It’s time to ROCK the VOTE! We asked all local Routt County Commissioner candidates the following question:

Access to recreational experiences via Routt County trails and roadways is a major reason people love to call the Yampa Valley home. As a County Commissioner, would you support cyclists’ safe access to roads and trails (and increased recreational amenities for cyclists), and how would you do this?

(you can also view a recording of all candidates responding to a similar question at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD3Y4uOFCQY – start at 55:40)

Here is how your Commissioner candidates answered! 

South Routt – District 1 – Angelica Salinas:
“Outdoor recreation is central to our community and economy, and I fully support safe access to roads and trails for cyclists. Recreation not only strengthens our connection to the Yampa Valley but also plays a vital role in supporting mental health, community health, and overall well-being. By ensuring thoughtful planning, we can make sure our community benefits from these opportunities while maintaining a high quality of life for everyone.

As a Commissioner, I would work to improve cycling access by advocating for increased investment in safe infrastructure, such as bike lanes, signage, and trailheads. I will collaborate with key organizations like Routt County Riders, The Cycle Effect, local municipalities, and others to identify priority areas and develop plans for infrastructure improvements. In addition, I will ensure that local voices are part of the decision-making process by engaging all communities in conversations about how to manage recreation responsibly.

I will also support educational initiatives that promote responsible trail use and safety, ensuring that recreational activities like cycling remain sustainable and beneficial for everyone in our community. By leveraging partnerships, advocating for funding, and involving the community, I will ensure that cycling and other outdoor activities continue to thrive in Routt County.

Together, we can protect what makes Routt County special and strengthen our community by working across interests to keep outdoor recreation a vibrant, healthy, and accessible part of our county.”

South Routt – District 1 – Brent Romick:
“Access to recreational opportunities is one of Routt County’s greatest assets, and I strongly support ensuring safe access to roads and trails for cyclists. As a County Commissioner, I will prioritize making our roads safer for all users—cyclists and motorists alike—by advocating for infrastructure improvements that promote safety and shared use. This includes creating wider shoulders on high-traffic roads, installing better signage, maintaining smooth road surfaces that minimize hazards for cyclists and creating dedicated biker parking at Emerald Mountain. 

Additionally, I believe in the importance of expanding our trail networks, including the Core Trail, to provide more recreational options and connections between key areas of the county. We should focus on developing bike lanes and multi-use paths that link popular destinations while also preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the Yampa Valley. Collaboration with local municipalities, state agencies, and advocacy groups, like the Howelsen Hill Development Group, will be essential in securing the necessary funding for these projects.   I also see a role for cycling tourism, which brings both economic benefits and community health advantages. I would support initiatives to increase recreational amenities such as bike racks, repair stations, and signage for scenic cycling routes. 

My commitment is to ensuring that cyclists feel safe and welcome on our roads and trails, making the Yampa Valley an even more attractive place to live and visit, while fostering a healthier and more active community.”

West Routt – District 2 – Tracy Lawton
(NO RESPONSE) – you can view a recording of all candidates responding to a similar question at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD3Y4uOFCQY – start at 55:40

West Routt – District 2 – Tim Redmond
(NO RESPONSE) – you can view a recording of all candidates responding to a similar question at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD3Y4uOFCQY – start at 55:40