To: Mem Parks and Recreation Commission and Staff
From: Jeff Smullen, Assistant Director
Title
Proposed Red Hawk Quarry Trail
Body
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Executive Summary
At the June meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission, Assistant Director Jeff Smullen will present an overview of the planned construction of a two-mile, single-track, native surface trail on Town-owned open space surrounding the Santa Fe Quarry Butte. While no formal trails currently exist in this area, it has become a popular destination for adjacent neighbors and hikers seeking to explore the butte.
The proposed trail network will connect Red Hawk Drive near Thatch Circle to Ridgeline Open Space off of Coachline Road, offering a community-identified neighborhood access connection and providing a sustainable public route to the top of the butte for users to enjoy its scenic summit views. This project will not only enhance the property's recreational experience but also improve public safety and accessibility by establishing a designated trail through open space that is already frequently used by the public.
The new trail segments will formalize use in a way that reduces environmental degradation, prevents erosion and protects native vegetation. It will also strengthen connections between nearby neighborhoods and existing trail systems, making the areas easier and safer to access, enriching community use of public lands and promoting outdoor recreation in a way that preserves the natural character of the area for future generations.
A public open house is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday July 7 the Clubhouse patio at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course, 2156 Red Hawk Ridge Drive. Adjacent neighbors and the public at large will be invited to learn more, share thoughts and express feedback on the proposed trail alignment. An online questionnaire will also be available for community members to participate if they are unable to attend the meeting or would like to formally submit their feedback through the questionnaire. Additional information and the questionnaire link will soon be available at CRgov.com/RedHawkTrail.