# 10-14-26 Open Space Board of Trustees Meeting

The City of Boulder Open Space Board of Trustees meeting on October 14, 2026, included approval of prior meeting minutes and a public discussion of the city’s system-wide multimodal access project, especially a potential Shanahan–Dowdy Draw trail connection. Trustees approved both sets of minutes unanimously among those present; a correction was made to one set. Public commenters were sharply divided: supporters emphasized safer, car-free access for students and families, while opponents raised concerns about impacts to the Tallgrass Prairie State Natural Area, wildlife, trail-user safety, and the loss of a quiet pedestrian experience. Staff reported that the preferred shared-use connection was one of 11 alternatives evaluated and estimated its cost at about $550,000. No contract award, bid approval, or other procurement action occurred.

Staff summarized engagement results, including 57% favorable sentiment among questionnaire respondents, while noting that the broader public-comment record was substantially more opposed. Trustees asked for additional information on ecological impacts, costs, traffic and parking conditions, conflict data, and options for separating bikes from pedestrians; several also supported a field visit. Staff plans a third engagement window in early November and a refined package with recommendations. If the connection would change decisions in the West TSA plan, staff said a clear board recommendation and City Council review would be required. The board also discussed improving budget transparency earlier in the process as a topic for its upcoming retreat; no budget allocation was approved.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Environment
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 14, 2026

### Sources
- [10-14-26 Open Space Board of Trustees Meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uRCc6-EUAg) - City of Boulder