Golden Mobility and Transportation Advisory Board Rescheduled Regular Meeting – April 23, 2026

The Mobility and Transportation Advisory Board (MTAB) held a rescheduled regular meeting on April 23, 2026, at 1445 10th Street in Golden. The board addressed a range of mobility and transportation topics, including a formal recommendation on the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan, in-depth discussion of a resident-initiated neighborhood permit parking request for Water and Jackson Streets, a new bike map initiative from Bike Walk Golden, and a preliminary safety discussion following recent traffic collisions. Public testimony was heard from multiple residents of 615 Water Street who voiced strong support for managed parking to address safety, congestion, and parking availability.

Consent Calendar

• The meeting agenda was approved unanimously (motion by E. Marola, second by C. Brown).
• The minutes from the March 16, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (motion by R. Grubin, second by A. Zimmerman).

Public Comments & Testimony

• Alex Philipson (address: A24 Meadow Run) commented on three topics: the proposed relocation of the 9th Street pedestrian bridge over Tucker Gulch, which he believes is unnecessary; the stop sign at Mesa and Ridge Road being set too far back from the intersection; and the confusing signage on Water Street that appears to restrict parking to residents only.
• Waylon Wouters (10th Street resident, representing ownership of 615 Water Street Apartments) stated that the parking situation for residents is critical. He noted the building has 57 units but only 47 parking spaces, and that a survey showed 72.7% of respondents supported a Neighborhood Permit Parking (NPP) option. He requested the board help make parking secure for residents.
• Andrew Farland (resident, 615 Water Street) expressed support for managed parking due to a "free-for-all" from Golden Mill visitors and also complained about early-morning delivery trucks (around 5 a.m.) to the Golden Mill that idle for extended periods, causing noise disruptions. He requested restrictions on delivery times.
• Olivia Hartt (resident, 615 Water Street) described increased illegal parking, intoxicated patrons, speeding traffic, and dangerous conditions for pedestrians. She strongly supported an NPP to improve safety and livability.
• Zoe Karp (resident, 615 Water Street) echoed the need for managed parking, noting that the current system prioritizes short-term visitors over residents, as many other Golden parking lots prohibit overnight parking.
• Lane Allen (resident, 615 Water Street) expressed strong support for permit parking, saying he often cannot find parking when returning home, especially during tourist season, and having to walk several minutes with groceries is a hardship.
• Staff member Joe Puhr volunteered to investigate existing municipal code regulations regarding delivery times and idling vehicles.

Discussion Items

• Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan (: Matt Wempe presented the final TDM Plan, incorporating public feedback. He emphasized that the plan is voluntary and collaborative, with a focus on supporting downtown businesses and employees. Key changes included clarifying the timing of potential parking policy changes and stressing that the program will not force people out of their cars. a TDM Coordinator (Grace Fleming) has been designated. The board discussed the need for clear performance metrics, the challenge of regional traffic (60-80% of trips are through or regional commutes), and the potential for eco-pass programs. The board unanimously agreed to forward a letter of recommendation to City Council supporting adoption of the plan.
• Water and Jackson Street Parking Discussion (Study Session): Joe Puhr presented a resident request for neighborhood permit parking on Water and Jackson Streets. The city conducted a survey of 80 addresses, receiving 22 responses (27.5% response rate). 72.7% of respondents supported a "Neighborhood Permit Parking Only" option. Presented data showed parking utilization often exceeds 75% and peaks at 90-100%. The board engaged in detailed discussion on options: dedicated spaces for 615 Water Street, two-hour parking for the broader area, exemptions for Parfet Park, and potential expansion of the permit hunting ground. A consensus was reached on a set of recommendations (see Key Outcomes).
• Bike Walk Golden Map Initiative: Representatives (Luke and Abby) presented a new community-driven bike and safe routes map project. The map will highlight safe cycling and walking routes, gradients, comfort levels, and local businesses. Funding has been raised through sponsorships, and the map will be distributed for free. A community engagement event drew about 50 people. The board offered positive feedback and suggestions for distribution at bike rental shops.
• Golden Roadway Safety Discussion: Following two recent traffic collisions (one at 10th & Ford, one a CDOT location), Bike Walk Golden had requested action. Joe Puhr recommended waiting for official crash reports before making infrastructure changes, to avoid knee-jerk reactions. The board agreed to table further discussion until reports are available.
• Project Updates: Joe Puhr provided brief updates: 10th and Maple intersection construction is progressing well; Ford-Jackson project construction will begin with rolling closures through summer; and the city is participating in Jeffco's Mission Zero safety plan.
• New Business: Board chair noted the need for a SERC (Southwest Energy Responsibility Commission) appointment, requested departing members to take their nameplates, and mentioned a welcome email for new members (Therese Decker returning). A non-organized send-off for departing members was suggested.

Key Outcomes

• TDM Plan Recommendation: The board unanimously approved (motion by C. Brown, second by D. Termin) forwarding a letter of recommendation to City Council for adoption of the 2026 TDM Plan. The letter will include minor wording changes to clarify goals (e.g., "reduce" rather than "take" non-SOV trips).
• Water/Jackson Parking Recommendations: The board reached consensus on a package of recommendations to forward to City Council:
  1. Establish a Neighborhood Permit Parking (NPP) zone for the area roughly bounded by Clear Creek to the south, SH58 to the north, Washington Avenue to the west, and Ford Street to the east.
  2. Dedicate 15 on-street parking spaces specifically for permit holders from 615 Water Street.
  3. Dedicate the 15 spaces along Parfet Park (west side of Jackson) as free two-hour parking only, with direction to add two ADA spaces and one space for parks/police use.
  4. Make all other on-street parking in the zone free two-hour parking or city permit (i.e., two-hour limit with exception for permit holders).
  5. Make Vanover Park's parking lot two-hour parking only.
  6. Look into allowing overnight parking in the city garages and the Clear Creek free lot to provide additional off-street options for residents.
  7. As part of a larger future study, evaluate pedestrian safety improvements and consider a one-way street configuration on Water/Jackson.
  8. The recommendations are proposed for a one- to two-year trial period, after which data will be re-evaluated.
• Roadway Safety: Postponed further discussion until official crash reports are received.
• Bike Walk Golden Map: The board took no formal action but expressed support for the initiative, offering to help with distribution and future updates.
• SERC Appointment: Deferred to a future meeting after new members join.