Bridging the Gap at Mott’s Landing
The bridge that stretches across the Eagle River at Mott’s Landing is more than just a bridge. It’s a symbol of generosity and a testament to the dedication longtime Wolcott residents Dave and Sue Mott have to the stewardship and protection of land in Eagle Valley.
Dave and Sue came to Eagle County with “Romance of the Olympics” in 1972, which was only the beginning of their story in the community.
“I was an engineer for a Denver consulting firm and was asked by Vail Associates to help with the planning environmental impacts, and infrastructure for the Beaver Creek Resort, which was picked to host the 1976 alpine events. Unfortunately, Colorado politics wasn't inclined to approve another ski area and voters rejected the bond issue required to prepare for the games,” said Mott.
Even though Beaver Creek didn’t get the Olympics, Eagle County scored with two new residents who would prove to be integral community members for years to come. After Beaver Creek opened in 1980, Dave found work as a County Commissioner and manager of the Eagle County Water and Sanitation District. And, with the last of five kids through college in 1992, the couple was ready to wind down and enjoy their home west of Wolcott on the Eagle River.
Their love for the community and outdoors is what led them to donate an easement that drastically changed the outlook for this difficult section of the Eagle Valley Trail. Without the easement, the Eagle Valley Trail at Mott’s Landing was literally where the sidewalk ended. Besides being a cliffhanger for the future of this section of the Eagle Valley Trail, there was no clear path for a solution on how to cross the river. Thanks to the Mott’s generosity, construction was able to be continued and simplified, saving time, money and headaches.
“After examining the alternatives, the best plan involved an easement over the east end of our property. Having been in county government myself, I knew good things happen when folks work together, so I agreed to the easement providing they improve my property line fence in that area. As an additional bonus, the Eagle County Commissioners expressed their appreciation by planting a sign, ‘Mott's Landing’ at the south end of the bridge. We regard the bike path as an extension of our backyard and enjoy its amenities,” said Mott.
In addition to donating the easement, the couple also enjoys volunteering at local organizations like the Vilar Center, Vail Valley Foundation and the former Eagle Valley Community Fund rummage sale.
Maybe as you bike, walk, jog or skate across the bridge, you’ll think of the Motts and their generosity. You may even get to say hello if you catch them walking or biking on the trail – their favorite section of the EVT is that delightful stretch from Mott’s Landing to Horn Ranch.