TOWN OF VAIL YEAR IN REVIEW 2016
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TOWN OF VAIL
YEAR IN REVIEW
2016
Financial Highlights
Community Priorities
50th Birthday Celebration
Groundbreakings
& Ribbon Cuttings
Welcoming
a New Neighborhood
Investing in
Environmental Health
& Sustainability
Look for
2016 COMMUNITY
SURVEY RESULTS
Jack Affleck
and see how we are doing
2016 MILESTONES
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Jan 1 Feb 17 March 7 April 4 May 21 June 8 - 11 July 4 Aug 9 Sept 6 Oct 4 Nov 1 Dec 1
New regulations enacted for Vail welcomes delegation from Biennial community survey Construction of I-70 Vail Annual Clean Up Day | pg. 24 GoPro Mountain Games | pg. 10 Grand Marshals Vi and Community Picnic at Housing Strategic Plan Drone regulations adopted First phase of Vail Intermountain Town Manager Stan Zemler
rent-by-owner properties San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, results show affordable and Underpass begins | pg. 30 Byron Brown lead Vail Donovan Pavilion Update adopted | pg. 14 fuels reduction project begins announces departure as of
pg. 8 to further sisterhood partnership adequate housing as top priority May 25 June 15 - 20 & 21 - 24 America Days Parade™ Oct 8 pg. 27 March 31, 2017 | pg. 19-20
pg. 4 April 10 - 16 Launch of free Lunch with the Cultural exchange visits between Aug 16 Sept 10 West Vail Fire Station
Police transition to electronic Feb 29 - March 5 National Library Week activities Locals workshops | pg. 22 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, July 12 Town Council decides against Dedication of Zeke M. Pierce Open House Nov 8 Dec 14
ticketing system Burton US Open Snowboarding March 8 pg. 32 and Vail delegations | pg. 10 E-bike summer trial begins increased lift ticket tax prospect Skatepark | pg. 17 Eagle County School District Vail Recreation District takes
Championships | pg. 10 Annual Community Meeting May 27 to address parking challenges Oct 13 voters approve $144M bond possession of new Vail Golf &
April 25 Vail joins Colorado Communities June 20 - 24 July 12 pg. 29 Sept 15 New pickleball courts open issue for improvements to Red Nordic Clubhouse | pg. 15
March 15 Booth Creek Park renovation for Climate Action | pg. 24 Annual Trees for Vail giveaway Community Picnic at Sustainable Destination pre- at Golden Peak | pg. 16 Sandstone Elementary School
Adoption of Gore Creek begins | pg. 16 Bighorn Park Aug 23 assessment certification visit and other facilities | pg. 16 Dec 23
Strategic Action Plan | pg. 22 June 28 Vail’s 50th Birthday | pg. 11-12
July 19 by Global Sustainable Tourism Ninth Annual Winterfest Ice
Infrastructure begins for Epic Discovery debuts on Triumph Development, R.A. Aug 23 Council | pg. 22 Nov 15 Theater presented by Vicki &
Chamonix Vail | pg. 13-14 Vail Mountain | pg. 10 Nelson and 359 Design selected Dr. Thomas I. Steinberg - America Recycles Day waste Kent Logan opens | pg. 34
for Chamonix Vail development first recipient of reduction and recycling events
pg. 13-14 Vail Trailblazer Award | pg. 12
This report is presented within three areas of focus
used to prioritize town resources. Learn what the
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vail Town Council and staff have been doing to Enhance Economic Vitality 5 - 10 Elevate the Experience 29 - 34
keep Vail in a leadership position as the Premier Keeping us at the forefront of our resort competitors Delivering on the promise,
International Mountain Resort Community. “VAIL. Like nothing on earth,”
• Financials 5-8
• Events 9 - 10 in everything we do
• Parking & Transportation 29 - 30
Grow a Balanced Community 11 - 28 • Vail Public Library 31 - 32
Expanding upon our community infrastructure • Art in Vail 33 - 34
and building capacity for future leaders
• 50th Birthday Celebration 11 - 12
gr
ty IC
CO
ow M
vit NO e
ali M
O anc
• Housing 13 - 14
a b UN
M
EC enh
the
ala ITY
• Groundbreakings & Ribbon Cuttings 15 - 16
PREMIER
nc
• Development
ed
international 17 - 18
mountain resort • Stan Zemler 19 - 20
community
• Sustainability 21 - 24
elevate the • Police 25 - 26
EXPERIENCE
• Fire 27 - 28
Jack Affleck
1 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 2
STATE OF VAIL
Right Direction/Wrong Track? n very satisfied
LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY AND OUTREACH n neutral
Rex Keep
64% n not satisfied
Vail’s 50th year as a municipality served as the backdrop for 2016 that say the town is headed
in the right direction
brought both reflection and action by the Town Council in building upon APPROACHABILITY PROVIDING INFORMATION Offering Being collaborative in
the qualities that have helped to define the community. Known for leading 18% of staff and to citizens PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT DECISION-MAKING
say the town is
the way in innovation and risk-taking, progressive actions were taken to on the wrong track
Town Council members opportunities process
create a strategy to acquire 1,000 resident housing deed restrictions by the 80% 71% 80% 80% 80%
Dave Chapin Jenn Bruno Kim Langmaid Jen Mason 68%
Mayor Mayor Pro Tem klangmaid@vailgov.com jmason@vailgov.com year 2027. Also, by leveraging federal and state funding, Vail’s largest 70% 70% 63% 70% 62% 66% 70%
60% 60% 60% 60%
dchapin@vailgov.com jbruno@vailgov.com public infrastructure project, the I-70 underpass, saw dirt move for the 50% 50% 50% 50% 44% 45%
first time after years of planning. Adding to the quality of life for community 40% 40% 40% 40% 34%
29%
members’ and guests’ enjoyment was the investment in new recreational 30% 30% 22% 24% 30% 24% 26% 30% 27%
21%
20% 19% 20% 15% 20% 20%
Full survey can be 14%
amenities, including the Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse. In addition, 10%
10%
10% 8% 10% 8% 10%
significant resources were committed through adoption of the Gore Creek viewed at 0% 0% 0% 0%
Strategic Action Plan to protect Vail’s treasured natural icon. As 2016 came vailgov.com/2016survey 2016 2016 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016 2014 2016
Question not asked in 2014
to a close, a new chapter in Vail’s history was just beginning as the process
Dick Cleveland Kevin Foley Greg Moffet Stan Zemler to hire the next town manager was initiated after Stan Zemler announced
dcleveland@vailgov.com kfoley@vailgov.com gmoffet@vailgov.com Town Manager
szemler@vailgov.com he would be leaving his post in March 2017.
WHAT ARE THE TOP TWO COMMUNITY PRIORITIES? OPINION OF TOWN’S
FINANCIAL INVESTMENT IN EVENTS?
Focus on housing for middle income and service worker
households in vital support roles 38%
COMMUNITY SURVEY IDENTIFIES PRIORITIES Economic vitality (investing in facilities, services and events to
36%
keep Vail competitive) 50%
Vail’s biennial community survey, circulated in the spring of 2016, is being used 50%
to help the Town Council evaluate priorities, transparency, municipal service Budget and capital management (keeping Vail fiscally healthy) 30% 40%
levels and other issues of importance. Affordable and adequate housing for
employees has been identified as a top priority by respondents, validating the Actions to protect and enhance Gore Creek 20%
Town Council’s current focus. The survey is also used to measure satisfaction 30%
Environmental sustainability (waste and energy conservation
levels for services, such as public safety, transit, parking, community development programs, environmental education, etc.) 20% 26%
applications, environmental programs, special events, library operations and more. 20%
Parking opportunities for residents 17% 18%
10%
Guest relations and customer service 13%
5% 1%
Parking opportunities for visitors/guests 13% 0%
strongly somewhat neutral somewhat strongly
2016 SURVEY RESULTS Transportation needs (bus service - local and regional) 11% supported in favor opposed opposed
Full report, including 300+
pages of comments, Look for the green tabs throughout
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
is available at this publication to see 2016 community
Jack Affleck
vailgov.com/2016survey survey results.
3 The survey was conducted by RRC Associates, an independent research firm. Results reflect the opinions of more than 1,250 community members. VAILGOV.COM/2016SURVEY | 970.479.2100 4
2016 MUNICIPAL BUDGET
Where the Money Comes From Where the Money Went
Municipal Spending by Area
SALES TAX - Largest single revenue source RESORT COMPARISONS REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX
Transfer from Earnings on Public Safety - 13% While Vail experienced a record $25.8 million in sales Since the economic downturn, Vail has exceeded pre-
Vail Reinvestment Authority - 7% Investments
1%
Town Officials, Administration
& Risk Management - 7%
tax collections in 2016, an increase of only 2.5% from
the prior year indicates a leveling off of growth compared
recession sales tax revenues with an average increase
in sales tax growth of 8.1% each year since 2009. 1% TAX
Started in 1979
Rent, Fines and Misc. - 8% with prior years. In the early 2000s, the town typically Compared to other resort communities, Vail’s growth is
averaged annual growth of 1.3%. A revitalization from average; however Vail still maintains a strong position
Transportation & Parking - 7% major redevelopment projects expanded the growth to with overall revenues. TOP RETT COLLECTIONS | 2016
Charges for Services - 3%
Transportation Centers - 6% Sales Tax
39%
Capital
Improvements
Public Works & Streets - 4%
7% on average per year from 2003-2009. The recession
impacted the town in late 2008, with a 13.8% decline
by 2009. The town began an immediate comeback,
Mountain Communities Sales Tax Comparison
Average annual increases in sales tax revenue since 2009
$1.2 M
Four Seasons Resort
54%
Facilities & Fleet Maintenance - 5% returning to pre-recession highs by 2011. In the years 9.0%
$860,000
Intergovernmental Revenue - 5% 8.5% 8.8% 8.9%
following, a conscious effort by Town Council to bolster
8.0%
Community Development - 3% special events and additional redevelopment helped 8.1%
Licenses and Permits - 3% generate growth averaging 8% annually. Contributing 7.5% 7.8% Vail Cascade Hotel
7.0% (Hotel Talisa, Vail)
Culture and Recreation - 6% to the slowdown of growth were business changeovers
6.5%
Real Estate Transfer Tax - 10% Ski Lift Tax and Use Tax Property & such as the Cascade, Roost, Holiday Inn, Lion and
Franchise Fees 2% Ownership Tax 6.0%
Sports Authority. International consumers were impacted COLLECTIONS BY CATEGORY | 2016
9% 7% Health & Employee Housing - 1% 5.5%
$2.3 M
5.5%
by the strength of the dollar, which was reflected most 5.0%
Taxes generated 68% of the town’s $67.3M annual revenues for 2016, Municipal Services accounted for $43.5M, or 46% of budgeted notably with decreased revenue in the retail and food
with sales tax making up the largest portion at 39%, real estate transfer 2016 expenditures, with the remaining 54% ($52M) spent on 4.5%
tax at 10%, ski lift tax and franchise fees at 9%, property and ownership capital improvements. and beverage sectors. Still, the town continued to see 4.0% Property sales over $10M
tax at 7% and construction use tax at 3%. success with summer marketing efforts and events and Steamboat Aspen Vail Telluride Breckenridge (19% higher than 2015)
had summer sales tax growth of nearly 7%. The town of Breckenridge has had the highest average annual increase in sales
Sales Tax Collections ($ millions)
tax revenues since 2009 with a six year average increase of 8.9% followed by
Telluride (8.8%), Vail (8.1%), Aspen (7.8%) and Steamboat (5.5%). $566,000
Property sales between $5 and $10M
ENHANCED ECONOMIC VITALITY
30M
$25.8 (58% lower than 2015)
25M
REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS
$25.1
$1.3 M
$23.9
20M $22.0
$17.8 $18.9
$19.6 $19.6 $20.0 Real estate transfer tax collections of $6.8 million in
15M $16.9 $17.7 2016 were down 2.4% from last year but still met budget. Property sales between $2.5 and $5M
10M RETT was trending down as much as 30% throughout (2% higher than 2015)
5M the year but rebounded with the sales of the Four
0
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Seasons and a number of high-end residences in
December. 2015 was also a lackluster year for normal $2.7M
Property sales below $2.5M
real estate transactions, pacing below budget throughout
Sales tax collections are an important indicator of the resort community’s (9% higher than 2015)
overall economic health. With the exception of the recession years, Vail’s sales the year until December when a number of commercial
tax collections have shown steady increases. properties sold.
Jack Affleck
5 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 6
2016 SURVEY RESULTS 2016 SURVEY RESULTS
8 out of 10 people Most Improved Scores =
identified budget and COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
capital management as
a high priority
FUNDING FUTURE The town develops a five-year capital projects plan during each annual budget RENT-BY-OWNER UPDATE CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY Staff knowledge, ability
CAPITAL PROJECTS cycle. Other than annual capital maintenance of municipal assets, future capital
More than 350 rent-by-owner properties are in good Revenues from construction activities are flattening
to answer questions
WITH RESERVES investments are planned for pedestrian safety enhancements, neighborhood Building permit review
standing with the town following enactment of regulations after a record year in 2014. Construction use tax
road reconstruction, affordable housing to include the Chamonix Vail homes, and inspection
Town reserves are projected at $51 million for year-end 2016 from that became effective Jan. 1, 2016 for properties renting collections of $1.7 million exceeded budget by 16% but
bus replacements and improvements to the frontage roads.
a previous high of $80 million in 2015. Town Council strategically utilized more than 14 days per year in Vail. In obtaining the were still a 20% decline from the prior year. Other
cash reserves to fund a variety of capital projects rather than incur debt. Based on a policy directive from the Town Council, minimum reserves in the required business licenses, those properties represent related revenues for construction permits and fees were
Some of the larger projects include the Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse, the General Fund are never to drop below 25% of annual revenue streams, or less than half of all established RBO operations in down 20% from 2015. 2016 DEVELOPMENT STATS
town’s portion of the new I-70 underpass, major renovation of the East approximately $9.7 million. General Fund reserves are currently $23.6 million. town, according to estimates by an independent analysis.
Vail Fire Station, Booth Creek Park redevelopment, Golden Peak Pickleball
Courts and the East Vail Interchange water quality improvements.
The town has been debt free since December 2012. The town finance staff devoted much of the year to an
outreach campaign to create additional awareness 774
Number of building
about the requirements. Next steps will be to identify
permits issued
RBO properties that are out of compliance by utilizing
$112M
an online software system and additional resources.
Town of Vail Reserves: 10 Year History & 5 Year Projection The town has also contracted with a research company
to help define the impact of short-term rentals on the Total building valuation
community and to perform a comparative analysis of
GENERAL FUND CAPITAL PROJECTS
FUND
REAL ESTATE
TRANSFER TAX FUND
CONFERENCE CENTER
FUND
ALL OTHER RESERVE MINIMUM
efforts being made by other resort communities. All
short-term rentals in Vail are subject to sales and $1.7M
Construction use tax collections
lodging tax of 9.8%. The town collected more than
$1.5 M
$80.1 $810,000 in sales taxes related to RBOs in 2016 and
80M more than $50,000 in business license revenues.
$72.4 $72.9
$69.2 Construction permit fees
70M $64.9
$63.2 $63.3
60M
50M
$54.8 $55.5
$51.0 $51.4
$55.6
$47.6
$44.9
$55.5
3,300
Number of building
40M inspections performed
30M
20M
545
Number of Design Review Board
applications filed
10M
37
Townsend Bessent
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
amended Number of Planning and
A hold on capital spending during the economic downturn, along with a healthy rebound in revenue resulted in a growth of Environmental Commission
reserve levels. Looking to the future, town reserves will be reduced upon completion of many upcoming major capital projects. applications filed
7 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 8
2016 SURVEY RESULTS 2016 SURVEY RESULTS
81% of people said 8 out of 10 people
events create a positive said there were
experience about the right number
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EVENTS of events in Vail
Events deliver a significant return on investment for
the community, according to an independent study. In
evaluating 31 town-sponsored events in 2016, a $53
million direct economic impact within the Town of Vail
was reached. In 2016, the town spent approximately
$1.96 million in event sponsorship and will spend the
same amount in 2017.
Jack Affleck
NOTABLE TOWN-SPONSORED EVENTS
Highlighting the 2016 event calendar was the FIPS
Mouche World Fly Fishing Championships, an Olympic
level event held for the first time in the U.S. Other EPIC DISCOVERY NEW EVENTS IN 2017
notable events funded by the town during the year The first-of-its-kind comprehensive on-mountain summer
Vail Yeti Hockey
included Bravo! Vail, which introduced a new residency adventure debuted on Vail Mountain with the launch
January-March, December
with London’s Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, of Epic Discovery in June. The new amenities are
plus the Vail Jazz and Dance festivals. Also funded was considered to be a game changer in boosting Vail’s summer Melee in the Mountains
a full slate of athletic events including GoPro Mountain tourism offerings. Featured components include zip Roller Derby Tournament
Games, Vail Lacrosse Shootout, King of the Mountain lines, canopy tours, an alpine coaster, wildlife trail April 29
Volleyball and Vail Kids Adventure Games. The town’s exploration and interactive learn-through-play activities.
largest sponsorship funding was used to support the The debut had been years in the making, requiring Vail Craft Beer Classic
June 16 - 18
Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships. approvals from Congress and the U.S. Forest Service.
Prep Baseball Reports
West Championships
July 20 - 23
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO Taste of Vail Southern
Cultural exchanges and various tourism cross-promotions are bringing Hemisphere Fall Wine Tasting
new energy to a sisterhood relationship between Vail and San Miguel September 21 - 24
de Allende, Mexico. Several exchanges took place during the year,
Slow Fashion Vail
highlighted when Vail hosted a weeklong celebration featuring farm-
September 23 - 24
to-table offerings prepared by San Miguel’s best chefs and a sculpture
and ceramics exhibit by a renowned visiting artist. Opportunities to
Jack Affleck
Community Art Events
Townsend Bessent
explore educational and environmental exchanges have been identified for the Town of Vail
Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships Taste of Vail Vail Dance Festival
for the future. January 1 - December 31
9 GoPro Mountain Games VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2138 10
Courtesy of Vail Valley Medical Center
Townsend Bessent
A CELEBRATION TO REMEMBER STARTING A NEW TRADITION “The transfer of leadership through
Community members gathered to mark the Town of Vail Trailblazer Award the years has taken great care to
Vail’s 50th birthday at Donovan Pavilion on Aug. 23. Dr. Thomas I. Steinberg, Vail’s first full-time physician nurture the qualities that make Vail
The celebration included a variety of tributes, giveaways, and the longest serving member of the Vail Town
GROW A BALANCED COMMUNITY
family-friendly activities, refreshments and 1,000 Council, was selected as the first recipient of the Vail such a great place. Our open space,
cupcakes which were displayed on a stand made by the Trailblazer Award during the town’s 50th birthday parks, trails, flowers, pedestrian
carpenters from the Public Works Department. celebration. Presented by Town Council, the award was
Hundreds of well-wishers gathered and reconnected established as an annual civic recognition to honor an areas, transit system and so much
with friends and neighbors. The day’s events also individual, couple or team that exemplifies more are our treasures that define
included a ceremony at Mayors’ Park as well as a tribute the spirit and determination in making Vail
to past and present town employees who have served a great community through selfless contri- us as a community. It is such an
20 or more years. Earlier in the day, former town council butions of time and talent. The Trailblazer honor to follow in their footsteps.”
members, mayors and other dignitaries gathered for Award recipient will be announced each March
an honorary luncheon on Pepi’s deck in Vail Village to with a call for nominations taking place in
the fall. For criteria and other details, visit ~ Mayor Dave Chapin
celebrate the town’s many accomplishments through
Townsend Bessent
the decades. This was a memorable day for all. vailgov.com/trailblazeraward. 50th Celebration Remarks
11 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 12
A NEW AFFORDABLE NEIGHBORHOOD MOMENTUM BUILDS HOUSING STRATEGIC PLAN 2027
IS COMING TO WEST VAIL! FOR NEW NEIGHBORHOOD An update to the town’s Housing Strategic Plan by the Vail
Chamonix Vail has been designed with energy conservation and sustainability in The reality of a new affordable neighborhood in West TOWN INVESTMENT Town Council has fundamentally shifted the town’s
Vail is being realized following a series of significant IN AFFORDABILITY AT future emphasis from construction of new housing stock
mind. From the south-facing orientation of the buildings and the passive solar
actions that took place during the year. This included CHAMONIX VAIL to a method of acquiring deed restrictions on existing units.
gain it affords, to full compliance with the International Energy Conservation
installation of utilities and other work to prepare the The plan is supported by an ongoing funding commitment
Code and the use of long-lasting, durable and low cost of maintenance interior
and exterior materials and appliances, to the low maintenance landscape and
neighborhood gardens, Chamonix Vail is all about sustainability and keeping
3.6-acre site for construction. Proposals for design-
build services resulted in selection of a local team
$3.6 M
in land
and a new decision-making structure that enables the Vail
Local Housing Authority to act on behalf of the town. The
monthly homeowner expense to a minimum. comprised of Triumph Development, R.A. Nelson and and infrastructure goal is to acquire 1,000 additional resident housing unit deed
359 Design as the Town Council decided on a smaller, restrictions by the year 2027. The 2017 budget includes
more livable site plan containing 32 townhomes and
refined a deed restriction and lottery selection process
which will provide for local ownership for residents
$2.6 M
“markup”
$500,000 for the deed restriction acquisitions. The housing
plan was initially adopted in 2008 and contained strategies
to help achieve a goal to provide deed restricted housing
working in Eagle County. Meetings with prospective profit savings for at least 30% of the workforce through policies, regulations
homebuyers were used to collect ideas about affordability,
25 - 35%
and publicly-initiated development. Since then, there have
square footage, storage, amenities, parking, outdoor areas been 212 deed restricted employee housing units established
and other desired components of the new neighborhood. in town, bringing the total number to approximately 700
lower than comparable
The homes at Chamonix Vail include five distinctive floor units, but well under the estimated 1,400 units required to
free market homes in Vail
plans with a combination of two- and three-bedrooms meet the 30% goal.
and numerous amenities, including enclosed garages,
ample storage space, outdoor patios and a neighborhood A New Decision-Making Structure
gathering space and community garden. A spring 2017
construction start is anticipated with the first families
moving into the new homes at the close of the year. Twice
Annual Reporting
(feedback)
VAIL LOCAL HOUSING
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL
AUTHORITY
(policy)
(implementation)
$
Annual
Appropriation
2016 SURVEY RESULTS n 2 BED / 1 BATH
#1 Community Priority: n 2 BED / 2 BATH
Focus on housing for n 3 BED / 1 BATH TOWN OF VAIL
SUPPORT STAFF
middle income and service n 3 BED / 2 BATH
worker households in n 3LG BED / 2 BATH
vital support roles concept renderings only - not actual unit
13 CHAMONIXVAIL.COM VAILGOV.COM/HOUSING.COM | 970.479.2100 14
E N 2016 SURVEY RESULTS
OP #2 Community Priority:
OW
Investing in facilities,
N services and events to
keep Vail competitive
Townsend Bessent
Jack Affleck
Golden Peak Pickleball Red Sandstone Elementary School
GROUNDBREAKINGS, RIBBON CUTTINGS & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS RENOVATIONS & FACELIFTS
Golden Peak Pickleball Red Sandstone Elementary School Remodel Construction activity was bustling
• Headquarters for world-class during the year, including:
Six pickleball courts opened for play in October on a A much-anticipated $8.5 million renovation of Vail’s
golf, Nordic and snowshoeing
town-owned parcel at Golden Peak where tennis courts cherished public school has begun after district voters • Exterior renovations at Vail Spa
with Gore Range views were once located. The new paddle courts were built to approved a mill levy override for Eagle County Schools
accommodate the country’s fastest-growing sport with that will provide $8 million annually to support operations • Major remodel and opening
• Grill on the Gore restaurant tennis soon to return to newly-built courts at Booth and a $144 million bond issue that will provide significant of the Pendulum restaurant in
and bar serving patrons Creek Park. vailrec.com upgrades to district facilities. The improvements planned the Clock Tower Building on
year-round Bridge Street
for Red Sandstone Elementary School will enlarge
Booth Creek Park Renovation classrooms to accommodate an additional 80 students • A facelift at McDonald’s in
• Gore Range Room for Redevelopment of Booth Creek Park made substantial from its current capacity of 247. The renovation also West Vail
public and private functions; progress during the year. The work includes construction includes new computer labs, refurbishing of the gym,
accommodates up to of a new children’s playground, picnic pavilion, restroom cafeteria, kitchen and stage areas, plus a new elevator, • Expanded restaurant and bar at
160 guests and two hard-surface tennis courts. The design of the windows, life-safety enhancements, roof replacement Pepi’s in Vail Village
play structures was inspired by models and drawings and improvements to the bus parking and parent drop
• Expansion of retail space by
• Expanded golf and Nordic created by local kids in a playground workshop. off. Discussion has also included the possibility of a Christy Sports in West Vail
retail space 120-space town-funded parking garage to be built on
Vail Village Transportation Center Remodel the site for use by the public. Preliminary plans call • Major remodel of DoubleTree
To inquire about the Gore Range The second of three phases to remodel the Vail Village for renovations to begin in 2018 with completion by by Hilton in West Vail to be
Room and Grill on the Gore Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse Transportation Center terminal was completed which August 2019. RSES was built in 1977 by the school completed in 2017
restaurant and bar, visit This new facility opened in December 2016 and replaces the former clubhouse, which was built in the same includes new floor tile and benches for the waiting area. district on land owned by the town. The district has a
vailclubhouse.com or call location in 1969 and remodeled in 1987. Vail’s electorate served as the catalyst to overhaul the building when The last phase will update third floor common areas and long-term lease to use the land for a school. Current • Opening of new Almresi restaurant
970.343.5889 a town-wide vote was taken in 2011 to reallocate tax revenues originally dedicated for a conference center. lockers following earlier restroom renovations. enrollment is 235 students. eagleschools.net at the top of Bridge Street
Jack Affleck
15 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 16
OP
EN
FO Vail Valley Medical Center Lion
R
SK
AT
IN
G
Dedicated September 10, 2016
Open daily, dawn to 11 p.m. Preliminary Concept
Ages 7 to 14 can join
skateboard clinics from 10 a.m. REDEVELOPMENT NEW PROPOSAL
to noon on Tuesdays during
Vail Valley Medical Center Marriott Residence Inn
summer season
Vail Valley Medical Center continued to make progress on its Master A development application that would authorize a Special Development
Facility Plan, which includes a remodel and expansion of the hospital. The District for redevelopment of the former Roost Lodge property on the
Private lessons available
first phase of construction, which began in August 2015, focuses on the North Frontage Road in West Vail came before the Town Council as the
west wing. Already, VVMC has opened a new Intensive Care Unit, new year was coming to an end. Modified in scale from its original submission,
Helmets required; Patient Care Unit rooms, a new fourth floor for The Steadman Clinic, the Marriott Residence Inn project was later approved in early 2017 and
knee pads and wrist guards research space for the Steadman Philippon Research Institute and expanded includes an extended stay hotel with 170 limited service lodge rooms,
recommended space for Howard Head Sports Medicine. Once the west wing is complete a rental apartment component including 96 deed restricted units for
in 2017, construction on the east wing will begin and will include a new employee housing and a two-level subgrade parking structure containing
Managed by Emergency Department, relocated helipad on the medical center campus, a 331 parking spaces.
Vail Recreation District new main entrance to the hospital from South Frontage Road and additional
parking. vvmc.com/build Marriott Residence Inn
Designed and constructed by Hotel Talisa, Vail
California Skateparks A new ownership group, Laurus Corporation, announced big plans for
with input from local skaters transformation of the Vail Cascade Resort and Spa that would reposition
the property as a luxury resort set to join Starwood Hotels & Resorts’
Zeke M. Pierce was an athletic, thoughtful and spirited 15-year-old living Four colorful public Luxury Collection brand. The announcement included plans for a $50+
life to the fullest when he suddenly passed away due to an on-mountain art mosaics created by million renovation. The property launched its new name and branding as
biking accident in 2013. A lifelong resident of Vail, Zeke’s happiness and artist Valerie Theberge Hotel Talisa, Vail, with renovations to be completed in 2017. hoteltalisa.com
kindness were contagious and became an inspiration to everyone who of Washington, D.C. Lion
knew him. So when it came time to name Vail’s new skatepark, friends Following a multi-year construction cycle, the Lion is scheduled to open
suggested a lasting tribute to Zeke as a way of celebrating the essence Closed when snow or ice in the spring of 2017 with its mix of 65 private residences, underground
of his youthful exuberance. are present parking, luxury amenities and a 4,500-square foot restaurant. lionvail.com
Ric Stovall
17 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 1813 years of service, driven by a tenacious passion
CELEBRATING A REMARKABLE TENURE
From the era of the Billion Dollar Renewal to the Great Recession, the
strategies directed toward Vail’s future have been deliberate and well-
timed. At the center of it all is Stan Zemler who has worked meticulously
behind-the-scenes to provide Vail’s leadership with the courage and
confidence to make the right decisions at the right time. As Zemler looks
to leave the town’s employment as Vail town manager, we celebrate what
Vail has become through the milestones of the past.
Freedom Park fundraiser | 2006 West Vail Fire Station groundbreaking | 2010 Alpine World Ski Championships | 2015
The Accomplishments
The achievements Zemler has brought to the community are far-ranging. The Accolades The Impact
He’s best known for astutely managing the town’s finances during boom In working closely with Zemler over the years, the mayors of Vail are As the longest tenured town manager in Vail’s history, Stan Zemler is a friend
and bust, while helping to direct major investments in events marketing, unanimous in identifying the many qualities that have made those and colleague to many, giving support and wisdom to 19 elected officials:
public buildings, parks, housing, roads and streetscapes. Initiatives were relationships work. They describe him as a good listener, trusted mentor,
STAN ZEMLER, Vail Town Manager consensus-builder, collaborator and excellent communicator. Also, he’s • Mayors - Dave Chapin, Andy Daly, Dick Cleveland, Rod Slifer and Ludwig Kurz
also undertaken to provide leadership in environmental programs and
policies including community recycling. An emphasis on public safety insightful, pragmatic, thoughtful, passionate, patient and conducts business • Council members - Jenn Bruno, Dale Bugby, Diana Donovan,
The Vail Town Council has begun a national search to hire a successor was met with construction of a new fire station and an ongoing forest with the highest of integrity – all without taking himself too seriously. Kerry Donovan, Kevin Foley, Mark Gordon, Farrow Hitt,
to Zemler who will be stepping down as town manager after 13 years. health program. He’s also leveraged a state and federal presence through Mayor Chapin is proud to proclaim that Vail is the most efficient and well-run Kim Langmaid, Kent Logan, Jen Mason, Greg Moffet,
his role with the I-70 Coalition and Colorado Association of Ski Towns. organization in the mountains due to Zemler’s presence. Kim Newberry-Rediker, Margaret Rogers and Susie Tjossem
Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse ribbon cutting | 2017
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Oct. 6: Stan Zemler’s first Village streetscape breaks Vail embarks on largest Voters approve First in county to adopt Vail’s first-ever Unprecedented actions Openings of Ritz-Carlton, Voters approve realloca- 50 year anniversary Economy strengthens, Improvements to Ford FIS Alpine World Ski
day on the job as Vail’s 6th ground, largest capital revitalization in history redevelopment of Solaris commercial linkage, environmental sustainability taken to cut $4.3M from Four Seasons, Solaris tion of $9.4M Conference celebration with sales tax collections exceed Amphitheater, renovation Championships
town manager project in town’s history, with 5 major ground- inclusionary zoning coordinator hired town budget, emphasis Center Funds Vail Resorts previous record set in 2008 of Ford Park athletic
to date breakings, including Vail’s first hybrid bus put housing policies on marketing and events Conservative budgeting, field completed I-70 Underpass cost-share
Final $2.3M bond
A CAREER OF Vail Reinvestment Authority
established as conduit for Zemler helps organize
Arrabelle at Vail Square into service
Voters approve 4%
Parking and transportation
management strategies for
help Vail outpace
resort competitors
solid revenue performance
contribute to
West Vail Fire Station,
payment made, making Vail becomes new
Redevelopment of eastern
funding approved
MILESTONES Tax Increment Financing. I-70 Coalition to create Conference Center Zemler appoints first-ever construction use tax summer season introduced community confidence
Lionshead Transit
Center open
town debt-free home for Burton
US Open Snowboarding half of Timber Ridge begins Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Requires declaration of unified voice from 27 lodging and sales taxes Economic Advisory Council for first time West Vail Fire Station Education Center opens
Financial pledges help secure Ever Vail development Championships
“blight” of public property cities and counties rescinded after voters Additions of economic approval brings closure Community-wide
to decades-long debate 2015 World Alpine Ski First major redevelop- approved by Town Council
in Lionshead reject additional taxes Wildlife-resistant development, seasonal 25-miles of holiday tree recycling approved Kick the Bag Habit enacted
on merits Championships and 2011 ment since 2009 initiated Vail Public Library, Main
Sales tax collections of trash container wildfire staffing lights converted to LEDs with Lion building
US Pro Challenge stage Lionshead Welcome Vail Fire Station reopen $7.2M cellular, Wi-Fi
$15.5M set new benchmark, Forest Health Project regulations approved permit application Vail Valley Medical
New loading and delivery Center opens, includes after major remodels upgrades completed
surpassing previous high initiated to address pine Solar panel pilot 5th year for record Center Master Facility
in 2001 beetle infestation project launched revenues; recession hits regulations increase use of Vail Reinvestment Authority Vail Recreation District Plan approved
by 4th quarter underground delivery bays sells $11.9M bonds for Gore Creek placed on list of space and Grand View Wildfire mitigation program Epic Discovery approved
and limit on-street parking public improvements impaired streams meeting room manager position added by U.S. Forest Service
19 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.2100 20GORE CREEK
FOOD CHAIN
GORE CREEK HEALTH
Adoption of the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan by
THESE
PREDATORS: the Town Council in 2016 represents a significant
BIRDS B ROWN commitment to address 220 identified actions. Near-
RESTRIA LE B
DE
ER SPI RS term projects include $1.2 million in stream health
T
L
AT
THANK YOU VAIL BUSINESSES!
LIT
investment for in-ground vaults at East Vail Interchange,
S
T
stormwater infrastructure repairs at Slifer Square, stream Alpine Bank
bank stabilization work and filtration improvements Antlers at Vail
to the town’s snow dump. Berkshire Hathaway - Lionshead
ES
Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum
IN
VE T Other Initiatives: AT
OW
N OF VA
IL
RTEBRA DoubleTree by Hilton
• 28 local businesses certified as Eagle Point Resort
Gore Creek Leadership Partners at Eye Pieces of Vail
the 2016 Sustainable Landscape
RES
E
Falcon Point
TIV
Workshop, another opportunity
TO
R
IA
E I T
TH
E G O RE IN Highlands Lodge
THERE IS A BALANCED WEB OF LIFE BETWEEN THE FOREST AND CREEK in 2017. iTrip Vacations Vail/Beaver Creek
EAT THESE • Lunch with the Locals education program offered Lion Square Lodge
MACRO INVERTEBRATES: sessions on stream ecology, local flora and fauna, Lululemon Athletica
Jack Affleck
and sustainable landscaping practices. More to come Manor Vail Lodge
in 2017. Montaneros
ALGAE LEAVES • New 24-hour Gore Creek spill and illegal dumping Ski and Snowboard Club Vail
UATIC MAYF
hotline. Call 970-476-GORE. SUSTAINABLE DESTINATION Sonnenalp Hotel
AQ LT
TROUT DU L Vail’s pursuit to become the first certified sustainable
The Sebastian
The Wren
A
Y
destination in the U.S. under criteria established by the Town of Vail Community Development
Global Sustainable Tourism Council could soon be a reality.
Courtesy of Walking Mountains
Vail Cascade/Hotel Talisa
To qualify, Vail must meet or exceed 40 best practices Vail Public Library
ES that address tourism infrastructure, planning for climate
IN
VE T Vail Racquet Club
RTEBRA change, protection of sensitive environments and wildlife, Vail Spa Condominiums
affordable housing, light and noise pollution, programs West Vail Liquor Mart
WHO EAT THESE for youth and seniors, stakeholder participation, cultural
ALGAE, LEAVES & DETRITUS:
heritage protection and sustainability education. An initial For certification information,
More than 90% of wildlife in Vail depend on wetland and riparian environments such as Gore Creek at site visit by certification representatives occurred in contact Walking Mountains
some time in their lives. Because this ecosystem provides such an abundance of resources, it is home Students from Gypsum Creek Middle School learn about mayflies, caddisflies, September 2016 with a return visit scheduled for July Science Center at 970.827.9725
stoneflies and their importance as an indicator species for Gore Creek health
to an incredible variety of species. during an outdoor education program. 2017 to evaluate Vail’s progress. or walkingmountains.org
21 LOVEVAIL.ORG | 970.479.2138 222016 SURVEY RESULTS
8 out of 10 people say
recycling and waste
?
reduction is very important
VAIL LAND RECYCLING PROGRESS
BY THE NUMBERS
As of the most recent survey, 80% of residential
WHAT DOES “OPEN LANDS” MEAN households and 95% of businesses were participating
2,900
total acres
in recycling. The goal of the town’s ongoing education
effort is to achieve 100% community-wide recycling
participation and surpass the national recycling rate.
within town boundary
2016 Recycling Rates
1,040 40%
Jack Affleck
35%
total acres 30%
owned by Town of Vail 25%
20%
534
acres of Designated
15%
10%
5%
REUSABLE BAGS
During the first year of the town’s “Kick the Bag Habit”
2016 RECYCLING COLLECTION
EVENT SUCCESS
Open Space
18% of total land mass
0%
U.S. Colorado Eagle County Vail
program, distribution of single-use bags dropped by
90% in Vail. Before enactment of the plastic bag ban,
approximately 4 million bags were being distributed
16,511
pounds of e-waste
This open space designation
requires a vote of the majority annually by the two grocery stores in town. In its first
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
of Vail’s electorate to change
the designation
Share your thoughts and
Vail joined two climate action initiatives during the year.
year, that distribution number was reduced to 300,000
5,477
Jack Affleck
suggestions at fully-recyclable paper bags at a cost to consumers of ten
Colorado Communities for Climate Action is the state’s pounds of household hazardous waste
vailgov.com/openlandsupdate cents each. This bag fund generated $35,000 in 2016, a
204
acres of Parks and/or
first consortium representing participating municipalities
and counties in advocating for state and federal actions
portion of which was used to fund free recycling collection
events in the spring and fall. 2,937
COMPREHENSIVE to meet local climate-protection goals. The town also pounds of shredded paper
Recreational Use
OPEN LANDS PLAN UPDATE signed on to support creation of a Climate Action Plan EV CHARGERS collected and properly recycled
Includes golf course, for the Eagle County community. Recommended goals
It has been more than two decades since adoption of Vail’s members and a technical experts team, the goal is to Six multi-port electric vehicle chargers in the Vail Village
300
Ford Park and portions
of Donovan Park Comprehensive Open Lands Plan. While the document document which parts of the plan have been completed, include greenhouse gas emission reduction targets of 25% and Lionshead parking structures logged over 1,429
has provided a framework of recommended actions which which parts are still relevant and to identify new needs by 2025 and 80% by 2050. Suggested actions include charge ups and saved 1,808 gallons of gasoline and pounds of recycling collected
saving energy in homes and commercial buildings by
50
includes parking, recreation, protection of sensitive based on current issues such as protection of Gore eliminated 6.7 tons of GHG emissions in 2016. The during the 4th of July parade
habitats, trails and land to be reserved for public uses Creek water quality, trails and other recreational scaling up energy efficiency programs, engaging local chargers allow a vehicle to get at least an 80% charge
acres of publicly owned
Gore Creek stream tract
such as public buildings and employee housing, a dozen
or more actions identified in the plan remain to be
addressed. As a result, the Town Council has authorized
opportunities, as well as the potential for acquisition
of sites for housing. This months-long process will
culminate in adoption of the update by the Town Council,
businesses and schools in more sustainability programs,
increasing the use of zero emissions vehicles and
diverting waste from the landfill with more recycling
within two hours. The stations are connected to the
ChargePoint network where users can log on or download
the app to see what stations are available at any time.
$3,500
awarded to local non-profits on behalf
Portions protected as
Designated Open Space an update of the plan. In working with community tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2017. and composting. chargepoint.com of Clean Up Day participants
23 VAILGOV.COM/OPENLANDSUPDATE LOVEVAIL.ORG | 970.479.2138 242016 SURVEY RESULTS INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP
1 to 5 satisfaction rating,
As a member of the executive board of the International Association
5 being highest:
Recognized as one of the most progressive police departments for its size Overall feeling of safety
of Chiefs of Police, Chief Dwight Henninger’s involvement introduces
him to policing issues and trends from across the globe, allowing
and security = 4.4
him to prepare the department in a proactive way to address those
issues here at home. Chief Henninger could be in line to serve as
LIFE-CHANGING PRACTICES president of the IACP in 2021 if he is elected as fourth vice president
A WELCOMING COMMUNITY in October 2017.
“Based on our two-year When Officer Brad Baldwin succumbed to a heart attack at age By embracing one another’s perspectives, experiences
program with Sigma, we have 61 it was a wake-up call for his police colleagues. A ground- and cultures, the Eagle County Law Enforcement
breaking health initiative soon followed, launched by Commander Immigrant Advisory Initiative is making great strides
seen excellent results and
Craig Bettis and Dr. Ben Stone, an exercise physiologist. Their in building trust and acceptance within the immigrant Vail Crime Statistics
a healthier police force; this community. Vail Police and its partners provide multi-
efforts have resulted in the early detection of other at-risk
cultural outreach, information and other resources to 2013 2014 2015 2016
includes a 65% reduction in officers. Previously undiagnosed metabolic diseases, including
glucose levels, significant diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension are being treated the greater community with help from Catholic Charities. Total Arrests 744 680 797 666
preemptively and are serving as first-hand accounts to help This effort has resulted in increased crime reporting Burglary 22 26 20 33
reduction in hypertension and by members of the Hispanic community from 10.6% in
expand these life-saving techniques to other law enforcement Larceny/Theft 317 284 282 296
a 10.1% reduction in body 2010 to 18.2% in 2016. In addition, Hispanics arrested
personnel across the state. Sigma Law Enforcement Health Ski/Board Theft* 83 70 66 58
mass. I am extremely proud as compared to the total service population has decreased
Initiative provides individualized metabolic and nutritional by 7% and the percentage of Hispanics victimized has Motor Vehicle Theft 11 9 10 10
of the work that officers have strategies to instill proactive health solutions in preventing decreased by 2% from 2010 to 2016. Assault 60 47 57 67
done to improve their health!” heart attacks and stroke. Vail’s results have been dramatic
Fraud 87 81 93 91
with weight loss and stimulant use reductions. The program GRANITE ACTIONS DUI/DWAI 68 52 57 62
~ Chief Dwight Henninger has also been expanded to a cross-section of other town
The multi-jurisdictional drug task force, Gore Range Drugs 113 55 136 126
Vail Police Department employees with similar success. Narcotics Interdiction Team, comprised of law enforce-
Vandalism 122 115 102 116
ment personnel from the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office
and the Vail Police Department, focuses on felony Sexual Offenses 8 9 9 10
narcotics investigations. In 2016 GRANITE investigated Trespassing 60 54 43 61
56 felony narcotics related cases, made 58 felony Trespassing - Vehicular** 30 30 18 18
narcotics arrests, seized 1,106 grams of cocaine; 700 Disorderly Conduct 46 44 47 34
doses of LSD; 69,000 grams of marijuana; 310 grams
Obstructing/Resisting 24 19 15 24
of marijuana concentrate; two guns and $100,000 in
U.S. currency. Protective Custody 75 52 51 33
BODY WORN CAMERAS Call Volume 34,502 in 2016 34,720 in 2014
Dominique Taylor
Officers are now equipped with body worn camera 37,072 in 2015 35,345 in 2013
systems, joining many other departments across the
country. The camera program enhances transparency * Ski and Snowboard Theft is included in Larceny/Theft
and evidence collection while balancing the privacy ** Vehicle Trespassing is included in Trespassing
Dominique Taylor
Long-term goals of the Sigma program include the creation of statewide health standards for all Colorado law enforcement members. concerns of the public.
25 VAILGOV.COM/POLICE | 970.479.2208 26FIRE ADAPTED COMMUNITY INITIATIVE
While preventing fires is a primary objective of Vail
Fire and Emergency Services, the department’s ongoing
message is hard to ignore: it is inevitable that a wildland
fire will eventually threaten homes within the town given
VAIL INTERMOUNTAIN its proximity to the forest. As part of the ongoing
FUELS REDUCTION effort to reduce the potential impacts of a wildland
fire, Vail Fire & Emergency Services is implementing a
U.S. Forest Service and fire adapted community approach to wildfire mitigation.
Town of Vail Two of the strategies of this national initiative are to
Multi-year project to reduce fuels encourage the use of ignition resistant construction
available for wildfire, reduce dead
and fire resistive landscaping. In 2016 these guidelines
were strengthened with three significant actions:
standing trees and regenerate areas
of unhealthy aspen. For a map of • Modification of the Town of Vail Code which requires
the project area, visit the replacement of a wood shake roof if greater than
vailgov.com/intermountainfuels
25% of the roof requires repair.
• A new Fire-Resistant Landscape Guide that provides
Phase 1 | 2016 recommendations that are specific to the town on
Fuel reduction on 37 acres creating defensible space around your home.
Jack Affleck
Vail Fire & Emergency Services
Phase 2 | 2017 • Modification to the Mountain Pine Beetle abatement Response Calls
Vail Fire Station 1
Fuel reduction on 57 acres ordinance to include all wildfire fuels.
and use of helicopters 2013 2014 2015 2016
EAST VAIL FIRE STATION Structure Fires 13 15 16 13
Phase 3 | 2017 - 19 RENOVATION Vehicle Fires 12 11 15 15
Pile burning
A much-needed renovation of the East Vail Fire Station Advisory evaluations of prop- Wildland Fires 17 11 8 14 2016 SURVEY RESULTS
was undertaken in 2016. The existing fire station which erties in Vail will take place Rescue/Emergency Medical 621 574 526 540 Residents are highly
was built in 1981 was in need of a complete upgrade in spring 2017. Copies of Motor Vehicle Accidents 223 231 131 180 receptive to wildfire
of mechanical and electrical systems as well as cosmetic prevention policies including:
the Fire-Resistant Landscape False Alarms 544 526 607 599
upgrades. In addition to these items, approximately • Creation of defensible space
Guide are available at West Hazardous Materials 58 73 79 93 on individual properties
1,400 square feet of new space was added to provide
additional working area around the fire engines and Vail Fire Station and online Service Calls 101 133 112 143 • Modifying design standards
more storage. The station also includes two employee at vailgov.com/fire. Home to facilitate creation of
Smoke Reports 321 275 170 41 defensible space
housing units. The project will showcase landscaping evaluations can be requested
Miscellaneous 39 48 60 277 • Evaluation of defensible
which meets aesthetic objectives while also providing by calling 970.477.3475. Vail firefighters survey the aftermath of
TOTAL 1,949 1,897 1,724 1,915 space around each home
defensible space. a wildland fire in Northwestern Colorado by trained personnel
27 VAILGOV.COM/FIRE | 970.479.2250 VAILGOV.COM | 970.479.XXXX 28WINTER PARKING 2015-16 2016 SURVEY RESULTS 2016 SURVEY RESULTS
(150 day season) 81% of respondents gave 1 to 5 satisfaction rating,
parking booth attendants 5 being highest:
29
overflow days on frontage road
high satisfaction ratings,
best rating since 2005 Dependability of bus
service = 4.4
Town goal = Frequency of
15 days on frontage road in-town shuttles = 4.2
42
filled days at
Frequency of
outlying service = 3.8
Vail Village parking structure
29
filled days at
Lionshead parking structure
SUMMER PARKING 2016 Share your ideas and
Townsend Bessent
Townsend Bessent
(116 day season) suggestions on
22
all things parking at $30.1M to construct | 70,000 cubic yards of earth excavated | Frontage roads lowered 15 feet
vailgov.com/parking 25,000 square feet of retaining wall constructed | 10 different utility lines relocated
overflow days on frontage road
Town goal =
15 days on frontage road
PARKING I-70 VAIL UNDERPASS I-70 CHAIN STATION EXPANSION 32
32 Turning discussions into solutions Construction of the I-70 Vail Underpass began in April Construction to improve the I-70 eastbound chain station
transit buses
filled days at
Vail Village parking structure The topic of public parking was turned on its head during
the year as overflow parking on the frontage roads
• Is it time to implement a future managed parking
scenario for summer, such as paid parking? It’s a tough
with a meticulous phasing sequence that would keep
traffic moving during the construction. The early focus
was substantially completed during the year. Funded
by the Colorado Department of Transportation, the 706,846
58 was on building the two new underpass bridges on I-70. project included expanding the chain station 1,500 feet miles traveled in 2016
exceeded town goals while demands for summer sell. Only 1 in 10 currently support this change, according
9,000+
to results of the biennial community survey. By July, those bridges were complete and the lowering to the west, construction of a retaining wall between
filled days at parking continued to stress the town’s infrastructure. the interstate and frontage road, upgraded lighting and
of the frontage roads began. In November, the frontage
ELEVATE THE EXPERIENCE
Lionshead parking structure After experiencing 22 overflow days during the summer • Is it time to ask Vail’s electorate to consider increasing roads were reopened to two lanes of travel. The project water quality. gallons of fuel saved
season in which the Lionshead parking structure the 4% lift tax on Vail Mountain as a way to fund the with hybrid buses
then entered a shutdown phase for the winter season.
filled nearly twice the rate of the Vail Village structure, construction of additional parking in town? After seeking LIGHTED PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
35
The project will start up again April 2017 for the final
it was found this congestion was largely due to public input, numerous citizens suggested taking the phase, which includes construction of the frontage road
construction workers and Lionshead employees filling A multi-million dollar safety initiative was approved
time for a more thorough review of the matter. To keep roundabouts. Completion is anticipated for fall of 2017. by the Town Council that included pedestrian crossing drivers per day (winter)
1 to 5 satisfaction rating,
the structure. It became the tipping point for Town the conversation going, an agreement was reached to This new underpass will help connect neighborhoods lights at five major areas along the frontage roads. The
3.2 M
5 being highest:
Council members who sought to reinstate the Vail convene regular meetings between representatives and assist with commuter flow, easing congestion installations are to be phased over the next two to three
Ease of parking in winter
2.9 Parking & Transportation Task Force for advisory from the town and the senior leadership team from at the existing roundabouts. For information, visit years. The first phase includes improved crosswalks at
input. It also served as the foundation for posing some passengers per year
Vail Resorts to develop both short- and long-term codot.gov/projects/i70vailunderpass or call the the Municipal Building, West Lionshead Circle and the
Overall parking making it one of the largest free
fees/pricing structure challenging questions to the community: solutions to address the parking concerns. Project Hotline at 970.685.7706. roundabouts at Town Center and West Vail. transit systems in the U.S.
2.9
29 302016 SURVEY RESULTS
1 to 5 rating,
Jack Affleck
5 being highest:
overall satisfaction
with the library = 4.6 OUTSIDE THE LINES
The library participated for the second year in Outside
the Lines, a national initiative to get libraries out into
the community. Babysitter backpacks were created and
distributed to a few of Vail’s hotels. Items included books, Story Time
toys, coloring books and more. In addition, a book give-
away day was held at City Market where free books were PROGRAMS
distributed. The program concluded with a family Year-Round
Scavenger Hunt around Vail where the library partnered Healthy Lifestyle Series
with the Bright Future Foundation – Buddy Mentors,
Tech Studio
Vail Recreation District and Blue Moose Pizza. Keep an
DIGITAL QUILT eye out for more fun adventures this year! Adult Programming
Vail Public Library is home to a vintage storytelling including Concerts and Common Cents
for Colorado
quilt about Vail’s history. This quilt was donated to COMMUNITY READ
the library in the 1980s to commemorate the 20th Children’s Programming
The fifth year of the county-wide including Story Time and Reading Buddies
anniversary of Vail. In celebration of Vail’s 50th birthday,
community reading initiative Book Clubs for All Ages
the library put all the quilt information online. Go to One Book One Valley occurred
bit.ly/vailquilt to explore pages from a booklet describing Outreach and Programming
in 2016 as community members for Seniors
each square of the quilt and listen to audio clips from three joined together to read We Are
of the quilters. This digital quilt project represents the Yoga and Meditation
Called to Rise by Laura McBride.
library’s first step in digitizing a part of its collection. In March, the author spoke to an audience of well over Winter
Please stop by and visit the actual quilt hanging in the 100 attendees at Colorado Mountain College in Edwards. Skiing Book Club
library’s Community Room. This program starts in January of each year so be sure
to join the conversation! January - March
ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP One Book One Valley
In October, Vail Public Library received an award from the OUTREACH PROGRAM FOR SENIORS April
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment In partnership with Betty Ford Gardens Education Center, National Library Week
during the 17th Annual Environmental Leadership the library was instrumental in offering four programs June - August
Awards. While more than 400 government, business to seniors. Topics were: Seasonal Foods, Holiday
Summer Reading Programs
and community leaders were recognized, Vail Public Decorations and Swag Making, Terrariums and a Harvest for All Ages
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY Library was the only library in the state to have achieved Festival with Cooking Demonstration. Some of these Walking Book Club
Thank you to our volunteer group of library advocates who raised funds for the library in a this status. This was an outstanding attainment for the programs were held at the library and others at the
variety of ways. The Annual 4th of July Bake Sale, $1,242; the Annual 4th of July Book Sale, library which went beyond compliance with state and Betty Ford Gardens Education Center. Gentle Yoga was October
$1,435; the Book Sale Nook, $1,973; and Annual Appeal, $19,247. federal regulations for environmental improvements. also brought to local seniors on Monday afternoons. National Friends of Libraries Week
Jack Affleck
31 VAILLIBRARY.COM | 970.479.2184 32You can also read
