Opponents of a proposed commercial mountain bike park near Conifer claimed the initial victory in their quest to prevent developers from constructing a downhill facility on 235 acres of property owned by the State Land Board.

After two previous meetings and more than five hours of discussion on Monday night, the Jefferson County Planning Commission voted unanimously, 7-0, not to approve a special use permit that would allow the bike park to operate within the confines of the property’s current zoning, which is agricultural but also includes some residential and bucolic uses.

Some locals argued that the project, which was first introduced in 2021, has created a deep divide in the the small mountain community.

Proponents suggested the project would be a new economic driver in the area and help create jobs, while others said they want no part of increased traffic and noise.

The plans call for a downhill mountain bike park with lift access and 16 miles of ridable trails on 235 acres of the state land located approximately 2.2 miles west of Route 73 on Shadow Mountain Drive, county documents show. It could draw up to 1,000 users per day, according to the developers.

County officials said the developers and downhill bikers Phil Bouchard and Jason Evans presented a thoughtful application and noted their willingness to listen to the community.

However, they said the application fell short of meeting one or more of the county’s standards for compatibility, alignment with land use plans, mitigation of potential negative impacts on the area and wildlife, infrastructure and service availability, and ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of nearby residents and property owners.

“I just don’t believe the proposed commercial, recreational use of this magnitude is compatible with the existing land uses and allowable land uses in the surrounding area,” said Planning Commission Chair Tim Rogers.

Rogers also expressed concern about the applicants’ ability to provide a predictable source of water supply, adequate emergency services, an evacuation plan, and wildlife protection.

Bouchard and Evans offered no statement to the board directly before or after the vote.

“We know it’s been a long and trying period for everyone involved,” Evans told commissioners a previous meeting. “You all helped shape our perspective and approach on how best to build this park, and ultimately, how to make it an asset to and a part of this community.”

Stop the Bike Park organizer John Lewis said he is pleased with the commission’s decision, noting that it is “unusual” for an across-the-board denial.

“But the planning commissioners did their job,” Lewis said. “They listened to testimony, they read all the letters from the community, they educated themselves on the application and did the right thing.”

The Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners will have the final say on Oct. 1, when the application goes before them.

A continuance for that meeting, if necessary, is scheduled for Nov. 12.

Lewis said his group plans to be there and offer testimony where appropriate.