Board approves Fraser River plan, detailing $6.5M in improvements
The Fraser Board of Trustees signed off on a pair of major projects at its regular meeting Wednesday night, completing the adoption of the town’s updated land-use and development codes and pushing forward with the Fraser River Corridor Master Plan.
For the last several months, the town has been working to streamline its land-use development codes using a series of stakeholder interviews, joint work sessions between the planning commission and board of trustees, and public open houses. The update will repeal chapters 15 through 17, along with article four of Chapter 18, in the Fraser Municipal Code, and replace them with Chapter 19.
The goal is to create a new code that is easier to understand and reference, creating a better user experience. The update will also reduce regulatory barriers to development to try and increase housing density and entice businesses to open in Fraser.
The updated code, which can be found in its entirety on the town’s website, consolidates all land-use related regulations — annexation, zoning, subdivisions and more — into one document, while also adding graphics and charts for easier use and comprehension.
Notable changes include the addition of a trade industry district, the designation of a formal open space district, and an updated zoning map. The update also includes the addition of the Riverwalk and Victoria Village mixed-use overlay districts.
A look into fraser’s future
The board also approved the final Fraser River Corridor Master Plan during the meeting.
Earlier this month, Brandon Parsons of THK Associates presented the plan to the board, emphasizing a series of recommended improvements to the land.
The project outlined a number of initiatives meant to activate and optimize the Cozen’s Ranch Open Space, 120 acres of open space located just south of Fraser on the east side of Highway 40. The plan covers everything from environmentalism, recreation, maintenance, programming, branding and funding.
The plan calls for better trail connectivity, increased signage, restrooms, wildlife overlooks, pet waste stations, picnic areas, recycling cans and more along the Fraser River Trail.
The most significant improvements will be at the Lions Pond area where there are plans for a gateway feature, improved parking options, a natural playground, small bike playground and even a sloped amphitheater.
The plan is expected to cost more than $6.5 million in phases, though the plan also identifies a number of potential grants the town may qualify for.
On April 10, the town will hold an open house at Crooked Creek Saloon to show off the plan and celebrate its completion.
Support Local Journalism
Support Local Journalism
The Sky-Hi News strives to deliver powerful stories that spark emotion and focus on the place we live.
Over the past year, contributions from readers like you helped to fund some of our most important reporting, including coverage of the East Troublesome Fire.
If you value local journalism, consider making a contribution to our newsroom in support of the work we do.