Lafayette’s parks, open spaces and trails are areas of pride for residents as well as the City. These properties encompass 20 miles of trails, 1297 acres of open space, and 19 parks. Fortunately for the citizens of Lafayette, last week’s floods didn't affect the majority of these outdoor recreation areas. All public parks are open, the Indian Peaks Golf Course and driving range is open, and two-thirds of the City’s trails are usable including those networks on Rothman Open Space and around Waneka Lake Park.
“We feel fortunate that many properties came out of this situation with little to no harm,” said Monte Stevenson Director of Parks, Open Space, and Golf. “We are, however, extremely saddened to see the extensive damage incurred along the Rock Creek/Coal Creek (RC/CC) regional trail system and to our nearby residents in Lafayette. The reality of the restoration work on these trails promises to be a long-term, multi-jurisdictional endeavor.”
All portions of the RC/CC regional trail system in Lafayette are closed due to safety and public health concerns. Most portions of this 6 mile system are situated immediately adjacent to the Rock Creek and Coal Creek corridors. While this appealing proximity to riparian areas offers a unique and desirable draw for local and regional users, it has posed challenges throughout the recent flood. The full extent of damage will not be assessed until the creek levels recede, and it is unclear at this time when sections of the trail will be available for use. Many residents have expressed interest in volunteering to help with trail reconstruction. While the Parks, Open Space and Golf Department is not yet in a position to begin work, volunteers are encouraged to register at www.cityoflafayette.com/TrailVolunteer and will be contacted as projects become available.
View the City of Lafayette’s Parks, Open Space and Trails Map at http://www.cityoflafayette.com/DocumentCenter/Home/View/123