Public comments sought on proposed parking area in Marble

Open house on Daniel's Hill lot on August 13, comments taken until August 21

USFS PRESS RELEASE
July 22, 2024

The White River National Forest seeks public comments on a proposal to build a parking area in partnership with Gunnison County at the base of Daniel’s Hill in Marble. The proposed parking lot would address parking issues related to recreational use of the Lead King Loop and nearby Crystal Mill.

The proposed parking area would accommodate up to 15 vehicles and would include space for vehicles with trailers to turn around before reaching the Lead King Loop, Forest Service Road 315. The relatively flat area would be graded and graveled, and some trees would be removed. Signs would be installed at the forest boundaries to clarify where it is legal and illegal to park.

“This proposal will help address residents’ concerns about congestion, safety, and environmental damage from people parking illegally along the road,” said Jennifer Schuller, Aspen-Sopris Deputy District Ranger. “This is one of the recommendations from the stakeholder group formed by the Town of Marble, Gunnison County and the White River National Forest to look at management of the Lead King Loop and surrounding area.”

The Lead King Loop stakeholder group hosted three public listening sessions attended by 123 members of the public between December 2021 and June 2022. The Forest Service is hosting a public open house Aug. 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Marble Fire Station, 300 W. Park St. to provide information and answer questions.

Comments will be most helpful if received by Aug. 21, 2024. More information including a map and information about how to comment is available on the USFS website.