketing platform
• Up to a 10x10 activation space at events with vendor presence.
• Logo inclusion on stage signage commensurate with sponsorship level.
• A minimum of 4 public announcement mentions per event
• 36 VIP full weekend passes
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Friday, December 11th
• 20 General Admission Tickets for Saturday, December 12th GA tickets
Magic of Lights Vail
Magic of Lights Vail, a winter walk-through light experience featuring more than 500,000
lights over a 3/4-mile walkway, returns to Ford Park in November. Featuring an
interactive kids area, public concessions, purposeful activations including live music, ice
sculpting demonstrations, partner expos, entertainers and more, the family friendly
event is open for 45 nights from mid November though the new year. In 2020, Town
Council approved $250,000 for year one of the event and $50,000 for each of the
following two years. The sponsorship funding agreement template will be used for the
year two funding amount of $50,000.
Sponsorship benefits for Magic of Lights Vail include:
• Town of Vail title level sponsorship with “Vail” included in the overall Primary
Event Logo/Mark for the first three years of the Event.
• Both the Town of Vail logo & the Discover Vail logo shall be included in the
official “Logo Lockup” and marketing materials with top line positioning.
• Discover Vail acknowledgement in ticketing confirmation email for data collection.
• A custom Magic of Lights Vail lighted sign placed near the main venue entry for
guests to take photos and selfies. Town of Vail logo will be included on select
wind fencing near the venue.
• Complimentary tickets as mutually agreed upon for staff and Town Council.
• Town of Vail audio recognition multiple times daily public address system.
November 2, 2021 - Page 28 of 229
Town of Vail Page 3
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with the following organizations
for the following amounts: Imprint Events Colorado Resorts LLC for Vail Snow Days in
the amount of $300,000, Full Send Productions for Powabunga Vail in the amount of
$300,000, Vail Valley Foundation for Magic of Lights for $50,000.
November 2, 2021 - Page 29 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Resolution No. 51, S eries 2021, a Resolution Approving the S econd Amendment
to Development Agreement Between the Town of Vail and Crossroads E ast One L L C
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: A pprove, approve with amendments, or deny
Resolution No. 51, Series 2021.
B AC K G RO UND: The Town and Crossroads E ast One, L L C entered into a Development
A greement dated J uly 25, 2006, as amended by that certain F irst Amendment to Development
A greement dated September 1, 2020. Pursuant to S ection 7 of the F irst Amendment, Crossroads
is required to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the E ntertainment Venue to be
operational on or before the E ntertainment Venue Deadline of November 30, 2021. Both parties
wish to enter into a Second A mendment extending the Entertainment Venue Deadline by a period
of one year.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A pprove, approve with amendments, or deny Resolution No.
51, S eries 2021.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Resolution No. 51, Series 2021
Agreement
November 2, 2021 - Page 30 of 229
RESOLUTION NO. 51
Series of 2021
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF VAIL AND
CROSSROADS EAST ONE LLC
WHEREAS, the Town and Crossroads East One, LLC entered into a Development
Agreement dated July 25, 2006, as amended by that certain First Amendment to
Development Agreement dated September 1, 2020;
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 7 of the First Amendment, Crossroads is required
to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Entertainment Venue to be
operational on or before the Entertainment Venue Deadline of November 30, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Parties wish to amend the Development Agreement and the First
Amendment as set for in Exhibit A, attached hereto and made a part hereof by this
reference (the “Second Amendment”), to (i) extend the Entertainment Venue Deadline by
a period of one (1) year, (ii) require Crossroads to deliver quarterly progress reports, and
(iii) limit Crossroad’s ability to claim force majeure, each as more particularly set forth in
this Amendment.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO THAT: Section 1. The Council hereby approves the Second Amendment in
substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, and in a form approved by the Town
Attorney, and authorizes the Town Manager to execute the Second Amendment on behalf
of the Town.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
INTRODUCED, PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town
Council of the Town of Vail held this 2nd day of November 2021.
_________________________
Dave Chapin, Town Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
November 2, 2021 - Page 31 of 229
SECOND AMENDMENT TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
THIS SECOND AMENDMENT TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (this
“Amendment”) is made this ______ day of _______________, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), by
and between the Town of Vail, Colorado, a Colorado home rule municipality with an address of
75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado 81657 (the “Town”), and CROSSROADS EAST ONE,
LLC, a Colorado limited liability company with an address of 141 East Meadow Drive, Suite 211,
Vail, CO 81657 (“Crossroads”) (each individually a “Party” and collectively the “Parties”).
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Development Agreement dated July 25, 2006, as
amended by that certain First Amendment to Development Agreement dated September 1, 2020
(the “First Amendment”) (collectively, the “Agreement”);
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 7 of the First Amendment, Crossroads is required to use
commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Entertainment Venue to be operational on or before
the Entertainment Venue Deadline of November 30, 2021;
WHEREAS, Crossroads has exercised commercially reasonable efforts to complete
renovations and cause the Entertainment Venue to be operational on or before the Entertainment
Venue Deadline, however, for reasons beyond its control, Crossroads is unable to meet such
deadline; and
WHEREAS, the Parties wish to amend the Agreement to (i) extend the Entertainment
Venue Deadline by a period of one (1) year, (ii) require Crossroads to deliver quarterly progress
reports, and (iii) limit Crossroad’s ability to claim force majeure, each as more particularly set
forth in this Amendment.
NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
contained herein, the sufficiency of which is mutually acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
1. Entertainment Venue Deadline. The “Entertainment Venue Deadline” (as defined in
Section 7 of the First Amendment) shall be November 30, 2022.
2. Quarterly Reporting. Commencing with the calendar quarter beginning January 1, 2022
and continuing each subsequent calendar quarter until the Entertainment Venue
reopens to the public, Crossroads shall provide the Town with a quarterly update
regarding Crossroad’s progress in renovating and reopening the Entertainment Venue.
3. Signage. As soon as reasonably practicable following the Effective Date, subject to the
Town providing any necessary approvals, Crossroads shall, at its sole cost and expense,
install and maintain, or cause to be installed and maintained, on or about the exterior
of the Entertainment Venue a sign containing words to the effect of “Reopening Fall
2022” until such time as the Entertainment Venue resumes operations.
4. Limitations on Force Majeure. If Crossroads is unable to perform its obligation to
commence operations of the Entertainment Venue on or before the Entertainment
November 2, 2021 - Page 32 of 229
2
Venue Deadline, because of an event of Force Majeure, Crossroads shall, give the
Town written notice thereof stating the nature, extent and expected duration of the
Force Majeure event, and the estimated duration of any delay. Crossroads shall keep
the Town advised of the effect and remedial measures being undertaken to overcome
the Force Majeure. Crossroads shall use commercially reasonable due diligence to
correct the Force Majeure event as quickly as possible.
5. As of the Effective Date, to the best knowledge of the Parties, there are no defaults
under the Agreement which remain uncured.
6. The remainder of the Agreement, including all Exhibits, shall remain unchanged and
in full force and effect.
7. Within 30 days of receipt of an invoice from the Town, Crossroads shall reimburse the
Town for all actual, reasonable legal fees incurred by the Town for the preparation of
this Amendment.
WHEREFORE, the Parties have executed this Amendment as of the Effective Date.
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO
________________________________
Scott Robson, Town Manager
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
November 2, 2021 - Page 33 of 229
3
CROSSROADS EAST ONE, LLC,
a Colorado limited liability company
By: _________________________________
Name: ______________________________
Its: _________________________________
STATE OF COLORADO )
) ss.
COUNTY OF EAGLE )
The foregoing instrument was subscribed, sworn to, and acknowledged before me
this ______ day of ___________, 2021, by ____________________ as
________________________ of Crossroads East One, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company.
My commission expires:
(S E A L) ______________________________
Notary Public
November 2, 2021 - Page 34 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Contract with Encompass S ervices, L L C for Professional L and Surveying
S ervices for Ford P ark Masterplan and a Bus S top/Turnaround on Bighorn Road at Main Gore
Drive.
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into a P S A with
E ncompass Services, L L C in the amount of $56,989 for the P rofessional L and S urveying at 2
locations.
B AC K G RO UND: A Request for proposals for professional land surveying services was issued
on October 4, 2021 with 2 firms responding with proposals. E ncompass Services, L L C
B roomfield, C O, submitted the lowest price proposal in the amount of $56,989. 2 local
professional land surveying firms declined to submit proposals due to staffing challenges.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into a P S A with
E ncompass Services, L L C in the amount of $56,989 for the P rofessional L and S urveying at 2
locations.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Memorandum
November 2, 2021 - Page 35 of 229
To: Town Council
From: Public Works
Date: November 2, 2021
Subject: Professional Land Surveying Contract Award
I. ITEM/TOPIC
Award of a Professional Services Agreement, PSA, to provide professional land
surveying services at Ford Park and Bighorn Road/Main Gore Drive.
II. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Staff requests the Council authorize the Town Manager to enter into a PSA with
Encompass Services, LLC in the amount of $56,989 for the Professional Land Surveying
at 2 locations.
III. BACKGROUND
The professional land surveying services are in preparation of 2 capital projects for
2022. These projects include the Ford Park Masterplan Update and a Bus
Stop/Turnaround on Bighorn Road at Main Gore Drive.
A Request for proposals for professional land surveying services was issued on October
4, 2021 with 2 firms responding with proposals. Encompass Services, LLC Broomfield,
CO, submitted the lowest price proposal in the amount of $56,989. 2 local professional
land surveying firms declined to submit proposals due to staffing challenges.
The contractor is tentatively scheduled to perform the work beginning immediately in
November 2021 and completing work in late December 2021.
IV. PROJECT FUNDING
The cost of the surveying will be funded from 3 project accounts. These accounts are
as follows:
Ford Park Master Plan 2022 Included in current supplemental budget
Bus stop Improvements 2021 Account balance CMT-003
November 2, 2021 - Page 36 of 229
Town of Vail Page 2
V. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement, in a form approved by the Town
Attorney, with Encompass Services, LLC to provide professional land surveying services
in the amount not to exceed $56,989.
November 2, 2021 - Page 37 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: L ionshead Boiler E lectric Service and I nstallation Contract Award
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with A MS for L ionshead Boiler E lectric Service and I nstallation.
B AC K G RO UND:
The P ublic Works Department has identif ied the L ionshead boiler as the f irst boiler to convert to
100% electric usage as the Town begins to transition its snowmelt system from a natural gas fired
system to a system running on renewable energy.
T his boiler is approximately 12 years old and even though it has not reached its useful life its size is an
ideal candidate for conversion to gather critical data needed regarding operation characteristics and
energy usage as the town continues to work with Holy Cross Energy in discussions regarding the much
larger snowmelt systems the town operates.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A uthorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a
form approved by the Town A ttorney with A MS for L ionshead Boiler E lectric Service and
I nstallation in the amount not to exceed $297,696.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Staff Memo
November 2, 2021 - Page 38 of 229
To: Town Council
From: Public Works Department
Date: 11/2/2021
Subject: Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and Installation Contract Award
I. ITEM/TOPIC
Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and Installation Contract Award American
Mechanical Services (AMS).
II. BACKGROUND
The Public Works Department has identified the Lionshead boiler as the first boiler to
convert to 100% electric usage as the Town begins to transition its snowmelt system
from a natural gas fired system to a system running on renewable energy. The
Lionshaed boiler plant was chosen due to its smaller size, and it is a boiler system
which is only used for a snowmelt system. This boiler is approximately 12 years old
and even though it has not reached its useful life its size is an ideal candidate for
conversion to gather critical data needed regarding operation characteristics and
energy usage as the town continues to work with Holy Cross Energy in discussions
regarding the much larger snowmelt systems the town operates. The boiler has been
ordered and this contract is for the electric service upgrade to both the Holy Cross
transformer, as well as the upgraded service connection and service panel for the
boiler room itself and the actual boiler installation. This work will be scheduled this
year with the installation of the boiler taking place early next year when the boiler
arrives and the weather window will allow the switch over of the heating plant. The
cost of the work is $ 297,696.
III. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with AMS for Lionshead
Boiler Electric Service and Installation.
IV. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form approved by the
Town Attorney with AMS for Lionshead Boiler Electric Service and Installation in the
amount not to exceed $297,696.
November 2, 2021 - Page 39 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C:
Update about invitation for community open house Wednesday, Nov. 3 to discuss restrooms
at Booth Lake trailhead in East Vail
November 2, 2021 - Page 40 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Update on E lection Results Certification P rocess
November 2, 2021 - Page 41 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Resolution No. 50, S eries of 2021 - A Resolution of the Vail Town Council
A dopting the West Vail Master Plan.
P RE S E NT E R(S ): Matt Gennett, Community Development Director
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: A pprove Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021.
B AC K G RO UND: After four presentations with discussion and deliberations, on October 11,
2021, the Planning and Environmental Commission (P E C) voted 6-0 (Pratt absent) to forward a
recommendation of approval of the West Vail Master Plan to Council with one condition of
approval. The condition of approval was “that the proposed modifications agreed to by the PEC
be incorporated into the final draft of the plan upon adoption”. The consultant team and staff has
incorporated the P E C’s proposed modifications, and those suggested by the Town’s
E nvironmental Sustainability Department, into the final draft for Council’s consideration on
November 2, 2021.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A pprove Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
Staff Memorandum
Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021
Master Plan
Vail Local Housing Authority Comment Letter
Vail Fire and Emergency Services Comment Letter
public input
November 2, 2021 - Page 42 of 229
To: Vail Town Council
From: Matt Gennett, Community Development Director
Date: November 2, 2021
Subject: Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021, A Resolution of the Vail Town Council Adopting
the West Vail Master Plan
I. INTRODUCTION
The West Vail Master Plan describes how the neighborhood may best transform over the
coming years. Conversations with the community and analysis of on the ground conditions
turned into a vision for what West Vail could and should be. The plan tells the story of that
vision, breaks it down into discrete goals, and offers a set of recommendations and
strategies on how to get there. As a practical planning tool, the plan will serve as a guide
for the Town of Vail as it considers housing policy, zoning, and future land use changes
along with upgrades to the transportation infrastructure.
The plan’s strategies and recommendations are informed by a robust public engagement
process conducted over the course of fifteen months (Spring 2020 – Summer 2021). An
Advisory Committee comprised of a cross-section of West Vail residents and business
owners was formed early in the process and met eight times to help steer the direction of
the plan. The project team also held public workshops on each of the major topic areas to
gather additional public comments. To complement insights gained from this process, this
plan draws on economic and demographic data, an analysis of current transportation and
traffic data, and a review of the existing land use plan and zoning regulations with
consideration of their implications.
To support desired changes in West Vail, the recommendations in this plan are intended
to be both inspiring and attainable. For example, the plan’s recommendations for
redeveloping the commercial area consider the financial incentives for property owners to
update or redevelop their properties. Some of the recommendations in the plan can be
achieved in the short-term, while others will require sustained collaboration and effort over
time. Importantly, this plan seeks to build upon West Vail’s past successes, retaining
policies and infrastructure that serve the community.
The West Vail Master Plan builds on the work of other plans adopted in Vail, including the
Vail 2020 Strategic Action Plan (2006), the Vail Town Council Action Plan 2018-20, the
Vail Land Use Plan (2009), Vail Housing 2027, the Vail Economic Development Strategic
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Town of Vail Page 2
Plan, the Chamonix Master Plan, the Vail Transportation Master Plan, the Vail Civic Area
Plan (2019), the Vail Open Lands Plan (2018), and the Environmental Sustainability
Strategic Plan. These plans reflect the Town’s goals to foster a year-round community
and economy that prioritizes environmental sustainability and contains housing
opportunities for residents of varying income levels. The recommendations of the West
Vail Master Plan reflect and complement these Town-wide goals.
II. BACKGROUND
The creation and adoption of a master plan for West Vail was a Town Council 2018-2020
Action Plan goal. This master plan is in keeping with the council’s intentions around
thorough community engagement, sustainable best practices for future development,
identification of housing opportunities, and fostering economic development to create
vibrancy. The plan also addresses the many nonconforming uses and structures in West
Vail and provides policy options to guide future development decisions in West Vail.
The project team presented the draft plan to Council during their May 4 meeting and to the
Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) on May 10. On June 22, the project team
presented the draft plan to the Advisory Committee during their last meeting and received
support for the recommendations detailed in the plan. The cumulative feedback was
incorporated into the draft and presented to the public during an interactive Zoom webinar
on July 13 with participation from 35-40 members of the public.
On August 9, 2021, the PEC was presented with the first two major topic areas, the West
Vail Center (commercial area) and Housing. The item was tabled to August 23 to continue
the presentation.
On August 23, 2021, the PEC tabled this item to September 13 without presentation or
discussion.
On September 13, 2021, staff and the consultant team provided the PEC with a
presentation that responded to the PEC’s comments and questions from August 9, and
included the third major topic area, Transportation. The item was tabled to September 27
after discussion and direction provided.
On September 27, 2021, staff and consultant team provided a detailed description of a
recommendation of approval with seven conditions addressing PEC’s suggested
modifications to the plan for their consideration. PEC directed staff to account for all
suggested modifications to the plan in a redlined/tracked changes version of the draft and
tabled the item to October 11.
On October 11, 2021, the PEC voted 6-0 (Pratt absent) to forward a recommendation of
approval of the West Vail Master Plan with one condition of approval. The condition of
approval is “that the proposed modifications agreed to by the PEC be incorporated into the
final draft of the plan upon adoption”. The consultant team and staff have incorporated the
PEC’s proposed modifications into the final draft for Council’s consideration on November
2, 2021, thereby fulfilling the one condition of approval.
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Town of Vail Page 3
III. STUDY AREA
The study area is approximately 262 acres and bordered by West Gore Creek Drive to the
south, Cortina Lane, and Garmisch Drive to the north, Buffehr Creek Road to the east and
Arosa Drive to the west. The project area was determined by Town staff, the consultant
team, and Council. The plan also takes into consideration the connections from West Vail
to local destinations outside of the project area and West Vail’s role within the Town.
Study Area
IV. CONSIDERATIONS FOR REVIEW
The West Vail Master Plan is intended to define a vision for what this neighborhood can be
and to provide a framework or a path forward for how Vail can optimize West Vail for
residents and visitors. The opportunity for a master plan that focuses on the West Vail
commercial and residential neighborhoods has been an identified need for many years.
Adoption of a Master Plan
The adoption of an amendment or update to a master plan needs to be in concert with the
Town of Vail’s Comprehensive Master Plan. The adopted master plan shall support,
strengthen, and further the development objectives of the town. To ensure consistency with
these objectives, the following factors for consideration are applied:
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Town of Vail Page 4
1) How conditions have changed since the original plan was adopted.
Staff finds that conditions have changed in the following manner since the adoption of the
Vail Land Use Plan on November 18, 1986 and last amended on November 5, 2019 with
the adoption of the Civic Area Plan:
o Significant population growth in Vail and in Eagle County
o A shortage of available residential housing
o Large increases in year-round visitation
o On-going redevelopment in Vail
2) How is the original plan in error?
Staff does not find that the Vail Land Use Plan is in error. To remain relevant and consistent
with the changing conditions and goals of the community, the plan needs to be updated on
a consistent basis, including this type of subarea master plan adoption.
The existing Future Land Use Map has the residential neighborhoods of West Vail
designated as Low and Medium Density Residential. The recommendations for rezoning
these areas in the West Vail Master Plan conform with what has been contemplated in the
existing Vail Land Use Plan.
The commercial area known as West Vail Center in the proposed master plan is designated
as Community Commercial in the existing Future Land Use Map of the Vail Land Use Plan.
The Community Commercial designation envisions the addition of residential density and
a mixed-use environment much like the scenarios included in the West Vail Center chapter
of the proposed master plan.
3) How the addition, deletion, or change to the Vail Land Use Plan is in concert with
the plan in general.
As stated above, Staff finds that the identified purpose and goals of the Civic Area Plan are
consistent with the stated goal and objectives of the Vail Land Use Plan.
V. PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
On October 11, 2021, the Planning and Environmental Commission, by a unanimous vote
of 6-0 (Pratt absent), moved to recommend approval of the West Vail Master Plan to the
Vail Town Council, with the following condition and findings:
Condition: That the proposed modifications agreed to by the PEC be incorporated into the
final draft of the plan upon adoption.
Findings:
“Based on the evidence and testimony presented, the Planning and Environmental
Commission finds:
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Town of Vail Page 5
1. The West Vail Master Plan was developed with extensive community input
and participation by the Planning and Environmental Commission; and,
2. The West Vail Master Plan is consistent with the applicable elements of
the Vail Comprehensive Plan and furthers the goals and development
objectives of the community.”
VI. RECOMMENDED MOTION
“I move to approve Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021, A Resolution of the Vail Town
Council Adopting the West Vail Master Plan, with the following findings:
1. The West Vail Master Plan was developed with extensive community input
and participation by the Planning and Environmental Commission; and,
2. The West Vail Master Plan is consistent with the applicable elements of
the Vail Comprehensive Plan and furthers the goals and development
objectives of the community.”
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Resolution No. 50, Series of 2021
B. The West Vail Master Plan
C. Comment letter from Vail Local Housing Authority (VLHA) dated August 17, 2021
D. Comment memo from Vail Fire and Emergency Services dated July 19, 2021
November 2, 2021 - Page 47 of 229
1
RESOLUTION NO. 50
SERIES 2021
A RESOLUTION OF THE VAIL TOWN COUNCIL ADOPTING THE WEST
VAIL MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, on November 18, 1986, the Vail Town Council adopted the Vail Land
Use Plan, via Resolution 27, Series of 1986;
WHEREAS, the West Vail Master Plan (the "Plan") addresses and responds to the
goal statements regarding general growth and development contained in the Vail Land
Use Plan;
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council identified the creation of the West Vail Master
Plan as a priority in its 2018-2020 Vail Town Council Action Plan and directed staff,
through the Town Manager, to initiate a community engagement process as part of the
establishment of the West Vail Master Plan;
WHEREAS, to foster thorough public input during the pandemic, the
EngageVail.com platform was used to host Advisory Committee meetings, open house
events, and stakeholder meetings starting in the Spring of 2020 through the Summer of
2021;
WHEREAS, the West Vail Master Plan, includes goal statements that the Plan
achieves through the incorporation of key themes established via the community
engagement process and recommendation for attainment of the vision for West Vail;
WHEREAS, the Plan includes recommendations for implementation intended to
foster a revitalized, vibrant, and environmentally sustainable community neighborhood in
West Vail; and
WHEREAS, on October 11, 2021, the Planning and Environmental Commission
unanimously moved to forward a recommendation of approval of the West Vail Master
Plan to the Vail Town Council.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO:
Section 1. Having reviewed the Plan and considered the recommendation of
the Planning and Environmental Commission and Town staff, the Town Council finds as
follows:
a. The Plan meets the above-referenced goals and objectives.
b. The Plan is consistent with the Vail Comprehensive Plan and the
priorities of the Vail Town Council Action Plan.
November 2, 2021 - Page 48 of 229
2
Section 2. Based on the foregoing findings, the Vail Town Council hereby
adopts the West Vail Master Plan.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 2nd DAY OF NOVEMBER,
2021.
______________________________
Dave Chapin, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
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NOVEMBER2021
November 2, 2021 - Page 50 of 229
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL
Dave Chapin, Mayor
Kim Langmaid, Mayor Pro-Tem
Jenn Bruno
Travis Coggin
Kevin Foley
Jen Mason
Brian Stockmar
VAIL PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Ludwig Kurz, Chair
Henry Pratt
Rollie Kjesbo
Pete Seibert, Jr.
Brian GIlette
Rollie Kjesbo
Karen Marie Perez
Reid Phillips
TOWN OF VAIL STAFF
Matt Gennett
Shelley Belm
PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Neil Almy
Christopher Ball
Margaret Bathgate
Jack Bergey
Dick Cleveland
Sherry Dorward
Elyse Howard
Greg Kissler
Steve Lindstrom
Jen Mason
Laurie Mullen
Jay Pearson
John Rediker
Pete Seibert, Jr.
Jennifer Shay
PLANNING TEAM
SE Group
Gabby Voeller
Mark Kane
Ellie Wachtel
Julia Randall
Fehr and Peers
Carly Sieff
Krystian Boreyko
Studio Seed
Cheney Bostic
Economic and Planning Systems
Andrew Knudtsen
Brian Duffany
Rachel Shindman
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CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION
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CHAPTER 1:INTRODUCTION
“The future West Vail is a complete neighborhood with increased housing
options for year-round residents, streets that support multiple modes
of transportation, and a vibrant, walkable destination where residents
and visitors can shop at local businesses and gather as a community.
Though just minutes from a world-class resort, West Vail retains a familiar,
neighborly feel.”
Vision Statement
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2 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF THE PLAN
This plan presents the Town of Vail with a cohesive vision for the
West Vail neighborhood. It includes a suite of recommendations and
strategies to assist with implementing the stated overarching vision
(on the previous page) and the three visions created for each topic
area (commercial area, housing, and transportation and stated in
Chapters 2,3 and 4 respectively). The plan was developed to address
key community priorities that include promoting a stronger sense of
place, enhancing local economic vitality, growing the neighborhood’s
opportunities for resident housing, and enhancing the multimodal
transportation network. This plan is also meant to be a model for
sustainable development within the Town of Vail. In particular, this plan
is intended to serve as a guide for the redevelopment of the commercial
area (dubbed “West Vail Center” in this plan) as a walkable and
prosperous place with new opportunities for businesses and housing,
creating a new heart for the West Vail neighborhood.
PLAN PROCESSES
This plan’s strategies and recommendations were informed by a robust
public engagement process conducted over the course of fifteen months
(Spring 2020 – Summer 2021). To complement insights gained from
this process, this plan drew on economic and demographic data, an
analysis of current transportation and traffic data, and a review of the
existing land use conditions, Town plans, zoning regulations and their
implications.
Vision 1: Commercial Area: West Vail Center
Vision 2: Housing
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3WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
To support desired changes in West Vail, the recommendations in this
plan are intended to be both inspiring and attainable. At the same time,
the plan aspires to preserve multi-family housing and build more units
where it is desired and appropriate. Some of the recommendations in
the plan can be achieved in the short-term, while others will require
sustained collaboration and effort over time. Importantly, this plan
seeks to build upon West Vail’s past successes, retaining policies and
infrastructure that serve the community.
PLAN OUTCOMES
When the recommendations, strategies, policies, and programs within
this plan are acted upon, the outcomes for West Vail will be profound.
There will be new and preserved resident-housing units. This will mean
that more people can afford to stay in Vail and new residents can
move in, bringing life and energy to the neighborhood. There will be a
revitalized commercial center where residents and visitors can conduct
essential shopping trips, take advantage of dining options, and where
multimodal accessibility is enhanced. The West Vail neighborhood will
be more connected to other parts of Vail and the greater Eagle County
region. It will also become more comfortable to walk and bike around
for local neighborhood trips.
A primary outcome of this plan is to preserve the things that residents
love about West Vail – its mix of housing types, its easy access to
essential businesses, and its community spirit – and to enhance it for
future generations of West Vail residents. Market forces have changes
dramatically in recent years, and zoning changes, financial incentives
to property owners, and new policies are needed to strike this balance
between the preservation of character while also providing new
housing, businesses, and services.
Vision 3: Trasportation and Mobility
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4 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
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5WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
ABOUT THE PLAN
The West Vail Master Plan describes how the neighborhood may
transform over the coming years. Conversations with community
members and an analysis of on-the-ground conditions turned into a
vision for what West Vail could and should be. This plan tells the story
of that vision, breaks it down into discrete goals, and offers a set of
recommendations and strategies on how to get there. As a practical
planning tool, the plan will serve as a guide for the Town of Vail as
it considers housing policy and future land use changes as well as
upgrades to transportation infrastructure.
This plan builds on the work of other plans adopted in Vail, including
the Vail 2020 Strategic Action Plan (2006), the Vail Town Council Action
Plan 2018-20, the Vail Land Use Plan (2009), Vail Housing 2027, the
Vail Economic Development Strategic Plan, the Chamonix Master Plan,
the Vail Transportation Master Plan, the Vail Civic Area Plan, the Vail
Open Lands Plan, and the Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan.
These plans reflect the Town’s goals to foster a year-round community
and economy that prioritizes environmental sustainability and contains
housing opportunities for residents of varying income levels. The
recommendations of the West Vail Master Plan reflect and complement
these Town-wide goals.
ABOUT THE PROJECT AREA
The project area for this plan is the Town land west of Donovan Park on
the south side of Interstate 70 (I-70) and west of Buffehr Creek Road on
the north side of I-70. It includes the North Trail and Davos Trailheads
as well as Ellefson and Buffehr Creek Parks. Parts of the Matterhorn and
Highland Meadows neighborhoods on the south side of I-70 were not
included in the study area as many parcels are part of unincorporated
Eagle County. While the study area itself was analyzed in depth to form
the recommendations in this plan, the Town of Vail and the greater
region were also examined for context, connectivity, and economic
trends.
Gore Valley Trail
Buffehr Creek Park
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6 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
SUSTAINABILITY IN THE WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
ACTION IMPACT
Recommending improvements that increase access to public
transit and the ease of traveling on foot and by bike
Decreases dependence on cars; encourages no or low-emissions forms
of transportation
Recommending the inclusion of car-charging infrastructure Encourages the use of electric vehicles in West Vail
Concentrating development in the commercial center Discourages inefficient, sprawling land use patterns
Concentrating necessary businesses and amenities in the
commercial area Reduces the need to drive to other communities for essential services
Recommending an additional roundabout along the Frontage
Road
Reduces idling (and therefore emissions) of vehicles compared to a
traditional intersection
Recommending greenspace, gardens, and street trees in the
redesigned commercial area
Reduces the need to drive to gathering spaces; improves air quality,
temperature control, carbon absorption
Recommending adding housing density in West Vail in the form of
townhouse, multi-family, and apartment-style housing options
Reduces commuting distances and associated emissions by enabling
more people who work in Vail to live in West Vail; increases energy
efficiency of housing in West Vail with more heat-efficient housing types
Recommending adding housing in the commercial area (e.g.
businesses on the ground floor and housing on upper floors) or
near existing transit stops in residential neighborhoods
Increases residents living near transit, encourages an efficient land use
pattern
Recommending the increase in deed-restricted units in West Vail.Supports more socially equitable and inclusive housing options.
The Town of Vail has previously adopted ambitious plans related to environmental sustainability and open space conservation. The West Vail Master
Plan furthers the goals of those plans and includes actions to address Climate Change through the following measures:
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7WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
PLAN ORGANIZATION
The plan is organized into 5 chapters: Introduction (1), West Vail Center (2), Housing (3),
Transportation and Mobility (4), and Implementation (5). The Introduction contains a vision
statement for the overall plan. Chapters 2,3, and 4 have vision statements that address the focus
of that particular chapter. Chapters 2,3, and 4 contain goals, recommendations, and policies
related to the content of that chapter. Chapter 5 describes the strategies the Town can undertake
to implement the recommendations from this plan.
Chapter 2: West Vail Center
Chapter 2 envisions three development scenarios in which the commercial area of West Vail is
transformed into a new “West Vail Center.” The vision and goals for this chapter delineate what
this reinvigorated area will look like and how it will function. The recommendations explain how
the Town of Vail can start working towards the realization of any of the three scenarios through
zoning changes and public-private partnerships.
Chapter 3: Housing
Chapter 3 analyzes housing issues primarily in the residential areas of West Vail. The
recommendations in this chapter address ways to preserve and add primarily resident housing in
the area through rezoning, Town Code updates, and programs and policies.
Chapter 4: Transportation and Mobility
Chapter 4 describes changes that can be made to the roads, sidewalks, bicycle facilities, multi-use
paths, and transit network to make West Vail more connected. The recommendations for capital
projects, policies, programs and infrastructure in West Vail will contribute to making the area
easier to navigate either with or without a car.
Chapter 5: Implementation
Chapter 5 describes the various strategies the Town of Vail can use to implement the plan. Specific
detail on approaches to incentivizing and financing the redevelopment of West Vail Center are
discussed in detail
Appendices
The plan includes two appendices. Appendix A is the set of analyses completed for Phase 1 of this
project. Appendix B includes a summary of the public engagement process including the materials
presented for each public-facing event.
Charging station
Aerial view of I-70 and West Vail Center
Landscaped sidewalk in Vail
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November 2, 2021 - Page 61 of 229
INTRODUCTION
“The future West Vail is a complete neighborhood with increased housing
options for year-round residents, streets that support multiple modes of
transportation, and a vibrant, walkable destination where residents and
visitors can shop at local businesses and gather as a community. Though just
minutes from a world-class resort, West Vail retains the familiar, neighborly
character of a small mountain town.”
CHAPTER 2:WEST VAIL CENTER
“The reimagined ‘West Vail Center’ is the center of economic and social
life in West Vail. It’s a place to live, meet a friend for a cup of coffee,
conveniently pick up groceries and other essentials, and access transit
connections to the rest of the town and valley. As the western gateway to
the Town of Vail, the commercial center is aesthetically pleasing and inviting,
with new and upgraded mixed-use buildings that reflect the neighborhood’s
scale and mountain setting while providing much-needed resident
housing. The area’s new pattern of development is oriented to pedestrians,
accommodating to bicyclists, and accessible by both car and transit. Vibrant,
active businesses in the commercial area serve both locals and visitors,
supporting and meeting the needs of West Vail’s year-round community.”
Vision Statement
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10 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
INTRODUCTION
West Vail’s commercial area is home to businesses and services that are
essential to Vail’s year-round community. This plan initially considered the
commercial area as the parcels next to the North Frontage Road between
the Fire Station and Buffehr Creek Park. As the project evolved and the
likely redevelopment opportunities became apparent, the project team
focused on the four parcels at the heart of the commercial center, those
between McDonald’s/West Vail Mall and City Market.
At present, the commercial center meets the everyday shopping needs of
the West Vail neighborhood and the Town of Vail, but its opportunities as
a vibrant gathering place and a western gateway to the Town have not
been fully realized. This chapter presents three scenarios that reimagine
West Vail’s commercial area as “West Vail Center,” a lively, pedestrian-
friendly destination for locals and visitors. This chapter also makes
recommendations for zoning changes and design principles that will set
West Vail Center on the path towards the scenarios.
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11WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
EXISTING CONDITIONS
West Vail’s commercial area overlooks I-70 and resembles typical strip-style commercial
development: a low-density arrangement of one- to three-story buildings that face multiple
parking lots. The commercial area represents the only flat land area within the study area that is
suitable for large-scale development.
LAND USE
At present, over half the area is devoted to surface parking lots and roadways, leaving a limited
portion of the area to be occupied by tax-generating businesses. About 21% of the commercial
area (8.0 acres) is taken up by parking, while circulation (roads), driveways, loading zones, and
other infrastructure for vehicles make up 11.8 acres (31.4%). Building footprints make up 7.0
acres (19%). In all, impermeable surfaces make up 71% of the land area, while 29% of the land
area is natural. These natural areas are small or concentrated as the grassy hillside behind the
stores. These areas also lack seating and other amenities that would encourage their enjoyment
as gathering spaces.
TRANSPORTATION & ACCESS
It is challenging for pedestrians to access and navigate the West Vail commercial area. The area is
framed by one major arterial, the North Frontage Road, and neighborhood collectors Chamonix
Road and Chamonix Lane. There are a limited number of marked crosswalks in the area, and there
are very few existing sidewalks that connect businesses within the commercial area. There are
no pedestrian connections between the nearby North Recreation Path along the North Frontage
Road and the area’s businesses.
HOUSING
The area’s current zone district, Commercial Core 3 (CC3), only permits employee housing units
(EHUs, defined as housing restricted to individuals working full-time in Eagle County). At present,
there are 67 EHUs in the commercial area located on three parcels – Vail Das Schone (30), Vail
Commons (18), and the Highline/Doubletree (19). A permit for additional units on the Highline/
Doubletree property has been approved.
Vail das Schone includes ground floor commercial
and employee housing units above
Safeway includes 40,500 square feet of grocery
retail and a Starbucks
West Vail Mall is anchored by Christy Sports
Vail Commons includes a 50,000 square foot City
Market with one of two pharmacies in Vail
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12 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
A HUB FOR THE COMMUNITY
Other commercial areas in the Town of Vail, including Lionshead and Vail
Village, function as base areas for Vail Mountain Resort and primarily
offer upscale dining and shopping that cater to visitors. In contrast, West
Vail’s commercial area contains a mixture of businesses that supply
everyday necessities and conveniences. These community-oriented
businesses, which include grocery stores, fast casual restaurants, a
hardware store, and a dentist’s office, make it possible for Vail to be a
year-round community where people live. While serving residents, these
community businesses also draw a significant portion of their business
from visitors and this should not be dismissed. Vail residents value the
convenience and casual feel of the commercial area.
Shoppers outside City Market
Westside Cafe and Market Soap’s Up in Vail das Schone
INFLUENCE AND FOCUS AREAS
This plan considers the commercial area in two groupings: a
12.8-acre “Focus Area,” and a 4.9-acre “Influence Area.” The focus
area is the center of the commercial area and includes the primary
retail businesses in the area (e.g. West Vail Mall, Safeway, City
Market, Ace Hardware). The redevelopment scenarios presented in
this chapter are concentrated within the focus area. The influence
area is the remaining area and includes important adjacent
businesses that were not considered for redevelopment given the
type of existing use and recent or planned redevelopment.
Influence Area
• Phillips 66 Gas Station, located north of the roundabout
• 1st Bank anchors a two-story structure next to the gas station that
also includes Northside Grab ‘n Go on the ground floor
• Highline Vail, a Doubletree-brand hotel with 116 hotel rooms and
two restaurants. An expansion of the hotel that would provide 195
hotel rooms, expanded conference facilities, an employee housing
dormitory unit, and 15 employee housing units was approved in
2020.
Focus Area
• McDonald’s, a popular fast food stop for visitors and residents
• West Vail Mall, a shopping complex that is anchored by Christy
Sports and contains several fast casual restaurants, a liquor store,
and a dry cleaner. A brewpub and restaurant currently sits vacant
• Safeway, a full-service grocery store that contains a Starbucks
inside
• Vail das Schone includes Ace Hardware, a UPS Store, an escape
room, a laundromat, and 30 EHUs
• Vail Commons, a Town-owned property, includes City Market, a
restaurant, a dentist’s office and the Vail Child Care Center. It also
includes 18 EHUs
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13WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
WEST VAIL MALLPHILLIPS 66
1ST BANK HIGHLINE
DOUBLETREE
MCDONALD’S
VAIL COMMONS/
CITY MARKETSAFEWAY
VAIL DAS SCHONE
FOCUS AREA TOTALS:
Land Area: 12.8 Acres
Commercial: 156,800 SF
Residential: 46 Units
Parking: 799 Spaces
INFLUENCE AREA TOTALS:
Land Area: 4.9 Acres
Commercial: 17,500 SF
Hotel: 58,800 SF
Parking: 205 Spaces
N. FRONTAGE ROAD
CHAMONIX LANE
CHAMONIX ROAD
INTERSTATE 70
S. FRONTAGE ROAD
Figure 2.1: West Vail Center Existing Program
INFLUENCE AREA TOTALS:
Land Area: 4.9 Acres
Commercial: 17,500 SF
Hotel: 58,800 SF
Parking: 205 Spaces
FOCUS AREA TOTALS:
Land Area: 12.8 Acres
Commercial: 156,800 SF
Residential: 48 Units
Parking: 799 Spaces
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14 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS: PRIORITIES FOR THE COMMERCIAL AREA
Respondents to the community survey included Vail residents and residents from surrounding communities. Responses were analyzed as a whole and by
place of residence.
What do respondents appreciate most about West Vail?
• Grocery stores
• Locally-owned businesses
• Locally-serving businesses
• Parks and trails
• Walking and biking options
What do respondents want to see in West Vail in the
future?
• Pleasant streetscapes (lighting, benches, and landscaping)
• People who work here can live here
• More local-oriented businesses (i.e. hardware store, dry cleaners)
What issues do respondents see in West Vail?
• Highway noise
• Outdated commercial area
What types of businesses do respondents think are
important to keep, add, or expand in West Vail?
• Grocery store
• Casual dining
• Hardware and home improvements
• Liquor store
• Gas station
What amenities would respondents like to see in the
West Vail commercial area?
• Outdoor dining
• Walking and biking paths
• Underground parking
• Mixed use buildings
• Affordable housing
In September 2020, community members shared their goals and
priorities for the West Vail neighborhood through a community survey
and a Virtual Open House event. Several key priorities emerged
regarding the commercial area. Community members were particularly
interested in businesses that serve the local community and meet
everyday needs, such as a grocery store. Respondents listed the
“outdated commercial area” as a primary concern for the West Vail
community. Respondents were in favor of a variety of upgrades to
the commercial area, including underground parking, outdoor dining
opportunities, improved street crossings, affordable housing, and mixed-
use buildings. Respondents also expressed interest in connections from
residential areas to the commercial area for people walking and biking.
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15WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
Where did the name “West Vail Center” come from?
At a public workshop regarding future design ideas for the
commercial area, the project team asked attendees to help come
up with a name. “West Vail Center” was the most popular choice by
far. Other contenders included “Chamonix Center” and “West Vail
Village.”
Why “West Vail Center”?
“West Vail Center” suggests that the area is a hub for the
community: a place to gather and socialize. It reflects a type of
commercial development that is convenient, walkable, and well-
located, providing key amenities and services to surrounding
neighborhoods. Rebranding the area also helps clarify the desired
concept, making it easier to champion the vision years after this
plan has been completed.
Drawing from the existing conditions analysis and the priorities
established by the community, the following pages outline a future for
“West Vail Center”, a renewed and revitalized version of West Vail’s
commercial area. The scenarios described within this chapter set the
foundation for attractive spaces for local businesses, desired amenities,
including outdoor dining, connections for people walking and biking,
and housing. West Vail Center can serve as the heart of Vail, a place that
is distinct from Lionshead and Vail Village and that both residents and
visitors can enjoy.
Vail das Schone and other properties include surface parking behind their
building, along Chamonix Lane
A series of large surface parking lots are located in front of buildings along
North Frontage Road
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16 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
There are many factors and attributes that indicate West Vail Center
is ready for a transformation. West Vail Center represents a major
opportunity to provide more housing for residents, to drive additional
business activity in the Town, and create a sense of place and
community.
Housing
Much of Vail is “built-out,” meaning that there is limited vacant land
for new development. Large-scale redevelopment of these 12.8 acres
represents a singular opportunity to provide potentially hundreds of
housing units for Vail residents and meet the Town’s housing goals.
Chapter 3: Housing addresses housing conditions and needs in more
detail.
Economic Development
The current development pattern limits the commercial square footage
and the types of businesses present. By redeveloping the commercial
area to better utilize its land area and create new building forms, the
Town of Vail could provide a more complete, diverse offering to improve
its economic competitiveness with the nearby communities of Avon,
Edwards, and Eagle. Adding new businesses, dining, and housing in
West Vail Center would also help to grow the Town’s tax base and match
similar growth elsewhere in Eagle County and in Summit County in
recent years. Redevelopment could create desirable new spaces for a
variety of new businesses, including fast casual dining, upgraded food
markets, office space, community organizations, health and wellness,
and lodging. Any redevelopment scenario should retain a grocery store
and other essential business types that residents and visitors depend on.
Sense of Place
With its strip development style, the commercial area does not reflect
Vail’s iconic “mountain town” character. There are few public amenities
in West Vail Center, such as seating areas and gathering spaces, resulting
in residents and visitors completing their errands without lingering to
explore the area or socialize. The design of West Vail Center does not
embrace the mountains or distinguish itself from other commercial
areas across the country. As a result, the area does not support what
residents love about West Vail, including its mountain environment,
small-town feel, and neighborliness. This sense of place could be unique
and distinctive from a curated base village environment.
WHY CHANGE?
Food halls offer a creative way to provide community gathering space while
supporting new restaurants
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17WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
THE MARKET ADVANTAGES FOR WEST VAIL CENTER
With its desirable location and other market factors, West Vail Center
holds key advantages over other commercial centers of its type:
Low Real Estate Supply within Vail
There is little space available for local businesses to expand or for new
businesses to come to Vail. Brokers in the area report that numerous
businesses have been looking for space to expand or open new
locations. By increasing square footage through redevelopment, West
Vail Center can provide in-demand commercial space.
Excellent Highway Visibility and Location
The commercial area is the only stop with services between Summit
County and Eagle-Vail, Avon, and Edwards. Its high visibility makes it an
attractive location for existing and new fast casual restaurants, hotels,
and other businesses.
Strong Commercial Rents and the Vail Brand
The strength of the Vail brand makes this area appealing to regional and
national businesses.
Most spaces in West Vail Center are occupied and rents are on par with
the market in Vail indicating that this area performs well economically
even with the short comings of its physical configuration.
Robust Retail Sales
According to sales tax data for the area, retail sales in the existing
commercial area are consistent with high-performing urban locations
and are well above downtowns and local commercial districts in many
seasonal mountain communities.
Consolidated Property Ownership
The existing commercial area’s ownership pattern, which is consolidated
in a relatively small number of owners and parcels, facilitates land
assemblage and partnerships for redevelopment.
A smaller specialty market could accompany a larger supermarket to provide
more options and a greater variety of offerings
Health and wellness businesses, such as fitness studios, are community-focused
places that are growing in popularity in commercial and mixed-use areas
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18 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
RIVERWALK CASE STUDY—EDWARDS, CO
Riverwalk is an example of a mixed-use district
in the Vail Valley that is similar to West Vail
Center in land area and anticipated uses. During
the development of this plan, the project
team took a walking tour of the area, which
illuminated the advantages and shortfalls of the
area’s design.
Riverwalk is both a destination for visitors and a
place where residents can meet their everyday
needs. As its name suggests, Riverwalk is close
to the Eagle River and has a walkable, main-
street feel. Multi-story mixed-use buildings
promote a dense development pattern that is
inviting to pedestrians. Several businesses and
public spaces in the area act as social hubs,
including a movie theater, locally-owned casual
restaurants, boutiques, and an amphitheater.
The area includes a conveniently located
grocery store that offers an alternative to major
chains. An underground parking structure
serves the area.
Riverwalk was built in phases, starting in
the early 1990s, with no overarching master
plan. As a result, the area has suffered from
circulation issues, and a lack of cohesion
in its design. The area has several design
flaws, such as narrow, uneven and dangerous
sidewalk and curb conditions and wind
conditions through the area. The area also
has functional flaws: each building has its own
homeowners’ association (HOA), and there
are condominiumized first-floor units in which
turnover is minimal. Because of this, ground-
floor space is used by offices that can afford
to purchase the space, taking retail units away
from businesses that receive foot traffic and
contribute to vibrant street life. The core also
faces away from the river, the area’s primary
natural asset.
UNDERGROUND PARKING
OUTDOOR DINING SMALL PLAZA
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19WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
RIVERWALK CASE STUDY—EDWARDS, CO
PROGRAM SUMMARY
• Commercial Square Footage: 235,000
square feet
• Residential Units: 192
• Hotel rooms: 60 rooms (1 hotel)
• Parking Provided: 973 parking spaces,
provided in both above ground surface
lots and a large below-grade parking
deck (one level).
• Zoning: Zoned as a Planned Unit
Development (PUD) which includes
limitations on overall floor area, building
heights, and parking requirements.
HOTEL THREE-STORY MIXED USE
FOUR-STORY MIXED USEAMPHITHEATER
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20 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
GOALS FOR WEST VAIL CENTER1Quality housing in and around West Vail Center maintains
and expands the neighborhood’s year-round community
of residents.
Developing additional resident housing in and around West Vail
Center will help the Town work towards its resident housing
goals, support a neighborly and vibrant environment, and
provide a proximate customer base to support businesses.
Strategies to achieve this goal include allowing more and a
greater variety of housing types in the zoning regulations and
mandating deed restrictions on a large portion of new housing
units in and around West Vail Center.
2 Access to and circulation within West Vail Center is
comfortable, efficient, and convenient for people using all
transportation modes.
West Vail Center is currently car-oriented. Walking and biking
to and within the area can be challenging. By reconfiguring
the commercial area to better accommodate all modes of
transportation and encouraging a “park once” strategy, people
will choose to walk or bike, reducing vehicle trips and associated
emissions. Under a park-once strategy, people will park once in
a central garage or lot before walking to and from and different
stores. For West Vail Center, convenient parking opportunities
should remain a priority, given the importance of parking for
the types of businesses it supports (e.g. grocery). Strategies
to achieve this goal include providing comfortable pedestrian
facilities, wayfinding signage, facilitating connections to transit,
and centralizing parking.
3 Essential existing businesses that serve and sustain West
Vail’s resident community are retained.
Vail residents and visitors deeply appreciate the ability to buy
groceries and complete other errands within the Town. The
businesses in West Vail Center are also an important economic
generator. Amidst potential redevelopment, maintaining
these uses and community-serving businesses is a priority.
Key strategies to achieve this goal include partnerships and
incentives.
4 There are opportunities for new businesses to locate
in West Vail and offer a distinct experience and crucial
social spaces within the Town.
West Vail Center should be a distinct shopping destination
with a different identity and an alternative to what is offered
in Vail Village or Lionshead. New businesses should continue
to differentiate West Vail Center and offer an authentic “West
Vail” experience. West Vail Center businesses should support
the area’s function as a community gathering place, with
businesses that contribute to social life in Vail (e.g. coffee shops,
bookstores, mid-range and/or fast-casual restaurants, health
and wellness businesses, non-profits, and professional offices).
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21WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
5 Within West Vail Center, a human-scaled and human-
centered environment feels inviting to both locals and
visitors.
West Vail residents are eager for a community-oriented
shopping center where they can run into neighbors, meet up
with a friend, and gather as a community. Visitors enjoy these
types of spaces as well, being able to wander and get a sense
of the place and its offerings. Key strategies towards achieving
this goal include providing public gathering spaces, creating
a pedestrian-friendly environment, and restricting service
business (i.e., offices, spa services, etc.) to upper floors to
support active retail and restaurant spaces on the street level.
6 West Vail Center is a memorable place with an
architectural style and aesthetic that reflect West Vail’s
mountain setting.
The current West Vail commercial area neither reflects
nor complements its stunning mountain environment.
Residents and visitors are looking for a stronger sense of
place that embraces the mountainous setting and contributes
to community character. This sense of place should be
encouraged within West Vail Center itself as well as on the
roads and entrances to the center. Design elements that
contribute to character and sense of place include a defined
gateway, distinctive architecture, natural materials, and
excellent views.
7 Sustainability is woven into all aspects of the physical
design and program of West Vail Center.
The current configuration of West Vail Center, which contains
substantial surface parking and large one-story commercial
buildings, does not support a land-efficient growth pattern in
West Vail. With the redevelopment of West Vail Center, there is
an opportunity to further the Town of Vail’s sustainability goals
as they pertain to land use, housing, and transportation. Low
impact development elements such as minimizing hardscape
and impervious surfaces, using native landscaping, preventing
light pollution, and encouraging building material reuse should
be incorporated. All design should be led by sustainability
principles, striving towards net zero buildings. Gardens could be
located in the Center for use by the community or restaurants
growing food. In addition, the transportation design of West
Vail Center should enable easy and comfortable walking and
biking and support access to public transit and electric car
charging. New residents housed in the area would be able to
fulfill many of their daily needs sans vehicle.
8 The Town works collaboratively, strategically, and
creatively to enhance West Vail Center.
Transforming West Vail Center will be a complex process. The
vision for the area must remain at the forefront, guiding future
decisions around zoning changes, developer agreements, and
new projects. Achieving the vision will require collaboration
between the Town and the private sector (i.e., developers). To
engage the private sector, the Town will need to be nimble in its
decision-making, making changes and agreements that support
the economic feasibility and viability of desired projects. There
are several smaller actions the Town should undertake to
demonstrate measurable progress and drive resident support.
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22 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
Commercial Center FRAMEWORK
Commercial Center FRAMEWORK
A FRAMEWORK FOR REDEVELOPMENT
This Framework Diagram identifies key elements that any redevelopment
should incorporate. These elements were identified through the public
engagement process. The Framework Diagram is intended to serve as
a foundation for redevelopment, ensuring that any new development
concept is representative of the community’s desires for West Vail Center.
Figure 2.2: Framework for Redevelopment
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23WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS
Redesigned North Frontage Road
It is recommended that the North Frontage Road have an enhanced
streetscape, traffic calming features, and comfortable options for all
modes of travel. The North Frontage Road should function as a gateway
to West Vail Center that is welcoming and visually appealing. For further
detail on these recommendations, see Chapter 4: Transportation.
Taller Buildings Nearest North Frontage Road
To provide a sound buffer from I-70, taller buildings should be located
near the North Frontage Road with shorter buildings towards the back.
Due to lower elevations along the North Frontage Road, taller buildings
would not block views from Chamonix Lane. This orientation is intended
to best support sun exposure in West Vail Center, but should continue to
be evaluated through the design review process.
Diverse Housing Types along Chamonix
Today, Chamonix Lane’s development is largely one-sided, with
properties overlooking the backs of commercial buildings and parking
in West Vail Center. Providing a variety of housing options fronting
Chamonix would enclose the street and encourage a neighborly feel.
Enhanced Pedestrian/Bike Connections
Yellow arrows on the Framework Diagram indicate opportunities
for enhanced pedestrian and bike connections between adjacent
residential areas and West Vail Center. Some of the connections from
Chamonix Lane currently exist but could be formalized and/or made
ADA accessible. Connections to the Highline hotel and bus stop will be
especially important.
Public Gathering Spaces
West Vail Center should include a variety of gathering spaces for
residents and visitors to enjoy. These spaces are placed in sunny
locations that are protected from harsh winds, based on a climate
analysis.
A redesigned Frontage road
comfortable for all modes of transit
Taller buildings placed nearest the
Frontage road to protect viewsheds
Diverse housing options along
Chamonix Lane Improved pedestrian connections from
Chamonix Lane
EXAMPLE IMAGES
Convenient Parking Underground/Structure
Given the scarcity of buildable land in Vail, substantial surface parking
should be discouraged. To make efficient use of the land area, the
majority of future parking for West Vail Center should be underground
or in structures. Developing a parking structure underneath the North
Frontage Road should also be explored further with CDOT as it could act
as a catalyst to future redevelopment.
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24 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
Concentrated Mixed-Use Center/Core
As the name West Vail Center suggests, the future design should include
an identifiable “core” that functions as the center of commercial and
social activity. Redevelopment should include a mix of uses (commercial
and residential) and innovative designs for the public realm.
West Vail Mobility Hub/Transit Center
This should be an enhanced bus stop along the North Frontage Road.
Future residents and jobs in the area should promote transit use and
designs should support bus travel as a viable option by providing
amenities for transit riders, such as: bike parking, restrooms, a waiting
area, and real-time bus arrival/departure information.
Notable Gateways
In addition to streetscape improvements and a redesigned North
Frontage Road, there should be iconic gateways that people see when
entering West Vail Center. One gateway should be at the existing
roundabout and a second should be at an entrance to West Vail Center.
Walkable, Well-Connected Grid
The future design should enhance connectivity within the center and to
neighboring properties, creating a comfortable, inviting environment for
people walking or biking. This connectivity could take the form of traffic-
calmed, multimodal streets navigable by car or pedestrian pathways.
Sustainability
New buildings in West Vail should embrace green building practices.
Elements can include green roofs, solar panels, material choices, and
energy efficient building techniques. Low impact practices should
also be embraced such as use of sustainable, recycled, and locally
sourced materials, low emissions materials, salvageable materials, and
minimizing construction and development waste.
Grocery Store as Anchor
These scenarios show one major grocery store and one specialty store.
While two major stores could remain in any redevelopment, having one
major and one specialty store would create variety and allow for more
space dedicated to other uses. If two major stores are included, their
configuration and layout should align with the goals of the plan.
An identifiable center or “core”
Mobility hub with amenities Notable gateway elements
A walkable and connected grid of
streets and pathways
Green roofs and sustainable building
elements
EXAMPLE IMAGES
Active and inviting gathering spaces
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25WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
SCENARIOS
This plan offers three realistic design scenarios for redeveloping and
enhancing West Vail Center.
> SCENARIO 1 is a “quick wins” strategy, in which primary improvements
could occur in the five years following the adoption of this plan
> SCENARIO 2 presents a phased approach, in which property owners
individually redevelop their properties at different points in time
> SCENARIO 3 presents a “master-planned” option in which the
redevelopment for all properties is planned together, then built over time
Implementation of any scenario will require changes to the zoning
regulations and Town Code. Design principles to guide these modifications
are contained herein.
EACH SCENARIO REPRESENTS ONE PATHWAY TO A REIMAGINED WEST VAIL CENTER.
This plan does not recommend any one scenario over another. Rather, this chapter contains detailed
descriptions of each scenario that outlines the potential as well as the barriers to be overcome. Taken together,
the scenario descriptions are intended to serve as a guide to redevelopment that will assist the Town of Vail in
evaluating any feasible development concept.
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26 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
Scenario 1 improves the existing site layout and efficiency of West
Vail Center through substantial improvements to its circulation,
access management, and aesthetic qualities. This scenario can
be completed in the short-term (under five years) with no major
property redevelopments. As such, this scenario is a viable option if
comprehensive redevelopment is not immediately feasible. Notably,
Scenario 1 could be completed as a prelude to Scenarios 2 or 3. This
scenario does not fully achieve the vision, but does represent a step in
the right direction.
Scenario 1 assumes that the focus area property owners partner with
the Town, entering into an agreement to create more coordinated and
well-designed parking, complete beautification improvements, and
activate open spaces. This scenario also redesigns the North Frontage
Road, creating a gateway roundabout, landscaped medians, new access
routes, and improved pedestrian and bike facilities. Potential infill
development includes new housing along Chamonix Lane, restaurants
with rooftop dining, and a new transit center/mobility hub.
SCENARIO 1 OVERVIEW Figure 2.3: Scenario 1 Illustration
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27WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
WEST VAIL MALL SAFEWAY VAIL DAS SCHONE
VAIL COMMONS/
CITY MARKET
HIGHLINE
DOUBLETREE
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
West Vail Mall
Courtyard Activation
Transit Center/
Mobility Hub
C
D
Vail das Schone
Community Green
Redesigned Parking
and Connectivity
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
PROGRAM SNAPSHOT
Commercial: ........168,800 SF (12,000 SF New)
Residential: .........69 Units (21 New Units)
Parking Provided: .....817 Spaces (18 New Spaces)
Figure 2.4: Scenario 1 Overview
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28 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
KEY FEATURES:
BARRIERS TO OVERCOME
Since this scenario primarily involves upgrades to existing facilities and does not involve total redevelopment of any parcel, it is more achievable in the
short-term than the other two scenarios. Like the other scenarios, this scenario requires some consensus among property owners — the property owners
and the Town of Vail will have to coordinate on beautification and façade upgrades as well as pedestrian pathways and parking lot reconfigurations.
However, any property owner in the focus area could take the lead on upgrades or redevelopment on their parcel. For example, West Vail Mall could add
the envisioned apartments or reconfigure the commercial pads to facilitate outdoor dining.
HOUSING
• 21 new housing units including two sets of townhouses along
Chamonix Lane and a floor of apartment-style units in an expanded
West Vail Mall. An additional floor of residential could be explored on
other commercial buildings in West Vail Center.
• Housing units in Vail das Schone and Vail Commons are retained
BUSINESS MIX & PUBLIC SPACE
• Multiple new gathering spaces with opportunities for outdoor dining
• New active businesses (brewpubs and fast casual dining, coffee shops,
boutiques) in West Vail Mall and Vail das Schone
• Flexible open space for farmers’ markets, art shows, and other events
• Two major supermarkets (Safeway and City Market) remain, as does
McDonald’s
• Existing essential businesses such as the hardware store and daycare
center remain
TRANSPORTATION & CIRCULATION
• One driving lane of the North Frontage Road is removed to make room
for a landscaped median and paths for people walking and biking
• A new gateway roundabout near West Vail Mall improves access for
drivers turning into the commercial area parking lots
• A mobility hub includes a kiosk that offers transit information, grab-
and-go food options, bike parking & other infrastructure such as
electric vehicle charging stations
• Existing parking lots are consolidated and beautified, with upgraded
landscaping throughout and pedestrian pathways that connect the lot
to the businesses
• The City Market parking structure is refaced and includes improved
vehicular circulation, parking efficiency, pedestrian connections, and
landscaping. A formalized pedestrian connection to Chamonix Lane
increases the walkability and accessibility of West Vail Center from
surrounding neighborhoods
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29WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
WEST VAIL MALL
SAFEWAY
VAIL DAS SCHONE
VAIL COMMONS/
CITY MARKET
HIGHLINE
DOUBLETREE
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
West Vail Mall
Courtyard Activation
Transit Center/
Mobility Hub
C
D
Vail das Schone
Community Green
Redesigned Parking
and Connectivity
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS Figure 2.5: Scenario 1 Oblique View
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30 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
WEST VAIL MALL COURTYARD ACTIVATION
An upgraded West Vail Mall with vibrant outdoor spaces, housing, and a new business mix. In Scenario 1, West Vail Mall features new
gathering spaces, pedestrian connections and pathways, a new residential floor, and improved landscaping.
A
Key Elements:
• Additional pedestrian pathways connect to the adjacent parking area
and other properties
• An additional floor provides eight residential units and commercial
space for coffee shops or restaurants with rooftop patios
• Upgrades to the existing courtyard include café seating, responding to
the community’s interest in outdoor dining opportunities
• A sidewalk along an internal street with diagonal parking would
incorporate additional café seating
• Façade and architectural improvements
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
Figure 2.6: West Vail Mall Courtyard Activation
Examples of outdoor dining and courtyard spaces
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31WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Key Elements:
• Additional pedestrian pathways connect to the adjacent parking area
and other properties
• Improvements to the building façade
• The front of Vail das Schone includes a redesigned “green” with a new
patio where residents and visitors can gather and socialize
VAIL DAS SCHONE COMMUNITY GREEN
A community gathering space with enhanced pedestrian connections. A reimagined patio space revives the space in front of Vail das Schone.
Ground-floor businesses could make use of the area, and customers could use adjacent sidewalks to connect to other businesses or parking
locations.
B
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
Examples of small-scale community green and gathering spaces
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32 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
A CASE STUDY: CROSSROAD COMMONS IN BOULDER
Crossroad Commons in Boulder is a commercial center that includes
a very popular Whole Foods. The center contains a newly redesigned
parking lot configuration that is pedestrian friendly. Located along
a major thoroughfare in Boulder, this commercial center is just as
accessible to pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users as it is to drivers.
A similar redesign of the parking lots in West Vail Center could feature
pedestrian connections and landscaping throughout. The new design
could also include a street-like driving lane along the fronts of the
buildings to enhance circulation and contribute to a sense of place.
REDESIGNED PARKING AND CONNECTIVITY
A well-organized, pedestrian-friendly parking lot with enhanced landscaping. The individual parking lots along the North Frontage Road are
combined to become one shared parking lot with pedestrian pathways and landscaping improvements. The parking lot for the Whole Foods
in Crossroad Commons in Boulder, CO is an excellent example of this type of efficient, pedestrian-friendly design.
Key Elements:
• The parking lot becomes a combined parking area serving all
businesses
• A street-like driving lane is located adjacent to the buildings with
landscape improvements and convenient “on-street” parking
• The rest of the parking lot is improved by adding enhanced paving
and landscaped areas as well as pedestrian connections buffered with
landscaping
• A centrally located open space could be used to host farmers’
markets, arts festivals, or other pop-up events
C
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
Ariel view of Crossroad Commons in Boulder, CO
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33WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
SCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
TRANSIT CENTER/MOBILITY HUB AND FLEXIBLE PLAZA
A new mobility hub with commercial space and a community plaza. Between the North Frontage Road and the redesigned parking lot, there
could be a new transit center/mobility hub that facilitates multiple modes of transportation.
Key Elements:
• A plaza area could host pop-up events, such as festivals or farmers’
markets. Located between the transit center/mobility hub and
Safeway, the area is integrated into the parking lot’s design and
landscaping
• The hub would include amenities such as restrooms, outdoor seating,
and a grab-and-go food and beverage kiosk
• The kiosk would provide real-time bus information and transportation
infrastructure, such as bike storage and parking, electric vehicle
charging infrastructure, and a drop-off zone
D
Examples of mobility hub facilities
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34 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
In Scenario 2, the Town takes a more active role in redeveloping West
Vail Center, initiating the first phase by redeveloping the Town-owned
Vail Commons/City Market property. This serves as a catalyst for the
redevelopment of other parcels that are privately owned. The catalyst
project includes a large, shared parking structure, a new and enhanced
grocery store anchor, and a variety of new housing options. In a future
phase, a new central plaza is built to serve as a main gathering space
that connects the different areas of West Vail Center. Other parcels
include smaller outdoor gathering spaces.
As in Scenario 1, this scenario redesigns and activates the North
Frontage Road and improves access and aesthetics throughout the
area. Additional buildings along the North Frontage Road help mitigate
highway noise and create a separation between West Vail Center and
I-70. This scenario includes a substantial number of new housing units of
varying types, including townhomes, small multi-family units, and walk-
up apartments. New mixed-use buildings will contain retail space on the
ground floor and residential units or office space on upper floors.
SCENARIO 2 OVERVIEW Figure 2.7: Scenario 2 Illustration
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35WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
Mixed Use Buildings
Along Frontage Road
Variety of Housing
Types
C
D
West Vail Plaza
Mixed Use Grocer
A
B
B
B
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
PROGRAM SNAPSHOT:
Commercial: ........201,000 SF (54,000 SF New)
Residential: .........350 Units (302 New Units)
Parking Provided: .....1,183 Spaces (384 New Spaces)
Figure 2.8: Scenario 2 Overview
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36 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
KEY FEATURES:
BARRIERS TO OVERCOME
While the Town owns the Vail Commons parcel, it does not own the City Market building, so the Town will have to coordinate with City Market as it
contemplates redeveloping the property and creating a new underground parking garage. After beginning the redevelopment process with this “catalyst”
property, the Town will need to incentivize owners of the other properties to redevelop as well. These efforts to spur redevelopment will require
sustained effort, resources, and political will.
Given the phased nature of this scenario, it may be challenging to achieve consensus on a shared vision and aesthetic for West Vail Center among the
different property owners. This can be addressed by establishing common design criteria and aesthetic guidelines for West Vail Center prior to launching
the phased redevelopment process (see the Zoning Recommendations section of this chapter and Chapter 5: Implementation).
HOUSING
• 350 housing units, 304 beyond what currently exists. Three sets of
townhouses along Chamonix Lane, a floor of apartment-style units in
an expanded West Vail Mall, and hundreds of new apartment-style
units in new mixed-use buildings
• Housing units in Vail das Schone and Vail Commons are replaced as
those properties redevelop
BUSINESS MIX & PUBLIC SPACE
• Multiple new gathering spaces with opportunities for outdoor dining
• A plaza adjacent to the grocery store is a central gathering place with
café seating
• Attractive new retail spaces for active businesses (brewpubs and fast
casual dining, coffee shops, boutiques)
• Storefronts along the North Frontage Road that contribute to a lively
street environment
• A large multi-story grocer and a smaller specialty foods store replace
Safeway and City Market
• Existing essential businesses such as the hardware store and daycare
center are retained within West Vail Center but may relocate
TRANSPORTATION & CIRCULATION
• A buried parking structure underneath the Safeway and Vail das
Schone parcels provides ample shared parking for West Vail Center
• Surface parking lots are replaced with plazas and businesses, creating
a more pedestrian-friendly environment and reducing conflicts with
vehicles
• The 1,183 spaces provided falls between “Schedule A” and “Schedule
B” of the Town’s parking code. Schedule A is the lower number,
meant for Vail Village and Lionshead, while B is the higher number for
everywhere else in Vail
• One driving lane of the North Frontage Road is removed to make room
for a landscaped median and paths for people walking and biking. Two
roundabouts are added along the North Frontage Road, improving
access to West Vail Center
• A mobility hub includes a kiosk that offers transit information, grab-
and-go food options, bike parking and other infrastructure such as
electric vehicle charging stations
• A formalized pedestrian connection to Chamonix Lane increases the
walkability and accessibility of West Vail Center from surrounding
neighborhoods
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37WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
Mixed-Use Buildings
Along Frontage Road
Variety of Housing
Types
C
D
West Vail Plaza
Mixed-Use Grocer
A
B
B
B
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL Figure 2.9: Scenario 2 Oblique View
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38 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
MIXED-USE BUILDINGS ALONG FRONTAGE ROAD
Modestly scaled mixed-use buildings buffer highway noise from I-70. Along the North Frontage Road, there is a series of mixed-use buildings
with retail space on the ground floor and residential units or office space on upper floors.
A
Key Elements:
• This location provides ideal visibility from I-70 for businesses
• Placing taller buildings in this location serves two purposes: First,
buildings of this scale help to slow traffic along the North Frontage
Road. Second, the buildings provide a sound buffer
• The mixed-use buildings vary in scale, but heights preserve views from
residences along Chamonix Lane
• Several small, shared greenspaces are located adjacent to the
buildings, complementing retail uses and providing gathering spaces
for residents and visitors
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
Examples of modestly scaled mixed-use buildings
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39WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Key Elements:
• 50-75% of new units would be deed-restricted (restricted to full-time
residents of Vail who work 30+ hours a week for an Eagle County
business)
• There are three rows of townhouses and flats along Chamonix Lane
with drive-up access from within West Vail Center
• There are walk-up apartments (above retail space) and two-story
multi-family buildings internal to West Vail Center
• Along the North Frontage Road, there are more mixed-use multi-
family housing types
VARIETY OF HOUSING TYPES
Options for housing create opportunity for residents to live and work in West Vail. This scenario includes a wide variety of housing options
in West Vail Center that would be a mix of market rate and deed-restricted units and would be walkable to transit and new shopping and
dining opportunities.
B
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
Examples of housing types that may be appropriate for West Vail Center
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40 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
WEST VAIL PLAZA
A new public space in West Vail offers residents and visitors a place to dine, lounge, and gather. A central plaza is located between the
current Vail das Schone property and a new mixed-use structure along the North Frontage Road. This area accommodates outdoor dining
and events, complementing the nearby grocery store and fast casual restaurants.
C
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
Key Elements:
• This plaza is activated on all sides with retail, restaurants, and
personal services
• Similar to the flexible plaza space in Scenario 1, this plaza area could
be used for pop-up events, such as farmers’ markets and arts events
• With its central location, the plaza is attractive to both visitors to and
residents of West Vail Center
• The area is protected from the wind and road noise by buildings while
still allowing ample sun exposure for warmth
• Parking for the area is available in a nearby underground structure
that serves businesses and residences
• The mixed-use nature of this area contributes to a vibrant, downtown
feel within West Vail Center
Examples of plaza spaces near mixed-use buildings
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41WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
MIXED-USE GROCER
A new, larger grocery store with residences above anchors West Vail Center. A new mixed-use building containing a multi-story grocery store
and additional housing is located on the eastern edge of the plaza. This redevelopment, which occurs on the Town-owned parcel, catalyzes
the redevelopment of the rest of the center.
D
Key Elements:
• The redeveloped grocery store is large enough to meet the needs of
the neighborhood and Town and includes a café
• Outside the store, there is a central plaza with potential for additional
outdoor dining
• Convenient parking for the area is available in an underground
structure that serves businesses and residences
Examples of grocery stores within mixed-use developments
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42 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
POTENTIAL PHASING
The revitalization of West Vail Center begins with the
redevelopment of the Town-owned City Market property. The
redeveloped property will feature a large grocery store that
serves as an anchor for West Vail Center. Underneath the grocery
store, there is a large shared parking structure that will enable
proximate parking for the grocery store as well as a “park once”
environment, in which a customer can comfortably walk between
multiple stores and destinations without re-parking their vehicle.
This phase will involve the replacement of existing housing units
and the daycare center as well as the construction of additional
housing units.
Following construction of a new anchor grocery store and
underground parking structure, the Safeway parcel can now
redevelop with a different mix of uses and configurations. The
shared parking structure eliminates the need for surface parking
on this lot. This phase would activate the North Frontage Road
with a new mixed-use building and a variety of housing options.
It also includes the improvements to West Vail Mall as described
in Scenario 1, which include improved open space, parking
layout, and enhanced pedestrian access from Chamonix Lane.
1
2
Phase 1: Town Property (City Market)
Redevelopment
Phase 2: Safeway Redevelopment and Infill, West
Vail Mall Improvements
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
Phase 1: Town Property (City Market) Redevelopment
Phase 2: Safeway Redevelopment and Infill, West Vail Mall Improvements
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43WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
POTENTIAL PHASING
As with the Safeway parcel, the new underground parking
structure on the Town land allows the Vail das Schone property
to redevelop on its surface lots. This phase also adds a mixed-
use building (commercial and residential) on the North Frontage
Road and townhouses along Chamonix Lane. Pedestrian
connections throughout the area enable comfortable access to
businesses in West Vail Center for people walking. In this phase,
a new community gathering space and plaza is created between
Vail das Schone and the new mixed-use building.
In the final phase, the West Vail Mall parking lot and
McDonald’s redevelop into mixed-use structures. This phase
could also include replacing Vail das Schone with a newer
mixed-use structure.
3
4
Phase 3: Vail das Schone Infill
Phase 4: Final Infill
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCEL
Phase 3: Vail das Schone Infill
Phase 4: Final Infill
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44 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
Scenario 3 assumes a collaborative process between the Town,
property owners, and developer(s). The scenario includes a new, two-
story grocery anchor that would be located closer to I-70. A housing
development is included on the current Town-owned City Market
property that may be 100% deed-restricted, given the Town’s ownership.
The current Safeway and Vail das Schone properties become the “central
core,” anchored by a pedestrian-friendly “Main Street” and a series of
small plazas.
This scenario differs from Scenarios 1 and 2 in that it blurs the parcel
boundaries to integrate redevelopment in a “master-planned” fashion.
In place of the current parcels, the design concept creates three distinct
areas: the grocery store/restaurant, a mixed-use grid area, and a
residential area. As in Scenario 2, this scenario creates a “park-once”
environment with shared underground parking, pedestrian connectivity,
and new buildings along the North Frontage Road.
SCENARIO 3 OVERVIEW Figure 2.10: Scenario 3 Illustration
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45WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
West Vail Center
Gateway
Main Street
C
D
A Series of
Gathering Spaces
Enhanced
Connectivity
A
D
D
C
C
SCENARIO 3: MAIN STREET
PROGRAM SNAPSHOT:
Commercial: ........185,000 SF (282,000 SF New)
Residential: .........475 (427 New Units)
Parking Provided: .....1,247 Spaces (448 New Spaces)
Figure 2.11: Scenario 3 Overview
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46 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
KEY FEATURES:
HOUSING
• 429 new housing units of varying types, including townhouses
along Chamonix Lane, multi-family units, and multi-story apartment
buildings
• Housing units in Vail das Schone and Vail Commons are replaced as
part of the master development plan
BUSINESS MIX & PUBLIC SPACE
• The design includes multiple new gathering spaces with opportunities
for outdoor dining
• Attractive new retail spaces for active businesses (brewery and fast
casual dining, coffee shops, unique retail) on multiple properties
• Storefronts along the North Frontage Road contribute to a lively street
environment
• A large multi-story grocer (located on the North Frontage Road) and a
smaller specialty foods store replace Safeway and City Market
• Existing essential businesses such as the hardware store and daycare
center relocate to new locations within West Vail Center
TRANSPORTATION & CIRCULATION
• An internal roadway with angled parking on both sides creates a Main
Street feel
• Surface parking lots are replaced with plazas and businesses, creating
a more pedestrian-friendly environment and reducing conflicts with
vehicles
• The 1,247 spaces provided falls between “Schedule A” and “Schedule
B” of the Town’s parking code. Schedule A is the lower number, meant
for dense, mixed use locations like Vail Village and Lionshead, while B
is the higher number for everywhere else in Vail
• One driving lane of the North Frontage Road is removed to make room
for a landscaped median and paths for people walking and biking. Two
roundabouts are added along the North Frontage Road, improving
access to West Vail Center
• A mobility hub includes a kiosk that offers transit information, grab-
and-go food options, bike parking and other infrastructure such as
electric vehicle charging stations
BARRIERS TO OVERCOME
Scenario 3 involves a master-planned and coordinated redevelopment. This would likely only happen if all parcels came under the same ownership, or at
least the three parcels not owned by the Town of Vail. Unlike previous scenarios, which preserved some uses in their locations (e.g. siting a redesigned
grocery store on the same parcel as one of the current grocery stores), this scenario shifts old uses to new locations. Essential amenities such as the
existing daycare will need to relocate temporarily while redevelopment takes place. In addition, because this scenario adds a “Main Street,” other
roadways within West Vail Center, and two new roundabouts, it will require additional transportation planning.
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47WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
A
B
C
D
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
West Vail Center
Gateway
Main Street
C
D
A Series of
Gathering Spaces
Enhanced
Connectivity
A
D
D
C
C
SCENARIO 3: MAIN STREET
A
Figure 2.12: Scenario 3 Oblique View
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48 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
WEST VAIL CENTER GATEWAYS AND GROCERY ANCHOR
Attractive gateways support a destination-feel in West Vail Center. Two roundabouts along the North Frontage Road act as gateways to West
Vail Center. Additional signage and landscaping features support the sense of arrival.
A new two-story larger square footage grocery store activates the North
Frontage Road at the western gateway location. This area is an ideal location
for this type of grocery store within West Vail Center – the store receives
prime visibility from the highway and its scale contributes to a downtown
feel within the area.
A
Key Elements:
• Clear signage orients visitors to the area and create a brand
for West Vail Center
• Lighting and landscaping help establish a sense of place
Key Elements:
• The existing fast casual restaurants in West Vail Mall are relocated
to the ground floor facing the North Frontage Road, contributing to
active street life.
• The main entrance to the grocer is located on the ground floor and
would contain elevators and escalators to bring customers to the main
shopping level above. This design allows for convenient parking under
the grocery store and in small adjoining surface parking areas.
• Café seating and residences across the street from the grocery store
contribute to a lively neighborhood feel
Example of a gateway roundabout
Example of a large grocery store in a mixed-use building
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49WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
MAIN STREET
A central thoroughfare with pleasant streetscapes and vibrant storefronts. A two-block Main Street is the social and economic core of West
Vail. The street is designed with pedestrians in mind, with wide sidewalks, a series of small plazas, and pedestrian passages that link to other
areas within West Vail Center. The Main Street is designed to receive lots of southwesterly sun, making it an attractive place to spend time in
all seasons.
B
Key Elements:
• The new internal street is framed on each side by two- to four-story
buildings with active businesses (e.g. cafés, retail shops) at the street-
level and residential units or office spaces on the upper floors
• The street will connect a series of small plazas that can host outdoor
dining or group activities
• The new corridor retains an intimate scale that feels inviting to
pedestrians
• The street features rows of angled on-street parking in addition to a
nearby parking garage beneath the grocery store
Examples of main streets in mountain town settings
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50 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
C A SERIES OF GATHERING SPACES
A series of public and private gathering spaces scattered throughout the site offer a multitude of ways for residents and visitors to enjoy Vail’s
moderate mountain climate and ample sunshine. While a single, large gathering space can sometimes feel empty at certain times of day,
these smaller, distributed gathering spaces receive more consistent use throughout the day as spaces where people can eat lunch, walk their
dogs, read, or meet up with friends.
SCENARIO 3: MAIN STREET
Key Elements:
• Plaza areas with café seating located along the Main Street and
adjacent to mixed-use buildings
• Each residential building includes private gathering space and outdoor
amenities
• Festival lighting adds to the ambiance of the space
• A mobility hub offers transit information, grab-and-go food options,
bike parking & other infrastructure (similar to that of Scenario 1)
Examples of gathering spaces
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51WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
D ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY
West Vail Center offers a walkable grid of streets and passages that connect key destinations and residences within.
SCENARIO 3: MAIN STREET
Key Elements:
• Directional signage in key locations informs people walking of the
distance to specific destinations
• New connections between West Vail Center and surrounding streets
so that people can enter from many directions and using all modes
• Wide internal sidewalks and sidewalks on the North Frontage Road
contribute to a comfortable and lively pedestrian atmosphere
Examples of off-street walking an hiking connections
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52 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
SCENARIO PROS AND CONS
PROS:
• Quick and cost-effective
• Best if anticipate no major redevelopment in next 3-5 years
• Better utilizes existing space for community uses
• Convenient
CONS:
• Could delay bigger, better investment in the near-term
• Could make long-term phasing more difficult
• Still auto-oriented
PROS:
• Property owner flexibility
• Majority of existing small businesses and residential remain for
mid-term
• Town controls catalyst
• Reuses some existing structures for less waste and construction
• Blends convenience with walkable
• Straightforward phasing
CONS:
• Less predictability in overall master plan and timing
• Shared parking may be considered “too far” for some retailers
• Underground structure complex and expensive
• Could lack sense of cohesiveness due to individual build-out
SCENARIO 2: PARCEL-BY-PARCELSCENARIO 1: QUICK WINS
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53WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
PROS:
• Grocer conveniently located and simpler development product
• Quiet, quaint “Main Street” environment away from the North
Frontage Road noise
• Series of small plazas for businesses to activate
• Blends convenience with walkable
• Offers most housing
CONS:
• Most disruption to existing businesses and residents - relocation and
construction/demolition
• Would require partnership/agreements with master developer
• Less visibility to Main Street retailers from the North Frontage Road
• More complex phasing
SCENARIO 3: MAIN STREET
New housing types Wayfinding signage
Landscaping helps cultivate a destination-feel
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54 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
MAJOR GROCERY STORE/PHARMACY
50,000 SF
SPECIALTY GROCERY STORE
13,000 SF
FOOD/MARKET HALL
15,000 SF
COFFEE SHOP
2,000 SF
DOCTOR/MEDICAL
7,000 SF
OFFICE/COWORKING
5,000 SF
NON-PROFIT OFFICE
5,000 SF
FITNESS CENTER
7,000 SF
KIDS GIFTS/TOYS
1,500 SF
OPTICIAN
1,500 SF
PIZZERIA
2,000 SF
FAST CASUAL RESTAURANT
2,000 SF
BAR/RESTAURANT
3,000 SF
BREAKFAST/BRUNCH SPOT
2,000 SF
SALON
2,500 SF
BARBER SHOP
1,000 SF
INTERIOR DESIGN/HOME FURNISHINGS
5,000 SF
PHYSICAL THERAPY
3,000 SF
YOGA/SPINNING STUDIO
2,000 SF
POTENTIAL BUSINESS MIX
Scenario 2 and 3 offer 201,000 and 185,000 square feet of commercial space or 54,000 and
28,000 new square footage beyond existing. The following diagram shows a potential business
mix, with both new and existing business types. Square footage figures represent best estimates.
LIQUOR STORE
7,000 SF
HARDWARE STORE
12,000 SF
LAUNDROMAT
1,000 SF BREWERY/RESTAURANT
5,000 SF DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL
4,000 SF
DRY CLEANING
1,500 SF
OUTDOOR GEAR
20,000 SF
SHIPPING
1,000 SF
CONSIGNMENT
2,000 SF
BAKERY
2,000 SF
ARTS/CREATIVE SPACE
2,500 SF
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55WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
FEASIBILITY EVALUATION
The project team prepared a planning level proforma analysis of Scenarios
2 and 3 to gauge their financial feasibility. The analysis subtracts the
value of the development from the estimated costs. The difference is
the residual land value (RLV), the amount a developer could pay for
the property and still achieve a profit. This technique is appropriate
at the Master Plan conceptual stage. Many factors could change or be
optimized by a creative developer through more refined design and value
engineering; these scenarios are illustrative only. This analysis does not
include some public costs such as roundabouts and North Frontage Road
improvements and any major utility infrastructure or public spaces in the
project. Those are areas where partnerships, creative financing, and a role
for the Town may be needed.
The purpose of this analysis is to determine if the scenarios are within the
realm of possibility based on the balance of land uses, typical costs, and
development value. Costs are particularly difficult to gauge at this time
due to the changing construction costs and housing prices at the time of
this plan.
Parking is a large cost, and it is assumed in these scenarios that parking
would be constructed below ground for the most part to create more
space for buildings above ground. The analysis uses the parking ratios
depicted in the scenarios, between that of the Town’s Schedule A and B.
The threshold used for evaluation is that the RLV should fall in the range
of at least $120 to $150 per square foot of land at this level of planning.
The sale of the West Vail Mall in 2018 equates to $120 per sq. ft. and is
the most recent large transaction; $150 is 25 percent above this. Both
scenarios fall within or above this range:
• Scenario 2 results in an estimated RLV of $131 per square foot of land;
• Scenario 3 results in an estimated RLV of $192 per square foot of land.
Scenario 3 is the most financially viable because it maximizes the
development potential of the site with 450 residential units compared to
350 in Scenario 2. This demonstrates the following:
• Residential densities considerably higher than what exists and is allowed
today are needed to incentivize redevelopment and cover the cost of
public benefits.
• Market rate housing development is a key component of development
feasibility. This analysis assumes that half of the project residential
units (50 percent) will be deed restricted and half will be market rate. A
higher percentage of deed restricted units or price caps may reduce the
development feasibility and require the Town to further subsidize the
development.
The analysis modeled commercial rents at or slightly below currently
rents of West Vail Mall. Finding financial feasibility at these rents suggests
that with greater commercial square footage and a large residential
component, rents can remain relatively reasonable for locally-owned and
community-serving businesses.
PUBLIC FINANCING AND TOWN SUPPORT
A limitation of a RLV analysis is that it does not account for the timing of
costs and revenues. A complex redevelopment like this will have large
upfront costs with a delay before sale or lease revenue is produced. The
delayed timing of revenues increases the risk of the project and the rate
of return a developer would need to justify the risk. Given the risks, there
will likely be a need for a public financing mechanism and participation
from the Town on public costs such as parking, placemaking amenities
(streetscaping), and North Frontage Road and mobility hub improvements.
Chapter 5: Implementation recommends approaches to public financing
and incentives with mechanisms such as tax increment financing (TIF) and
a general improvement district.
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56 CHAPTER 2: WEST VAIL CENTER
ZONING RECOMMENDATIONS
The current layout of West Vail Center is in line with the zoning for that
area. The resulting pattern is that of large footprint buildings with large
surface parking lots. Therefore, achieving this plan’s vision and allowing
for the scenarios as depicted will require updates to the Town’s zoning
regulations. It is recommended that the current zoning, Commercial
Core 3, be revised to support the modifications included in Scenario 1.
The more in-depth redevelopments of Scenarios 2 and 3 will require
significant modifications to the zoning or be brought in as a Special
Development District. This section provides high-level recommendations
to the Town for revising the code to support Scenario 1 and design
principles to guide the development agreements and potential new zone
districts of a Scenario 2 or 3.
SCENARIO 1
These revisions are intended to enable to the area to support Scenario
1 with additional housing opportunities, better pedestrian circulation,
activated plazas, and kiosks. To incentivize the development of housing
on top of West Vail Mall and townhouses lining Chamonix Lane, it is
recommended that the allowable density be increased modestly in terms
of both units per buildable acre and gross residential floor area (GRFA).
Housing projects at less than 100% Employee Housing Units should be
considered as well.
Landscaping requirements should remain, with smaller spaces counting
towards the total and further support for property owners to reach
the minimum requirement. The parking schedule could be amended to
reduce the requirement for parking in West Vail, given the shared use
potential and to create additional space for landscaping and outdoor
business space.
The current zoning requires that all business activities be conducted
entirely within a business and that outdoor displays be located directly
in front of the business and entirely on the establishment’s property. It
is recommended that these requirements be relaxed to support farmers’
markets, events, and other uses of the plazas, community green, and
flexible space.
Summary of recommendations:
• Allow housing that is not 100% employee housing
• Increase allowed units per buildable acre and reduce the GRFA
• Amend landscaping requirements to encourage smaller landscaped
buffers within and between the surface parking lots
• Amend the parking schedule to slightly reduce parking requirements
for each lot
• Coordinate agreements between landowners to facilitate shared
parking and connectivity between lots
• Partner with property owners and restaurants on using close-in parking
for outdoor dining
• Relax business activity requirements
SCENARIO 2 AND 3 DESIGN/LAND USE PRINCIPLES
To implement Scenarios 2 or 3, the Town could either create a new
zone district to reflect the scenarios in advance or modify the zoning
during the redevelopment process to align with the development
plan. The merits of these two approaches are discussed in Chapter 5:
Implementation.
With either approach, the following design principles should be
incorporated into any zoning changes, as they reflect the vision and goals
of this plan and would ensure outcomes align with the framework of the
scenarios.
• Allow slightly taller buildings if they provide public benefit (resident
housing) and maximize protection of viewsheds. It is recommended
that if 50-75% of units are deed restricted, building heights of up to 4.5
stories (60’) at the North Frontage Road and 3 stories (38’) at Chamonix
Lane, with 3.5 (45’) in between the North Frontage Road and Chamonix
Lane should be allowed. By working with the topography and placing
taller buildings at these heights closer to the North Frontage Road,
viewsheds from Chamonix Lane residences would be preserved. It
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57WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
is recommended that variable heights be required amongst North
Frontage Road buildings (no taller than 4.5 stories) to preserve sun
exposure throughout the area.
• Lower setback requirements to the North Frontage Road and adjacent
properties. Building closer to the North Frontage Road sidewalks would
create an inviting, activated, pedestrian shopping environment. Rear
setbacks can remain unchanged, so units are not built up to Chamonix
Lane. Setbacks from internal streets will also need to be determined
and should vary based on whether the ground floor is commercial (0-
10’) or residential (10-15’).
• Increase the site coverage maximum to allow more flexibility
in achieving the Town redevelopment and housing goals. It is
recommended that below grade improvements not count towards
site coverage calculations here. The lot coverage requirements should
allow for internal streets and some surface parking to support quick
errands. Likely, the appropriate requirement is higher coverage than
what currently exists and is required but is lower than that found in
Vail Village or Lionshead.
• Support additional housing density to utilize new allowable lot
coverage and building heights and create additional resident housing
opportunities. The redevelopment of the area akin to the scenarios
would likely result in housing densities from 30 to 45 units/buildable
acre of site area. GRFA requirements should also be modified to reflect
new allowable lot coverage and building heights. A variety of housing
types should be encouraged, such that no development is one unit
type.
• Develop a new parking schedule specific to West Vail that is reflective
of a more mixed-use, shared parking environment. This new parking
schedule should be in between that of Vail Village and Lionshead
(Schedule A) and that of other commercial areas found in Vail
(Schedule B) in terms of spaces required.
• Reduce or remove minimum lot size requirements to allow for
the development of townhomes or residential buildings and create
flexibility in the phasing of the redevelopment process.
• Adjust landscaping requirements to be more similar to Lionshead
by allowing smaller, pocket-style landscaped areas. Likely, due to the
utilization of Chamonix Lane hillsides for housing development in
redevelopment scenarios, landscaping requirements will need to be
reduced slightly to allow these units.
• Alter allowable business types to reflect a pedestrian-oriented, mixed-
use environment. Most of the allowable uses, aside from auto parts
stores, would likely continue to be appropriate, but conditional uses
such as outside car washes and commercial storage may no longer be
appropriate, even conditionally. Currently conditional uses, brewpubs
and daycares, should become allowable uses. In addition, restrict
inactive uses (i.e., offices, residential) on the ground floor in areas that
are designed to be activated (e.g. North Frontage Road, new Main
Street, and plazas).
• Develop ground floor treatment regulations that require commercial
and residential entrances to be appropriately spaced and face the
street or public spaces. Commercial spaces should have 50-70%
transparency, with a higher percentage required for businesses along
the North Frontage Road, where the double frontage to internal streets
should be managed as well.
• Develop design guidelines that foster a pedestrian-friendly
environment with a mountain aesthetic. Guidelines should address
the following topics: reducing mass and scale of buildings to be human
and pedestrian-scaled; wall articulation standards that avoid long, solid
planes of walls; upper floor step backs to create proportion around
streets and public space; desirable building materials and architectural
elements; roof forms; parking structure design; and site features like
landscaping and streetscape elements. Overall, the design guidelines
should support the vision and desired character for West Vail Center, as
described in this plan.
• The Town’s building requirements, including those maintaining public
safety (fire access), would remain in effect.
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November 2, 2021 - Page 111 of 229
INTRODUCTION
“The future West Vail is a complete neighborhood with increased housing
options for year-round residents, streets that support multiple modes of
transportation, and a vibrant, walkable destination where residents and
visitors can shop at local businesses and gather as a community. Though just
minutes from a world-class resort, West Vail retains the familiar, neighborly
character of a small mountain town.”
CHAPTER 3:HOUSING
“West Vail will remain the heart of resident-occupied housing in Vail.
Through updates to zoning regulations, resident-first housing policies, and
the construction of new housing in the commercial core, residents can find
quality places to live in the West Vail neighborhood. New and upgraded
units will reflect the scale and varied character of West Vail’s existing
housing stock.”
Vision Statement
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60 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
INTRODUCTION
This chapter analyzes and provides recommendations for housing
in West Vail. The chapter addresses the potential for new housing
development in West Vail Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods, the preservation of residential character, and
providing a place for residents to live in West Vail through policies and
zoning regulation changes.
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61WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
WHAT IS RESIDENT HOUSING?
The provision of “resident housing”, or
housing occupied by year-round residents,
is the focal point of housing efforts by the
Town of Vail. The Housing Department’s
vision is to be the “resort community
leader in ensuring the availability of homes
for year-round Vail residents.” Resident
housing is viewed as essential community
infrastructure, “critical to maintaining and
sustaining the resort community,” and can
be both owner and renter-occupied. In its
2016 housing plan, the Town established
ambitious goals around increasing the
supply of resident housing units in West
Vail. The Town deploys a multi-pronged
approach to providing resident housing,
including the Vail InDEED program and
deed-restricted developments such as
the Chamonix Townhomes. These deed
restrictions require that home occupants
be working at least 30 hours a week for
an Eagle County business. Throughout the
West Vail Master Plan process, members
of the public spoke to the importance of
“keeping the lights on” and a neighborly
feel for West Vail. This chapter contains
several strategies, recommendations, and
policies to support resident housing in
West Vail.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
West Vail was historically more affordable and lived in by residents, with fewer oft-vacant second
homes than other areas of Vail. Today, it is known as the locals’ neighborhood, as approximately
72% of housing units in the study area are resident-occupied, compared to 46% Town-wide.
Despite similar demographics amongst residents, the home prices in West Vail are dramatically
different than those elsewhere in the Town. As of July 2020, the average home price in West Vail is
$1.3 million, while it is $3.4 million elsewhere in the Town (Eagle County Assessor’s Data). Unlike
in years past, many West Vail homes are now being purchased by non-residents. Increasingly,
homes in West Vail are being converted into short-term rentals, with approximately 10% of West
Vail housing units registered with the Town as short-term rentals. Overall, it is becoming more
challenging for year-round residents to find housing both Town-wide and in West Vail specifically.
The full analysis of existing conditions is included as Appendix A.
ZONING AND LAND USE
West Vail’s current zoning regulations support single family homes and duplexes in the residential
neighborhood areas and limited residential opportunities in West Vail Center.
Most of West Vail’s residential neighborhoods are zoned as Two-Family Primary Secondary
Residential, allowing single family homes or duplexes, depending on the lot size. Many West Vail
homes predate West Vail’s 1986 incorporation into the Town. Accordingly, many of these dwellings
are aging and the Town’s zoning regulations were not applicable when these dwellings were built.
As a result, the majority of dwellings do not comply with the zoning regulations for units allowed,
lot size, or lot coverage. There are many multi-family dwellings built on lots that only allow a
single-family home or duplex, with 65 such lots and 260 units more than allowed. If redeveloped,
the number of units would be greatly reduced to conform to regulations. The housing units also
tend to be eclectic, with a varied character that residents appreciate. The variety also extends to
different price-points and rents, allowing a mix of people to live in the neighborhood.
In West Vail Center, the commercial area, the current zoning (CC3) only allows for employee
housing units (EHUs, occupant must work 30+ hours a week for an Eagle County business). Only
some of the lots have housing units at all, and few are built to the density allowed in the code.
Overall, the land area in West Vail Center is poorly utilized and does not offer many housing
opportunities given the acreage and transportation connectivity. Throughout the West Vail project
area, there are very few vacant parcels open for new development, and to continue to support
resident housing, better utilization of the existing lots is necessary.
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62 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
HOUSING POLICY
The Town has been proactive in using regulatory tools and available funding sources to address
the lack of housing and provide opportunities for year-round residents. Vail has long mandated
deed restrictions and EHUs in new developments, such as the Chamonix Townhomes, but is
increasingly seeking to put deed restrictions on existing units, rather than only building new units
to achieve housing goals.
Through its Vail InDEED program, the Town acquires deed restrictions on existing homes that
restrict sale to and occupancy by people who work for an Eagle County business 30 or more hours
per week. There is no income limit or appreciation cap; the goal of the program is to attract and
retain year-round residents who will contribute to a year-round community. The program funding
depends on the availability of discretionary revenues, as it does not have a dedicated funding
source. As of June 2020, the Town has acquired 44 deed restrictions through Vail InDEED, with 13
of them in West Vail.
The two primary regulatory tools the Town uses are inclusionary zoning and commercial linkage.
Inclusionary zoning requires new projects in designated areas to provide 10% of its net new
square footage as EHUs, either on-site or as a fee-in-lieu, a payment that will contribute towards
building such housing elsewhere in Eagle County. Commercial linkage is a requirement for
businesses to provide units or pay a fee towards the Town’s housing programs based on a factor
of the jobs created. The Town is currently exploring the addition of a residential linkage fee and
updating the commercial linkage fee. A linkage fee is a type of impact fee charged based on the
employment generation characteristics of new development. Residential linkage fees link the jobs
generated from the spending of new household income to housing demand.
The Town has a complex system for EHUs, but many types of developments that have these units
allow for an additional unit on the lot beyond what is otherwise allowed by the zone district. Of
the EHUs in West Vail, the majority are on Town-owned property (Chamonix Townhomes and Vail
Commons). Largely through these developments, West Vail has four times the concentration of
EHUs than the Town overall.
Examples of multi-family housing units
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63WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
Members of the public participated in this master plan process to
share their goals and priorities and also to review the ideas and
recommendations contained in this chapter.
In the September 2020 Virtual Open House, participants highlighted the
importance of continuing to provide resident housing and a neighborly
feel. Participants were eager to see new units embrace a mountain
town character and enhanced quality. They generally expressed support
for additional deed-restricted units and were concerned about the
proliferation of short-term rentals.
In the January 2021 Housing Workshop, participants provided more
detailed feedback on a draft vision, goals, potential zoning changes,
and desired future housing types. Participants generally expressed
openness to zoning changes in designated areas and were interested
in a mix of housing types. In the Commercial Area Workshop held in
February 2021, participants supported providing additional housing in
West Vail Center, with the qualification that many of these units should
be deed-restricted. In both workshops, participants shared a desire to
see much of the new housing development in West Vail concentrated in
and around West Vail Center.
The recommendations and policies of this plan are also intended to
align with the Vail Housing 2027 strategic plan (2016). That plan’s
vision speaks to a “diverse, resilient, inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable
mountain resort community where year-round residents are afforded
the opportunity to live and thrive.” The plan also establishes deed
restrictions as the primary mechanism and calls for innovative housing
solutions. These key themes of innovation, vibrancy, sustainability, and
inclusivity served to guide the recommendations of this plan.
HARNESSING DEED RESTRICTIONS
Vail, like many tourism destination communities across the
country, attracts second homeowners who out-compete
what year-round residents can afford in the housing market.
Over the past five years, over 75% of homes in Vail have been
sold to non-residents, and existing or would-be residents are
increasingly finding it hard to find housing in Vail. Yet these year-
round residents are essential to staff local businesses and create
community vibrancy. The Town of Vail has taken a proactive
response to these challenges, with a multi-pronged approach to
support resident housing.
The Town’s housing-related efforts are focused on placing deed
restrictions on new and existing units throughout the Town. The
Town has established a goal of 1,000 new deed restrictions in
the Town by 2027. Most frequently, a deed restriction in West
Vail will only require that the occupant work 30+ hours a week
for an Eagle County business. Therefore, the unit cannot be sold
to a second homeowner or one looking to make it a short-term
rental. Through deed restrictions, an increasing number of units
are only open to year-round residents.
The Town’s deed restriction requirements are rather open, as
they seek to maximize the number of property owners who
want to place deed restrictions on their homes or the number of
units a developer may build.
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64 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
WHY CHANGE?
As described in the existing conditions, there are many factors that indicate West Vail is ready for
a change in its housing policies and zoning code. The current housing stock does not conform to
either the existing zoning or the desired future for the area. The market forces at play do not bode
well for West Vail to continue to be a year-round resident community. And finally, the potential
transformation of West Vail Center is a key opportunity to better incorporate and expand the
housing offering into the commercial core of the neighborhood.
MARKET FORCES
Current real estate trends indicate that the amount of housing available to year-round residents
will continue to diminish. In mountain resort communities, second home buyers will almost
always out-compete local wage earners in the housing market and Vail is no exception. Over the
past 5 years, 75% of home sales Town-wide have been to second home buyers, diminishing the
number of housing units occupied by residents. West Vail has a higher proportion of its housing
units occupied by residents than elsewhere in the Town, but that proportion is expected to
decline given the high home prices both in West Vail and Town-wide. To afford a home at the
average West Vail price, $1.3 million, a household would need to make over $200,000 or three
times the Area Median Income (AMI). While high, the housing prices of West Vail represents a
relative bargain to the rest of the Town ($3.4 million average price), and second home purchasers
are likely to increasingly consider, outbid, and purchase homes in West Vail.
NON-CONFORMITIES AND THE HOUSING STOCK
There are hundreds of non-conforming lots in West Vail. Most of these lots have more dwelling
units than the zoning regulations allow or exceed the allowable lot coverage. The current zoning
code requirements prohibit the redevelopment of these lots at the existing number of units.
For all lots where the existing number of units exceeds the allowable number of units by more
than one, if the lot is redeveloped or the structure is destroyed, the allowed number of units
built would revert to the zoning code. With largely single-family homes and duplexes allowed
throughout West Vail, redevelopment of these non-conforming multi-family properties would
result in a significant loss of units. Many of these multi-family units in West Vail are home to
year-round residents. Many of these buildings are older, have not been updated, and may
have deferred maintenance. Because of their condition and limited attractiveness to second
Existing residential properties in West Vail
November 2, 2021 - Page 117 of 229
homeowners, they often rent for less than other area units.
To recoup the resulting loss of units from these non-conformities, many landowners would look
to redevelop the property as high-end single family homes or duplexes likely sold to second
homeowners.
Additionally, many of the dwellings in West Vail are older and becoming run-down. Changes in
code and new policies and programs are necessary to support landowners in enhancing their
property and improving aesthetics of the Town.
OPPORTUNITY IN WEST VAIL CENTER
The Town of Vail is essentially built out; there are few undeveloped lots or properties remaining
in the Town. West Vail Center, if redeveloped, is one of the last opportunities to have a significant
influence on new housing in Vail. The existing low-density development pattern in West Vail
Center is an inefficient use of land, with only 48 units in the 12.8-acre focus area. Increasing
allowed residential densities would catalyze new developments, create a customer base for new
and existing businesses, and expand housing opportunities in Town, with a mix of market rate and
deed restricted units that offer additional year-round resident housing.
BENEFITS OF RESIDENT HOUSING
The benefits of resident housing are numerous, with impacts beyond the people who have
attained housing and support West Vail businesses throughout the year. In 2019, the Town
commissioned a study of the economic impact of investing in 1,000 units of resident housing
when it was designing the Vail InDEED program. The study found that the reductions in
commuting were worth $825,000 per year (applying the value of people’s time) and would save
95,000 gallons of gas annually. These new residents strengthen the sense of community, and the
value of increased volunteerism related to living in a community was estimated at $1.2 million
per year. Increased school enrollment can bring an additional $200,000 into the school system. In
addition, if employees could find housing in Town, employers would save money through more
efficient operations and offer a better guest experience through lower employee turnover.
Existing residential properties in West Vail
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66 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
GOALS FOR HOUSING IN VAIL1A growing number of deed-restricted units in West Vail
address the trend of conversion to second homes.
The Town of Vail has committed to acquiring 1,000 additional
resident housing units by 2027. Dedicated resident housing is
vital for maintaining community and providing opportunities
for year-round residents to live and thrive. To achieve this unit
goal, the Town is deploying a multi-pronged approach: building
new deed restricted units where land allows and placing deed
restrictions on existing units through its Vail InDEED program.
West Vail has long been a predominantly year-round resident
neighborhood, and intentional efforts will be necessary to
continue to offer residents opportunities to live there. In this
plan, strategies and recommendations will look to increase
deed restricted units in West Vail Center and preserve or slightly
increase the number of units in surrounding neighborhoods.
These efforts must be a collaboration between the public and
private sector, with incentives that encourage the private sector
to develop deed restricted units.
2 The Town’s zoning regulations and programs allow
for and support residents and landowners in making
continued improvements to their properties in a way that
preserves units and enhances aesthetics.
Many of the housing units in West Vail are 30+ years old and
are showing their age. Aesthetic enhancements and upgrades
are necessary to maintain the appeal of the neighborhood.
Key strategies towards achieving this goal include changes
in the Town Code and incentives programs that reduce fees,
encourage redevelopment, and ease the development process.
3 New construction and updates to existing housing
reflect West Vail’s mountain environment and align
with the neighborhood character.
West Vail has a unique neighborhood character that residents
appreciate. It is a high priority that new or rehabilitated
housing units reflect the mountain environment in which
they are located. Key strategies towards achieving this goal
include updating both design guidelines and the zoning
regulations.
4 West Vail’s residential areas host a continuum of
housing options taking many forms (single family,
duplexes, multi-family, and accessory dwelling units)
to accommodate residents through all phases and
stages of life.
Given the community feel and amenities available in West
Vail, residents often look to remain in the neighborhood, even
as their circumstances change. In order to meet the needs
of residents in every phase and stage of life, a diversity of
housing types is needed. Key strategies towards achieving this
goal include zone district changes and other zoning regulation
changes to support a variety of housing types to achieve density
and better facilitate accessory dwelling units.
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67WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
5 New housing and transit stops are strategically located
so that 90 percent of West Vail housing units are within a
five-minute walk of a transit stop.
One of the Town’s key sustainability goals is reducing the
vehicle miles traveled by its visitors and residents. Encouraging
transit use is a key element of this, particularly for trips that
cannot easily be accomplished as a walk or bicycle ride. In
people’s decision to take transit, the proximity of the bus stop
to one’s home is a major factor. So that residents are frequent
transit users, new housing should be predominantly located
within a five-minute walk of a transit stop. Housing near
transit and commercial services should also have lower parking
requirements, supporting residents and visitors adopting car-
free or car-lite lifestyles and providing additional space for
housing. At present, 82% of West Vail housing units are within a
five-minute walk of a transit stop. This desired increase, to 90%,
would be achieved through zoning changes to support density
near existing transit stops. All new development in West Vail
Center will be within a five-minute walk of transit.
6 While West Vail is primarily a residential community,
there is a managed level of short-term rental units that
allow visitors to stay in West Vail and support local
businesses.
In West Vail, as in many tourism communities, the number of
short-term rentals is growing. Short-term rentals represent an
attractive investment proposition and accelerate the conversion
away from resident housing. The number of short-term rentals
in the community can be managed to a level that continues
to support a majority percentage of units as resident housing.
Strategies to achieve this goal include placing deed restrictions
on existing units and working with Town Council to establish
short-term rental regulations.
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68 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
Figure 3.1: Zoning Areas of Change
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69WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations provide policies, actions, and other
strategies towards achieving the goals outlined previously.
ZONE DISTRICT CHANGES
The recommended zone district changes are intended to resolve the
many non-conformities, create better alignment with the Town’s Land
Use Plan, and support additional housing units while maintaining the
desired neighborhood character. As previously described, the current
zoning regulations support relatively low density neighborhoods,
with many non-conforming multi-family properties. In these
recommendations, the allowable density is increased in areas where
higher density development already exists, where transit connectivity
is strong, and where the Land Use Plan calls for medium density
residential. Other changes recommended here are intended to support
additional deed restricted units, adjust parking requirements to account
for proximity to transit and West Vail Center, reduce non-conformities,
and allow for a diversity of housing types that support a continuum of
housing for all stages of life and family structures.
The zoning recommendations shown here contain both zone districts
that already exist in the Town of Vail code (with some modifications)
and new zone districts that could be created to better support resident
housing. Key elements, such as units allowed per buildable acre and
parking requirements, are presented here, but further associated
requirements can be found in the Town’s zoning regulations.
The three areas recommended for new zoning designations are shown in
Figure 3.1 and represent areas where there is already a concentration of
multi-family units.
The recommended zone districts are based on a housing unit analysis
of existing unit counts and potential unit counts under different zone
districts. A visual model of this analysis for Lower Chamonix is included
as Figure 3.3.
Zoning Recommendation #1
A new zone district, West Vail Multiple-Family 1, is recommended.
This zone district is intended to support resident housing in areas well-
connected to transit and that have an existing supply of multi-family
housing. This district would have a minimum density requirement equal
to the existing Low Density Multiple-Family Residential zone that allows
9 units per buildable acre. Therefore, on all but the smallest lots, multi-
family developments would be required. When redeveloped, at least
one unit must be deed restricted. This new zone district would allow up
to 18 units per buildable acre only if half (50%) of the additional units
beyond the minimum density are deed restricted. If the number of deed-
restricted units required is not a round number, the developer would
have to round up or pay a fee. For example, for a 2/3-acre lot, 6 units
would be required at a minimum with one deed restricted unit, with up
to 12 units if 4 units are deed-restricted.
If developed at 9 units per buildable acre, other requirements such as
building height and lot coverage would be the same as those for the
existing zone district Low Density Multiple-Family Residential, however,
the Gross Residential Floor Area (GRFA) requirement would be increased.
At above 9 units per buildable acre, the requirements associated
with Medium Density Multiple-Family would come into effect, with a
commensurate increase in the GRFA requirement. The Town’s current
GRFA requirements for multiple-family development result in small
building square footage. Therefore, if GRFA requirements remained in
place as is, there may be a limited incentive to redevelop or there would
not be appropriately-sized units for the variety of Town resident needs.
With more flexibility, there is both a greater profitability opportunity and
greater opportunity for larger or multi-bedroom units.
Lots with greater than 18 units/buildable acre at present would be
allowed to redevelop to existing unit counts if they comply with deed
restrictions and other dimensional requirements.
It is recommended that short-term rentals not be allowed on the
additional units beyond existing of redeveloped lots in this zone district.
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70 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
Zoning Recommendation #2
A new zone district, West Vail Multiple-Family 2, is recommended. This
zone district has a similar intention to that of West Vail Multiple-Family
1 (supporting resident housing in well-connected areas ), although at
lower densities to match the character of areas where it is applied.
This district would have a minimum density requirement equal to the
existing Residential Cluster zone that allows 6 units per buildable acre.
Therefore, lots would be a mix of duplexes, triplexes, and small multi-
family. When redeveloped, at least one unit must be deed restricted.
This new zone district would allow up to 12 units per buildable acre only
if half (50%) of the additional units beyond the minimum density are
deed restricted. If the number of deed-restricted units required is not
a round number, the developer would have to round up or pay a fee.
For example, for a 2/3-acre lot, 6 units would be required at a minimum
with one deed restricted unit, with up to 12 units if 4 units are deed-
restricted.
If developed at 6 units per buildable acre, other requirements such as
building height and lot coverage would be the same as those for the
existing zone district Residential Cluster, however, the GRFA requirement
would be increased. At above 6 units per buildable acre, the Town would
develop new dimensional requirements, between that of Low-Density
and Medium Density Multiple-Family with a commensurate increase in
GRFA, that would come into effect.
Lots with greater than 12 units/buildable acre at present would be
allowed to redevelop to existing unit counts if they comply with deed
restrictions and other dimensional requirements.
It is recommended that short-term rentals not be allowed on the
additional units beyond existing of redeveloped lots in this zone district.
Zoning Recommendation #2
The Upper Chamonix area includes most residential lots on Chamonix
Lane from behind the Highline hotel to Buffehr Creek Park, the lots
along Buffehr Creek Road below Chamonix Lane, and the lots along
Meadow Ridge Road. It is recommended that the area be rezoned as
West Vail Multiple-Family 1, where 9 units are allowed per buildable
acre with a deed restriction or up to 18 units if 50 percent of additional
units are deed restricted.
This area currently has 151 units, while only 54 are allowed. If no zoning
change was made, and it was left as Two-Family Primary Secondary
Residential, over time, as lots are redeveloped, up to 97 of these units
would be lost, many of which are currently occupied by year-round
residents. If zoned as West Vail Multiple-Family 1, the area could have
102 units with the minimum zoning densities applying. At 50% of the
additional deed-restricted, the area could have 226 units. At minimum
zoning, the area would primarily be duplexes, triplexes and small
multi-family (3-5 units). With the additional density associated with
deed-restricted units, the area would be a mix of small multi-family
(3-5 units) and medium-sized multi-family (6-10 units), with some large
multi-family (10-12 units). Potential units counts and deed-restricted
unit counts are summarized in Table 3.1. Further study of the roadway’s
volume to capacity ratio and other transportation modifications would
be necessary prior to significant redevelopments that would add units
and vehicle trips to Chamonix Lane.
Zoning Recommendation #3
The Lower Chamonix area, along Chamonix Lane near the Frontage
Road, is recommended to be rezoned to West Vail Multiple-Family 1
(as defined in Zoning Recommendation #1), where at least 9 units per
buildable acre are required, and up to 18 units are allowed per buildable
acre if 50 percent of the additional units are deed-restricted.
This area currently has 65 units, while only 23 are allowed. If no zoning
change was made, and it was left as Two-Family Primary Secondary
Residential, over time, as lots are redeveloped, up to 42 of these units
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71WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
would be lost, many of which are currently occupied by year-round
residents. At 9 units per buildable acre, the area could have 51 units and
at 18 units per buildable acre, 106 units. Dependent on the size of the
lot, this area would have a mix of small multi-family (3-5 units), medium
multi-family (6-10 units), with a few large multi-family possible (10-12
units with deed restricted units), and triplexes and duplexes east of the
intersection of Chamonix Lane and Arosa Drive. Potential units counts
and deed-restricted unit counts are summarized in Table 3.1.
Zoning Recommendation #4
The Geneva area, along Geneva Drive, Gore Creek Drive, Alpine Drive,
and Matterhorn Circle, is recommended to be rezoned to West Vail
Multiple-Family 2 (as defined in zoning recommendation #2), where
at least 6 units per buildable acre are required with a deed restricted
unit, and up to 12 units are allowed per buildable acre if 50 percent
of the additional units are deed-restricted. The area currently has 60
units while only 43 are allowed by current zoning (Two-Family Primary
Secondary Residential). If no zoning change was made, over time, as
lots are redeveloped, up to 17 of these units would be lost, many of
which are currently occupied by year-round residents. This new zoning
designation, West Vail Multiple-Family 2, would allow for up to 52 units
at a minimum or 120 with additional deed restricted units. Potential
units counts and deed-restricted unit counts are summarized in Table
3.1. Dependent on the size of the lot, this area would have a mix of
duplexes and triplexes, and some small to medium multi-family at
maximum density.
The new recommended zoning is shown in Figure 3.2.
The new densities in these areas represent the maximum potential
build-out and are unlikely to occur, particularly in the short-term.
To achieve the prescribed levels of units, all lots would need to be
redeveloped. While some lots may redevelop to the maximum allowed,
many others are unlikely to flip and would remain single family homes or
duplexes. The purpose of understanding a potential loss in units through
redevelopment is to “test” what may happen naturally over time if no
zoning changes are made.
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72 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
UPPER CHAMONIX LOWER CHAMONIX GENEVA
Zoning Designation West Vail Multiple-Family 1 West Vail Multiple-Family 1 West Vail Multiple-Family 2
Lots 27 18 30
Existing Unit Count 151 65 60
Short-term Rental
Licenses (2020)12 7 6
Deed Restricted Units
(2020)11 2 1
Units Allowed Under
Current Zoning 54 23 43
Allowed Units -
Minimum Density 102 51 52
Allowed Units -
Maximum Density 226 106 120
Resulting Deed
Restrictions -
Minimum Density
31 18 30
Resulting Deed
Restrictions -
Maximum Density
93 45 64
Primary Unit Type Small, medium-size multi-family,
townhouses at maximum
Small, medium-size multi-family,
townhouses at maximum
Duplexes, triplexes, small to
medium multi-family at maximum
Table 3.1: Zoning Recommendations Summary
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73WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 3.2: Recommended Zoning
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74 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
HOUSING UNIT ANALYSIS
During the planning process, a housing analysis
was undertaken to compare the number of
existing housing units and non-conformities to
different Town of Vail zone districts.
The “Lower Chamonix” analyzed here
represents slightly more lots than the area
recommended in Figure 3.1.
At present, the number of units allowed by
zoning in the Lower Chamonix area is 31,
much lower than the 71 that currently exist.
Therefore, if no zoning change was made, the
number of units would decrease over time,
with more single family homes and duplexes
and fewer multi-family developments. Changes
could be made to either preserve existing
density or increase density under other
zone districts. The public was asked their
preference during the Housing Workshop and
many expressed interest in either retaining or
increasing density.
This type of analysis and public feedback was
carried forth for all three areas of change,
to understand the issue and consider future
options. This analysis informed the zone
district recommendations of this chapter.
The zone districts described in Zoning
Recommendations #1 and #2 match the
densities depicted here, with additional
modifications to support resident housing and
reduce non-conformities.
EXISTING CONDITION
PRESERVE EXISTING DENSITY
Low Density Multi-Family Residential (9 du/buildable acre)
Existing Units: 71 | Non-Conformities: 18 | Lots: 24
Units Allowed: 69 | Units Compared to Existing: -2 | Non-Conformities: 13
Figure 3.3: Housing Unit Analysis for Lower Chamonix
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75WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
LOSE DENSITY OVER TIME
Current Zoning: Two-Family Primary/Secondary Residential
INCREASE DENSITY
Medium Density Multi-Family Residential (18 du/buildable acre)
Units Allowed: 31 | Units Compared to Existing: -40
Units Allowed: 137 | Units Compared to Existing: +66 | Non-Conformities: 4
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76 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
NEW HOUSING AND TRANSIT CONNECTIVITY
Currently, about 82% of Town housing units in West Vail are
located within a 5-minute walk of a bus stop. This level of
connectivity is unusual in mountain communities and enables
many residents to go to work, ski, or complete other key tasks
without a vehicle. To support fewer vehicle trips in West Vail
going forward, preserving or enhancing this level of connectivity
for residents is essential. Locations where additional density is
recommended in this plan are all within a 5-minute walkshed
of bus stops. With the redevelopment of the residential
neighborhoods and West Vail Center, the percentage of West
Vail housing units within a 5-minute walk of a bus stop could be
up to 90%.
VAIL TOWN CODE CHANGES
The Vail Town Code prescribes how units can be built, modified, or
redeveloped. Several changes to the code are recommended here to
encourage redevelopment that preserves the character and scale of the
neighborhood and supports resident housing.
Town Code Recommendation #1
The Town Code establishes maximum site coverage and building heights
for new structures. In the West Vail Multiple-Family zone districts, an
increase in allowable site coverage is recommended (beyond that of
Residential Cluster, Low Density Multiple-Family, and Medium Density
Multiple-Family zone districts). This increase should only be to the
degree that it will be helpful to achieving the densities allowed by these
zone districts.
Town Code Recommendation #2
The GRFA requirement can create challenges for the development
of multi-family to the allowable density in West Vail. For the West
Vail Multiple-Family zone districts, an increase to allowable GRFA is
recommended.
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77WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Town Code Recommendation #3
The Town of Vail has relatively generous parking requirements in
residential areas. Higher parking requirements mean that a larger
portion of a lot is dedicated to parking, making it harder to develop
more units. Areas of West Vail with proximity to key commercial services
in West Vail Center and transit connectivity do not require a car-
dependent lifestyle. Figure 3.4 shows a parking overlay district of all lots
within a 5-minute walk of West Vail Center. In this district, along with
West Vail Multiple-Family 1 zone district, it is recommended that the
parking requirements and potential reductions to such requirements
be subject to future study. Study of such reductions should include
analysis of potential emergency services impacts including parking in fire
lanes, fire vehicle, turnarounds, and enforcement capacity. Pending the
results of this study, in areas where parking is currently provided, the
amount of parking spaces provided could be reduced to meet the new
requirements. Therefore, building would be allowed on existing parking
lots.
Town Code Recommendation #4
On many lots in West Vail, the driveway or parking area expands
across the front of the house, creating a wide expanse where cars
are backing up directly onto the streets and passing pedestrians. This
creates both an uncomfortable situation for pedestrians and is not
aesthetically pleasing. It is recommended that the Town amend the
code to establish a maximum width of parking access as the width
of two vehicles in the West Vail Multiple-Family districts. Creativity
in site design may be needed to maximize density with this parking
requirement. An exception may be granted if an applicant can provide
an aesthetic buffer or pedestrian-safe design.
Parking Examples
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78 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
Figure 3.4: Parking Overlay District
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79WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
WEST VAIL CENTER TRANSFORMATION
As described in Chapter 2, this plan envisions a transformed West Vail
Center. Currently, West Vail Center has limited housing opportunities
and the land area is not well utilized, with large surface parking lots and
commercial buildings with no residential component. Redevelopment
of West Vail Center offers new and expanded opportunities for housing.
This plan presents three potential scenarios for redevelopment, each
representing different opportunities for housing. The scenarios are
described fully in Chapter 2, with the potential changes as they relate to
housing described here in Chapter 3.
Scenario 1
Scenario 1 improves the existing site layout and efficiency of West
Vail Center, offering short-term opportunities for redevelopment. For
housing, the scenario includes potential townhouses along Chamonix
Lane and an additional story for housing above West Vail Mall.
The scenario includes 13 townhouses along Chamonix Lane on the
existing Vail Das Schone and Safeway parcels. It is recommended that
the Town purchase the land area (approximately 1 acre) to develop
these townhouses or work with the businesses to develop the housing
for their employees.
Approximately 8 new housing units could be developed as an additional
story on the West Vail Mall. There may be an opportunity to develop
additional housing units on top of other buildings in West Vail Center.
Example of alley-loaded multi-family residences
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80 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
These two new sets of housing units would result in 69 housing units in
West Vail Center, an increase from the 48 existing units which are split
between Vail Das Schone and Vail Commons.
It is recommended to increase the allowable density of CC3, from
12 units per buildable acre to 18, to allow for the number of units
planned for the West Vail Mall addition and Chamonix Lane townhomes
regardless of whether the parcels are or are not subdivided. All lots in
West Vail Center are a part of the Town’s inclusionary zoning, where a
minimum of 10% of new GRFA must be EHUs. The existing CC3 zoning
requires all housing units to be EHUs. It is recommended to modify this
requirement and allow projects at less than 100% employee housing.
This would more than satisfy the inclusionary zoning policy while also
allowing market-rate housing to incentivize redevelopment.
Figure 3.5: Rendering of new housing atop West Vail Mall (Scenario 1)
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81WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Scenarios 2 and 3
In Scenarios 2 and 3, more far-reaching redevelopments take place
that bury parking and include new apartment buildings and multi-
story mixed use buildings, with retail space on the ground floor and
residential units or office space on upper floors.
The redevelopment of these parcels is intended to create additional
and more attractive commercial and residential square footage.
With underground parking, several market-rate units, and other
incentives provided by the Town, the project can still “pencil” while
still containing a high percentage of deed-restricted housing units. By
the Town investing in a parking structure or other incentives for the
redevelopment of West Vail Center, the investment can be returned
as a public benefit with resident housing. Some market-rate units,
such as top floor penthouses, can help the project carry the cost of
the lower priced deed-restricted units. In addition, creating a base
of year-round residents who frequent the businesses in West Vail
Center would help support the businesses and foster vibrancy. Further
information on potential financing structures can be found in Chapter 5:
Implementation.
As described in Chapter 2, it is recommended that redeveloping
to higher building heights (3-4 stories depending on location) be
dependent on the proportion of deed-restricted units included. For 3-4
A
KEY ELEMENTS
B
Mixed-use Buildings
Along Frontage Road
Variety of Housing
Types
C
D
West Vail Plaza
Mixed-use Grocer
A
B
C
D
A
B
B
B
SCENARIO 2 WITH SEVERAL NEW HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
Figure 3.6: Oblique view of Scenario 2 with several new housing opportunities
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82 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
stories to be developed, it is recommended that the units be 50-75%
deed-restricted. The scenarios as described in Chapter 2 are reflective of
if the developer chose to pursue that percentage of deed restrictions. It
is recommended that the only requirement of the deed restrictions be
an occupant working 30 hours a week for an Eagle County business, with
no income targets or price appreciation cap.
It is recommended that the updated zoning and development
agreements seek a variety of dwelling unit sizes for redevelopment
within the overall West Vail Center. This variety creates a mix of
price points and better allows residents to remain in place as life
circumstances change. Overall, the scenarios include a variety of
housing types – townhouses, mixed use buildings, walk-up apartments
– to support a mix of price points and resident demographics, both
socioeconomic and family structure. It is also recommended that new
housing units be a mix of owned and rental.
Potential Unit Counts and Types
Scenario 2 is a parcel-by-parcel redevelopment, where new buildings
are added to each lot, including townhouses along Chamonix Lane
and buildings lining the North Frontage Road. All of these buildings
are intended to have a residential component. When all phases are
complete, the development could have approximately 350 units, an
increase from the existing 48, at approximately 30 units per buildable
acre. At 50-75% deed restricted units, the development would provide
175-260 resident housing units, an increase from the existing 48.
Scenario 3 is a Main street-oriented, master-planned development
where current parcel boundaries disappear as the area redevelops.
Similar to Scenario 2, the redevelopment includes a variety of housing
types – small multi-family, apartment buildings, and mixed-use
buildings. This development could have approximately 475 units, an
increase from the existing 48, at approximately 50 units per buildable
acre. At 50-75% deed restricted units, the development would provide
240-350 resident housing units, an increase from the existing 48.
INSERT PHOTO
Example of mixed use with residential
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83WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
POLICIES AND PROGRAMS
There are several policies and programs the Town can deploy to fund
and encourage additional deed restricted units, aesthetic improvements,
and realize other housing goals for West Vail. The policies and programs
include a mix of guiding framework, process modifications, funding
mechanisms, and other items for further study. While these policies and
programs were devised to apply to West Vail, the Town could choose to
deploy these Town-wide or establish a West Vail overlay within which
they would apply.
Policy and Program Recommendation #1
The new zone districts would allow the existing number of units in
these residential neighborhoods by making the properties in these
areas conforming with density and supporting greater flexibility with
other development standards. These lots, while older and sometimes
run-down, provide essential housing opportunities for year-round
residents. Yet as landowners look to redevelop these lots, even to the
existing number of units, they may be forced to raise the rent or unit
prices in order to pay for the renovation, possibly to the rates of the
open market. It is recommended that the Town develop an incentive
or credit program to provide the landowners with funding to improve
their property while continuing to provide resident housing.
Policy and Program Recommendation #2
Short-term rentals are essentially turning second-homes and year-
round resident homes into hotel beds for visitors. Often, for property
owners, the revenue from short-term rentals exceeds that of a long-
term renter or the costs of a monthly mortgage. This makes short-term
rental conversion an attractive investment. Additionally, short-term
rentals impact the neighborly feel of a place. At present, about 10% of
housing units in West Vail are registered as short-term rentals with the
Town. It is recommended in the West Vail Multiple-Family districts that
no short-term rentals be allowed for additional units on redeveloped
lots. The Town should explore additional short-term rental regulations
such as a Town-wide or neighborhood-wide cap on the number of
units allowed to be short-term rentals, a high yearly license fee to
reduce the financial gap, and/or a set of good-neighbor regulations
that ensure minimal impact to surrounding neighbors. Other ideas
include disallowing the use of short-term rentals until a few years after a
property has been purchased, only allowing a certain number per street,
or grandfathering in existing short-term rentals for a period of time and
allowing no more after a certain date.
Policy and Program Recommendation #3
ADUs, or small additional dwelling units on a lot, are an important
opportunity to provide housing to residents through a continuum
of housing. Examples of ADUs include basement lock-offs or garage
apartments. Development of these types of units has been relatively
limited in West Vail, in part due to the strict regulations and mandate
that these units be EHUs. The Town should explore additional flexibility
with the requirements, while continuing to ensure that the units
primarily house year-round residents and are not used as short-
term rentals. Fee refunds are also recommended to encourage the
development of these units.
Example of mixed use with residential
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84 CHAPTER 3: HOUSING
Policy and Program Recommendation #4
Vail InDEED is a successful Town program to place deed restrictions on
existing units, paying the owner to cover the gap between the deed-
restricted and open market values. It is recommended that the Town
continue to grow the Vail InDEED program and provide an additional,
consistent funding stream. As more deed-restricted units sell, the Town
should study the market difference between the deed-restricted market
and open market and adjust payments to meet or exceed this difference.
Policy and Program Recommendation #5
For those looking to build or renovate deed-restricted units, the fees
associated with the process (building permits, development fees) can
be significant or even a deterrent to undertaking the process. It is
recommended that Town of Vail fee refunds be available for deed-
restricted units in line with the existing rebate system for Eagle County
housing tax credits.
Policy and Program Recommendation #6
Deed restrictions are central to the Town’s goals around resident
housing and a vibrant community and particularly fundamental to the
goals outlined in this plan. The Town should continue to evolve the
deed restriction program, funding, and mechanisms in order to meet
the goals outlined in this plan.
Policy and Program Recommendation #7
For many developments, going through the public review process can
be expensive and lengthy, increasing the costs that units must be sold
at. The community’s vision for West Vail has been thoroughly vetted
through this Master Plan and its robust public engagement process. Any
subsequent rezoning process for West Vail Multiple-Family and design
standards/rezoning for West Vail Center would involve significant public
engagement. Therefore, it is recommended that the Town reduce
the development review requirements within West Vail residential
neighborhoods primarily for the newly recommended West Vail
Multiple-Family zone districts.
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85WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
HOW MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES ARE ADDRESSING RESIDENT HOUSING CHALLENGES
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS. JACKSON HOLE, CO BURLINGAME RANCH. ASPEN, CO
In many mountain resort communities, it is a challenge for year-round
residents and the local workforce to find and afford housing. As towns
seek to address these challenges, there is no “silver bullet,” and most
deploy a myriad of approaches to secure housing for residents and
improve the quality of the resident housing stock. Interesting and
innovative approaches that the Town of Vail or partners may consider
are described below.
The City of Aspen, through the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority
(APCHA), has a decades old program with a large supply of resident
housing units. The APCHA is working closely with the private sector
on property improvements, by selling units to private companies who
retain the deed restrictions and use tax financing to update properties.
The APCHA also has a credit program where the private sector can
receive credits for building affordable housing that can then be bought
and sold for future projects.
Mountain Village, responding to very limited building and improvement
activity on deed-restricted lots, chose to waive all planning, building,
and development fees for improvements or new construction on deed-
restricted lots. In nearby Telluride, the Town has embraced a creative
mix of housing types to increase the number of units, with tiny home
and dorm-style developments. Second homeowners in the area have
established a housing social venture fund, the Trust for Community
Housing, that delivers grants to first time renters and homebuyers
and incentivizes second homeowners and short-term rental owners to
participate in the long-term market.
Boulder is a larger, Front Range community facing many of the same
issues. The City has recently developed a grant program to support
middle income home buyers. Towards improving its affordable housing
stock, the City developed a $40 million partnership through private
sector donations, federal and state agencies, private activity bonds, and
tax credits.
Jackson, Wyoming has implemented an expedited approval process for
price-restricted housing projects. In recent code amendments, the Town
grandfathered in non-conforming uses and created a density bonus
system.
The Town of Truckee, in the Lake Tahoe region, offers a long-term rental
grant program that financially incentivizes homeowners shifting their
home from non-rented or a short-term rental to a long-term rental. The
Town of Truckee has a robust first-time homebuyer program that utilizes
a variety of funding sources and is incentivizing homeowners to develop
accessory dwelling units.
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INTRODUCTION
“The future West Vail is a complete neighborhood with increased housing
options for year-round residents, streets that support multiple modes of
transportation, and a vibrant, walkable destination where residents and
visitors can shop at local businesses and gather as a community. Though just
minutes from a world-class resort, West Vail retains the familiar, neighborly
character of a small mountain town.”
CHAPTER 4:TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
“This plan aims to enhance connectivity for people walking, biking, taking
transit, and driving in and around West Vail. The reimagined transportation
network will integrate a variety of transportation modes, making multimodal
trips through West Vail comfortable and convenient. A multimodal transit
hub located in West Vail Center will offer easy connections to the rest of the
valley, improving the experience of travel within the neighborhood.”
Vision Statement
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88 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
INTRODUCTION
The last community-wide transportation planning effort in Vail was conducted in
2009 with the Vail Transportation Master Plan. In the subsequent decade, the wider
community’s mobility needs have shifted. For example, some residents have relocated
further down valley to communities like Eagle and Edwards but still travel to Vail
for work and shopping trips. Vail Mountain Resort and the Town itself continue to
attract more and more skiers and tourists, which creates a variety of pressures on the
transportation network. As the only neighborhood for local shopping and essential
services, West Vail has grown in significance, but the mobility and connectivity
framework of the community has not changed. The West Vail Master Plan is an
opportunity to build upon West Vail’s strengths, identify some of the mobility
challenges, and chart a roadmap for creating a more connected community.
This chapter highlights the predominant transportation challenges that were
identified through an existing conditions analysis and through community outreach.
These include a lack of facilities for people walking and bicycling, travel conditions
that are made challenging by winter weather and topography, and a lack of direct
connections within the community due to barriers like I-70 bisecting the community
and a disconnected residential street network. The transportation component of the
West Vail Master Plan fully illuminates the causes of these challenges and provides
comprehensive solutions that will make West Vail a more comfortable and convenient
travel environment. An efficient, multimodal, and user-friendly transportation network
will support the overall future vision for West Vail that is described in this plan.
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89WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The transportation planning aspect of the West Vail Master Plan began with an in-depth review of
the existing transportation system in West Vail, including profiles of roadway infrastructure, transit
service, and walking and bicycling facilities as well as crashes. The following is a summary of the
Existing Conditions memorandum; the full report is available in Appendix A.
West Vail attracts a range of transportation users who often travel to the Town of Vail by vehicle
but seek to use active modes for trips within West Vail and to the Vail Village area. However,
multimodal travel in West Vail is challenging due to the topography, lack of a street grid,
land use patterns that concentrate commercial activity in one area along the North Frontage
Road, and I-70 bisecting the community. This chapter summarizes the existing strengths of
West Vail’s transportation system and identifies challenges that could be addressed through
recommendations and policies.
ROADWAYS AND PARKING
I-70, which is managed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), runs through Vail
and offers access to other communities throughout Eagle County, Denver to the east, and Grand
Junction and Utah to the west. The North and South Frontage Roads are the two arterials serving
the West Vail project area, providing connectivity to both Vail Village area and East Vail. The
Frontage Roads are managed by CDOT. Within West Vail, destinations are served by a network of
public and private local streets.
There is a significant amount of both public and private parking available in West Vail. Public
parking is available at Donovan Park (just outside of the project area) as well as along the North
Frontage Road. Private parking lots serve the West Vail Center businesses and multi-family
residences.
TRANSIT
There are three transit agencies providing service in West Vail—Vail Transit, ECO Transit, and
Bustang. Vail Transit offers service within the Town of Vail, ECO Transit offers service within the
Eagle County region and to Leadville, and Bustang (operated by CDOT) offers service between
Grand Junction and Denver. Ridership on Vail Transit varies seasonally, with the highest ridership
occurring during the winter months. Total ridership on Vail Transit routes that serve West Vail
declined approximately 16% from 2010 to 2019. Vail Transit’s West Vail Express route, operating
in the winter only, and connecting West Vail to Vail Village was introduced in late 2017; it now
accounts for approximately 4% of the system’s ridership and contributed to an increase in overall Vail Transit service in West Vail
Neighborhood street with striped shoulders to
accommodate people biking and walking
North Frontage Road roundabout
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90 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
ridership on routes serving West Vail in 2018. The West Vail Express route also accounts for a
large share of the ridership in West Vail; in 2019, 17% of joint West Vail routes (Local and Express)
ridership was on the West Vail Express route, up from 15% the previous year. This chapter offers
recommendations for adjusting transit service to better serve the needs of residents and visitors.
WALKING AND BICYCLING
West Vail community members walk and ride bicycles at a relatively high rate due to the
abundance of recreational opportunities in the area. However, the formal network of pedestrian
and bicycle facilities in the study area is limited. Sidewalk and multi-use path presence is mainly
limited to the Frontage Roads, with very limited sidewalk presence in residential areas due to
topography and maintenance challenges relating to snowfall. Sidewalks in the area vary from
8-foot-wide attached sidewalks (no buffer between the roadway and sidewalks) to 10-foot wide
detached sidewalks (buffer present between the roadway and sidewalk). A unique aspect of West
Vail is that facilities like the North Recreation Path (described in the following paragraph) serve as
both multi-use paths and sidewalks. The existing sidewalk system chiefly serves the commercial
businesses along the North Frontage Road, although there are limited sidewalk connections
between the North Frontage Road and the businesses themselves. Pedestrians are left to walk
through surface parking lots. A pedestrian connection is available between the North and South
Frontage Roads via an I-70 underpass at Chamonix Road. This underpass sidewalk is physically
separated from the roadway with a barrier.
Both pedestrians and bicyclists can access the Gore Valley Trail, which is a multi-use path running
along the South Frontage Road. The trail is a separated facility with some exceptions where it is on
the shoulder of a roadway. The Gore Valley Trail provides connections to the Vail Village area and
the Vail Pass Trail into Summit County to the east and the Eagle Valley Trail to the west. The North
Recreation Path is a multi-use path that connects the commercial core of West Vail with points to
the east and also connects to the Gore Valley Trail via the Chamonix Road underpass. The North
Recreation Path is separated from the roadway in most areas, with the exception of a segment
adjacent to the McDonald’s restaurant where it is an attached facility, and a ¼ mile segment east
of Buffehr Creek Road where the path is a 12-foot-wide marked shoulder.
Aside from the Gore Valley Trail and North Recreation Path, there are limited bicycling facilities.
The North and South Frontage Roads both have wide shoulders through the project area,
which are utilized by people bicycling, although the shoulders are not marked specifically for
bicycle usage. The wider shoulders were striped following a recommendation in the 2009 Vail
Transportation Master Plan.
Example of the limited pedestrian access to West
Vail Center from Chamonix Lane
Example of a sidewalk and ramp in need of repair
Location where the North Recreation Path
transitions to a wide shoulder
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91WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 4.1: Existing Transportation Infrastructure
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92 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
LEVEL OF TRAFFIC STRESS (LTS) ANALYSIS
Figure 4.2: West Vail Pedestrian Level of Traffic Stress
LTS is a national best practice scoring system used to classify the comfort of specific bicycle
facilities. Scoring is from LTS 1 to LTS 4, with LTS 1 being comfortable, “low-stress” bicycling and
walking environments for those ages 8 to 80, and LTS 4 being places where bicycling and walking
is very uncomfortable or even impossible, with limited or no accommodations for people walking
or bicycling. Facilities with LTS 1 and 2 scores are considered low-stress facilities, while LTS 3 and
4 facilities are considered high-stress. Scores are based on characteristics like number of travel
lanes, vehicle speeds, and bicycle/pedestrian facility types. Given the unique blend of travel
facilities in the West Vail project area, the project team adapted and customized this methodology
to create LTS scoring tables that reflect the nuances of bicycle and pedestrian travel in West Vail.
The project team conducted a bicycle and
pedestrian comfort analysis using the Level
of Traffic Stress (LTS) framework to better
understand multimodal travel in West Vail.
LTS is a methodology based on national
research and best practices for measuring
both bicycle and pedestrian comfort. The
original LTS guidance provided a framework
for evaluating bicycle facilities that was
adapted to pedestrian facilities based on the
National Association of City Transportation
Officials (NACTO) Urban Streets Guide and
safety research, as well as research from the
American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials (AASHTO).1
1. Original LTS guidance: Network Connectivity for Low-Stress
Bicycling (Mekuria, Furth, Nixon, 2012)
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93WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 4.3: West Vail Biking Level of Traffic Stress
Modifications to the traditional scoring system for West Vail reflected that on-street pedestrian
travel may be comfortable on local roadways that do not have separated facilities and that steeper
segments may dictate that some paths of travel will be high-stress for certain users or may pose
more challenging travel conditions during winter.
The LTS analysis found that while bicyclists can generally access destinations throughout West Vail
on low-stress travel facilities, pedestrian travel is more limited due to a lack of comfortable east-
west sidewalks and paths and high vehicle speeds (Figure 4.2 and Figure 4.3). Additionally, both
bicyclists and pedestrians experience north-south travel barriers due to limited opportunities for
crossing I-70.
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94 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
The project team evaluated the accessibility
of key destinations in West Vail to bicyclists
and pedestrians traveling on exclusively low-
stress facilities. The travelshed analysis sought
to determine whether different destination
types can be reached within a 20-minute low-
stress bicycling or walking trip. 20-minutes
was determined based on West Vail’s goal for
creating a neighborhood where residents can
access of their most basic, day to day needs
within a 20-minute walk or bike ride.
Figure 4.4: West Vail Center 20-minute walkshed
Figure 4.4 shows the travelshed for a 20-minute walk from the commercial core of West Vail. This
showed that the limited connectivity between the north and south sides of I-70 present a barrier
to pedestrian travel, thus informing recommendations around studying a bicycle/pedestrian
grade separated crossing of I-70. Additionally, pedestrians can travel comfortably on the multi-use
paths but have limited access to residential neighborhoods. The dedicated pedestrian facilities
leading from West Vail Center north to Chamonix Lane are important connections for residences
along Chamonix Lane. Otherwise, pedestrian connectivity within the commercial core is chiefly
restricted to walking trips between businesses.
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95WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 4.5: Parks 20-minute walkshed
Figure 4.5 shows the walkshed around parks, finding that Donovan Park (which is just outside the
study area), Ellefson Park, and Buffehr Creek Park all have good connectivity to the immediate
surrounding neighborhoods. Ellefson Park is accessible to residents of Cortina Lane and Davos
Trail, while Buffehr Creek Park is accessible to residents of the Chamonix Lane neighborhood as
well as to visitors of West Vail Center. Donovan Park is well served by the Gore Valley Trail.
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96 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
TRAFFIC SAFETY
Of the 209 crashes reported in West Vail from 2017 to the first quarter
of 2020, 72% have occurred in six locations. Of the crashes occurring at
these six high-crash locations, 59% were recorded outside of the three
gas stations in West Vail. This suggests that traffic volumes and access
into and out of the gas stations create a number of conflicts and safety
concerns. In addition, the gas stations are located in close proximity
to the I-70 eastbound and westbound ramps at the Chamonix Road
roundabouts, where traffic volumes and speeds are relatively high
compared to the rest of the project area.
EXISTING CONDITIONS SUMMARY
Despite having a small footprint, West Vail offers a multimodal system
that serves a range of users, with some key gaps that can create a
barrier to travel. The existing conditions analysis of the transportation
system yielded the following key findings that influence the
recommendations:
• Transit ridership on Vail Transit routes serving West Vail has declined
over the past 10 years, with ridership on West Vail Red, Green, and
Express routes decreasing each winter season. This decline has
occurred over a time period when overall ridership on Vail Transit has
increased.
• While the Gore Valley Trail is a high-comfort, separated bicycle
and pedestrian facility connecting active transportation users to
destinations both east and west of the project area, there are limited
on-street bicycle facilities that are comfortable for recreational
bicyclists. The presence of sidewalks throughout the project area is
also limited.
• Preliminary analysis of traffic crash data from 2017 to 2020 showed
that 72% of crashes in West Vail occur at six locations, and that the
roadway segments immediately adjacent to the three gas stations
represent the top three crash sites. This suggests that there may be
access management challenges which can be addressed through
implementation of the 2009 Access Management Plan.
Crashes in West Vail vs. Town of Vail (2017-2019)
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97WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
West Vail community members were asked about transportation
throughout the public engagement process. Specific touchpoints
included many Advisory Committee meetings, a community survey, an
August 2020 focus group, a September 2020 Open House event, and two
workshop sessions that took place in December 2020. In addition, the
project team routinely met with Town Staff for targeted conversations
about topics like traffic calming treatments or transit service.
Some of the top issues that consistently emerged during outreach were
concerns about a perception of speeding vehicles, a desire to have more
opportunities for walking and bicycling around the community, and a
need to have multiple transportation mode options for traveling to and
within West Vail Center.
Some key themes emerged from the community engagement efforts
that inform this chapter’s recommendations:
• Workshop participants were generally in favor of recommendations
that would add connectivity for people walking and bicycling while
also maintaining existing vehicle circulation. For example, participants
expressed that traffic calming in the form of striped shoulders would
be received more favorably than vertical treatments like speed humps.
• Participants were concerned with maintaining community character.
While there was general agreement that additional lighting
was needed in certain areas to make walking at night feel more
comfortable, there was also a sentiment that any additional lighting
should be compatible with the community priority of preserving dark
skies.
• While speeding routinely emerged during previous outreach activities
as an area of concern, some workshop participants suggested that
speeding may be a perceived problem, rather than a pervasive issue.
• Workshop participants expressed enthusiasm for recommendations
that would support the adoption of more sustainable travel options
like riding transit, using e-bikes, or driving electric vehicles.
Appendix B includes more detailed documentation of all the public
engagement efforts conducted during the planning process.
WHY CHANGE?
The transportation network in West Vail has the potential to shape the
community and move towards its goals of sustainability and sense of
place. By creating a community where residents, visitors, and employees
of all ages and abilities can comfortably and conveniently travel by all
modes, West Vail will become a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood.
There are currently a number of barriers to traveling in West Vail that
inform decisions about where, when, and how people run errands,
choose to live and work, and raise their families. By implementing
infrastructure and programs that shift towards a community where
you can travel by all modes to conveniently access grocery stores, Vail
Mountain Resort, parks, and bus stops, the social capital and economy
grows.
By growing the network for biking and walking, users can be healthy
and active, reduce reliance on the automobile, make more spontaneous
trips, and enhance the reputation for recreation that Vail holds.
By improving the transit system through improved access to bus stops,
continual assessment of routes, and integration with regional transit,
living car-free becomes an increasingly viable option. This makes West
Vail more affordable, reduces congestion and parking demand, and
increases the diversity of West Vail residents and employees.
By ensuring that the vehicle network and parking is convenient and
efficient, West Vail ensures that travelers can access businesses and
travel locally and regionally.
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98 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
GOALS FOR MOBILITY IN WEST VAIL1Bicycling and walking trips throughout West Vail are
comfortable and convenient due to new infrastructure
and other enhancements.
Currently, West Vail has relatively limited bicycle and pedestrian
infrastructure, particularly off the Frontage Roads. Adding
infrastructure throughout the community can make existing
trips more comfortable and encourage people to ride a bicycle
or walk more frequently. Key elements of implementing this
goal include formalizing walking paths, creating a pedestrian-
oriented environment in the commercial area, pedestrian scale
lighting, and developing a connected network of bicycle and
pedestrian facilities.
2 Driving and parking in West Vail is efficient and
supportive of new and emerging technologies (i.e.,
electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles). Emergency access
remains efficient through West Vail.
Driving is and will continue to be a primary mode of travel in and
to West Vail. It is important that the driving infrastructure and
emergency access remains efficient and supports the reduction
of congestions and emissions where possible. Key strategies
to implement this goal include managing vehicle access along
the Frontage Roads, managing parking, and supporting electric
vehicles.
3 Create a pedestrian-friendly and inviting
environment on the North Frontage Road that
contributes to the transformation of the commercial
area into West Vail Center.
The North Frontage Road is part of a 300-yard expanse
of concrete that contributes to high vehicle speeds and
an unfriendly environment for pedestrians. Modifications
to the roadway, along with street-facing commercial
development, could create an inviting, pedestrian-friendly
environment. Possible modifications include a road diet,
enhanced crossings, access management changes, traffic
calming, and noise impact mitigation.
4 Transit is user-friendly and connects with key
destinations in the Vail Valley and beyond.
Use of transit helps reduce the vehicle miles traveled and
can ease parking and congestion challenges in the Town.
From West Vail, transit can provide vehicle-free access
to employment, recreation, and other key destinations
and activities in the Town of Vail and the Eagle Valley.
Use of transit in West Vail has declined in recent years,
and enhancements that support greater convenience and
promotion of the service are important.
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99WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
5 Residents and visitors are informed of the many
alternatives to driving and the Town actively collects
data to implement new programs and policies.
The Town of Vail, as part of its sustainability efforts, aims to
reduce environmental impact of transportation by decreasing
the vehicle miles traveled by commuters and guests. For
West Vail, it is important to both raise the awareness of the
alternatives the Town has already put in place, collect data
on existing levels of use, and develop new opportunities and
alternatives.
RECOMMENDATIONS
A set of recommendations for improving transportation in West Vail
were developed based on community input and on existing conditions
analysis findings. The following set of recommendations are divided into
five categories: bicycle and pedestrian connections, access management
for the Frontage Roads, transit improvements, parking, and policies and
programs. Opportunities within each category are described in detail.
Recommendations are shown in Table 4.1.
North Recreation Path
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100 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Figure 4.6: Proposed Transportation and Mobility Projects
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101WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Table 4.1: West Vail Master Plan Transportation Projects
PROJECT CODE
(shown on map)
PROJECT CATEGORY LOCATION DESCRIPTION
1
Bicycle,
pedestrian
North Frontage
Road at Buffehr
Creek Road
Upgrade striped shoulder to a protected facility (see Figure 4.18) by adding bollards
and a two-foot wide painted buffer where the North Recreation Path transitions to an
on-street facility east of Buffehr Creek Road. This project should be implemented in the
short-term prior to Project #12. Continue plastic bollards to the intersection of Buffehr
Creek Road in order to prevent vehicles from using the path as a right turn lane. The
North Recreation Path crossing of Buffehr Creek Road should be marked with green-
backed skip striping and W11-1 signage (MUTCD)2 with the addition of an arrow (W16-
7P).
2
Transit, bicycle,
pedestrian
North Frontage
Road & Safeway
Implement a mobility hub - this could include shared micromobility (scooters, bikes),
interactive information kiosk, bike parking, real time arrival information, e-charging
stations, and enhanced wayfinding.
3
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Chamonix Lane,
behind City
Market
Add ADA-compliant pedestrian access between Chamonix Lane and West Vail Center
4
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Roundabout on
North Frontage
Road
Add flashing beacons, marked crossings, curb ramps, and widened sidewalks to enhance
pedestrian comfort at all crossing locations adjacent to the North Frontage Road
roundabout. In addition, a sign should be added at the westbound off-ramp alerting
drivers to the path crossing.
Wayfinding signage directing bicyclists and pedestrians to utilize the multi-use path on
the east side of the I-70 undercrossing should also be added. Widen the sidewalk on
the northwest side of the roundabout to create a more comfortable environment for
pedestrians, especially for those with mobility challenges.
5
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Chamonix Lane Add signage, pedestrian-scale lighting, and widen painted shoulders from 2’ to 4’ to
promote slower driving speeds while enhancing bicycle and pedestrian comfort.
2. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
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102 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Table 4.1: West Vail Master Plan Transportation Projects (continued)
PROJECT CODE
(shown on map)
PROJECT CATEGORY LOCATION DESCRIPTION
6
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Buffehr Creek
Road
Add additional signage, pedestrian-scale lighting, and painted shoulders to promote
slower driving speeds while enhancing bicycle and pedestrian comfort.
7
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Gore Creek Drive Add signage and pedestrian-scale lighting to promote slower driving speeds while
enhancing bicycle and pedestrian comfort.
8
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Alpine Drive Add signage, pedestrian-scale lighting, and painted shoulders to promote slower driving
speeds while enhancing bicycle and pedestrian comfort.
9
Bicycle South Frontage
Road (west of
roundabout)
Add bicycle signage to Gore Creek Trail on South Frontage Road west of the roundabout
including green-backed skip striping at crossing and adding W11-1 signage (MUTCD) with
the addition of an arrow (W16-7P).
10
Bicycle,
pedestrian,
transit
South Frontage
Road @ Conoco
Station
Short-term: Paint continuation of the Gore Valley Trail across driveways at the Conoco
station.
Long-term: Extend island to abut the South Frontage Road so path travels through island
and bus boards closer to South Frontage Road. Implement turn restrictions for both
driveways as noted in the Access Management Plan.
11
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Bicycle and
Pedestrian
Grade Separated
Crossing of I-70
Preliminary location for I-70 bicycle and pedestrian grade separated crossing. Requires
further study to determine under or over crossing and to consider cost, weather,
personal safety, ease of use, ADA access, and feasibility.
12
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Extend North
Frontage Road
multi-use path
east of Buffehr
Creek Road
Upgrade wide shoulder to multi-use path (already proposed with new hotel
development)
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103WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Table 4.1: West Vail Master Plan Transportation Projects (continued)
PROJECT CODE
(shown on map)
PROJECT CATEGORY LOCATION DESCRIPTION
13
Bicycle,
pedestrian
Chamonix Road Widen and extend the multi-use path/wide sidewalk that is already planned on the east
side of the road. The planned path should be enhanced to ensure a minimum width of
eight feet. The path should also extend continuously between the North Frontage Road
and Chamonix Lane.
Add bicycle shared lane markings (sharrows) on the Chamonix Road southbound lane
and add signage on the path to denote that only bicyclists traveling northbound should
use the path and that pedestrian travel is bi-directional.
14
Bicycle,
pedestrian
I-70 Underpass Restrict bicycle use on the west side underpass. Add signage to direct people biking to
use the east side of the underpass.
15
Bicycle,
pedestrian
North Frontage
Road
Implement a road diet to remove continuous turn lanes based on access management
recommendations; reallocate right-of-way based on proposed scenarios in Figures 4.12-
4.15.
16
Bicycle,
pedestrian
North Frontage
Road between
Chamonix Lane
(southwest) and
roundabout
Add paved multi-use path (10'-12' wide) to increase connectivity for people walking and
biking and to the transit stop.
17
Access
management
North Frontage
Road and South
Frontage Road
Driveways
See Access Management Plan recommendations.
At each driveway of the West Vail Center, move the path crossing north, towards the
commercial businesses, so that vehicles can clear the path crossing prior to waiting for a
turning opportunity.
18
Bicycle,
pedestrian
North Frontage
Road and Buffehr
Creek Road
Add pedestrian-scale lighting to the North Frontage Road west of the roundabout and
along Buffehr Creek Road between the North Frontage Road and Lions Ridge Loop.
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104 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIONS
As noted in the Existing Conditions analysis, despite having high levels of bicycle and pedestrian travel in the community, West Vail does not currently
offer a connected network of comfortable, or low-stress, walking and bicycling facilities. Through the community engagement and infrastructure
analysis process, the project team identified a set of recommendations for creating a more comfortable and connected network that will allow
users to travel throughout the community by foot or bicycle more easily. This section profiles both the types of infrastructure treatments that would
advance multimodal connectivity while also describing locations where these treatments should be deployed.
Traffic Calming
When discussing walking and bicycling in the community, public outreach participants cited a lack of separation from vehicle traffic and high
vehicle speeds as a common barrier or challenge of multimodal travel. While vehicle speeds can contribute to discomfort for people walking and
bicycling, a recent traffic speed study conducted by the Town of Vail does not suggest that vehicle speeds on neighborhood streets are sufficiently
high to present a consistent speed-related concern. Further study is needed to understand the level to which vehicle speeds pose a safety issue for
pedestrians and bicyclists. The programmatic recommendations portion of this plan details potential next steps for the Town of Vail to assess vehicle
speeds on an on-going basis.
Regardless of actual travel speeds, the overwhelming discomfort felt by people walking and bicycling calls for traffic calming treatments that result
in more awareness from drivers of the presence of other modes. The Town of Vail will pursue traffic calming on neighborhood streets in West Vail by
exploring implementation of pedestrian-scale lighting, signage, and striping that delineates a designated shoulder for people walking and bicycling.
Pedestrian-scale Lighting Project 18
Community members identified poor lighting as one of the main barriers to feeling safe during
non-daylight hour walking and bicycling trips. Specific locations with a lack of lighting noted
during public outreach include Buffehr Creek Road and the segment of the North Frontage Road
west of the roundabout. Community members also cited a need to maintain low lighting, in
order to minimize light pollution, as a community priority. To maintain a view of night skies while
enhancing night-time walking comfort, the Town of Vail will install pedestrian-scale lighting.
Example of pedestrian-scale lighting (source:
Schreder lighting)
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105WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Signage Projects 1 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14
Enhanced signage presents an additional
opportunity for the Town to foster an
environment in West Vail that is more
conducive to comfortable walking and
bicycling trips. Installing signs that alert
drivers to the presence of pedestrians and
bicyclists serves as reminder to be vigilant.
Signage should be prevalent throughout
the community and installed using the
requirements listed in Chapter 2 of the Manual
on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD),
2009 edition.
The MUTCD stipulates that signs should be on
dedicated posts, should be outside the clear zone
(the area on the side of the roadway where vehicles can pull over in the event of an emergency), should be optimized for night-time visibility, should
minimize the effects of mud splatter and debris, should not be positioned so as to obscure other signs, should not obscure the sight distance to
approaching vehicles on the major street for drivers who are stopped on minor-street approaches, and should not be hidden from view. Sign location
and spacing should be calculated according to driver Perception-Response Time (PRT). PRT is a function of distance and vehicle speed; for West Vail,
where most residential streets have vehicles traveling 20-25 mph, signs should be placed a minimum of 100 feet before locations where pedestrians
and bicyclists join the roadway. Subsequent sign spacing intervals should be determined based on PRT, which can be calculated using the MUTCD3.
Signs should be placed at key locations where there is a high presence of people walking and biking. Per the MUTCD, warning signs alerting drivers
to the presence of non-motorized travelers should be yellow with a black border. When a sign is placed ahead of a crossing it should also feature a
supplemental plaque denoting the distance to the crossing. The proliferation of unnecessary signage should be avoided.
3. MUTCD, Section 2C.05 Placement of Warning Signs (2009)
Non-vehicular warning signs (Source: MUTCD)
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106 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Pedestrian Facilities
Additional pedestrian facilities can greatly contribute to a sense of
comfort during walking trips. As noted in the Existing Conditions, West
Vail generally has limited presence of sidewalks outside of the dedicated
multi-use paths and a segment of Chamonix Lane. Opportunities to
add additional sidewalks on the residential streets in West Vail may
be limited due to cost constraints or the existing right-of-way not
being sufficiently wide to accommodate both vehicle travel lanes and
sidewalks.
However, striped shoulders, like the example shown below on Chamonix
Lane, are a treatment that has proven popular in the community. These
striped shoulders provide a designated space for walking at a low cost.
They also visually narrow the roadway, slowing vehicle speeds. Striped
shoulders can be implemented on any roadway in West Vail where
there is sufficient width for both a striped shoulder and two-way vehicle
travel. An example of a roadway cross section with striped shoulders is
shown in Figure 4.7. On more narrow roadways, striping can be added
to one side of the street. Although this striped shoulder is not wide
enough to meet the AASHTO requirements for a bike lane, this shoulder
can still provide a designated space for people bicycling that is more
comfortable than sharing the travel lane with vehicles.
Vertical Traffic Calming Treatments
Speed humps, or speed tables, were assessed as a potential treatment.
According to NACTO, “speed humps are parabolic vertical traffic
calming devices intended to slow traffic speeds on low volume, low
speed roads. Speed humps are 3–4 inches high and 12–14 feet wide,
with a ramp length of 3–6 feet, depending on target speed.” At this
time, speed humps were not determined to be a feasible tool in West
Vail due to the potential for impacting emergency vehicle response
time and for impeding operations of maintenance equipment. While
this type of traffic calming measure was not deemed appropriate as
part of the West Vail Master Plan, the Town of Vail should collaborate
with peer communities that are currently utilizing this treatment, like
Breckenridge, to learn more about outcomes and how to potentially
implement speed humps while limiting impacts to emergency vehicles
and snow removal in the future.
Example of striped shoulders on Chamonix Lane
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107WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Priority Corridors for Multimodal and Traffic Calming Enhancements Projects 5 6 7 8
Chamonix Lane, Gore Creek Road, Buffehr Creek Road, and Alpine Drive were identified as high priority corridors for traffic calming during the
outreach and analysis process due to their higher vehicle volume and higher demand for walking and bicycling. Traffic calming enhancements should
be implemented on these roadways first. While the traffic calming elements described previously can each be deployed independently, these priority
roadways should implement the full set of traffic calming measures (striping, signage, and lighting) in order to become more comfortable travel
facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists. A rendering of a priority corridor is shown in Figure 4.7. Additional local roadways can also be evaluated for
feasibility of this set of traffic calming enhancements.
4’
Buffer
4’
Buffer
18’
Drive Lane
Figure 4.7: Illustration of Multimodal and Traffic Calming Enhancements
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108 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
In addition, Chamonix Road is a critical connection for community
members traveling from the North Frontage Road into the residential
areas in the northern section of West Vail in the area from Ellefson
Park to Buffehr Creek Road. There is a six-foot sidewalk planned for the
eastern side of the roadway, extending from the rear of the Highline
Doubletree Hotel, joining Chamonix Road across from Lower Traverse
Way, and extending approximately 250 feet north to Chamonix Lane
where the proposed sidewalk would be narrowed to five feet wide
and would follow Chamonix Lane for approximately 300 feet. This
planned sidewalk should be augmented by building a multi-use path
with a minimum width of eight feet and extending the facility south to
connect with the North Recreation Path at the North Frontage Road
roundabout (Project #13). Since there is insufficient space available for
a multi-use path that can accommodate bidirectional travel for bicyclists
and pedestrians, the path should serve bidirectional traffic for people
walking but only northbound bicyclists, with southbound bicyclists using
the bike lane, as shown conceptually in Figure 4.8.
Signage should be installed to convey this traffic pattern. Given the
grade of the roadway, southbound bicyclists will be traveling at a faster
speed and should share the southbound travel lane on Chamonix Road
with vehicles. Sharrow markings will be added to the southbound travel
lane to alert drivers that the travel lane is a shared facility with people
biking.
Completing Existing Projects 9 16 Multi-use Paths
The recreation path system through the Town of Vail is immensely
popular and provides bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities
the opportunity to enjoy multimodal travel on a dedicated right of way.
However, the Gore Valley Trail and North Recreation Path should be
further enhanced by extension into additional areas of the community.
The North Recreation Path could extend west of the roundabout to
serve as a parallel travel facility to Chamonix Lane, provide access
to the residential areas and trailhead in the western portion of the
community, and to provide more comfortable access to the bus stop at
the intersection of Chamonix Lane and North Frontage Road (Project
#16). This portion of the North Recreation Path would also serve as
a pedestrian facility for individuals traveling to or from the on-street
parking available on this segment of the North Frontage Road.
The Gore Valley Trail currently serves as a separated facility for people
bicycling and walking parallel to the South Frontage Road. However,
west of the roundabout the Trail terminates as the South Frontage
Road and users are required to travel on the South Frontage Road until
the trail resumes a dedicated right of way west of Kinnickinnick Road
(Project #9). The South Frontage Road has a wide shoulder but is not
comfortable for many users given the high vehicle speeds and volumes.
It is recommended to either extend the Gore Valley Trail west of the
roundabout or implement more comfortable bicycle and pedestrian
facilities on the South Frontage Road through treatments like bicycle
lanes, wide striped shoulders, or additional sidewalks. The crossing
from the current terminus of the path to the westbound lane of the
South Frontage Road, just west of the traffic circle, should be striped
with green thermoplastic pavement markings to denote the path
continuation for bicyclists. This should also include W11-1 signage (the
MUTCD designation for a bicycle sign) to alert drivers that people on
bicycle will be crossing the roadway. This path extension would enhance
connectivity between West Vail and destinations like Stephens Park.
Figure 4.8: Illustration of a One-Way Bicycle Facility
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109WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 4.9: North Frontage Road - Existing Cross Section (at Safeway Driveway, Eastbound)
North Frontage Road Diet Project 15
The North Frontage Road currently has one travel lane in each direction.
However, due to the high volume of vehicles turning into and out of the
commercial driveways for the West Vail Mall, there are left and right
turn deceleration and acceleration lanes along the corridor between
the roundabout and Buffehr Creek Road. The existing cross section of
the North Frontage Road is shown in Figure 4.9. These turn lanes create
the perception that the North Frontage Road is four lanes wide, which
results in higher vehicle speeds and uncomfortable conditions for people
walking or bicycling along or across the North Frontage Road.
This plan recommends restrictions in access to driveways along the
North Frontage Road, which results in the removal of acceleration
and deceleration turn lanes at those locations. This allows for
implementation of a road diet, which is the reallocation of right-of-
way from vehicle travel/turn lanes to other uses like bicycle lanes or a
landscaped median.
CDOT manages the North Frontage Road and requires turning lanes in
locations where the volume of vehicles making a left or right turn during
the peak hour exceeds certain thresholds. Given both the intensity of
development programmed for the West Vail Center (detailed in
Chapter 2) and the need to accommodate regional shopping trips
with a high supply of on-site parking, it is unlikely that the need for
deceleration turn lanes where access points are located will decrease
over time. Therefore, anywhere there is a driveway with right turn
access, a right turn lane will be needed and anywhere there is left turn
access, a left turn lane will be needed. However, acceleration lanes are
not required and turn lanes can be removed in locations where access
points are closing or left turn movements are restricted. This plan
recommends that the Town of Vail update the 2009 Access Management
Plan to either close access points or restrict left turns into and out of
certain access points in order to alleviate the need for auxiliary lanes.
These access recommendations are expanded in greater detail in the
following section (project #17).
The additional roadway space gained from removing turn lanes could
be reallocated to develop a roadway cross section that enhances
access for users of all modes while also creating a more inviting and
aesthetically pleasing environment. It is proposed that part of the
right-of-way be dedicated to a raised center median with landscaping.
This median would serve to both visually narrow the vehicle travel lanes,
which would have a traffic calming effect, while creating a visual buffer
between I-70 and West Vail Center. The road diet should be studied
further in light of potential increases in vehicle trips associated with the
redevelopment of West Vail Center. At the next phase of design, further
study will be required to assess impacts to emergency services and snow
removal.
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110 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Potential scenarios of cross sections for the North Frontage Road following the road diet
implementation are shown in Figure 4.10, Figure 4.11, and Figure 4.12. By removing the eastbound
left turn lane, the existing striped buffer next to the eastbound parking lane can serve as a bicycle
lane through the corridor. In locations where the westbound right turn lane is removed due to
closure of an access, a protected bicycle lane can be added. Alternatively, the additional right-of-
way gained by removal of a westbound right turn lane could be utilized for on-street parking. In all
alternatives, the curb-to-curb width remains consistent to the existing conditions.
Figure 4.11 shows a similar cross section to
Figure 4.10 except at a mid-block location
without a right turn lane, where there is no
right turn access present. The additional right-
of-way allows space for a wider bike lane,
buffer, and landscaped median. This cross
section is preferred at mid-block locations.
9’Multiuse Path 6’Sidewalk10’Planting Strip 10’Turn Lane 11’Drive Lane 11’Drive Lane
5’BikeLane
5’BikeLane
8’ParkingLane
5.5’Raised Median2.5’Buffer 2.5’Buffer 2.5’Buffer
9’Multiuse Path 6’Sidewalk10’Planting Strip 12’Drive Lane 12’Drive Lane12’Raised Median
6’BikeLane
5’BikeLane
8’BikeLane
3’Buffer 2.5’Buffer 2.5’Buffer
Figure 4.11: North Frontage Road Cross Section: Eastbound and Westbound Buffered Bike
Lanes with no Right Turn
Figure 4.10: North Frontage Road Cross Section: Eastbound and Westbound
Buffered Bike Lanes with Right Turn
Figure 4.10 shows a location where there is a
right turn pocket and a buffered bike lane in
both the eastbound and westbound directions.
The buffered bike lane is located between
the travel lane and parked lane. This requires
additional width of a second buffer but may
be more intuitive for bicyclists and reduce
conflicts with users entering and existing
parked vehicles. This cross section is preferred
at locations that require a turn lane.
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111WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
9’Multiuse Path 6’Sidewalk10’Planting Strip 10’Parking Lane 11’Drive Lane 9’Parking Lane
6’BikeLane
3’Buffer11’Drive Lane 12’Raised Median2’
Buffer
Figure 4.12: North Frontage Road Cross Section: Eastbound Buffered Bike Lanes with
On-Street Parking Both Sides
Figure 4.12 shows a cross section option at
a mid-block location where there is no right
turn lane required. This shows parking on
both sides of North Frontage Road and a
parking protected bike lane just eastbound.
Westbound bicyclists are expected to ride on
the multi-use path on the north side of the
roadway. The parking protected bike lane
offers additional protection from moving traffic
by using the parking as a buffer. This scenario
may experience more pedestrian conflicts, as
users travel to or from their parked vehicle.
Concern was voiced by Advisory Committee members that snow currently impedes travel in two
of the four travel lanes on the North Frontage Road. The need for snow storage along the North
Frontage Road while maintaining uninterrupted movement of all modes is a complicating factor,
but there are both design and programmatic strategies that can be used to address this challenge.
For example, the Town could adopt a policy that on-street parking is prohibited during major
snow events and the parking lane could be utilized for temporary snow storage. Alternatively,
the median could be designed to accommodate snow storage by featuring a rollover curb with
a landscaped bed. Snow can be stored between the travel lane and the landscaping, or atop
landscaping that is latent in the winter months.
In addition to snow storage, sufficient space must be allocated for accommodating movement
adjacent to parked vehicles. With the presence of North Frontage Road on-street parking, a
sufficient buffer between parked vehicles and traffic should be provided to ensure open vehicle
doors do not pose a hazard and that people exiting vehicles on the driver’s side have sufficient
space to maneuver. An additional consideration prior to implementation is emergency vehicle
response time. Further study will be needed to examine any potential impacts on response times
for fire engines, ambulances, or any other emergency vehicles that must utilize the corridor.
The North Frontage Road has the opportunity to become a comfortable multimodal route for
West Vail and the road diet plays a key role in the reimagining of this critical local and regional
travel facility.
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112 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Crossings
To improve the safety of crossings for pedestrians and bicyclists, it is recommended that enhanced crossings be added at several locations where
pedestrians currently experience uncomfortable conditions.
West Vail Center Driveways Project 17
Vehicles seeking to turn out of the West Vail Center driveways are forced to block the North Recreation Path crossings in order to provide the
necessary sightline to find a gap in traffic to exit the driveway. It is recommended that the path crossing at each driveway be moved north, towards
the commercial businesses, so that vehicles can clear the path crossing prior to waiting for a turning opportunity. The path crossings should be kept
clear using signage alerting drivers to the path crossing, paving or painting treatments that delineate the path from the driveway (such as green
paint or brick pavers), a vertical treatment that raises the path crossing above the driveway maintaining the grade of the path, or a combination of all
three. The recommended path crossing treatment is shown in Figure 4.13.
Figure 4.13: North Recreation Path Crossing at City Market Driveway
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113WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Buffehr Creek Road and North Frontage Road intersection
Example of a wide shoulder protected by bollards
Buffehr Creek Road at North Frontage Road Project 1
The crossing of Buffehr Creek Road for pedestrians and bicyclists
traveling on the North Recreation Path can be hazardous due to
westbound vehicles entering the widened shoulder to make right-turn
movements onto Buffehr Creek Road as shown here. This issue can
be addressed through the installation of bollards along the shoulder
that would prevent vehicles from utilizing the facility as a turn lane.
The bollards should be placed inside of a two-foot wide painted buffer
to add additional separation between vehicles and path users. These
bollards should extend further east than the intersection, as shown
here, as an interim treatment to provide vertical protection on the
section of trail that is a wide shoulder. In the long-term, this section of
shoulder should be upgraded to a trail. Additional signage increasing
driver awareness of the on-street bicycle facility should also be installed.
In addition, green thermoplastic pavement markings can be added in
between the white lines of the crosswalk to delineate the crosswalk as a
path of travel for bicyclists.
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114 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Mid-block North Frontage Road Crossing Project 12
The current mid-block pedestrian crossing at the bus stop on North
Frontage Road is uncomfortable for pedestrians, given the speed and
volume of vehicles. The multimodal travel improvements and transit
enhancements recommended in this chapter may increase the demand
for pedestrian crossings on the North Frontage Road even further. It is
recommended that an enhanced crossing treatment like a Rectangular
Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) (shown here) be installed on the North
Frontage Road between the existing bus stops. RRFBs are currently
in place at the existing roundabout crossings, so there is already
community familiarity with this type of crossing device. Given the
proposed changes to the cross section of North Frontage Road, further
study of the volume and speed on the roadway should be conducted to
confirm the appropriate crossing treatment. Town of Vail can reference
the City and County of Denver’s Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing
Guidelines4 to understand how vehicle volume and speed will impact
pedestrian crossing treatments.
4. https://www.denvergov.org/content/dam/denvergov/Portals/705/documents/guidelines/PWES-
015.0-Uncontrolled_Pedestrian_Crossing_Guidelines.pdf
Example of an enhanced crosswalk with a RRFB
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115WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Roundabout at the Simba Run underpass
Roundabouts Projects 4 14
During community outreach, community members shared that crossing
the roundabouts as a pedestrian or bicyclist is difficult under existing
conditions. It is recommended that additional signage and lighting be
installed at the roundabouts to both alert drivers to the presence of
bicyclists and pedestrians and to inform active transportation users of
vehicles exiting I-70. Each leg of the roundabout should have an RRFB
installed, similar to that which is on the northeast leg of the roundabout
currently. The sidewalk on the northwest side of the roundabout should
also be widened to at least six feet. To control the flow of active users
crossing at the roundabouts, the western side of the I-70 underpass
should be open to pedestrians only. By restricting bicycle travel to the
eastern crossing, drivers will encounter bicyclists on only one side of
the roundabout and pedestrians will enjoy the full right of way on the
western crossing. Signage should be added to alert people biking to use
the eastern side of the underpass.
The new roundabout east of the study area provides an example of an
intersection treatment that serves all users. The roundabout has only
one travel lane in each direction, which can help calm vehicle speeds
and provide a more comfortable experience for those navigating the
roundabout by bicycle or walking (shown here).
While the North Frontage Road roundabout pedestrian crossings have
RRFB signals, Town staff expressed concern that the pedestrian signals
were being underutilized. Signage encouraging pedestrians to request
the crossing lights should be installed to aid in the education of users.
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116 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Formalizing Desire Lines Project 3
Pedestrians in West Vail will sometimes take informal paths that serve
as direct connections to their destination; these paths are created
over time by pedestrians taking the shortest connection. These paths
are not recognized by the Town of Vail and are not compliant with
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These paths demonstrate
there is a community need for more direct walking paths. In order to
make these pathways more accessible to community members of all
ages and abilities, it is recommended the Town surface three of these
paths with either pavement or crusher fines that would allow travelers
using wheelchairs, baby strollers, or other devices to also enjoy these
additional pedestrian connections. Two of the proposed formalized
paths enhance pedestrian access to the West Vail Center by providing
an accessible path from Chamonix Lane to the center. The third
recommended connection provides access between Garmisch Drive and
Chamonix Lane, providing enhanced connectivity for people walking
and biking.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Crossing of I-70 Project 11
I-70 presents a major barrier for pedestrians and bicyclists seeking to
connect between the northern and southern portions of West Vail.
There is community support for additional infrastructure that would
connect the two sides of the community and allow for non-motorized
crossings in between the two existing underpasses to help minimize
out of direction travel. A grade separated, overcrossing would require
further study to determine feasibility and an appropriate location. The
picture to the right shows an example of a bicycle and pedestrian bridge
Portland, OR to provide inspiration for what a potential I-70 crossing
could look like. It is recommended the Town of Vail further study the
opportunity to meet this transportation need.
The Town of Vail can also consider a larger capital project to connect
both sides of West Vail. “Highway capping,” the practice of building over
an interstate highway to create room for new community assets like Rendering of a proposed pedestrian Blumenauer Bridge, City of Portland, OR
Example of pedestrian desire line between Chamonix Lane and the North
Frontage Road businesses
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117WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Before and after - highway capping project in Dallas, TX (source: Klyde Warren Park)
parks, lower-speed surface streets, or development, is becoming popular
in heavily urbanized areas (shown below). As a significant regional
destination and a growing community, the Town of Vail can explore the
opportunity of putting a cap over I-70 in order to create new space in an
otherwise geographically constrained setting, eliminate the barrier that
is currently challenging community cohesiveness, expand the walk and
bikeshed of West Vail by improving connectivity, and to create a more
welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
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118 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Access Management Project 3
The 2009 Vail Transportation Master Plan featured an Access
Management Plan that has not yet been fully implemented. The West
Vail Master Plan updates the 2009 Access Management Plan to support
implementation of the recommended road diet for the North Frontage
Road and to improve conditions at a key crossing of the Gore Valley Trail
along the South Frontage Road.
Figure 4.14 displays the update to the 2009 Access Management
Plan as it pertains to the North Frontage Road. The key modifications
include addition of a roundabout at the driveway that currently serves
Safeway and to no longer add a driveway adjacent to the bus stop. This
roundabout would have mountable curbs to support emergency vehicle
Figure 4.14: Proposed Modifications to the 2009 Access Management Plan
movements during periods of congestion. The access plan will evolve
as new development occurs and the recommendations for West Vail
Center discussed in Chapter 2 are implemented. Circulation impacts
from any new roundabout, including implications for emergency vehicle
response time, should be assessed prior to design and construction.
For example, if/when the existing parking structure adjacent to City
Market is redeveloped, the driveway serving that parking structure
will be converted to a right-in/right-out access point and the driveway
immediately to the west will become a full movement access point. The
driveway closure for access point 2 shown in Figure 4.14 is contingent
on future redevelopment. The Town of Vail should implement the
updates to the 2009 Access Management Plan in the near-term in order
to facilitate the North Frontage Road road diet and complement the
redevelopment of West Vail Center.
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119WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Figure 4.15: Proposed Access Management for South Frontage Road Gas Station Driveways
Along the South Frontage Road, the gas station east of the roundabout
currently has two full access driveways. The 2009 Access Management
Plan proposed that the western driveway shown in Figure 4.25 remain
full access while the eastern driveway be converted to ¾ access once
the gas station is redeveloped. However, the Gore Valley Trail crosses
both driveways and there is an ECO Transit stop located in between
the two driveways so it is recommended that access restrictions be
put in place in the near-term, prior to redevelopment, to ensure trail
users and transit riders can access this location. As shown in Figure
4.15, it is recommended that the driveways be converted to one-way,
with the western driveway serving vehicles entering the gas station
and the eastern driveway serving vehicles that are exiting. It is also
recommended that the driveway access be narrowed and the curb
radii tightened (Project #10). This will slow down turning vehicles and
reduce the size of the conflict area between turning vehicles and people
walking and biking on the South Frontage Road sidewalk. Lastly, the
island between the two driveways should be extended north, as shown
in the gray box in Figure 4.15. This still allows space for the bus to pick
up passengers at that stop outside of the South Frontage Road right-of-
way, but reduces the amount of pavement and conflict area between
vehicles and people walking and biking.
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120 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
TRANSIT
There are several recommendations and
associated strategies the Town of Vail and
Vail Transit should consider for maintaining
existing ridership, looking for opportunities
to attract new riders, better leveraging
resources, and adapting for the future.
These recommendations are summarized
in Table 4.2. The following section profiles
a mobility hub that will be implemented
at the West Vail Center along with four
recommendations for improving transit
service. Additional recommendations that
impact transit are made in other sections
of this report. These include Transportation
Demand Management strategies and bicycle
and pedestrian connections that serve as
first and last mile solutions.
TRANSIT RECOMMENDATION CODE NAME DESCRIPTION
1
Annual Performance
Evaluation of
Current System
and Continuous
Improvement
Vail Transit can take on a performance
monitoring program to analyze ridership,
route productivity, and customer/
community feedback on an annual basis.
The results can help Vail Transit regularly
adjust service to best match needs.
2
ECO Transit Service
Integration
The opening of the Mobility Hub will likely
spur need for an additional ECO Transit
connection in West Vail. Vail Transit can
coordinate with ECO Transit to identify
opportunities for better aligning the two
services.
3
Consider a Ride-
Hailing Partnership
for Late Night Service
While Vail Transit currently does not offer
late night service due to the operating cost,
community members would value after
hours transportation service. A ride-hailing
partnership could fill that transportation
need at a relatively low cost.
4
Ongoing Bus Stop
Connectivity and
Access Improvement
Improving access to bus stops by adding
more shelters, bike racks, signage, adding
paved walkways leading to stops, and other
case-by-case treatments would enable
more community members to connect with
Vail Transit service.
5
Mobility Hub A Mobility Hub is a location for a bus
stop that includes other first last mile
connections and a comfortable, intuitive
place to connect for people traveling from
across the region.
Table 4.2: Summary of Transit Recommendations
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121WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Annual Performance Evaluation Project 1 of Current System and
Continuous Improvement
The introduction of the West Vail Express route is an example of how
Vail Transit has continually evaluated its routes and overall connectivity
to improve the rider experience. It is recommended that Vail Transit
continue to annually review each route, its performance (ridership
gain or loss year-over-year, route productivity, and seasonal variations),
and customer/community feedback received to identify possible route
adjustments and service level changes that may be necessary.
Some opportunities that may be worthy of future consideration include:
• Improved East Vail to West Vail connectivity (for example, without
having to make a transfer at the Vail Transportation Center)
• Ability to move more seamlessly between destinations on the south
and north sides of I-70 within West Vail
• Reconfiguration of routing in response to infrastructure and
development changes (e.g., the proposed mobility hub in West Vail)
ECO Transit Service Integration Project 2
ECO Transit service can be more fully integrated into West Vail, possibly
adjusting routing to the Valley Route to connect to Vail Transit bus stops
on the North Frontage Road. Although largely out of the control of Vail
Transit and dependent on ECO Transit’s ability to make this change,
which would impact ECO Transit operationally, this recommendation
will become especially important as the proposed North Frontage Road
mobility hub is built. Having ECO Transit make a stop at the proposed
mobility hub will be critical for overall regional transit connectivity.
The Town of Vail and Vail Transit should discuss this need with ECO
Transit and work towards a mutual agreement on how this connectivity
could be achieved and how negative impacts will be mitigated.
ECO Transit service in West Vail
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122 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Consider a Ride Hailing Partnership Project 3
for Late Night Service
Another opportunity area is late night service (trips after 9:00 PM),
when West Vail travel patterns change to more variable needs.
An option to consider for replacing at least a portion of West Vail
fixed route bus service could be a ride hailing partnership with a
transportation network company (TNC) such as Uber or Lyft. Vail Transit
may find that ride hailing could better serve some of the West Vail late
night transportation needs by creating a flexible model where riders
are picked up and dropped off according to individual needs, while still
allowing for the possibility for trips to group multiple passengers.
Ongoing Bus Stop Connectivity Project 4
and Access Improvement
Vail Transit can improve the rider experience by continuing to make
incremental bus stop infrastructure improvements, such as sidewalk/
pathway connectivity, bus shelters, bike racks, bus pullouts, and
passenger loading/unloading pads. Safety, accessibility, and user
comfort all benefit from these investments and should be included
in the Town of Vail’s ongoing capital improvement plan. This chapter
includes a number of recommendations that will improve first and last
mile connections for people biking and walking to transit including a
proposed mobility hub.
A part of this recommendation is potentially adding new stops or
moving existing stops as transit rider needs and land use changes within
West Vail. One example of this is the potential need for a new bus stop
opposite of the existing West Vail Fire Station bus stop; this request was
made as a part of the outreach effort of this plan (Figure 4.16). A new
stop would eliminate riders having to spend time to go the opposite
direction of their likely desired travel destination when getting on at the
West Vail Fire Station. Further study should be completed to understand
the costs and benefits of this new stop.
Figure 4.16: Proposed West Vail Fire Station Bus Stop
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123WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Mobility Hub Project 5
As discussed in Chapter 2, a mobility hub
located at the West Vail Center would
allow users to switch seamlessly between
transportation modes and be less reliant on
a vehicle. The mobility hub could include a
structure similar to the existing Lionshead
Transportation Center (shown here) with
dynamic real time displays showing bus
arrival information, a kiosk that both provides
trip planning resources and offers travelers
an opportunity to purchase coffee or food
items, power outlets, and wireless internet.
In addition, the mobility hub could host a bike
share station, secure bicycle storage, charging
stations for electric bicycles, and a designated
area for ride share loading and unloading
(Figure 4.17).
Figure 4.28: Lionshead Transportation Center
Figure 4.17: Illustration of West Vail Center Transit Mobility Hub
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124 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
POLICIES AND PROGRAMS
The infrastructure enhancements described in this chapter can meet
the goals of the West Vail Master Plan if they are supported by a
policy framework that helps to guide plan implementation. Table
4.3 summarizes the transportation policies and programs being
recommended for West Vail. These range from parking management
policies to recommendations on how best to prepare West Vail for the
growing prevalence of electric vehicles.
Parking Policy Recommendation 1
1.1 - Shared Parking
The Town of Vail zoning regulations currently require varying numbers
of parking spaces for commercial businesses based on the type of
establishment. For example, eating and drinking establishments are
required to have 1.0 space per 250 square feet of seating floor area and
retail stores are required to have 2.3 spaces per 1,000 square feet of net
floor area. The Town also provides credits for multiple use, or shared,
parking facilities. Shared parking facilities are parking areas that serve
multiple businesses; this is especially effective when businesses have
complementary peak demand times. Shared parking facilities receive a
2.5 percent reduction in parking spaces when the shared parking facility
has 101-200 spaces, and the reduction increases by 2.5 percent for
every 100 vehicle increment up to 1,000 or more spaces, or a 25 percent
reduction.
The West Vail Center, as described in Chapter 2, will provide ample
shared parking to businesses. It will also be connected both locally and
regionally by high quality bicycle and pedestrian connections along with
a mobility hub for transit riders. Since West Vail Center will integrate
into a multimodal transportation network, it is recommended the Town
allow additional multiple use parking credits to ensure that while parking
be made available, West Vail Center will also be a destination that
community members can reach by foot, bicycle, or bus.
1.2 - Parking Minimum Reductions
In addition to the multiple use parking credits the Town offers for
multiple land uses sharing a parking facility, it is also recommended the
Town provide additional reductions for shared parking facilities that are
located adjacent to a transit stop or served by the low-stress bicycle
network. Development located adjacent to multimodal facilities will have
fewer patrons arriving be private vehicle and thus requiring parking. By
lowering the amount of parking required, the Town can reduce the cost
of additional development while helping to promote active travel modes.
1.3 - Oversize Vehicle Parking
The Town of Vail determined in early 2021 that the Children’s Garden
of Learning will be temporarily relocated from its current site to the
Charter Bus Lot on the South Frontage Road. This relocation causes a
need for oversize vehicles to park elsewhere in the community. Per a
study conducted by the Town in January 2021, it was determined that a
temporary location for oversize vehicle parking could be along the North
Frontage Road either west of the West Vail Fire Station or across from
City Market. Both locations would conflict with the recommendations
of the West Vail Master Plan and are likely not suitable long-term
solutions. At the time the West Vail Master Plan was being finalized,
the Town was examining multiple locations throughout the community
to store oversize vehicles with the goal of offering a variety of oversize
vehicle parking options rather than concentrating that type of parking
in a single location. As the Town begins to implement the transportation
recommendations of this Master Plan, care should be taken not to locate
permanent oversize vehicle parking in any location where those vehicles
may present a conflict with the existing or new bicycle and pedestrian
infrastructure.
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125WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
POLICY CODE NAME DESCRIPTION
1 Parking
Revisiting the Town of Vail’s maintenance policy to consider prioritizing snow removal on travel facilities
utilized by bicyclists and pedestrians can help make multimodal transportation a more reliable travel option
throughout the year. This policy can be accomplished through acquisition of specialized equipment.
2 Maintenance
Electric vehicles are increasingly common but rural communities have lower adoption rates due to a lack
of charging infrastructure. The Town of Vail can encourage greater usage of electric vehicles by residents
and visitors through provision of public charging stations throughout the community. Autonomous vehicles,
while not yet prevalent, carry significant implications for transportation that the Town of Vail can proactively
address through policies that would manage autonomous vehicle flows and ensure their operations can
integrate into existing mobility patterns as smoothly as possible.
3 Technology
The Town of Vail can enact a municipal-level Transportation Demand Management program that incentivizes
people to travel by foot, bicycle, transit, or shared vehicle rides whenever possible. Incentives can include a
robust marketing campaign to raise awareness about the benefits of multimodal travel or a parking cash-out
program that provides a monetary award to businesses that commit to not utilize their full parking allotment.
4
Transportation
Demand
Management
Improving access to bus stops by adding more shelters, bike racks, signage, adding paved walkways leading
to stops, and other case-by-case treatments would enable more community members to connect with Vail
Transit service.
5 Bikeshare
Building on the successful bike sharing pilot that the Town of Vail operated in 2020, the Town can adopt a
permanent bikeshare program to facilitate bicycle travel between popular destinations within the community.
The full program should include hubs in neighborhoods or at local parks to further support bike mobility.
6 Wayfinding
It is recommended the Town of Vail expand upon its existing wayfinding signage program by installing
additional signage in locations where new multimodal infrastructure is added and to add bicycle and walking
travel time information onto existing and new signs. The proliferation of unnecessary signage should be
avoided.
7 Data Collection
To help understand transportation network performance over time, the Town of Vail should implement an
extensive data collection program that would facilitate performance tracking. Metrics like transit ridership,
vehicle speeds, and bicycle/pedestrian volumes will inform whether how well the transportation network is
serving users of all modes and will also support decision-making on prioritizing implementation of proposed
transportation projects.
Table 4.3: Summary of Policy Areas and Supporting Programs
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126 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Maintenance Policy Recommendation 2
One of the chief barriers to walking and bicycling in West Vail that
community members identified is the frequency of snow events in the
winter. The Town currently plows streets and multi-use paths based
on a priority system, with the Frontage Roads and roundabouts being
top priority and residential streets being a lower priority, followed
by sidewalks and multi-use paths as the lowest priority. The priority
system is intended to designate routes that must be plowed by 8:00 am
following a snow event (top priority) and routes that must be plowed
no later than 9:30 am (lowest priority). While the interval is not long,
snow concerns that are not addressed by morning commute time will
limit options for walking or bicycling trips. Procurement of additional
specialized equipment for plowing sidewalks, proposed separated
bicycle facilities and multi-use paths may allow the Town to maintain
those facilities concurrently with top priority facilities, which would
allow community members more travel options during winter weather
events.
Technology Policy Recommendation 3
3.1 - Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EV) are a growing share of the overall vehicle fleet due
to a combination of factors, including regulatory and financial incentives
that encourage production and use, a growing number of auto
manufacturers offering EV options, and consumer preferences that are
shifting towards more environmentally sustainable travel modes. While
EVs bring community benefits, with lower levels of noise and tailpipe
emissions, the technology can be more difficult to adopt in rural
communities where driving trips tend to be longer and where cold
weather may impact battery performance. To better accommodate EV
integration, the Town of Vail can provide both on-street and off-street
EV charging stations as well as incentives and requirements for provision
of EV charging stations and infrastructure by developers. For example,
EV charging stations could be installed as part of the West Vail Center
redevelopment.
3.2 - Autonomous Vehicles
While not yet widely available, West Vail has an opportunity to begin
planning for Autonomous vehicles (AVs) to ensure the community is
able to maximize the benefits of this new technology while minimizing
potential downsides. While AVs can potentially open new travel
opportunities for community members who do not drive, decrease
parking demand, and potentially reduce traffic collisions, there may
also be some drawbacks. Research on travel behaviors suggests that
AVs may increase overall travel demand while decreasing transit usage.
To preempt some of the potentially negative impacts, the Town can
take measures such as: proactively installing sensing technology to help
manage vehicle flows; updating parking requirements and building
standards to reflect a potentially lower need for parking as well as
modifying parking facility designs to accommodate driverless vehicles
and establishing a program for integrating any shared AV services (e.g.
autonomous Uber or Lyft vehicles) with the future mobility hub to ensure
travelers have the opportunity to easily connect with transit service.
Electric vehicle charging station in Vail
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127WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Transportation Policy Recommendation 4
Demand Management
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) is a set of strategies and
policies for incentivizing people to travel by means other than driving
alone. Instead of providing additional transportation supply, TDM
identifies barriers to using existing but under-utilized transportation
options and provides tools for overcoming those barriers. For example,
community members might utilize transit at a lower rate because they
are unaware their local bus route serves a significant shopping center. A
marketing campaign about local transit service is a low-cost intervention
that may shift some vehicle trips onto existing bus service. The Town of
Vail can look to TDM as a tool for encouraging community members to
utilize the expanded multimodal facilities and additional transit service
that may emerge as a result of the West Vail Master Plan.
Successful TDM programs are multifaceted. For instance, the Town can
pair marketing campaigns about the benefits of transit service with a
parking supply management program like encouraging property owners
to lease parking spaces separately from dwelling units in order to
disincentivize vehicle ownership. To ensure West Vail is a place where
non-vehicle owners can have an uncompromised experience of the
community, the Town will have to deploy diverse TDM strategies in
tandem with one another.
Bike Share Policy Recommendation 5
The Town of Vail enjoyed a successful bike share pilot in the summer of
2020. Riders logged over 900 miles of travel in the first four weeks of
the pilot, which exceeded projections. West Vail had three bike share
stations located at Ellefson Park, the bus stop adjacent to the West
Vail Mall, and at Donovan Park (just outside of the project area of this
Plan). The popularity of the program suggests there is a community
need for additional transportation options and bike share is effective
for facilitating short-distance travel that is environmentally friendly and
does not represent a disproportionately high cost burden for the Town.
It is recommended that the Town make bike share a permanent option
for the warm weather months and that additional station locations
be evaluated throughout West Vail. Bike share stations can be funded
through Town subsidies or private development and user fees can help
offset operating costs.
Bike share pilot in Vail
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128 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Wayfinding Policy Recommendation 6
In order to make West Vail a more multimodal community, the Town
should expand the current existing wayfinding signage program
(example shown below) to locations in West Vail where additional
multimodal enhancements are proposed. For example, the additional
shoulder striping proposed for Chamonix Lane, Gore Creek Road,
Buffehr Creek Road, and Alpine Drive may induce additional walking and
bicycling trips; wayfinding signage should be visible throughout these
corridors. In addition to expanding the presence of signage, the Town
should also consider adding walking and bicycling travel time to help
multimodal users better plan their travel.
Example of existing wayfinding signage in West Vail
Data Collection Policy Recommendation 7
To facilitate future transportation planning efforts, the Town of Vail
should implement a data collection and performance tracking system.
Data on factors like 85th percentile vehicle speeds, traffic volumes on
key roadways, bicycle and pedestrian counts, and transit ridership by
stop can be used to identify travel patterns in West Vail and enable the
Town to respond to shifts in travel demand. In addition, a data collection
program will position the Town to understand the breadth of mobility
issues more fully. For example, while vehicle speeds were cited as a
concern during the outreach process, data from a recent speed study
suggested vehicles travel at speeds close to the posted speed limit on
most West Vail roadways. However, the speed study represented a
limited number of observations; conducting speed studies at regular
intervals will allow staff to monitor roadway safety conditions and
proactively respond based on trends that emerge.
Table 4.4 shows some of the metrics that the Town of Vail can track
along with the benefits of tracking each metric. The Town of Vail can use
traditional infrared equipment to collect vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian
counts. In addition, the Town can leverage new Big Data sources that
utilize anonymously tracked cell phone GPS data to identify origins and
destinations as well as travel routes. Utilizing Big Data would allow the
Town to develop a data tracking process that relies less on physical
infrastructure, and thus data can be collected more regularly.
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129WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
Table 4.4: Proposed Metrics for Transportation Performance Tracking in West Vail
METRIC TRACKING BENEFIT
Vehicle Volumes
(Average Annual Daily Traffic and
peak hour turning movement counts)
Gaining a better understanding of traffic volumes through West Vail to help determine where capacity
issues may exist.
Vehicle Speeds
Conducting speed studies at regular intervals can help the Town understand if there are particular
locations where enforcement or traffic calming measures are needed. Speed studies can be targeted to
certain corridors. 85th percentile speed will also inform the appropriate bicycle and pedestrian facilities
to ensure people of all ages and abilities feel comfortable walking and biking.
On-Street Parking Occupancy
and Duration
As the West Vail Center redevelops, there may be additional demand for on-street parking on the North
Frontage Road. Regularly studying parking occupancy and duration will allow the community to make
informed decisions about whether additional parking regulations are needed to help manage the supply
of on-street parking spaces.
Bicycle Counts and Pedestrian Counts
Anecdotally, the multi-use paths traveling through West Vail are utilized at a high rate. Tracking counts of
pedestrians and bicyclists on the paths, as well as other multimodal facilities in the community, can help
the Town better understand travel behavior, which in turn will inform the understanding of mode share.
This will also assess if the pedestrian volume threshold for mid-block pedestrian crossings is met.
Transit Ridership by Stop
Vail Transit is undertaking a transition to an Automated Passenger Counting system. This data can show
stop-level transit ridership in West Vail, which will help the community make decisions on scheduling
and service hours.
Mode Share for All Trips
While the Census Bureau reports mode share for work commute trips based on travel survey data,
communities like West Vail should not rely solely on Census mode share data because of the high rate
of recreation-related travel. Tracking and reporting mode share will help the Town identify whether
additional resources should be allocated to any particular travel mode.
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130 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
IMPLEMENTATION
Planning level cost estimates for the transportation infrastructure projects recommended in this chapter are shown in Table 4.5. The total
estimated cost of recommended projects is approximately $16.7 million. Given the significant recommended investment in transportation, phased
implementation can be pursued in order to help the Town of Vail adequately budget for these improvements over time.
The implementation phasing shown in Table 4.5 splits recommended projects into the short- (0-5 years), medium- (6-10 years), and long-terms
(10+ years).
PROJECT CODE PROJECT ELEMENTS PLANNING LEVEL COST ESTIMATE IMPLEMENTATION PHASE
1 N Frontage Road @ Buffehr Creek
Road Buffered bicycle lane $ 44,000 Short term
2 N Frontage Road & Safeway Signage $ 332,000 Short term for crossing,
Long term for mobility hub
3 Chamonix Lane, behind City Market Enhanced Crossing $ 222,000 Medium term
4 Roundabout on North Frontage Road Mobility Hub $ 10,000 Short term
5 Chamonix Lane Enhanced Crossing $1,013,000 Short term
6 Buffehr Creek Road Multi-use path connections $ 3,000 Short term
7 Gore Creek Drive Signage $ 235,000 Short term
8 Alpine Drive
Shoulder striping,
Signage,
Lighting
$ 79,000 Short term
Table 4.5: Planning Level Cost Estimates and Phasing for Transportation Projects
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131WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
PROJECT CODE PROJECT ELEMENTS PLANNING LEVEL COST ESTIMATE IMPLEMENTATION PHASE
9 South Frontage Road (west of
roundabout)
Signs every 325 feet for 1,750
ft (2 sign types),
Enhanced crossing (280 sq ft)
$ 8,000 Short term
10 S Frontage Road @ Conoco Station Enhanced path crossing,
Loading island for bus stop $ 73,000
Short term for Gore Valley
Trail crossing,
Medium term for bus stop island
11 Bicycle and Pedestrian Grade
Separated Crossing of I-70 Bicycle and pedestrian bridge $5,850,000 Long term
12 Extend North Frontage Road multi-use
path east of Buffehr Creek Road Multi-use path extension $ 352,000 Long term
13 Chamonix Road
Multi-use path,
Signage,
Sharrow markings
$ 173,000 Medium term with hotel
redevelopment
14 I-70 Underpass Signage $ 1,000 Short term
15 North Frontage Road
Buffered bicycle lane,
Raised median,
Striping
$ 122,000 Medium term
16
North Frontage Road between
Chamonix Lane (southwest) and
roundabout
Multi-use path,
Pedestrian-scale lighting $ 560,000 Long term
17 North Frontage Road and South
Frontage Road Driveways
Signage,
Turning islands,
Striping
$7,552,000 Medium term
18 North Frontage Road and Buffehr
Creek Road Pedestrian-scale lighting $ 109,000 Short term
TOTAL COST OF IMPROVEMENTS $16,738,000
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132 CHAPTER 4: TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
FUNDING SOURCES
The following section summarizes outside funding sources the Town
of Vail could pursue in order to implement the transportation projects
recommended in this chapter. The list of funding sources shown here
is not exhaustive and is intended to supplement local spending on
transportation infrastructure improvements.
Federal
• Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP): Projects that
address safety issues on any local or regional public roads and trails
or paths can be eligible. The funded activities must be consistent with
Colorado’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan and projects are selected
competitively through CDOT. While many of the projects listed in this
chapter may have a safety benefit, especially for active transportation
users, further study would be needed in order to identify eligibility for
this funding source.
• USDOT Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and
Equity (RAISE) (formerly BUILD and TIGER): Since 2009, USDOT has
distributed grants for planning and capital investments in surface
transportation infrastructure. Grants are awarded on a competitive
basis for projects that will have a significant local or regional impact.
RAISE funding can support roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports, or
intermodal transportation.
• FTA §5311 Rural Area Formula Program: This program makes federal
resources available to rural areas for transit capital and operating
assistance. Rural areas are those areas with a population of less than
50,000 as designated by the U.S. Census Bureau.
• Surface Transportation Block Grants: The Surface Transportation
Block Grant program (STBG) provides flexible funding for projects to
preserve and improve the conditions and performance on any Federal-
aid highway, bridge and tunnel projects on any public road, pedestrian
and bicycle infrastructure, and transit capital projects, including
intercity bus terminals.
• Federal Stimulus: The West Vail Master Plan was developed during
a time when new federal stimulus became available to local
governments. The American Rescue Plan provides funding to support
transit, walking, and biking, particularly shovel-ready projects that
improve safety. In addition, a surface transportation reauthorization
bill – Build Back Better – is being developed in cooperation between
the Biden Administration and the 117th Congress. This surface
transportation bill promises to include funding support for local
multimodal transportation projects.
RAISE is the federal transportation bill passed in 2021
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133WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
State
• CDOT Funding Advancements for Surface Transportation and
Economic Recovery Act (FASTER): This category includes safety-related
projects, such as: asset management, transportation operations,
intersection and interchange improvements, shoulder and safety
related widening, and pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Projects are
advanced by local governments and selected based on priority and
data within CDOT Region 4.
• Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO): Funding from the Colorado Lottery
is awarded to a variety of project types, including trail projects, across
the state by the GOCO Board.
• Revitalizing Main Street Program: This program, operated under CDOT,
supports infrastructure projects that provide open spaces for mobility,
community activities, and economic development in the wake of the
COVID-19 emergency. These quick-win activities will improve safety
and create new community spaces to encourage healthy activity and
mobility in Colorado communities. Eligible projects encourage healthy
communities by creating more space for active travel through wider
sidewalks or reallocating vehicle travel lanes to bicycle lanes.
• Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP): Federal funds are allocated
by CDOT under TAP to transportation improvement projects that
expand travel choice, strengthen the local economy, improve quality
of life, and protect the environment.
Local
• Local Tax: Funds generated by sales, use, specific ownership, and
property taxes can be transferred to general funds or directed towards
capital projects. These can either be permanent or a local option tax
that is subject to voter approval.
• Transportation Utility Fees: Transportation utility fees are a financing
mechanism that treats the transportation system like a utility in
which residents and businesses pay fees based on their use of
the transportation system rather than taxes based on the value of
property they occupy. The fees are not subject to voter approval and
are based on the number of trips generated by different land uses.
They are enacted on property owners and renters alike, paid on an
ongoing monthly basis.
• Other funding options that could be considered with further analysis
are parking fees, transportation impact fees, and special assessments.
Great Outdoors Colorado funds many trail projects across the state
November 2, 2021 - Page 186 of 229
November 2, 2021 - Page 187 of 229
INTRODUCTION
“The future West Vail is a complete neighborhood with increased housing
options for year-round residents, streets that support multiple modes of
transportation, and a vibrant, walkable destination where residents and
visitors can shop at local businesses and gather as a community. Though just
minutes from a world-class resort, West Vail retains the familiar, neighborly
character of a small mountain town.”
CHAPTER 5:IMPLEMENTATION
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136 CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION
IMPLEMENTATION OPTIONS
This plan recommends that the Town deploy one of two pathways to
implementing the redevelopment of West Vail Center.
Special Development District
One pathway, a Special Development District (SDD), would be a new
district where an approved development plan would allow for uses on
the site different from the underlying zoning. Property owners would
voluntarily elect to participate in development planning and funding
and financing mechanisms through the SDD. This approach may allow
for more creativity, financial incentive to property owners, sharing of
costs, and public benefits to Town residents and property owners. In this
process the Town and the developer would work together to establish
the building heights, public spaces, unit mix, commercial spaces,
and other components. With a strong West Vail Master Plan guiding
the development decision, an SDD can have a transparent process
and bounds in which it is expected to perform. A SDD would not be
necessary to achieve Scenario 1.
Zoning Approach
The Town may also implement this plan through adopting a new zone
district or modifications to the existing CC3 zone district.
Scenario 1
For Scenario 1, simple modifications to CC3 would be required. The
allowable density would need to be changed from 12 units per
buildable acre to 18 units per buildable acre. Additionally, the
requirement that all housing units be EHUs would need to be modified
to allow for the new market-rate housing to incentivize redevelopment,
as depicted in the Scenario. Housing projects at less than 100% EHUs
should be considered. For additional detail about Scenario 1 zoning
recommendations, see the Zoning Recommendations section of
Chapter 2.
Scenarios 2 and 3
For Scenarios 2 and 3, a new zone district would reflect the design
principles and residential densities defined in Chapter 2. This option, the
new zone district, may result in a more predictable, faster development
process than the use of an SDD. However, the final product may have
less creativity in the design and there may be less cohesion as a result.
Under a zoning approach, the developer can build according to the zone
district’s regulations, as described in this plan, rather than the more
flexible but less predictable approach under an SDD.
Zoning updates must include requirements for housing types that
incentivize redevelopment while providing a strong supply of new
resident housing units. In commercial areas of Vail, inclusionary
zoning requires a minimum of 10 percent of new GRFA to be built as
EHUs. This plan recommends exceeding that minimum, with 50 to 75
percent of units as deed-restricted resident housing. Deed restrictions
should be structured within the Vail InDEED parameters: residency
and employment requirements but no income limits. The Town is also
considering a new housing mitigation fee program (linkage fees) to
replace inclusionary zoning at the time of this writing.
If a zoning approach is used, the following design considerations are
recommended to be followed:
• Allow more flexibility in how EHUs can be delivered in West Vail
Center, including flexibility in unit sizes, configurations, and parking
requirements.
• Allow slightly taller buildings so long as they provide public benefits
(i.e., sufficient resident housing) while maximizing protection of
viewsheds.
• Adopt and require design guidelines that add a layer of predictability
and ensure high design quality within West Vail Center.
Additional recommendations and guidelines for the updated zone
district can be found in the Zoning Recommendations section of
Chapter 2.
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137WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
TOWN PROPERTY AS CATALYST
The Town of Vail owns the land under Vail Commons, the eastern-most
parcel within West Vail Center. It was developed as a City Market grocery
store and the Vail Commons deed-restricted and employee housing
neighborhood. City Market leases the land from the Town and the lease
expires at the end of 2044 (49 years from 1996). The lease allows the
parties to renegotiate the lease terms upon expiration of the original
term; 4 years advanced notice are required. City Market has the right of
first refusal if the Town offers the property to another tenant at terms
more favorable than agreed to initially by City Market.
At any time however, the two parties could renegotiate the land lease to
allow redevelopment of or reinvestment in the property. The Town can
allow additional development density through zoning or a development
agreement to provide a financial incentive for redevelopment. The Town
can also continue to offer below market rent to the tenant. In a master
developer scenario, the lease could potentially be bought out to relocate
the store. With vision and leadership, the Town has options for being a
catalyst in West Vail Center by being proactive with this parcel.
Vail Commons
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138 CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION
FINANCING TOOLS
Colorado law allows several revenue generation and financing tools that
can be used to help pay for the elements of the redevelopment. Four
mechanisms recommended as most suitable for West Vail Center are
summarized below.
Business Improvement District
A business improvement district (BID) is a district-based quasi-public or
private agency governed by a board of directors that can be appointed
by the mayor, elected by the district, or assumed by an existing Urban
Renewal Authority (URA), Downtown Development Authority (DDA),
or General Improvement District (GID) board. BIDs are formed by
petition and election by a majority of non-residential property owners
to provide services such as planning, managing development activities,
promotion or marketing, business recruitment, and/or maintenance.
BIDs are generally operationally-focused and act as a type of manager
of a business district, focusing on maintenance, small capital projects,
and “clean and safe” types of activities. BIDs have the power to assess
costs of service to local property owners through either an additional
property tax (mill levy) or a special assessment charge. Examples in
Colorado include Downtown Boulder, Downtown Manitou Springs,
Downtown Grand Junction, and Cherry Creek North.
• Application: A BID could assist property owners in sharing costs to
implement Scenario 1. The BID could fund modest improvements
to parking circulation, snow removal, wayfinding and branding, and
similar activities. A GID described below could also be used.
Tax Increment Financing
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is authorized in URA plan districts
established by an URA which is statutorily authorized to remove and
prevent blight. The Vail Reinvestment Authority (VRA) is the Town’s
Urban Renewal Authority, formed in 2003 to assist with blight removal
and associated redevelopment activities in Lionshead. To form a URA,
the governing body of the municipality must identify four of eleven
factors of blight and that urban renewal activities are in the public
interest of regulating health, safety, welfare, and morals.
TIF works by directing incremental new tax revenue to the authority
to fund redevelopment projects and activities. Once the tax base has
been set as of a defined point in time, growth in assessed value (and
associated taxes) due to new development and market appreciation is
captured in the TIF area. TIF revenues can be bonded against or used to
reimburse costs as revenues accrue (pay as you go). Changes in Colorado
law in 2015 require the municipality initiating the TIF area to reach
agreements with other taxing entities if their mill levy is to be included
in the TIF. Prior to this change in legislation, URAs could unilaterally
pledge the new tax revenues from all taxing entities with a mill levy in
the affected area. To maximize the revenue potential, the Town and URA
would need to negotiate with other taxing entities.
The Town’s mill levy is 4.701 and Eagle County’s is 4.485 which generate
approximately $338 and $323 in property tax per $1.0 million of
assessed value as shown below. If all or a portion of the School District
mill levy of 24.069 is used, the potential TIF revenues and financing
potential would be much higher than if the Town only had access to the
funds in the Town mill levy. If resident housing is a significant portion of
the redevelopment, there may be a motivation for the School District to
participate to support housing for teachers and to grow enrollment from
local families.
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139WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
TAXING ENTITY RESIDENTIAL MARKET VALUE ASSESSMENT RATIO MILL LEVY
$ per $1,000 of Assessed Value
PROPERTY TAX
per $1.0M of Assessed Value
Town of Vail $1,000,000 7.20%4.701 $338
Eagle County $1,000,000 7.20%4.485 $323
School District $1,000,000 7.20%24.069 $1,733
Public Improvement Fee
A Public Improvement Fee (PIF) is a fee based on sales transactions
imposed by a development entity within its boundaries and used for
funding infrastructure improvements. The fee resembles a sales tax, but
it is an additional charge over and above the required state and local
sales taxes. In some cases, a PIF (implemented with a Town or County’s
involvement) replaces a portion of the local sales tax. This is referred to
as a credit PIF. These PIFs have most often been used on major regional
destination retail projects including Glenwood Meadows (Glenwood
Springs), Willits Town Center (Basalt), and Beaver Creek (retail sales
assessment).
The public pays a PIF as a percent of the value of a retail purchase or
transaction. PIF rates in Colorado (not including credit PIFs) are generally
in the 0.5 to 2.0 percent range. PIFs are a voluntary private contract that
can generate supplemental revenues for project-related infrastructure
without the requirement of an election.
• Application: A PIF could be applied to retail sales, including groceries,
in West Vail Center to assist with public improvement costs such
as structured parking and other infrastructure and placemaking
elements. The following table shows an example of how the retail
square footage of Scenario 3 generates revenue via a PIF.
RETAIL SQ. FT. SCENARIO 3 AVG. SALES PER SQ. FT.PERCENT TAXABLE SALES OR SPACE PIF ANNUAL REVENUE
185,000 $450 67%1.0%$558,000
Table 5.1: Mill Levy Potential Funding for TIF
Table 5.2: PIF Potential Revenue for Scenario 3
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140 CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION
General Improvement District
A general improvement district (GID) is a public infrastructure district
that applies an additional property tax or assessment to a specific
improvement area to pay for new public infrastructure (CRS 30-20-
501). GIDs can be used to fund any public improvement or service the
Town is authorized to undertake or provide. It is commonly used to
fund infrastructure facilities (such as roads, utilities, parking garages,
pedestrian improvements, and/or stormwater) in a defined district or
subarea shared by or serving multiple development projects.
A GID is initiated by petition of a majority of the owners of property
in the district. A GID can levy a property tax (additional mill levy) to
pay for the specified improvements. It can alternatively or additionally
levy an assessment which would allow for a varied fee structure based
on benefits. Revenues can be bonded against to pay for up-front
infrastructure costs.
A GID is a legal entity which is separate from the municipality, even
though Town Council can serve as the board of directors. As a GID is a
separate entity, a town or city is not responsible for the debts of the
district. The advantage of a GID over other types of special districts
such as Title 32 Metropolitan Districts is that the Vail Town Council can
serve as the Board of Directors for the GID and have direct oversight. In
contrast, metropolitan districts are often governed by board elected by
the property owner(s)/developer(s).
The GID can work in concert with the other tools listed above: TIF and
a PIF to combine the revenue sources to maximize the funding and
financing potential. A GID or other type of district financing tool is
recommended to be used in West Vail Center to assist with public costs
that support the plan’s vision and intent.
HOUSING IMPLEMENTATION
Chapter 3 outlines many recommendations for zoning changes, land use
code changes, and new policies and programs as they relate to housing.
As most of the recommendations in this chapter are regulation-based
and do not require capital investment, implementation can begin right
away with the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) and the
Town Council.
This plan recommends that the Zone District Recommendations (#1-4)
and the Town Code Recommendations (#1-6) are reviewed in detail by
the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) and submitted as a
package for adoption by Town Council. If recommended together, the
changes will act as an extension of implementing the West Vail Master
Plan and will have one public hearing process.
Alternatively, the PEC could submit the Code Recommendations first, as
they are less controversial and have more minor affects on development
and aesthetics in the neighborhoods than the zoning changes. This could
build momentum and support for the Zone District Recommendations to
come as a second package for adoption.
As for the recommended policies and programs, more research
and outreach are needed to understand the best approach to
implementation. Outreach to property owners will be key to
understanding the issues in more depth. What incentives property
owners would take to update their properties needs to be explored
further (#1). Short-term rental regulations (#2) have been a controversial
topic across Colorado especially in mountain communities. Fine-tuning
the right approach that works for West Vail will take targeted outreach
and analysis of how short-term rentals are affecting the long-term
housing market, hotels, and the sales price of homes. Allowing more
flexibility for Accessory Dwelling Units (#3) is straightforward, although
with small lots and not much developable land, these changes are
unlikely to have a big impact on new housing units.
Policy and Program Recommendations #4-7 will require collaboration
between the Planning Department and Housing Departments of
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141WEST VAIL MASTER PLAN
the Town of Vail. It is recommended that these departments meet
quarterly to discuss how they can collaborate on executing changes
that will further the implementation of this plan. For example, waiving
fees would be under the purview of the Planning Department, while
supporting Vail InDEED and furthering deed-restrictions would be under
the Housing Department. All of these policies further the housing goals
discussed in this plan.
TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY IMPLEMENTATION
Successfully implementing the transportation elements of the
West Vail Master Plan over the next decade will require leadership,
partnership, and fiscally responsible budgeting. Chapter 4 identifies
the transportation infrastructure projects, transit services, policies,
and programs that are recommended in order to accomplish the
plan’s vision for West Vail. Table 4.5 identifies the priority phase for
each infrastructure project based on its ease of implementation, cost
estimate, community support, and importance in accomplishing the
established vision. The Town of Vail and its partners should work to
implement infrastructure projects based on the identified phasing.
Infrastructure projects in sum are expected to cost over $16 million;
therefore, strategically implementing projects over time will provide the
most benefit and incremental change.
The final section of Chapter 4 identifies a number of federal, state,
and local funding sources. These include a list of the current funding
sources and possible new external funding sources that the Town should
consider pursuing. A critical step in obtaining external grants is having a
Master Plan and project priorities that are supported by the community
and elected officials. Although projects are prioritized as a part of this
plan, this prioritization should maintain a level of flexibility. If a funding
source becomes available that is geared towards a certain project type
or location, the Town has the ability to modify the prioritization list
in order to leverage this opportunity. Although many smaller projects
are grouped in this plan as one project, the Town should consider the
phasing of projects, as appropriate. This means that projects can be
completed for part of the defined extent or only including part of project
description, if deemed appropriate. The desire to implement projects
in a phased approach may arise if there are opportunities through
partnerships, funding sources, repaving schedule, or changes in project
needs. Program and policy recommendations, as well as some transit
recommendations, do not require a capital investment and therefore
can be considered for implementation in the short-term.
Implementation of projects, programs and policies will require working
closely internally between departments (e.g. Public Works, Fire and
Emergency Services, Vail Transit, Vail Parking and Transportation Task
Force) and externally between partner agencies (e.g. Eagle County,
CDOT, ECO Transit, developers). The Town should continue to track the
metrics in Table 4.4 and conduct before and after studies to ensure that
this work is moving towards the goals and resulting in desired outcomes.
When implemented, the transportation recommendations holistically
will deliver the outcome described in the transportation vision and
goals.
Chamonix Lane bus stop
November 2, 2021 - Page 194 of 229
Vail Local Housing Authority
August 17, 2021
Matt Gennett, AICP
Community Development Director
Town of Vail
With copies to:
Planning and Environmental Commission
Town Council
Re: Draft of the West Vail Master Plan
Dear Matt and Master Planning Team:
Thank you for the opportunity to review what has been put forth as the final draft of the West
Vail Master Plan. The VLHA has appreciated the opportunity to be a part of the review process
and participate with development of the plan. Like all master planning projects and processes,
it is not until the text of the master plan is finalized that the details of what is proposed become
clear. That is why we are providing comments again at this point in the process.
The entire master planning team has done an excellent job of putting together this master plan.
It is clear that you have taken care up to this point in trying to address many views and interests
expressed during the process. Our comments are fairly specific and we believe will strengthen
the plan. Planners and policymakers will reference this document in the next implementation
stage, which includes revising zoning documents, and also for decades into the future when
reviewing development and redevelopment proposals. We believe some of the finer points are
important when it comes to debating policy direction in the future.
Please accept these comments in the light they are proposed: one of positivity and alignment
of community goals. The comments are in order of where they appear in the document and
not in any order of importance. We have numbered them for easy reference in discussion with
staff, the PEC, and Town Council.
Chapter 2: West Vail Center:
1. Frontage Road. One general comment is that the plan makes no mention of the
opportunity to work with CDOT on the development of parking below the Frontage
Road or potential development above the North Frontage Road. Based on the
November 2, 2021 - Page 195 of 229
2
complicated nature of working with multiple landowners on the redevelopment of the
West Vail Center, it could end up being more of a reality to develop the land owned by
CDOT and could possibly act as a catalyst for redevelopment. There could be
opportunity for housing to be developed above the roadway or commercial uses like
grocery stores, and recreation/athletic facilities that might act as a buffer to the core
mixed use area. Parking here, developed by the Town, could offset needs for
commercial and residential parking on the property thus reducing costs to develop
resident housing in the core area. The VLHA believes the idea is worth at least
mentioning in the Plan.
2. Site Coverage. Page 51 under Zoning Recommendations. The provision recommends
that the site coverage standard be increased to 60 or 70%. This recommendation seems
fairly specific and may require more analysis at the time of developing zoning code
language. It could be beneficial to suggest that it be “increased to allow more flexibility
in achieving the Town redevelopment and housing goals.” Additionally, the
recommendation should be expanded to include a recommendation that below grade
improvements not count toward site coverage calculations. This was the case
previously in Vail, but the calculation method was changed about 13 years ago. Site
coverage calculations currently include below grade improvements, which has caused
issues and the need for variances ever since. Another consideration should be the
overlap of landscape area and site coverage which tend to address the same impacts. If
a development parcel has an appropriate amount of required landscape area, does
there need to be a site coverage standard in addition? The VLHA thinks the master plan
should include a recommendation in this regard as well.
Chapter 3: Housing:
3. Zoning Recommendation #1, page 13. This recommendation relates to the proposed
new West Vail Multiple-Family Residential zone district. The VLHA believes it is
important that, at a very minimum, the goal should be to eliminate all nonconformities
such as: units per acre; building height; GRFA; site coverage (possibly eliminate);
setbacks; and landscape area. It should be a goal to not try to leverage a property’s
nonconformity against driving housing policy, which has never worked in the past to
generate resident housing. We applaud the idea of eliminating GRFA to allow more
freedom of what is developed in the box created by setbacks, landscape area, and
building height. Another opportunity would be to use the Town’s current system as it
relates to Type 3 EHUs, which do not count towards either density (units per acre) or
GRFA. This has been successful in generating resident housing in zone districts where
these exemptions exist. As a result, the Town would be allowing unlimited resident
housing density but with bulk and mass controls remaining. Density controls could then
be focused on free-market units.
Additionally in this section, it recommends that 50% of the net new units be resident
units. We recommend that any new density be in the form of resident units and
November 2, 2021 - Page 196 of 229
3
consistent with the recommendation that deed restricted units be exempt from density
and GRFA. Redevelopment incentives in this area should come from increased floor
area opportunities for free-market units.
There has been some concern by others related to allowing existing units to upgrade or
expand which could have the impact of making the current free-market units less
affordable or increase the likelihood that the units will be sold to second homeowners.
We are concerned that this point of view could result in maintaining substandard and
potentially unsafe conditions in our neighborhoods and could limit what current owners
could potentially do with their properties. We believe this seems punitive to owners.
One recommendation that could be included to help reduce the loss of non-deed
restricted housing would be to include provisions within the zoning that prevents any
property that benefits from the new zone district from being short term rented (also
discussed later in this document). This would make it more likely that existing units
would be occupied by local residents.
4. Zoning Recommendation #2. This recommendation suggests that certain sections of
the Matterhorn area be rezoned to Low Density Multiple Family. This existing zone
district has many flaws of its own that may prevent it from being a successful
redevelopment or resident housing catalyst. The GRFA limitations are very low and the
development standards are based upon “buildable area” versus “total land area” which
again reduces the effectiveness as a redevelopment tool. The VLHA believes a better
approach would be to create a new zone district that is more directed at the needs of
this neighborhood rather than attempting to force it into an existing zone district. This
could be a second West Vail Multiple Family zone district (i.e., WVMF 1 and WVMF 2).
5. Zoning Recommendation #3 and #4. See our comment number 3 above. 100% of the
net new units should be deed restricted units. Increased floor area for existing free-
market units and the ability to add resident housing should create substantial
redevelopment incentives in these areas.
6. Town Code Recommendation #1. The VLHA believes this recommendation should
clearly state that existing units and development need to be made fully conforming with
new zoning regulations for density, GRFA (or elimination thereof), building height, and
other development standards. Mechanisms should be put in place to restrict future use
as short term rentals to curb investment related to such rentals. Language in code
amendments should allow for a new standard to be “the greater of the proposed zoning
or what exists today.” Using building height as an example, if the zoning is going to
restrict building height to 33’ it should also state “or the maximum building height of
existing structures, whichever is greater.” This should be repeated for other
development standards. This will help ensure that nonconformities are eliminated
entirely.
November 2, 2021 - Page 197 of 229
4
7. Town Code Recommendation #2. See comments related to eliminating site coverage
limits in favor of landscape area minimums. Additionally, the VLHA believes the
language is too specific as it relates to increases in site coverage. The language could
instead say “an increase in site coverage to a degree that will be helpful to achieving
higher densities allowed for each zone district should be pursued.”
8. Town Code Recommendation #3. The VLHA applauds the elimination of GRFA but this
section should also consider the existing practice within certain zone districts of
exempting deed restricted resident housing from density and GRFA limits.
9. Town Code Recommendation #4. This recommendation relates to the minimum size
requirements for different formats of EHUs. The VLHA believes this should be simplified
to establishing the minimum size of an EHU or resident unit. The minimum size of 250
sq. ft. would be appropriate and allow building codes and the marketplace to decide on
sizes of different formats (bedroom counts). This allows more design freedom and
flexibility and will likely result in better outcomes. Along with this, the standards for
commercial linkage should be converted to a floor area standard rather than the current
focus on number of employees or units. This would allow more flexibility in the design
of housing products giving a developer more freedom to build housing based on
demand versus the current focus on constructing the most units that can be produced
at the smallest size.
10. Town Code Recommendation #5. This relates to parking reductions within the West
Vail area. We agree that there may need to be reductions to parking requirements in
these West Vail areas but VLHA is worried the policy is a little too specific and will need
further study at a later date. It could be justified that greater reductions in parking are
beneficial to realizing more resident housing given the multi-modal opportunities in the
neighborhood. We recommend being less specific as to how it is implemented.
11. Town Code Recommendation #6. This relates to limiting the parking opportunities that
exist in the neighborhood by requiring a maximum driveway access width. While we all
might agree that this format of parking is unsightly, restricting this configuration could
have the unintended consequence of reducing a property’s ability to achieve necessary
density. This change, along with a reduction in parking requirements, need to be
considered in tandem. Given the very limited space within the community to develop
housing, favoring cars over housing should NOT be the goal. If additional remote
parking were available within the West Vail Center or under or above the North
Frontage Road, the need to provide onsite parking could be significantly reduced which
aligns with the concept of a walkable neighborhood.
12. West Vail Center Transformation – Scenario 1, page 22. The plan recommends that
townhomes be developed along Chamonix Lane behind Safeway and Vail das Schone.
This is a great idea but the plan recommends that these units not be accessed by car
November 2, 2021 - Page 198 of 229
5
from Chamonix Lane but from the private properties within the commercial area.
Having cars back into Chamonix Lane can be done safely and could help transform this
street into a more typical residential street. The flaw in this suggestion is that it is highly
unlikely that in Scenario 1 that these landowners (i.e., Safeway) are going to restrict
their future rights to redevelop by granting access easements across their land to these
townhouses. However, they might agree to sell a parcel to be developed if the
townhouses did not rely upon access through their properties. The VLHA recommends
removing the language that suggest(s)-- access to Chamonix Lane is precluded.
13. West Vail Center Transformation – Scenario 1, page 23, 25. Throughout these West
Vail Center recommendations is a suggestion related to densities (units per acre). In
Scenario 1 it recommends 18 units per acre, Scenario 2, 30 units per acre, and Scenario
3, 50 units per acre. It is a little confusing as the land we are talking about is the same in
each scenario. So, there should be a density provision that is flexible for all three
scenarios. A couple of years ago the Town amended the density provisions in the
Lionshead Mixed Use 1 zone district to allow unlimited density. It was found that the
number of units really had no relationship to bulk and mass. The same would be true in
the West Vail Center. The VLHA recommends changing the language to propose no
density provision and rely on building height, setbacks, and landscape area to control
the built form as well as the proposal to provide more detailed design guidelines.
14. West Vail Center Transformation – Scenario 2 and 3, page 25. The following statement
is included in this section: “It is also recommended that the updated zoning and
development agreements require a variety of housing types within each building. Under
this requirement, not all units in a building could be two-bedroom apartments.” This
statement is very definitive and could preclude development of well thought out
resident housing solutions. Would it be acceptable if there were several buildings with
different unit types in each building? The VLHA believes the statement should be
revised to: “It is also recommended that the updated zoning and development
agreements seek a variety of dwelling unit sizes for redevelopment within the overall
West Vail Center.”
15. Policy and Program Recommendation #1, page 25. The VLHA would like to suggest a
slight wording change to the first sentences –(as)-- follows: “Code Recommendation #1
states that the Town Code be amended to continue to allow the existing number of
units in the residential neighborhoods by making the properties in these areas
conforming with density and other development standards.”
16. Policy and Program Recommendation #2, page 26. This recommendation relates to
short term rental. The VLHA believes that addressing short term rental is key to
retaining resident housing and it is imperative that the Town address this issue. To
reinforce this policy the Town should also explore ways to preclude short term rental
where properties benefit from the changes in zoning (i.e., adding GRFA, taking
advantage of increased building height, etc.).
November 2, 2021 - Page 199 of 229
6
17. Policy and Program Recommendation #7, page 26. This provision relates to making the
review process more streamlined. One of the best ways to streamline the process is to
have certain uses permitted as a use by right in the zone district. This would then not
require any PEC or Town Council review of development applications, other than call-
ups or appeals. The difficult political decisions related to bulk and mass occurs during
the rezoning process and once that is settled, it should not be revisited every time a
development application is reviewed. The process should rely solely on the
development standards adopted in the zoning code and the application of Design
Guidelines with review by staff and the DRB. This assumes that new more detailed
Design Guidelines are adopted for the West Vail Center.
Chapter 5: Implementation:
18. Resident Housing in West Vail Center (side-bar). There is a slight conflict within this
section. The provision states that at a minimum, all new redevelopment must adhere to
the Inclusionary Zoning requirements but at the same time recommends exceeding that
requirement by requiring 50% to 75% of the units be deed-restricted resident housing.
Perhaps the first sentence of the third paragraph should read: “This plan recommends a
resident housing proportion target in the range of 50 to 75 percent of new units, but in
no case less than the Town’s Inclusionary Zoning requirements.” Delete the second
sentence of the first paragraph.
19. Implementation Options: Special Development District. This section is a little
confusing but what is seems to suggest is that the Town would not upgrade or adopt a
new zone district for the area and instead utilize the existing SDD process to achieve the
desired outcomes of the master plan. In order to use an SDD process, the SDD
provisions would have to be modified to all “uses” to be modified as the current CC3
zone district does not allow certain desirable uses, such as free-market residential
dwellings. Currently, SDDs rely upon the uses listed in the underlying zone district.
While the SDD process should still be allowed to address potential beneficial outcomes
from offering flexibility, the process can be expensive and contrary to the delivery of
resident housing. The VLHA recommends removing this as an implementation option as
it suggests that the Town might not implement new zoning in the West Vail Center,
which we believe would be a mistake.
20. Housing Implementation, page 8, 9. The last paragraph of this section does not seem
appropriate for inclusion within a Master Plan. Housing and the Planning Department
are two departments within the control of the management of the Town. This section
feels more appropriate for inclusion within departmental goals versus a master plan
document. VLHA recommends that this paragraph be deleted from the plan.
Thank you again for the opportunity to review the final draft of the West Vail Master Plan. We
appreciate that a lot of hard work has gone into this document and process, and the VLHA looks
November 2, 2021 - Page 200 of 229
7
forward not only to the adoption of the plan but the immediate next steps of implementing
appropriate zoning code revisions for the West Vail area. One of the keys to the success of the
Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan was the immediate adoption of new zone districts and
their application to properties in Lionshead. We hope that will occur immediately following the
adoption of the West Vail Master Plan.
Sincerely,
Vail Local Housing Authority Board
November 2, 2021 - Page 201 of 229
To: Matt Gennett, Community Development Director
From: Mark Novak, Fire Chief
Date: July 19, 2021
Subject: West Vail Master Plan
I. Purpose:
The purpose of this memo is to provide input on the West Vail Master Plan (WVMP) and
request further technical analysis of the transportation element. Based upon the
materials that have been provided to Vail Fire and Emergency Services (VFES), staff
unable to adequately analyze the proposed alternatives for impacts on emergency
response and fire department access.
II. Background
Vail Fire and Emergency Services was recently provided with a link to an online version
of the presentation regarding the proposed alternatives for the WVMP. This
presentation does not provide sufficient detail to fully understand or analyze impacts on
emergency response or emergency access.
III. Current Situation
VFES staff has the following concerns regarding the WVMP:
a. Transportation Element: Public safety and effective emergency response are not
listed as goals of this element.
b. Emergency Response: In March of 2020, the Vail Town Council passed
Resolution No. 7, Series of 2020. This Resolution established performance
objectives for VFES related to emergency response times. Several of the WVMP
proposed alternatives include roundabouts. Roundabouts have the potential to
slow response. In addition, the recommendation of a “road diet” has the potential
to slow response due to reduced sight lines as well as reducing opportunities for
vehicles to pull over for emergency apparatus. As noted above, it is difficult to
fully appreciate the impact of these elements in the presentation. VFES staff
requests that these elements be removed from the plan until their impact has
been fully modeled and any impacts analyzed.
c. Fire Department Access: Several of the conceptual plans shown appear to have
little or no fire department access to several buildings. In addition, several of
these drawings also appear to show large setbacks to fire department access.
November 2, 2021 - Page 202 of 229
Town of Vail Page 2
This would potentially limit the functionality of aerial apparatus for both fire
suppression and rescue. VFES staff requests the opportunity to consult with
Community Development staff and the WVMP contractor to further review these
impacts.
d. Housing Code Recommendations: “Reduce parking space requirement in areas
close to bus stops and/or West Vail Center”. As the fire department has
previously articulated, VFES staff is not supportive of reduced parking
requirements. Under-parked projects are often characterized by frequent use of
both fire lanes and fire department turnarounds for parking. Enforcement of this
type of illegal parking is difficult and is not supported by current staffing levels.
November 2, 2021 - Page 203 of 229
From:Tammy Nagel
To:Stephanie Bibbens
Subject:FW: West Vail Master Plan comments
Date:Monday, November 1, 2021 8:25:37 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image007.png
image008.png
image009.png
Tammy Nagel
Town Clerk’s Office
Town Clerk
75 S. Frontage Road W.
Vail, Colorado 81657
970.479.2136
vailgov.com
From: Pat Lauer <plauer@sisna.com>
Sent: Saturday, October 30, 2021 1:30 PM
To: PublicInputTownCouncil <publicinput.vailtowncouncil@vailgov.com>
Subject: West Vail Master Plan comments
I am a full time, year round resident living in West Vail. The problems I see with the West Vail Plan are as
follows:
I believe that the majority of full time, year round residents prefer the option of having two large
grocery stores to shop at. If you are redesigning the area, having only one grocery store is a big
negative in my opinion. I know they proposed a smaller type specialty grocery store but I am not
sure how realistic that would be to compete against a big grocery store.
The proposed development has way too high density and will cause congestion issues at peak
times. If you want to keep a neighborhood feel, you don’t need to pack so many people into one
small area and have an excessive number of units.
November 2, 2021 - Page 204 of 229
If you are developing this area for the locals and neighborhood residents, then there should be no
short term rentals allowed in this development. This area should only be used for owner occupied
use.
Please make sure you have enough parking spots so the grocery store parking is not a clustered,
congested parking nightmare for the locals. I have seen the potential parking disaster that was
approved with the future Highline/Doubletree hotel development, with PEC and Vail Town Council
just leaving it to the hotel to figure out their parking congestion if they move forward with their
expansion plans.
Thanks for reviewing my comments.
Pat Lauer
November 2, 2021 - Page 205 of 229
From:Tammy Nagel
To:Stephanie Bibbens
Subject:FW: West vail master plan feedback
Date:Monday, November 1, 2021 8:26:13 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image007.png
image008.png
image009.png
Tammy Nagel
Town Clerk’s Office
Town Clerk
75 S. Frontage Road W.
Vail, Colorado 81657
970.479.2136
vailgov.com
From: Mikel G. <mikelonthebeach@yahoo.com>
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2021 3:46 PM
To: PublicInputTownCouncil <publicinput.vailtowncouncil@vailgov.com>
Subject: West vail master plan feedback
I am a longtime West Vail resident. I live on Gore creek. While I like the ideas of the master plan, I
think it is missing a key component. Vail is plagued with noise pollution from the freeway. I wish we
would consider erecting designed freeway walls like in East Vail and in Silverthorn. There is so much
housing next to the freeway. It seems only logical to invest in sound barriers.
Thanks,
Mike Goicoechea
November 2, 2021 - Page 206 of 229
2014 West Gore Creek
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
November 2, 2021 - Page 207 of 229
From:Tammy Nagel
To:Stephanie Bibbens
Subject:FW: West Vail Master Plan
Date:Monday, November 1, 2021 8:25:15 AM
Public comment
Tammy Nagel
Town Clerk’s Office
Town Clerk
75 S. Frontage Road W.
Vail, Colorado 81657
970.479.2136
vailgov.com
-----Original Message-----
From: kathypk11@gmail.com <kathypk11@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2021 6:53 PM
To: PublicInputTownCouncil <publicinput.vailtowncouncil@vailgov.com>
Subject: West Vail Master Plan
As a resident of West Vail,
I’m very happy to read about the planning to update the West Vail property. It appears a lot has been considered
regarding housing, mobility, & design. In terms of Public Engagement Opportunities, it seems the plan could do
more than ‘coffee shops’. The area of 262 acres should definitely include & provide recreational facilities such as an
indoor gym allowing multi-use sports such as basketball, volleyball & pickleball. The West Vail property is an
incredible opportunity to provide these indoor sports that do not exist in the Vail Valley.
Dr. Kathy Palakow Kimmel, Psy.D
303.517.5108
November 2, 2021 - Page 208 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Ordinance No. 22, Series of 2021, First Reading, Budget S upplemental No. 3,
an ordinance making budget adjustments to the Town of Vail General F und, Capital Projects F und,
Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund, Housing F und, Marketing Fund, Dispatch S ervices Fund, Timber
Ridge F und, and Residences at Main Vail F und of the 2021 B udget for the Town of Vail
P RE S E NT E R(S ): Carlie Smith, Financial S ervice Manager
AC T IO N RE Q UE S T E D O F C O UNC I L: A pprove, or approve with amendments Ordinance No.
22, S eries 2021.
B AC K G RO UND: P lease see attached memorandum.
S TAF F RE C O M M E ND AT IO N: A pprove, or approve with amendments Ordinance No. 22,
S eries 2021.
AT TAC H ME N TS:
Description
211102 3rd Budget Supplemental
November 2, 2021 - Page 209 of 229
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Finance Department
DATE: November 2, 2021
SUBJECT: 2021 Budget Supplemental Appropriation
I. SUMMARY
In Tuesday evening’s session, you will be asked to approve the first reading of Ordinance No.
22, Series 2021, the third supplemental appropriation of the 2021 budget.
II. DISCUSSION
Across all funds, this supplemental request will adjust the budget to reflect a $13,722,166
reduction in total revenues and proposes a decrease of $18,130,292 to expenditures. The
majority of the reduction is related to a true-up of the accounting for the Residences at Main Vail
project. Without those adjustments this supplemental reflects a $8,047,834 increase in total
revenues and proposes an increase of $2,049,597 to expenditures. The fund statements
are also attached.
Sales Tax projection
2021 sales tax collections were budgeted conservatively due to the unknown effects of the
Covid-19 pandemic on travel and visitation however as the vaccine became available and public
health orders loosened the town experienced a boost in visitation with record sales tax
collections for the months of March through September. Based on year-to-date collections sales
tax forecasts have been updated to reflect an annual budget of $31.4M. This is an increase of
$3,890,000, or an 14% increase from the current 2021 amended budget and an 8% increase
from 2019 actual collections. The updated forecast reflects actual year to date collections
through September totaling $25.0 million, up 10.8% from 2019 with October through November
conservatively forecasted as an average between 2019 and 2020.
The original 2021 budget allocated 80% of sales tax collections to the General Fund and 20% to
the Capital Projects Fund. In June, budgeted sales tax collections were increased by $5.0
million and the “split” adjusted back to prior year’s allocation of 68% to the General Fund and
32% to Capital Projects Fund. This third budget supplemental forecasts another increase of
$3.9 million. In prior years, any budget overage in sales tax has gone to the Capital Projects
Fund which is staff’s recommendation for this budget adjustment (please see below Capital
Projects Fund narrative).
November 2, 2021 - Page 210 of 229
- 2 -
General Fund
Budgeted revenue will be adjusted by an increase of $1,620,679 offset by a decrease in
revenues of $585,000.
As a result of an increase in visitation, revenue from County Sales Tax has been adjusted by
$150,000 increase. Lift tax has also been adjusted with a $175,000 increase from the amended
budget. Lift Tax collections to date are pacing ahead of 2019 by 1.9% attributed to summer lift
tax sales. Summer lift tax collections (June- September) are up 167% ($264,527) compared to
2019. Staff has also adjusted Donovan Pavilion rental revenue by $50,000 due to an increase
in rentals from deferred 2020 events and weddings. Throughout the pandemic the town has also
experienced an increase in construction activities. Based on year-to-date collections,
construction permit revenues have been adjusted by $100,000 and plan check fees have been
adjusted by $300,000.
Other revenue adjustments based on year-to-date collections include an $80,000 increase in
specific ownership tax and $175,000 increase in the Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) collection
fee, (a 5% administrative fee paid to the General Fund). The fee increase corresponds with the
increase RETT revenue collected year to date (see below increase in RETT).
Additional revenue adjustments that will be offset by corresponding expenditures include:
A total of $426,777 in state reimbursements for deployments to 14 separate wildfires,
with $347,892 of that covering the town’s personnel and travel costs and $78,885 for use
of town vehicles and equipment during wildfire deployments.
$4,500 state library grant used towards children’s programs and books
$2,146 grant from Holy Cross Energy used toward digital archiving of oral histories and
transcriptions
$1,500 of library cares grants towards electronic e-books
$24,722 use of friends of the library funds for new staff Marmot computers, SummerVail
in-kind contribution to host two of their events, story walk maintenance, and the
digitization of Vail Trail reels.
A $31,534 grant from Vail Health for Police Department Crisis Intervention Training
A decrease in revenue of $585,000 is reflected to defer the use of American Rescue Plan (ARP)
funds to 2022. Staff will reflect an increase of $585,000 in the first supplemental of 2022. The
town has been awarded a total of $1.17 million. The funds must be used by December 31st,
2022.
Staff is requesting to increase expenditures by a total of $1,426,983 of which $452,853 relates
to expenditures corresponding to the reimbursements mentioned above. The remaining
$974,130 includes:
$300,000 transfer to the Marketing Fund for Powabunga approved by Council on July
20th.
$300,000 transfer to the Marketing Fund for Snow Days approved by Council on July
20th.
$140,204 for the village loading and delivery pilot program 2021. The total cost of this
program is $380,204. $240,000 has been included in the 2022 budget.
$120,000 for attorney fees. During 2021, attorney hours increased due to housing
projects and overall activity at the town.
$18,000 to participate in a county-wide study to explore a regional transit authority.
$40,000 of additional water and sewer utility expenditures due to an increase in fees
from Eagle Water and Sanitation District.
November 2, 2021 - Page 211 of 229
- 3 -
$12,000 contribution to the Children’s’ Garden of Learning for new furniture (originally
budgeted in Capital Projects Fund). This item is a transfer between funds and has a net
zero impact on the overall budget.
$30,000 use of police confiscations funds to be transferred to the Capital Projects Fund
for a portable X-ray scanner for the police department.
$7,634 transfer to the Dispatch Services fund for the fire departments link and access to
Dispatch’s new Computer Aided Dispatch system
These adjustments to the General Fund 2021 budget result in a projected net surplus at year-
end of $1.7 million resulting in an ending fund balance of $40.2 million or 91% of annual
revenues.
Capital Projects Fund
Budgeted revenue will be adjusted by a total of $4,620,000. This includes $3,890,000 of
additional sales tax collections, $200,000 of additional use tax collections, as well as $280,000
of reimbursements offset by corresponding expenditures. $250,000 will be reimbursed by the
Vail Reinvestment Authority for additional construction costs approved by Council on October
5th needed to complete the new Children’s Garden of Learning Facility and a $30,000 transfer
from police confiscation funds for a portable PD X-ray scanner.
Staff has reflected a $78,000 net increase in expenditures which includes the combination of
both increases and decreased to budgeted expenditures. Specifically, an increase in
expenditures of $280,000 is related to corresponding reimbursements listed above. There is
also a proposed increase of $2.0 million to reflect a transfer to the Housing Fund as a
placeholder for the potential purchase of the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
owned parcel in East Vail. Please see Housing Fund below for more details.
These increases are offset by a reduction in expenditures of $2,190,000. The reduction is due
to less funding being transferred to the Housing and Residences at Main Vail Funds. With the
phasing of the Residences at Main Vail project, the budget has been adjusted to reflect updated
project costs and the timing of the phased approach and contract timing of this project. See
further explanation under the Residences at Main Vail.
The proposed budget adjustments will result in an estimated fund balance of $34.4 million by
the end of 2021.
Housing Fund
Budgeted revenue will be increased by $34,112 to reflect Employee Housing Fee-in-Lieu
collections during 2021. The Housing Fee in Lieu collections are restricted for use toward the
“buy-down” of employee housing. A coinciding increase to the Buy-Down program expense
budget will preserve those funds for that use.
The Housing Fund also reflects a decrease of $690,000 in both the transfer from the Capital
Projects Fund and corresponding expenditure for Residences at Main Vail planning and design.
These expenditures are now being reflected in the Residences at Main Vail Fund and funded by
bond proceeds. Planning and design for the project was originally budgeted in the Housing
Fund as placeholder for expenditures prior to bond issuance.
Staff is requesting to transfer $2,000,000 from the Capital Projects Fund with a corresponding
increase in expenditures for the potential purchase of the East Vail land parcel owned by CDOT.
CDOT is in the process of having the property appraised. The $2,000,000 request is only an
estimate. By statute CDOT is obligated to sell the property for fair market value based on the
November 2, 2021 - Page 212 of 229
- 4 -
highest and best used. If this parcel is purchased staff will adjust the budget in a future
supplemental to reflect the purchase price.
Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) Fund
Budgeted revenue will be increased by $2,500,000 to reflect actual year to date RETT
collections. Year to date collections total $9.85 million compared to the annual amended budget
of $8,000,000. To correspond with the increase in revenue, an additional $225,000 of real
estate transfer tax collection fees will be paid to the General Fund.
Staff is also requesting to reflect a $47,000 increase in expenditures, to carry back funds
budgeted in 2022 for the Ford Park Master Plan update. Staff is requesting to use these funds
for an updated survey of Ford Park in preparation for the master plan update. Survey work at
Ford Park has not been updated since 2009.
The proposed budget adjustments will result in an estimated fund balance of $16.6 million by
the end of 2021.
Residences at Main Vail Fund
As part of an earlier supplemental staff had included a placeholder for the total cost of the
Residences at Main Vail employee housing project, estimated debt service payments, as well as
the corresponding bond proceeds and transfer from the Capital Projects Fund to fund the
project. That was under the assumption that the entire project would be contracted for all at
once. With the changed to a phased approach (one contract for the excavation, demolition and
shoring walls, and a later contract for the vertical construction), this supplemental reflects the
appropriate adjustments to revenues and expenditures based on Phase 1 starting in 2021 and
Phase 2 contracting in 2022. The 2021 amended budget includes the following:
$2.3 million of bond proceeds revenue to cover project costs outlined below
$2.1 million for planning, design, and the Phase 1 construction costs
$168,930 of debt issuance costs and $2,800 for fiscal agent fees
Interest expense of $83,181 on the bonds for the month of December
Marketing Fund
Budgeted revenue has been adjusted by a $600,000 transfer from the General Fund to cover
the increase in special event spending. This includes $3000,000 for Snow Days and $300,000
for Powabunga.
The proposed budget adjustments will result in an estimated fund balance of $372,374 by the
end of 2021.
Dispatch Services Fund
Budgeted revenue will be increased by $103,562 of which $77,299 will be offset by
corresponding expenditures. This includes a $21,012 reimbursement from the Eagle River Fire
District for a software interface for their new station alerting system, a $39,298 reimbursement
from Eagle County fire agencies for user links to allows access to the new dispatch CAD
(Computer Aided Dispatch) system, and a $16,990 state reimbursement for deployments to the
Sylvan wildfire covering the town’s personnel expenses. The state will also reimburse the town
$26,174 for the use of the town’s Mobile Communications Unit (MCU) vehicle at Wild Cow fire in
Garfield County.
November 2, 2021 - Page 213 of 229
- 5 -
Staff is requesting to increase expenditures by $112,022 of which $77,299 relates to
reimbursements listed above. In addition, staff is requesting $34,722 to purchase a new satellite
for the MCU vehicle. During the Sylvan fire the current satellite suffered a combined hardware
and software crash that was not easily repairable. The state reimbursed the town $26,174 for
the use of the vehicle during the Wild Cow fire which the town proposes to use towards the new
satellite. The original satellite was purchased in 2014 and was nearing end of life.
The proposed budget adjustments will result in an estimated fund balance of $1.4 million by the
end of 2021.
Timber Ridge Fund
Staff is requesting to supplement repair and maintenance expenses for the Timber Ridge
Enterprise fund by $25,000. The additional expense was incurred in May 2021 with the turnover
of 18 units previously master-leased by Vail Resorts. The units were converted to rentals open
to the public. Vail Resorts continues to master lease 36 units (2 buildings) at Timber Ridge;
previously the master lease was for 55 units. This change to the master lease was not
contemplated when the original budget was set.
III. ACTION REQUESTED FROM COUNCIL
Approve or approve with amendments Ordinance No. 22, Series 2021 upon first reading.
November 2, 2021 - Page 214 of 229
2021 1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
Revenue
Local Taxes:22,500,000$ 22,500,000$ 5,000,000$ 27,500,000$ 3,890,000$ 31,390,000$ Sales Tax increase based on YTD
collections
Sales Tax Split b/t Gen'l Fund & Capital Fund 80/20 80/20 62/38 54/46
Sales Tax 18,000,000 18,000,000 (950,000) 17,050,000 17,050,000
Property and Ownership 5,975,000 5,975,000 5,975,000 5,975,000
Ski Lift Tax 3,500,000 3,500,000 1,600,000 5,100,000 275,000 5,375,000
Franchise Fees, Penalties, and Other Taxes 1,609,903 1,609,903 125,000 1,734,903 80,000 1,814,903
Licenses & Permits 2,099,513 2,099,513 104,000 2,203,513 400,000 2,603,513
Intergovernmental Revenue 2,074,872 2,500 2,077,372 146,653 2,224,025 757,277 2,981,302
$420K state reimbursements for fire
deployments; $7.6K state grant for
library programs and expenses; $150K
increase in County Sales tax collections;
$175K increase in RETT admin fee
CRRSAA Transit Grant - 1,789,613 1,789,613 1,789,613 1,789,613
CARES Transit Grant 250,000 200,000 450,000 450,000 450,000
American Rescue Plan Grant - 585,000 585,000 585,000 (585,000) - Reduce ARP reimbursement and move
to 2022
Transportation Centers 5,040,655 5,040,655 1,337,345 6,378,000 6,378,000
Charges for Services 988,095 988,095 20,000 1,008,095 1,008,095
Fines & Forfeitures 225,642 225,642 225,642 225,642
Earnings on Investments 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Rental Revenue 1,020,531 1,020,531 1,020,531 50,000 1,070,531
Miscellaneous and Project Reimbursements
166,000 166,000 19,333 185,333 58,402 243,735
$31.5K reimbursement from Vail Health
for PD CIT training; $24.7K use of
Friends of the Library funds
Total Revenue 41,150,211 2,577,113 43,727,324 2,402,331 46,129,655 1,035,679 47,165,334
Expenditures
Salaries 20,736,671 523,712 21,260,383 13,014 21,273,397 231,606 21,505,003 Fire deployments offset by state
reimbursement
Benefits 7,522,674 36,195 7,558,869 7,558,869 93,649 7,652,518 Fire deployments offset by state
reimbursement
Subtotal Compensation and Benefits 28,259,345 559,907 28,819,252 13,014 28,832,266 325,255 29,157,521
Contributions and Welcome Centers 334,880 33,000 367,880 (3,850) 364,030 12,000 376,030 CGL contribution for furniture
All Other Operating Expenses 7,581,260 37,500 7,618,760 93,286 7,712,046 377,695 8,089,741
$18K participation in county RFTA
study; $140K pilot loading and delivery;
$40K water utility fee increase; $120K
attorney fees; $32K use of FOL funds for
library programs
Heavy Equipment Operating Charges 2,642,320 2,642,320 2,642,320 74,399 2,716,719 Use of TOV vehicle for fire deployments offset by state reimbursement
Heavy Equipment Replacement Charges 831,728 831,728 831,728 831,728
Dispatch Services 616,306 616,306 616,306 616,306
Total Expenditures 40,265,839 630,407 40,896,246 102,450 40,998,696 789,349 41,788,045
Transfer to Marketing & Special Events Fund (1,475,184) (91,790) (1,566,974) (40,000) (1,606,974) (600,000) (2,206,974)
$300K each for Powabunga and Snow
Days
Transfer to Other Funds - - - (37,634) (37,634)
Transfer $7.6K to Dispatch for Vail fire
link to new CAD system; $30K transfer
to PD for Xray machine
Total Transfers (1,475,184) (91,790) (1,566,974) (40,000) (1,606,974) (637,634) (2,244,608)
Surplus (Deficit) from Operations (590,812) 1,854,916 1,264,104 2,259,881 3,523,985 (391,304) 3,132,681
Planning Projects
Vail 2030 Plan - - (200,000) (200,000) (200,000)
Civic Area/Dobson Master Plan (100,000) (100,000) (100,000) 15,000 (85,000) Transfer $15K to West Vail Master Plan
West Vail Master Plan (225,000) (172,149) (397,149) (397,149) (15,000) (412,149)
COVID-19
Gift Card Program - (30,000) (30,000) (30,000) (30,000)
COVID Economic Development Expenses - (66,000) (66,000) (66,000) (66,000)
Digital Marketing Campaign "Work from Vail"- (45,000) (45,000) (45,000) (45,000)
Vail Community Relief Fund (130,000) (130,000) (130,000) (130,000)
Commercial Rent Relief Program (500,000) (500,000) (500,000) (500,000)
Total Expenditures 42,696,023 1,035,346 43,731,369 342,450 44,073,819 1,426,983 45,500,802
Surplus (Deficit) Net of Transfers & New Programs (1,545,812) 1,541,767 (4,045) 2,059,881 2,055,836 (391,304) 1,664,532
Beginning Fund Balance 35,305,444 38,547,757 38,547,757 38,547,757
Ending Fund Balance 33,759,632$ 38,543,712$ 40,603,593$ 40,212,289$
As % of Annual Revenues 77%88%92%91%
EHOP balance included in ending fund balance - not
spendable 1,190,000$ 33,500$ 1,223,500$ 1,223,500$ 1,223,500$
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
GENERAL FUND
6
November 2, 2021 - Page 215 of 229
Proposed
1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
2021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
Revenue
Total Sales Tax Revenue:22,500,000$ 22,500,000$ 5,000,000$ 27,500,000$ 3,890,000$ 31,390,000$ 2021: Increase sales tax revenue based on YTD collections; 8% increase from 2019 Actual
Sales Tax Split between General Fund & Capital Fund 80/20 80/20 62/38 54/46
Sales Tax - Capital Projects Fund 4,500,000$ 4,500,000$ 5,950,000$ 10,450,000$ 3,890,000$ 14,340,000$ 2021: Adjust sales tax split back to 62/38
Use Tax 2,250,000 2,250,000 1,000,000 3,250,000 200,000 3,450,000 2021: Increase use tax based on YTD collections
Franchise Fee 193,800 193,800 193,800 193,800 1% Holy Cross Franchise Fee approved in 2019
Other State Revenue - 1,975,207 1,975,207 1,975,207 1,975,207 $1.09M FASTER for electric bus chargers, $525 CDOT bus grant; $350K CDOT 50% match grant for bus
transportation mgmt. system
Lease Revenue 164,067 164,067 164,067 164,067 Per Vail Commons commercial (incr. every 5 years); adjusted to remove residential lease revenue ($38K)
Project Reimbursement 1,500,000 411,000 1,911,000 1,911,000 1,911,000 $60K Vail Health Reimbursement for Frontage Rd Improvements project, $351K from ERWSD for Frontage Road
Improvements project; $1.5M from traffic impact fee from Vail Health for Vail Health/ Frontage Road Project
Timber Ridge Loan repayment 2,363,087 2,363,087 2,363,087 2,363,087 2021: Payoff of TR Loan (originally budgeted to be paid off in 2028
Earnings on Investments and Other 38,978 38,978 38,978 38,978 2021: 0.7% returns assumed on available fund balance
Total Revenue 11,009,932 2,386,207 13,396,139 6,950,000 20,346,139 4,090,000 24,436,139
Expenditures
Facilities
Facilities Capital Maintenance 523,500 523,500 523,500 523,500
2021 includes garage door replacements ($50K), PW boiler replacement ($20K), 2nd phase of transit center skylight
replacement ($50K), Buzzard Park repairs ($41K); 2020: Includes $130.4K to complete TM residence upgrades; PW
garage door replacements ($50K), transit station skylight replacement ($50K); In general this line item covers various
repairs to town buildings including the upkeep of exterior (roofing, siding surfaces, windows, doors), interior finishes
(paint, carpet, etc.), and mechanical equipment (boilers, air handlers, etc.)
Municipal Complex Maintenance 255,000 375,234 630,234 225,000 855,234 855,234
2021: Re-appropriate $373K for Muni/PD air handlers and Council Chamber remodel; $25K for Community
Development workspace improvements; Transfer $22.8K to Donovan Pavilion; 2021 includes Admin Upper level
system installation ($175K), PD Stucco patching and painting ($40K), PD wood siding replacement ($30K)
Welcome Center/Grandview Capital Maintenance 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 2021: $100K Furniture replacement in Vail Village Welcome Center
Donovan Pavilion - 1,476,096 1,476,096 1,476,096 1,476,096 2021: Re-appropriate $1.5M for Donovan Pavilion Remodel ad Upgrades
Snowmelt Boilers 500,000 500,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 2021-2023: Replacement of TRC 8 boilers (2 per year)
Public Works Shops Expansion 17,200,000 1,569,259 18,769,259 18,769,259 18,769,259
Expansion and remodel of the Public Works shop complex as outlined in an updated public works master plan
(previously completed in 1994). The plan will ensure shop expansions will meet the needs of the department and
changing operations; 2019-2020: Phase I includes demo and reconstruction of a two story streets building; retaining
wall construction, new cinder building, relocation of the green house building, and a vertical expansion allowance for
future building options. Lease financing in 2021 included below.
Public Works Building Maintenance - 300,000 300,000 300,000 300,000 2021: Re-appropriate $300K to replace two HVAC units at Public Works
Total Facilities 18,578,500 4,220,589 22,799,089 225,000 23,024,089 - 23,024,089
Parking
Parking Structures 795,000 160,754 955,754 955,754 955,754 2020-2035: Various repairs including deck topping replacement, expansion joint repairs, ventilation, HVAC, plumbing
and other structural repairs
Oversized Parking Area - - 100,000 100,000 100,000 Design and survey costs for new oversized parking area ($100K)
Parking Entry System / Equipment 850,000 375,148 1,225,148 1,225,148 1,225,148 2021: $1.225K for a new parking system
Red Sandstone Parking Structure (VRA)- 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 2021: Re-appropriate $30K for landscaping at the Red Sandstone Parking Structure
Lionshead Parking Structure Landscape Renovations (VRA) - 30,291 30,291 30,291 30,291 2021: Re-appropriate to complete landscaping at the Lionshead parking structure ($30.3K);
Total Parking 1,645,000 596,193 2,241,193 100,000 2,341,193 - 2,341,193
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
7
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Proposed
1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
2021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
Transportation
Bus Shelters 30,000 229,721 259,721 259,721 259,721 Bus shelter annual maintenance; 2021 includes $259.7K re-appropriation for a new Lionshead transit center
Westbound Bus shelter
Replace Buses - 3,455,822 3,455,822 3,455,822 3,455,822 2021: Re-appropriate $3.5M for buses ordered in 2020 with delivery in 2021
Bus Transportation Management System - 700,000 700,000 60,000 760,000 760,000
2021: $60K added per contract cost; $700K for a new bus transportation mgmt. system. This includes a $350K 50%
CDOT grant and $350K savings from "Replace Buses" project to upgrade bus transportation system; $350K CDOT
grant; 2028: Replacement of bus mgmt. system based on 8 year life.
Traffic Impact Fee and Transportation Master Plan Updates 300,000 30,000 330,000 330,000 330,000 2021: $30K to perform traffic counts pending the West Vail Master Plan; $300K to update Vail transportation master
plan pending the outcome of the West Vail Master Plan ($300K)
Hybrid Bus Battery Replacement 165,000 165,000 165,000 165,000 2021: Scheduled replacement placeholder; Estimated life of 6 years; While batteries are passed their lifecycle
replacement has not been needed as of yet;
Electric bus chargers and electrical service rebuild - 1,267,279 1,267,279 1,267,279 1,267,279 2021:$1.3M to continue to construct electric bus charging station and electrical service infrastructure at Lionshead and
Vail Village Transit centers; $1.1M in grant revenue will offset cost of this project
Total Transportation 495,000 5,682,822 6,177,822 60,000 6,237,822 - 6,237,822
Road and Bridges
Capital Street Maintenance 1,225,000 1,225,000 1,225,000 1,225,000 On-going maintenance to roads and bridges including asphalt overlays, patching and repairs; culverts
Street Light Improvements 75,000 144,369 219,369 219,369 219,369 Town-wide street light replacement;
Slifer Plaza/ Fountain/Storm Sewer - 73,417 73,417 73,417 73,417 2021: Re-appropriate $73.4K for water quality vault
Vail Health / TOV Frontage Road improvements 9,000,000 - 9,000,000 (1,500,000) 7,500,000 7,500,000
2021: Reflect $1.5M of savings; VH plans for expansion; Improvements would span from LH Parking structure to
Municipal building; $6.0M funded by VRA in 2021, Traffic impact fee ($1.5M), Timing of this project is pending the
Civic Center Master Plan
Seibert Fountain Improvements - 60,000 60,000 60,000 60,000 2021: $60K for Fountain software system Seibert Fountain
Neighborhood Road Reconstruction 1,500,000 1,500,000 1,500,000 1,500,000 2021: East Vail road Major Drainage Improvements construction ($1.5M)
Vail Village Streetscape/Snowmelt Replacement 1,250,000 1,250,000 1,250,000 1,250,000 Replacement of 18 yr. old streetscape and snowmelt infrastructure in Vail Village
Total Road and Bridge 13,050,000 277,786 13,327,786 (1,500,000) 11,827,786 - 11,827,786
Contributions
Children's Garden of Learning-Capital 20,000 (20,000) - - - $20K Annual contribution for capital maintenance and improvements included below
Total Contributions 20,000 (20,000) - - - - -
Technology
Town-wide camera system 22,000 8,022 30,022 30,022 30,022 $22K Annual maintenance
Audio-Visual capital maintenance 18,000 76,978 94,978 94,978 94,978 $18K annual maintenance / replacement of audio-visual equipment in town buildings such as Donovan, Municipal
building, Grand View, LH Welcome Center; 2020: $100K Welcome Center video wall replacement
Document Imaging 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 Annual maintenance, software licensing, and replacement schedule for scanners and servers includes $2.5K for
Laserfiche
Software Licensing 580,000 580,000 65,670 645,670 645,670 2021: $60K for unanticipated software costs; Annual software licensing and support for town wide systems
Hardware Purchases 50,000 100,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 2021: Re-appropriate $100K for workstation replacements and time clock replacements; $50K for workstation
replacements (20-25 per year)
Website and e-commerce 86,500 15,966 102,466 102,466 102,466 2021: Re-appropriate $16K to continue Vailgov website framework upgrades; transfer $20K to RETT to integrate
LoveVail website to new framework
Fiber Optics / Cabling Systems in Buildings 500,000 97,215 597,215 597,215 597,215
2021: Add additional fiber infrastructure to connect critical IT equipment locations including the Village parking
structure; the Muni Building; LH Parking Structure; and the West Vail Fire Station ; Repair, maintain & upgrade
cabling/network Infrastructure $50K; Also includes placeholder for additional fiber infrastructure growth
Network upgrades 100,000 41,708 141,708 141,708 141,708 Computer network systems - replacement cycle every 3-5 years;
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1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
2021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
Data Center (Computer Rooms)30,000 203,952 233,952 233,952 233,952 2021: $125K for data center equipment annual maint; Re-appropriate $73.4K to continue Data Center remodel
Broadband (THOR)94,800 94,800 94,800 94,800 $94.8K annual broadband expenses, potential future revenues
Business Systems Replacement 30,000 55,000 85,000 85,000 85,000 2021: Re-appropriate $55K for HR Performance Mgmt. System
Total Technology 1,561,300 598,841 2,160,141 65,670 2,225,811 - 2,225,811
Public Safety
Public Safety System / Records Mgmt. System (RMS) 50,000 12,883 62,883 62,883 62,883
2021:$50K Annual capital maintenance of "County-wide "Computer Aided Dispatch/Records Mgmt. System"; includes
patrol car and fire truck laptops and software used to push information to TOV and other agencies; TOV portion of
annual Intergraph software maintenance; $12.8K for PD Brazos system
Public Safety Equipment 170,808 170,808 170,808 30,000 200,808 2021: $30K use of confiscations funds for portable PD X-ray machine ; Replacement of body worn camera
program and storage software mgmt. system, tasers, and holsters; $100K annual maintenance going forward
Fire Safety Equipment 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 2021: Wildland personnel protection equipment ($25K) deferred from 2020
Fire Truck Replacement 880,000 880,000 880,000 880,000 2021: Replacement of Engine I purchased in 2011
Total Public Safety 1,125,808 12,883 1,138,691 - 1,138,691 30,000 1,168,691
Community and Guest Service
Children's Garden of Learning Temporary Facility Relocation
(VRA)2,000,000 277,992 2,277,992 460,000 2,737,992 250,000 2,987,992
2021: $250K increase for additional expenses; $460K per contract; Re-appropriate $278K design for CGL
temporary facility; Children's' Garden of Learning temporarily facility ($2.0M); 2020: Design for temporarily relocation of
the Children's Garden of Learning ($335K);
Pepi's Memorial - - 20,000 20,000 20,000 Pepi's Memorial in Pepi's Plaza ($20K)
Energy Enhancements - 223,847 223,847 223,847 223,847 Electric car charges and infrastructure at various town locations and Holy Cross transformer ($223.8K)
Pedestrian Safety Enhancements - 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 $25K for planning and design for lighting replacement project budgeted in 2022 ($1.4M)
Underground Utility improvements - 15,459 15,459 15,459 15,459 2021: Re-appropriate $15.5K for various underground utility projects
Guest Services Enhancements/Wayfinding - 25,482 25,482 25,482 25,482 2021: Re-appropriate $25.5K to continue street sign upgrades
Rockfall Mitigation near Timber Ridge - 40,679 40,679 40,679 40,679 2021; Re-appropriate $40.7M for annual rock wall maintenance
Vehicle Expansion - 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 2021: $40K for new PD detective take-home vehicle
Council Contribution: Children's Garden of Learning-Capital 20,000 (8,000) 12,000 12,000 (12,000) - 2021: CGL Annual Contribution ($20K total with $12K for capital improvements and $8K for employee childcare
subsidy) remaining for capital maint. Improvements; $12K transferred to GF for furniture purchase
Total Community and Guest Service 2,020,000 640,459 2,660,459 480,000 3,140,459 238,000 3,378,459
Total Expenditures 38,495,608 12,009,573 50,505,181 (569,330) 49,935,851 268,000 50,203,851
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Debt Financing for Public Works shop 15,000,000 190,000 15,190,000 15,190,000 15,190,000 $15.2M of debt proceeds for PW Shops
Debt Issuance Cost - (190,000) (190,000) (190,000) (190,000) $190K for debt issuance costs
Debt Service Payment (1,200,000) 44,095 (1,155,905) (1,155,905) (1,155,905) Annual debt service payment (Principal and Interest)
Transfer from Vail Reinvestment Authority 8,550,000 290,012 8,840,012 237,992 9,078,004 500,000 9,578,004
2021: $250K for increased CGL expenditures; $250K increase in LH parking structure expenditures ; $229K for
LH transit center bus stop; $30.3K reappropriation for LH transit landscape improvements; $30K for Red Sandstone
landscaping; VH plans for expansion; Improvements would span from LH Parking structure to Municipal building;
$6.0M funded by VRA; Lionshead Parking Structure $50K; CGL Temp Facility $2.73M
Transfer to Residences at Main Vail Fund - - (1,500,000) (1,500,000) 1,500,000 - Remove Transfer to RMV
Transfer to Dispatch - Transfer to Dispatch Services Fund for Town's portion of RMS upgrade
Transfer to RETT Fund - - - Use of faculty capital savings for Sunbird park contract
Transfer to Housing Fund (2,500,000) (690,000) (3,190,000) (3,190,000) (1,310,000) (4,500,000) $2.5K Vail Indeed; $2.0M placeholder to purchase CDOT East Vail parcel
Transfer from General Fund - - - 30,000 30,000 Transfer from GF using PD confiscations funds for PD X-ray machine
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (7,635,676) (9,979,259) (17,614,935) 6,257,322 (11,357,613) 4,542,000 (6,815,613)
Beginning Fund Balance 23,759,231 41,177,524 41,177,524 41,177,524
Ending Fund Balance 16,123,556 23,562,589 29,819,911 34,361,911
9
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Proposed2021 1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental AmendedRevenueHousing Fee in Lieu Annual Collections- - - 34,112 34,112 YTD Housing fee in lieu for buy down housingTransfer in from Capital Projects Fund2,500,000 690,000 3,190,000 3,190,000 1,310,000 4,500,000 Reduce transfer by $690K for RMV; $2M transfer for East Vail CDOT parcelWorkforce Housing Sales - 280,000 280,000 787,400 1,067,400 1,067,400 Total Revenue2,500,000 970,000 3,470,000 787,400 4,257,400 1,344,112 5,601,512 ExpendituresHousing Programs InDeed Program2,500,000 4,633,186 7,133,186 (4,874,290) 2,258,896 2,258,896 Buy Down Housing- 911,675 911,675 (911,675) - 34,112 34,112 2021 Housing Fee in Lieu for buy housingprogramChamonix unit- - 520,703 520,703 520,703 Vail Heights Unit- - 410,162 410,162 410,162 TOV Purchased Housing Town of Vail Rental Inventory- 34,612 34,612 34,612 34,612 Black Gore Creek Property- - 2,142,500 2,142,500 2,142,500 Construction Housing Projects Residences at Main Vail Opportunity Fee - - 3,500,000 3,500,000 3,500,000 Residences at Main Vail - 690,000 690,000 690,000 (690,000) - Planning and Design placeholder accounted for in RMV fundLand Purchases for future Housing East Vail CDOT Parcel - - - 2,000,000 2,000,000 Placeholder for East Vail CDOT parcel purchaseTotal Expenditures2,500,000 6,269,473 8,769,473 787,400 9,556,873 1,344,112 10,900,985 Operating Income- (5,299,473) (5,299,473) - (5,299,473) - (5,299,473) Beginning Fund Balance- 5,299,473 5,299,473 5,299,473 Ending Fund Balance-$ -$ -$ -$ TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCEHOUSING FUND10November 2, 2021 - Page 219 of 229
Proposed1st20212nd20213rd20212021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental AmendedRevenueReal Estate Transfer Tax 7,000,000$ 7,000,000$ 1,000,000$ 8,000,000$ 2,500,000$ 10,500,000$ 2021: Increase based on YTD collectionsGolf Course Lease170,000 170,000 170,000 170,000 Annual lease payment from Vail Recreation District; Rent income funds the "Recreation Enhancement Account" belowIntergovernmental Revenue20,000 300,000 320,000 320,000 320,000 2021: $300K Reimbursement from ERWSD for Dowd Junction retaining wall project; $20K lottery proceedsProject Reimbursements--11,200 11,200 11,200 2021: VRD Reimbursement for annual Synexis Maint.Donations-35,782 35,782 35,782 35,782 2021: Re-appropriate $35.8K unused donation from East West for Ford Park art spaceRecreation Amenity Fees10,000 10,000 75,000 85,000 85,000 $75K of additional recreation amenity fees based on YTD collectionsEarnings on Investments and Other48,208 7,867 56,075 7,500 63,575 4,481 68,056 2021 $4.5K use of Sole Power grants towards participant prizes; $7.5K IAFC grant to be used towards fire chipping program; $7.9K use of bag fee for recycling banner swag; $32K Clean Up Day ; 2021-2035: 0.7% interest rate assumedTotal Revenue7,248,208 343,649 7,591,857 1,093,700 8,685,557 2,504,481 11,190,038 ExpendituresManagement Fee to General Fund (5%)350,000 350,000 350,000 175,000 525,000 5% of RETT Collections - fee remitted to the General Fund for administrationWildlandForest Health Management231,592 103,826 335,418 9,289 344,707 344,707 2021: $7.5K use of grant for chipping program over hire; $1.8K transfer from Booth Creek project for hose replacement used on Booth Creek burn; Salary Adjustments; Correct forest health personnel budget to more accurately reflect personnel costs previously budgeted in the GF; Operating budget for Wildland Fire crew; Total Wildland231,592 103,826 335,418 9,289 344,707 -344,707 ParksAnnual Park and Landscape Maintenance1,677,755 376,348 2,054,103 2,054,103 2,054,103 2021: Salary adjustments; Correct parks personnel budget to more accurately reflect personnel costs previously budgeted in the GF; flat with 2020 original; Ongoing path, park and open space maintenance, project mgmt.; Town Trail Host volunteer program ($16,000), “Clean-up after your K-9” media campaign ($2,000), and a planning effort with the USFS to generate long-term solutions ($30,000). Park / Playground Capital Maintenance125,000 46,401 171,401 171,401 171,401 2021: Annual maintenance items include projects such as playground surface refurbishing, replacing bear-proof trash cans, painting/staining of play structures, picnic shelter additions/repairs, and fence maintenance; Re-appropriate $76K for heater in Ford Park restrooms ($46K) and to transfer $30K to Stephen's park to complete projectRec. Path Capital Maint85,000 74,717 159,717 159,717 159,717 2021: Re-appropriate $74K for amphitheater bridge railings and decking; $85K for annual Capital maintenance of the town's recreation path systemTree Maintenance75,000 10,888 85,888 85,888 85,888 On going pest control, tree removal and replacements in stream tract, open space, and park areasStreet Furniture Replacement85,000 -85,000 85,000 85,000 2021: Annual street furniture replacementCovered Bridge Pocket Park Rehabilitation-111,073 111,073 111,073 111,073 2021: $111.1K complete Pocket Park rehabilitationStephens Park Safety Improvements-63,176 63,176 63,176 63,176 2021: Re-appropriate $33.1K for Stephens Park safety improvements; transfer $30 from park capital maint Vail Transit Center Landscape-32,817 32,817 32,817 32,817 2021: $32.8K for completion of landscaping at Vail transit centerSunbird Park Fountain Repairs-15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 2021: $15K Installation of Clear Comfort advanced oxidation commercial pool sanitation system to water safe for kidsTurf Reduction -10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 2021: $10K Continue turf reduction project at Ellefson parkFord Park Master Plan Update---47,000 47,000 2021: Shift back from 2022 budget for Ford Park surveyFord Park Enhancement: Priority 3 Landscape area-75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 2021: Re-appropriate for $75K for landscaping around playground ad basketball courtFord Park Playground Improvements200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 2021: Safety Improvements to the Ford Park play area including wooden bridge to boulder area, expansion to toddler area, ADA upgrades, and replacement of a safety net ($200K)Playground/Park Roofing Replacements75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 2021: Replacing cedar shake roofs at Ford Park, Ellefson Park, and Buffeher Creek Park to address fire safetyKindel Park/Mill Creek175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 2021: Improvements to heavily worn stream tract between Hanson Ranch Rd and Pirate ship parkBig Horn Park Improvements55,000 55,000 55,000 55,000 2021: Safety Improvements to Bighorn park including stairway/handrails and resurfacing near picnic tables and grills ($55K)Total Parks2,552,755 815,420 3,368,175 -3,368,175 47,000 3,415,175 Rec Paths and TrailsVail Valley Drive Path Extension: Ford Park to Ptarmigan-42,659 42,659 42,659 42,659 2021: $42.7K to plan and design future improvements of Vail Valley Drive pathVail Valley Drive Path Extension: Ptarmigan West to GC Mtn Building-42,659 42,659 42,659 42,659 2021: $42.7K to plan and design future improvements of Vail Valley Drive pathAdvisory Bike Lanes on Vail Valley Drive75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 2021: Add an advisory bike lane on Vail Valley DriveGore Valley Trail Bridge Replacement40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 2020-2021: Design and planning for Gore Valley Trail Bridge replacementGore Valley Trail Realignment -124,428 124,428 124,428 124,428 2021: Re-appropriate $14.4K to continue planning and design of Gore Trail realignment in LHEast Vail Interchange Improvements-253,818 253,818 253,818 253,818 2021: $253.8K to continue East Vail interchange landscaping projectTOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGETSUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCEREAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX 11 November 2, 2021 - Page 220 of 229
Proposed1st20212nd20213rd20212021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental AmendedTOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGETSUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCEREAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX Dowd Junction repairs and improvements98,563 700,592 799,155 799,155 799,155 2021: Continue Re-stabilization of Dowd Junction path ($2.1M); Repairs to culverts, drainage, and preventative improvements; project in cooperation with Eagle River Water and Sanitation; offset with reimbursement of $300K reimbursement from ERWSDGore Valley Trail Fence Replacement at Dowd Junction50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 2021: Replace wood fence along Gore Valley Trail in Dowd Junction in conjunction with CDOT wildlife fence projectTotal Rec Paths and Trails263,563 1,164,156 1,427,719 -1,427,719 -1,427,719 Recreational FacilitiesNature Center Operations90,000 90,000 90,000 90,000 Nature Center operating costs including $75K Walking Mountains contract and $15K for maintenance and utilitiesNature Center Capital Maintenance5,165 50,000 55,165 55,165 55,165 2021: Re-appropriate $50K placeholder for nature center maint and repairs; This includes replace benches and chairs ($5.2K); 2020: Wood siding and trim ($9.5K), window replacement ($10.3K), exterior door repairs ($7.6K); steep slope roofing replacement ($27.5K); signage ($17.2K), paths and walkways ($6.9K), timber stairway ($12.2K), shade structure reconstruction ($36.0K); Nature Center Redevelopment-383,522 383,522 383,522 383,522 2021: $383.5K for further planning and design for a nature center remodelGolf Clubhouse & Nordic Center-24,809 24,809 24,809 24,809 2021: Final art purchases for Clubhouse and Nordic Center; art budget was 1% of original project budgetTotal Recreational Facilities95,165 458,331 553,496 -553,496 -553,496 EnvironmentalEnvironmental Sustainability550,920 70,335 621,255 621,255 621,255 2021: $9.7K Salary adjustments; $15K for a waste reduction intern; $20K annual energy mgmt. software (previously in CPF); $25K to integrate Love Vail website onto new TOV website framework; $650 for annual environments dues; Annual operating expenditures for Environmental department (4 FTEs); includes $40K for Clean up day, professional dues to organizations such as CC4CA, Climate Action Collaborative, etc.Recycling and Waste Reduction Programs122,500 90,876 213,376 213,376 213,376 2021: $7.9K use of bag fees for recycled banner swag, $13K annual recycling challenge; reappropriation of the following: Love ($50K), artwork for Love Vail ($5K), Recycling Education ($5K), Recycled art installation; Green Team ($2.5K), Eagle County Recycling Hauls ($25K), Zero Hero ($25K), Actively Green ($40K); Recycling Education ($30K)Ecosystem Health233,500 49,130 282,630 (2,303) 280,327 280,327 2021: Transfer $2.3K to fire for booth creek burn expenditures; Increase funding for Front range program ($15.1K), $34K for Big Horn sheep and underwater filming/Big Horn sheet documentary; Wildlife Forum ($2.5K), CC4CA ($3K); Biodiversity Study ($50K), Sustainable Destination ($30K), Trees for Vail ($5K), USFS Forest Service Ranger Program ($33K); Wildlife Habitat Improvements ($100K)Energy & Transportation72,500 18,000 90,500 90,500 4,481 94,981 2021: $4.5K use of Sole Power grants for participant prizes; Annual EV bulk purchase event, partnership with EC e-bike ownership model program; Continue E-Bike pilot program ($25K), Energy Smart Partnership ($40K), Sole Power ($7.5K) 2020: E-bike pilot program research ($25K); Annual expenditures: Energy Smart Colorado partnership contract ($40K); Sole Power coordination ($7.5K); 2021-2024: Energy Smart Partnership contract ($40K), Sole Power (7.5K) plus $2.1K donation from First BankStreamtract Education/Mitigation50,000 20,000 70,000 70,000 70,000 2021: Re-appropriate $20K for streamtract education; $50K annual streamtract education programming such as "Lunch with Locals", landscape workshops, City Nature Challenge and storm drain artWater Quality Infrastructure1,750,000 55,116 1,805,116 1,805,116 1,805,116 2021: Continue water quality improvement to Gore Creek; Stormwater site specific water and water quality construction projects as part of "Restore the Gore"; 2021: $1.0M plus $750K deferred from 2020 Streambank Mitigation200,000 50,000 250,000 250,000 250,000 2021: Continuation of Riparian Site specific construction projects for Water Quality Strategic Action Plan ($250K)Gore Creek Interpretive Signage-150,825 150,825 150,825 150,825 2021: Re-appropriate $150.8K for Gore Creek Interpretive signage projectPW Solar Project1,100,000 1,100,000 1,100,000 1,100,000 2021: Installation of solar panels at Public Works Shops deferred from 2020Open Space Land Acquisition500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000 2021: $500K for open lands acquisition includes additional $250K deferred from 2020Total Environmental4,579,420 504,282 5,083,702 (2,303) 5,081,399 4,481 5,085,880 ArtPublic Art - Operating101,653 1,964 103,617 103,617 103,617 Art in Public Places programming and operationsPublic Art - General program / art598,022 37,930 635,952 635,952 635,952 2021: $re-appropriate $37.9K for annual art programs; $60K for annual art programs and $538K 2020 deferral of accumulated funds; To purchase sculptures, artwork, art programs and events; remainder is re-appropriated each year to accumulate enough fundsPublic Art - Winterfest30,000 23,124 53,124 53,124 53,124 2021- $53.1K for annual Winterfest programmingSeibert Memorial Statue-17,150 17,150 17,150 17,150 2021: $17.2K for Pete Seibert Memorial statue maintenanceArt Space-35,782 35,782 35,782 35,782 2021: Design phase for Ford Park art space- see corresponding donation from East West aboveTotal Art729,675 115,950 845,625 -845,625 -845,625 CommunityCouncil Contribution: Betty Ford Alpine Garden Support63,985 63,985 63,985 63,985 Annual operating support of the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens; annual increase to follow town's general operating annual increaseCouncil Contribution: Eagle River Watershed Support36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 Annual support of the Eagle River Watershed Council programs Council Contribution: Adopt A Trail4,590 4,590 4,590 4,590 Adopt A Trail Council Contribution for trails in or bordering the TownCouncil Contribution: Eagle Valley Land Trust5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 Eagle Valley Land Trust Council Contribution12 November 2, 2021 - Page 221 of 229
Proposed1st20212nd20213rd20212021 Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental AmendedTOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGETSUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCEREAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX Betty Ford Alpine Garden - Capital Contribution20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 Contribution request to repair ADA pathways ($6K) and upgrade irrigation system ($19K)Total Contributions129,575 -129,575 -129,575 -129,575 VRD-Managed Facility ProjectsRecreation Enhancement Account170,000 541,665 711,665 711,665 711,665 Annual rent paid by Vail Recreation District; to be re-invested in asset maintenance ($168,317)Recreation Facility Maintenance25,000 25,000 11,200 36,200 36,200 2021: Annual $25K for general RETT facility maintenance; $11.2K Synexis MaintGolf Clubhouse20,260 20,260 20,260 20,260 2021: Wood Trim repairs ($20.2K)Golf Course - Other 135,482 590,318 725,800 725,800 725,800 2021: $216K for golf course green project; Re-appropriate $590K for golf course maintenance scheduled in 2020 but not completed; 2021:course streambank restoration ($73.8K), maintenance building, HVAC unit ($17.7K), maintenance building heater ($8.9K), maint. building furnace ($9.8M)Dobson Ice Arena486,861 108,986 595,847 595,847 595,847 2021: Re-appropriate $109K for paver and roof repairs; Changing Rooms ($78.8), windows replacement ($74.3), heat pumps ($6.3K), restroom remodel ($78.7K), rebuild of electrical system ($144.2K), boiler room upgrades ($55K), steel gate ($14.3K), exterior lighting ($22.9), exterior wood trim ($9.3K); Repairs to exterior doors ($5.5K); exhaust stack repairs ($2.9K); '2020: Complete pavers and roof repairs ($161K); Ford Park / Tennis Center Improvements-141,043 141,043 141,043 141,043 2021: $141K for golf course maintenance scheduled in 2020 but not completed; Repair exterior doors ($9.6K); replace furnace, hot water tank, baseboards ($47.8K), replace windows ($24K); Pickleball Feasibility Study ($10K)Athletic Fields 109,716 6,000 115,716 115,716 115,716 2021: Re-appropriate $6K for parking lot; Coat exterior gypsum board ($3.7K), Repaved parking lot ($8K), Irrigation System ($100K) Gymnastics Center-240,043 240,043 240,043 240,043 2021: Re-appropriate $240K for new cooling system; Restroom remodel ($42.6K)Total VRD-Managed Facility Projects947,319 1,628,055 2,575,374 11,200 2,586,574 -2,586,574 Total Expenditures9,879,064 4,790,020 14,669,084 18,186 14,687,270 226,481 14,913,751 Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures(2,630,855) (4,446,371) (7,077,226) 1,075,514 (6,001,712) 2,278,000 (3,723,712) Beginning Fund Balance13,629,40620,353,07320,353,07320,353,073Ending Fund Balance10,998,550$ 13,275,847$ 14,351,361$ 16,629,361$ 13 November 2, 2021 - Page 222 of 229
Proposed
2021 1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
Revenue
Business Licenses 335,000$ 335,000$ 335,000$ 335,000$
Transfer in from General Fund 1,475,184 91,790 1,566,974 40,000 1,606,974 600,000 2,206,974
Earnings on Investments 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000
Total Revenue 1,812,184 91,790 1,903,974 40,000 1,943,974 600,000 2,543,974
Expenditures
Commission on Special Events (CSE) 625,554 79,790 705,344 705,344 705,344
Education & Enrichment 154,530 12,000 166,530 166,530 166,530
Signature Events:
Bravo!210,355 210,355 210,355 210,355
Vail Jazz Festival 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Vail Valley Foundation - Mountain Games 98,000 98,000 98,000 98,000
Vail Valley Foundation - GRFA 52,500 52,500 52,500 52,500
Vail Valley Foundation - Dance Festival 38,245 38,245 38,245 38,245
Snow Days - - - 300,000 300,000
Fireworks 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000
Town Produced Events:
Magic of Lights 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Revely Vail 145,000 145,000 145,000 145,000
Vail Holidays Funding 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000
Ambient Event Funding:
Music in the Villages 300,000 300,000 300,000 300,000
Culteral Heritage:
Summervail - - 40,000 40,000 40,000
Other Council Funded Events
Powabunga - - - 300,000 300,000
Collection Fee - General Fund 16,750 16,750 16,750 16,750
Total Expenditures 1,826,934 91,790 1,918,724 40,000 1,958,724 600,000 2,558,724
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (14,750) - (14,750) - (14,750) - (14,750)
Beginning Fund Balance 387,124 387,124 387,124 387,124
Ending Fund Balance 372,374$ 372,374$ 372,374$ 372,374$
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
VAIL MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS FUND
14
November 2, 2021 - Page 223 of 229
Proposed2021 1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental AmendedRevenueE911 Board Revenue874,606$ 874,606$ 874,606$ 874,606$ Interagency Charges 1,224,336 1,224,336 1,224,336 1,224,336 Federal Grants - - - - Other State Revenues- - - 43,252 43,252 State reimbursements for fire deployments Other County Revenues 259,304 259,304 259,304 52,676 311,980 Reimbursement from Eagle River Fire for station alerting system software integration; $31.7K reimbursement from county fire agencies to link to new CAD system Town of Vail Interagency Charge 616,306 616,306 616,306 616,306 Earnings on Investments and Other 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 Total Revenue2,979,552 - 2,979,552 - 2,979,552 95,928 3,075,480 ExpendituresSalaries & Benefits2,291,795 50,164 2,341,959 2,341,959 16,990 2,358,949 Fire deployments personnel expenditures offset by state reimbursements Operating, Maintenance & Contracts535,091 535,091 700 535,791 60,310 596,101 Fire Agency licenses for new CADsystem Capital Outlay260,913 292,323 553,236 553,236 34,722 587,958 Mobile Communications vehiclesatellite replacement Total Expenditures3,087,799 342,487 3,430,286 700 3,430,986 112,022 3,543,008 Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (108,247) (342,487) (450,734) (700) (451,434) (16,094) (467,528) Transfer In from General Fund- - - 7,634 7,634 Beginning Fund Balance1,396,061 1,863,233 1,863,233 1,863,233 Ending Fund Balance1,287,814$ 1,412,499$ 1,411,799$ 1,403,339$ TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCEDISPATCH SERVICES FUND15November 2, 2021 - Page 224 of 229
Proposed
2021 1st 2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
Revenue
Rental Income 1,730,243$ 1,730,243$ 1,730,243$ 1,730,243$
Other Income 20,595 20,595 20,595 20,595
Total Revenue 1,750,838 - 1,750,838 - 1,750,838 - 1,750,838
Expenditures
Operating, Maintenance & Contracts 485,745 485,745 485,745 25,000 510,745
Repair and
matinaince for units
previously leased by
Vail Resorts
Capital Outlay 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000
Total Expenditures 510,745 - 510,745 - 510,745 25,000 535,745
Operating Income 1,240,093 - 1,240,093 - 1,240,093 (25,000) 1,215,093
Non-operating Revenues (Expenses)
Interest on Investments 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000
Loan Principal Repayment to Capital Projects Fund (2,283,969) (2,283,969) (2,283,969) (2,283,969)
Interest Payment to Capital Projects Fund (79,118) (79,118) (79,118) (79,118)
Total Non-operating Revenues (Expenses)(2,361,087) - (2,361,087)- (2,361,087)- (2,361,087)
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (1,120,994) - (1,120,994)- (1,120,994) (25,000) (1,145,994)
Beginning Fund Balance 2,293,309 2,293,309 2,293,309 2,293,309
Ending Fund Balance 1,172,315$ 1,172,315$ 1,172,315$ 1,147,315$
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
TIMBER RIDGE FUND
16
November 2, 2021 - Page 225 of 229
2021 2nd 2021 3rd 2021
Budget Supplemental Amended Supplemental Amended
Revenue -$ -$ -$
Rental Income - - -
Other Income - - -
Vacancy - - -
Investment Earnings - - -
Total Revenue - - - - -
Expenses
Operating, Maintenance & Contracts - - -
Capital Outlay - 24,500,000 24,500,000 (22,430,000) 2,070,000
Total Expenditures - 24,500,000 24,500,000 (22,430,000) 2,070,000
Revenue Over Expenses - (24,500,000) (24,500,000) 22,430,000 (2,070,000)
Other Financeing Sources (Uses)
Debt Proceeds - 24,500,000 24,500,000 (22,170,000) 2,330,000
Debt Issuance Cost - (250,000) (250,000) 81,070 (168,930)
Fiscal Agent fees - (2,800) (2,800) (2,800)
Interest Expense - - (83,181) (83,181)
Loan Principal Repayment - - -
Transfer from Capital Projects Fund - 1,500,000 1,500,000 (1,500,000) -
Total Other Financing Sources (Uses)- 25,747,200 25,747,200 (23,672,111) 2,075,089
Change in Net Position - 1,247,200 1,247,200 (1,242,111) 5,089
Net Position- Beginning - - -
Net Position- Ending -$ 1,247,200$ 5,089$
TOWN OF VAIL 2021 PROPOSED AMENDED BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
RESIDENCES AT MAIN VAIL
17
November 2, 2021 - Page 226 of 229
Ordinance No. 22, Series of 2021
ORDINANCE NO. 22
SERIES OF 2021
AN ORDINANCE MAKING BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS TO THE TOWN OF VAIL GENERAL
FUND, CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND, REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX FUND, HOUSING
FUND, MARKETING FUND, DISPATCH SERVICES FUND, TIMBER RIDGE HOUSING
FUND, AND RESIDENCES AT MAIN VAIL FUND OF THE 2021 BUDGET FOR THE TOWN
OF VAIL, COLORADO; AND AUTHORIZING THE SAID ADJUSTMENTS AS SET FORTH
HEREIN; AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD THERETO.
WHEREAS, contingencies have arisen during the fiscal year 2020 which could not have
been reasonably foreseen or anticipated by the Town Council at the time it enacted Ordinance No.
17, Series of 2020, adopting the 2021 Budget and Financial Plan for the Town of Vail, Colorado;
and,
WHEREAS, the Town Manager has certified to the Town Council that sufficient funds are
available to discharge the appropriations referred to herein, not otherwise reflected in the Budget, in
accordance with Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail; and,
WHEREAS, in order to accomplish the foregoing, the Town Council finds that it should make
certain budget adjustments as set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
VAIL, COLORADO that:
1.Pursuant to Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail, Colorado, the Town
Council hereby makes the following budget adjustments for the 2021 Budget and Financial Plan for
the Town of Vail, Colorado, and authorizes the following budget adjustments:
General Fund $ 1,426,983
Capital Projects Fund 78,000
Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund 226,481
Housing Fund 1,344,112
Marketing Fund 600,000
Dispatch Services Fund 112,022
Residences at Main Vail Funds (22,427,889)
Timber Ridge Fund 25,000
Less Interfund Transfers (622,634)
Total $ (19,237,925)
2.If any part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is for any
reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
November 2, 2021 - Page 227 of 229
Ordinance No. 22, Series of 2021
ordinance; and the Town Council hereby declares it would have passed this ordinance, and each
part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or
more parts, sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
3.The Town Council hereby finds, determines, and declares that this ordinance is
necessary and proper for the health, safety, and welfare of the Town of Vail and the inhabitants
thereof.
4.The repeal or the repeal and reenactment of any provision of the Municipal Code of
the Town of Vail as provided in this ordinance shall not affect any right which has accrued, any duty
imposed, any violation that occurred prior to the effective date hereof, any prosecution commenced,
nor any other action or proceedings as commenced under or by virtue of the provision repealed or
repealed and reenacted. The repeal of any provision hereby shall not revive any provision or any
ordinance previously repealed or superseded unless expressly stated herein.
5.All bylaws, orders, resolutions, and ordinances, or parts thereof, inconsistent
herewith are repealed to the extent only of such inconsistency. This repealer shall not be construed
to revise any bylaw, order, resolution, or ordinance, or part thereof, theretofore repealed.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED ONCE IN FULL ON
FIRST READING this 2nd day of November 2021, and a public hearing shall be held on this
Ordinance on the 16th day of November, 2021, at the regular meeting of the Town Council of the
Town of Vail, Colorado, in the Municipal Building of the town.
_______________________________
Dave Chapin, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Tammy Nagel, Town Clerk
November 2, 2021 - Page 228 of 229
VA I L TO W N C O UNC I L A G E ND A ME MO
I T E M /T O P I C: Adjournment 7:35 pm (estimate)
November 2, 2021 - Page 229 of 229