HomeMy WebLinkAboutMemo - Mail Packet - 4/28/2015 - Memorandum From John Bartholow Re: Recommendation On Priority Of Bob 2 ProjectsEnvironmental Services
215 N. Mason
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221-6600
970.224-6177 - fax
fcgov.com
MEMORANDUM
NATURAL RESOURCES ADVISORY BOARD
DATE: April 23, 2015
TO: Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: John Bartholow, on behalf of the Natural Resources Advisory Board (NRAB)
SUBJECT: Recommendation on Priority of BOB 2 Projects
Now that the BOB 2 Initiative (Issue #1) has passed, the NRAB recommends that Council put
the Downtown Poudre River Enhancement task at or near the top of the implementation list.
Though every interest group will undoubtedly want one or another project first, we believe there are
unique differences that justify special consideration for the Poudre River Project:
Unlike most other BOB items, this project is a small yet keystone element of a much longer
term strategic effort. It is crucial to maintain demonstrated progress on river restoration.
Delaying this project potentially delays subsequent river restoration components whereas
temporarily postponing other BOB items will not likely have a measurable cascade effect.
Scheduling this project soon will signal strong community commitment in the face of an
imminent upstream water extraction project (the Northern Integrated Supply Project, NISP).
Our community commitment is likely to be a deciding factor in NISP outcomes whatever they
may be.
Per the City’s emphasis on the triple bottom line, the Downtown Poudre Project will mesh
nicely with the proposed North College Innovation Campus. The Poudre Project will benefit
not only the aquatic and riverside natural environments but also provide floodwater mitigation
for other adjacent infrastructure on the north side of the river.
The river (and kayak) park has been in the works for well over a decade and is backed by a
large, vocal coalition of supporters that bring $1.5 m in matching funds. They are anxious to
proceed.
Respectfully submitted,
John Bartholow
Chair, Natural Resources Advisory Board
cc: Darin Atteberry
Susie Gordon