INTRODUCTION
The San Miguel River and its tributaries form one of the most important natural features found in Telluride. These natural drainages are important resources and the riparian vegetation found along their banks give a special, natural character to the area. The town depends upon the waterways for environmental, aesthetic and open space benefits, which have become more vital as the town has grown. Viewed best from the surrounding mountain slopes to the north, east and south, the river areas provide a permanent, park-like buffer along the southern boundary and the developed part of the town.
The San Miguel River and its tributaries form one of the most important natural features in Telluride
In recognition of these special resources, the town has defined a River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area, which includes the meandering of the San Miguel River, its tributaries, Cornet and Bear Creeks and related wetlands. This treatment area includes four distinct areas that merit preservation.
1. The River Trail that follows the river from Town Park to the west edge of town, and is used by pedestrians, bicyclists and others for recreational activity.
Bridge and River Park Trail
2. The San Miguel River and its tributaries, defining the general form and natural character of the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area.
3. The River Park, which includes all of Town Park, as well as small pockets of parklands along the river.
4. Open space has also been set aside for protection of natural habitat.
The River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area meanders through portions of all treatment areas in Telluride. Conditions that are unique to a particular area within the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area are identified and addressed separately. The following planning and design standards are to be used in addition to the underlying treatment area Design Guidelines and Standards. HARC encourages each property owner/developer to thoroughly review these Design Guidelines and Standards and seek any needed clarification and assistance in the site planning and design process that will meet the goals of the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area. HARC may solicit recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Board when reviewing projects in the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area. Where the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area Design Guidelines and Standards conflict with those established for the other treatment areas in town, the RPC Guidelines and Standards will generally take precedence.
Commercial activities adjacent to the River Trail may require Planning and Zoning approval. See the Land Use Code for more information.