This project built two underpasses to reroute the trail under Colorado and Hampden to create a safer, more convenient connection for people walking and riding bikes. In addition, between the two underpasses, Denver added a new, 10-foot wide multi-use trail along the north side of Hampden.
This project includes public art along the trail by Denver local, Michael Buckley, titled "We Are Future Strata". As you walk or pedal the High Line Canal Trail, you will pass a cluster of three 50,000 pound granite boulders that are painted with brightly colored stripes depicting strata. We Are Future Strata is symbolic of a post-human future where the man-made environment has become strata in stone. Comparing a geologic time scale with a human time scale reminds us of the temporary nature of existence. As Mary Oliver asked in “The Summer Day”, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do / With your one wild and precious life?”
Background
Historically, the High Line Canal Trail left pedestrians and people on bikes at Colorado Boulevard and Hampden Avenue, a busy intersection that was intimidating to cross on foot or on a bike.
