Basalt Downtown Discussion Continues
The committee that’s been discussing redevelopment in downtown Basalt will present its recommendations to elected leaders today. The 10-member Downtown Area Advisory Committee has met regularly since October. The group’s goal is to help Town Council determine plausible redevelopment scenarios for key pieces of land.
The group went over some of the ideas generated during an unconventional planning process called “Our Town.” In September Town Manager Mike Scanlon said committee members would approach the ideas objectively.
"That’s what having this committee allows us to have. It’s a group of people that can take a more measured approach to the different ideas.”
Some Basalt residents have said they’re counting on the process to come up with a plan to boost a struggling downtown. Some businesses have moved from the quaint downtown to the more modern Willits area.
EA Released on Snowmass Ski Area Improvements
The White River National Forest released a draft Environmental Assessment for changes at Snowmass Ski Resort. The Aspen-Sopris Ranger District reviewed what’s being called winter recreation enhancements proposed by Aspen Skiing Company. They include the replacement and realignment of the High Alpine Chairlift as well as boosting snowmaking. The changes could also include glade and trail projects. Official notice will be published in the Glenwood Springs Post Independent. The comment deadline will be thirty days later.
State Awards Medical Marijuana Research Grants
Colorado has awarded more than $8 million for medical marijuana research. The grants are considered the first time government money is used to explore marijuana’s medical potential. After hearing testimony from those who feel marijuana can help them, the State Board of Health awarded grants. The money is meant to find out if pot can improve treatment of epilepsy, brain tumors, Parkinson's disease and post-traumatic stress disorder. Some of the studies still need federal approval. State lawmakers approved using money in reserves from medical marijuana fees to fund the grants.
New Bus Service to Connect Glenwood Springs & Denver
Glenwood Springs is showing off a new regional bus service today. Called “Bustang,” the line connects the city with the Front Range. Passengers will be able to board the Interregional Express, or IX, in Glenwood Springs. The line continues east to Denver’s Union Station. A one way ticket will cost about $28. Passengers can then connect to busses going up to Fort Collins or south to Colorado Springs as well as other forms of public transportation. The coach busses will seat 50 passengers and feature Wi-Fi, bike racks, and bathrooms. CDOT says service starts early next year.
