The Flagstaff Summit is one of OSMP’s most visited areas. The restroom on site is labeled as wheelchair accessible; however, the existing Outdoor Recreation Access Route (ORAR) runs at a steep 12–14% grade for about 40 feet. The crew constructed a new ORAR to provide wheelchair access from the parking lot to the restroom. Improvements began in October, with a four-person crew working to complete the project before winter snowfall and a December raptor closure that would limit the use of power tools until summer. Native stone was used for retention, and imported flagstone created a firm, level transition from the asphalt to the trail. Twice the length of the existing route, the new access runs at a consistent 5–7% grade. The soil on the summit consists of loose, well-draining decomposed granite. The crew used water and a plate compactor to compact the native soil. Parking spaces and associated signage need to be realigned to provide a clear access aisle from the accessible parking space to the new ORAR. Work was completed for the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, Colorado.
almost complete: the path has a 5-7% grade, with a flat turning area
before: the previous route to the restroom, a steep trail with grades up to 15% to the right
before
in progress
in progress
before
in progress
in progress
crew working in winter conditions
splitting stone
in progress: flagstone paving