Hilts: Revisiting Aspen’s past in Basalt

After watching concerts in the Basalt River Park and marveling at all the people wandering the streets of downtown Basalt this past summer, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the town of Basalt for staying the course and having the courage to keep moving forward on both the new River Park and the massive upgrade to Midland Avenue. Watching the great crowds at concerts all summer, especially the young families with kids, made me feel as if I were back in Aspen in the 1970s and ’80s! Who woulda thought?

A special thanks to Mayor David Knight, former mayor Bill Kane, former Town Manager Ryan Mahoney, and the various council members who served during this period. They came up with a great plan, blocked out the incessant noise from the doom-and-gloomers, and never wavered in their determination to get these projects done. You are all to be commended. 

In this day and age, it’s not that easy risking public abuse and ridicule while trying to serve your community. Know that you are making a difference. Others in the valley could learn from your example.

Thank you!

Paul Hilts

Basalt