HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks & Rec Master Plan June 1991PARTICIPANTS`
Master Plan Advisory Committee
TABLE OF CONTENTS
i
Pace
Section I.
INTRODUCTION 1
i
Section 11.
EXISTING PARK AND RECREATION RESOURCES
.
3
A .
Introduction
9.
Parks and Recreation Department
3
G:
Existing Parkland and-:Facilities
3
D.
School System
11
E.:
. `
Recreation Programs
11
F.
Participation'in Activities
14
G:
Private Resources
16
H
' Regional Recreation Resources
17
1.
Natural Resources
18
Section Ili. ;
WHEAT RIDGE DEMOGRAPHICS
21 .
A.
Introduction
21
B.
Population and Household Characteristics
21
C.:
School Enrollment
25
D.
Socioeconomic Characteristics:
27
E.
Neighborhood Planning Arealrends
31
f
F.
Growth and'Developinent Trends t.; • ;
36
i
G.
Implications o Parks -and Recreation Planning ,
.
3Z
Section IV '
PARK AND RECREATION NEEDS'
39
A.
Introduction `
39
B
National Recreation and Park Association Standards
W.
C.
Recreation Program Trends :
44
'D.
Citizen in-put?
45
j
E.
Staff and AdvisoryCommittee' nput
52
F.
Park and Recreation Needs
52
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Paae
Section V. RECOMMENDATIONS- ' : ;
59
X
Introduction ' .
59
B.
Master Plan` Goals.
59
C.
Systemwide Recommendations
60
D.
Developed Parkland':
64
E.
Open Space .
69"
F.
Trail. Systems
73
G.
Recreation Facilities
73.
Recreati0n Programs,.
75
is
Natural Resources
76L
"
Section VI. IMPLEMENTATION . ; .
77
A.
intrgduction
77
B
Key Considerations `
77
C.
Priorities
78
D..
Scheduling.,
81
E.
funding Options
82
F:..
Amending, the Plan . ` . :
84
REFERENCES
APPENDIX i
i
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES
Page
Table If-1
Existing Parks, Facilities and Open"Space :.........follows 4
Table II-2
Geographic, Distribution of'program- Registrants
15
` Table if 3
Recreation, Program Registrants - , . • • • • • : • .
15
Table III-1
Population, Wheat Ridge, Jeffoo, Denver Metro Area`
21
Table III4
Median Age, Wheat RidgejrJeffco, Denver Metro Area
32
Table III-3
Population Distribution By Age, !F0,1.980, 1989,
i
Wheat Ridge
23
Table III -4
Population Projections, 1990 2010, Wheat Ridge,
Jeffco, Denver Metro Area;
23,
Table 111 5
Households and Household Size Trends, 1970 1989;
Wheat Ridge, Jeffco, Denver Metro "Area • •
24
Table III-0"
Total Household Units, 1970, 1980;1990, Wheat
Ridge, Jeffco, Denver Metro Area `
25
Table III-7
Historical".School Enrollment, 19840;1989, Wheat Ridge
M
Table 111-8
School Enrollment Projections, 160041094-,V,0661: Ridge
27
Table III79 _
'Per Capita Income, 1979-1987, Wheat Ridge and
"
Jefferson County;
28
III710 -
Table
Medran, Household Income, 1979-1987, Wheat Ridge and
.
Jefferson County
28
Table III-.11
Travel Time to Work- Wheat Ridge, Jefferson County,
Denver-,,Boulder dMSA Residents,;. . :
"29
Table III-12
Employees by Place of,Work, 1980, Wheat Ridge
30
Table III43
Employment Projections, 1980-2010, Wheat Ridge, ,
Jefferson County, Denver Metro Area
30 "
Table 111-14.
Length of Restdehce by Ownership; 1980, Wheat Ridge,
• - -
i
Jefferson County, Denver Metro Area , • , • • • • •
31
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES (Continued)
Page
Table 111-15
Wheat Ridge Neighborhood Planning Areas and ,
Census' Tract Boundaries "
32 .
Figure 111-1
Neighborhood Panning Areas
33
Table III46
Wheat Ridge Neighborhood Planning Area Population
Distribution; 1980 ` ;
34
Table III 17
Age Profile, 1980; Wheat Ridge Neighborhood Planning
Areas
34 i
Table III-18
Neighborhood PI"tinning' Area Income Trends,
1980-1986, Wheat Ridge • • •
35 ,
Table 111-19 "
Wheat Ridge Building Permits, 1980-1989 . s
36
Table IV-1
Suggested NRPA:Parkland Needs
40
Table IV-2
Deficiency Based :on NAPA Standards
40
Table IV-3 "
NRPA Activity and Facility Standards
42,
Sable IV74
Questionnaire Response by Planning Area t .
46
Table 1V-5
Questionnaire Response by Age Group,,,.,
46,
Table. IV-6
Response to.Question 4
I
f
i
i
LISTOF MAPS
c
Section. I Introduction -
I
SECTION I. INTRODUCTION
This document provides a short- and long-range
The City Parks and Recreation Department Also
Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the City of
organizes an array, of recreation programs for
Wheat Ridge. It addresses immediate needs, as
pre-schoolers, youth, adults and senior citizens.
well as future needs in 'response °to the desire
These ::programs include athletic, craft- and
for additional types of services andfacilties and
continuing education opportunltieS. Programs
a potential increase in populations
are held at .a variety of community: and private
'
in
' meeting:" spaces' and are well publicized
The City of Wheat Ridge is fortunate in having a
brochures which:are mailed citywide,
diverse and well maintained municipal parks and,
open space system and an extensive series of
The current population (1991) is approximately- '
quality.. recreation,programs. In developingthis
30,000. ;Population forecasts predictthat Wheat
Parks and Recreation Master Plan for Wheat
Ridge's population will remain fairly, stable"-as
Ridge;` public input was received from ;both
the City'is.mostly"built-out" Wheat Ridge is, for
meetings and a ° questionnaire: The large
the most part, surrounded by other?municipali-
majority of residents polled was pleased with the .
ties, and annexation of significant residential "
City's parks and open -space system and the
parcels is unlikely: Although substantial popu)a-
recreation programs available. Theyalsofeltthat
tion increase is not likely; "changes in park and
the parks Were generally attractive; safe and well.
recreation" needs and better'utilization of existing
maintained.
resources require this evaluation of 'Wheat-,
Ridge's existing system. and a look into he,
Presently, Wheat Ritlge has 117 acres' of
future.
deJelopetl parkland and manages; 272"acres of
open space: Two hundred fifty (250) acres of.
this, open, r space consists of the Wheat Ridge
This document is organized as follows.
Greenbelt, an ; extremely valuable I tall, and
natural:-resource corridor" along Clear. Creek.
Section II. Existing Park and Recreation,
;Crown: Hill Park, though "outside of the City
Resources: This section provides an inventory
municipal boundaries, provides a significant<168
of City and regional parks and recreation ,pro-
acre regtoval-open•space/recreation opportgni=
grams; faaldies and activifies. Publicschool and
ty: This resource 'is managed by Jefferson
private resources Are also `noted.
County. Open - Space. ;The more , signficant..
recreation facilities .include' the Anderson
Section Ill.' Wheat. Ridge Demographics:,-
Building at Wheat Ridge; Park; which supports
Section`]ll provides a profile of'. Wheat 'Ridge
the use of the, outdoor pool and other facilities
demographic characteristics. Information in-:
The Wheat Ridge Community Centei'provides
eludes, population, age groups; school enroll-
8n excellent recreation facility • for the City's
ments, -income, employment and.growth trends.
diverse age groups.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 1
Section 11. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
•
SECTION IL. EXISTING PARK AND
RECREATION
RESOURCES
ILA. IntrOduCtiOn
The City Forestry Division has the responsibility
of managing and. maintaining Wheat Ridge's
The following is an inventoryof existing City and
extensive urban forest. Specifically,' the Division'
regional park and recreation "programs, facilities
maintains existing trees, plants new trees and
'
and re'sources.:In additioh, Jefferson County
iemoves.trees where they.ar
hazardous. ,
School facilities,.and private"resources 'are also
Wheat Ridge was the first City in Colorado to be .
noted, as are natural resources. The existing .
awarded.the "Tree City USA'designation.-This
condition of City facilities is also reported .
award was based oh :extensive tree planting
performed by the. City in the late 100's as well . .
H.B. Parks and Recreation
as the development of a tree ordinance and an
J 1982, the City was designated
Arbonst Board
Department
r
is reen Su vi val: City" by. the, Amer * As-
sociation; of Nursery' men for its achievements in
The WheaYRidge Parks•and Recreation Depart-
`City arbor. Management.
ment is comprised of two:droisions the Recrea-
tion Division and the Parks Maintenance:and
There are 12 tree districts in the'City. Tle ,
Forestry Division. Key. personnel include the
forestryDivision :also manages the Adopt-a-
.Parks and Recreation Director; the Reoreation
free Program, in addition-1.0 organizing and,
Superintendent, the Parks, Superintendent„the: '
cooperating in other endeavors.
City Foresterand 14 addifonai full-time employ-
" "ees, as well as ' between!.50 and 75 seasonal
employees, Themain administrative offices 'are
ILC, :Existing; Parkland and
located.inthe Ci4y.Municipal Building. Additional
Facilities
administrative offices are ocated in the An
Building. The Maintenance Shop is.directly
City- of Wheat Ridge currently owns and
?he
West of the Anderson Building/outdoor pool,at
'
,
maintains 10 acres of neighborhood parkland
-
Parks and .
Wheat Ridge Park. An '8-person
acres of community parkland. irraddi-
And
Recreation Commission provides guidance and
s input to the Parks and Recreation Department
tion„ the;City owns and maintains 22 acres of
open space. Wheat Ridge' also maintains the.
EacFr rnember•is appointed by the City Council
'
250 acre`Wheat Ridge or Creek` Greenbelt,
for'three year terms. Two members 'are ap
"
' an immeasurable amenity to the community.,A
pointed. from each Council District.;
5 mile' paved trail provides.access,along the
Greenbelt from Youngfield Street to Harlan
Street. Most of the Greenbelt is leased from '
Parks and Recreation Master. Plan
Page 3
Section II. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
Coors. Wheat Ridge cftiens also frequent-
Dev Development Money (funds used
.
Grown Hill Park, a168 acre' Jefferson County
-to construct park amenities)
Open Space area.
•'Red = Redevelopment Money (funds
h
t
abili
ate
used to renovate or re
parks)
The. Prospect Recreation District. once over-
Jefferson bounty- Open Space <
lapped With western portions of Wheat Ridge"
Funds,(funds,provided to :the City,:
prior to the City's incorporation. Wfth the incor-°
of Wheat , Ridge., as part; of .,the
poeation of theseareas in 1969; several facilities
Jefferson County Open, Space
originally .developed by the Recreation District
Program)
were acquired by the City.
. WR = Wheat Ridge Capital Improvement
Funds:'(funds provided directly by,
The Wheatridge Recreation District existed prior, ,
the City, of Wheat: Ridge)
to the City's incorporation and was responsibla
.lWRD = Wheatridge Recreation. 'District
for the acquisition and development of several
(defunct) (Funds provided'. by- the - ;
in.V1/heat Ridge: After the City's incorpo-
parks
Wheatridge Recreation District
.
ration; the District :dissolved; over a period of . `
before it was assimilated into the
time and its parks were transferred to the City of
Wheat "Ridge Parks and _ Recre
Wheat Ridge. "
ation Department)
• `PAID = Prospect Recreation District (funds ` .
Map Existing Recreation Resources," which'
provided by the Prospectecre-
follows this section, illustrates the toca4ion of all =
ation District)
municipal,' County,.' and school recreation re
• CTF Conservation Trust Fund (currently
these funds are provided to the
sources within Wheat Ridge. Table ll-1 Existing',
City through "the Colorado State
Parks and ;Open Space; which follows this page,
Lottery) "
provides.an inventory of Wheat Ridge;parks and
open space areas indicating their size, present
use, type and number of facilities and additionaC;
Regional Parks
comments where. 'appropriate The,4611owing
discussionprovides.atlditionalmventoryinforma-.
Crown Hill Park (or Ooen S ap_ce).
tion about the parks and recreation facilities and
(ACq Dev - OS) `
also evaluates the,physicai condition of these,re.
Wr; 26th Avenue & iGpling
sources.
Created in 1979; this _168 acre Jefferson County
The funding .sources for the acquisition and
Open Space Park,is.just south of the City's
development of each... park. are ,indicated in
I I.
-
municipal boundary,at 32nd and IGplirig This
parentheses followingthe._park name: The
outstanding 'regiona1,resource- provides both a
followin g abbreviations are. used. ,
superior wildlife habitat.area, at well, as'~ passive
J
and' active recreation` opporturnties The 'Park
. Acq Land Acquisftio I Money (funds
has been designated as an Urban Wildlife Sanc-
used to purchase parkland)
tuary by the-'National institute for Urban Wilde.
Page 4
City of Wheat Ridge .
Table II-1. EXISTING PARKS, FACILITIES AND OPEN SPACE
Open Play Outdoor
Ballfields Fields Courts Park Amenities
c
o
Y
a ~ ° 5
a
D= Developed
n
cc a E ~ c 0c1 m (D U= Undeveloped .0 co
n
as
I
cc Q `
U E ~ L =Night Lighting
o i
v
0)
*
W
v c
U O m
o
N O
m
n
N
c
O
N T
o
°
°
C
°
'
y
•
+
O
a) T
co m
n u
- O
-
m
a cc (n a
a a) cc
Existing Parks
Wheat Ridge Park
27
D
1
1L
2
•
1,11-
Clear Creek
See: Anderson Comm. Bldg., BBQ, Horseshoes, Fishing,
Prospect Park
33
D
1
11
utdoor
Access to Greenbelt
.
2
1
2hoops
•
1L
Clear Creek
BBC, Horseshoes, Stocked ponds, Fishing, Non-motorized
Panorama Park
g
D
2
Boating, See: Berbert House, Access to Greenbelt
Paramount Park
2
1
4L
1
BBQ, Horseshoes, Informal Amphitheater
Hayward Park
9
D
1
1.5
2 hoops
•
1L
•
•
BBQ, Horseshoes
5
D
Randall Park
4
D
1
1L
-
1
•
Pond
Flower Gardens
Johnson Park
78
D
,
7
2hoops
•
1L
•
•
BBQ
Stites Park
•
•
.
.
Clear Creek
BBQ, Fishing, Access to Greenbelt
2
D
1
1
Apel•Bacher Park
2
D
3
Town Center Park
.75
p
Wheat Ridge Historical Park -
7
p
Fountain
Small Amphitheater
Mini-Parks
Museum, Sod House, Lo Cabin, Dis la Shelter
Boyd's Crossing
7
D
38th & Owens
1
D
Ha iness Gardens
1
U
Men's Garden Club
Existing Open Space
Wheat Ridge Greenbelt
250
U
•
Clear Creek
Natural Environment, Wildlife, Viewing includes all other
Crown Hill Park
arks along Clear Creek, Horse Path, Fishing
M
Open
Space
168.
g
U
U
2
take
Fishing, Natural Environment
Navigate
Space
Open
4
U
Many Mature Trees, Natural Environment
Rancho
Rancho Del Sol 9 pen Space
g
U
Clear Creek
Natural Environment
Lena Galch
Natural Environment
Community/Recreation Buildings
Anderson Community Building -
1
D
t
Locker Room for Outdoor Pool, Gymnasium, Exercise
Wheat Ridge Community, Center
1
p
Rooms, Offices
Richards-Hart Estate
•
Senior Center: Kitchen, Meeting, Craft and Game Rooms
3.5
D
Ye Olde Firehouse
25
D
Historic Mansion: l(Itchen, Meeting, and Reception Facilities
Berbert House
5
D
'
2 Small Meeting Rooms
•
Da Care, Meeting Room
Public Schools
Kullerstrand Elementary
4,2
D
2
2
•
Prospect Valley Elementar
2
7
y
2.6
D
2
- 2
Pennington Elementary
56
D
1
7
1
•
q
1
Wlmore-Davis Elementary
2.6
D
2
2
1
Stevens Elementa
2
1
3.8
D
,
Martensen Elementary
1.2
D
1
2
6 tioo s
1
Everitt Junior High
_
5.7
D
2
1
1
•
2
o
6 h
Wheat Ridge Jr. High
3.5'
D
2
ps
o
3
Track
Wheat Ride Senior Hi h
•
2
8.6
D
1
i
1
.
4
2
Track
Approximately' 6.5 miles of trails are available at
the Park. 3.5 smile`s of trail are paved and form .
two major loops: There is- also a one-mile
ft.nbss course. Biking or-walking around Crown
Hill Lake is very popular. The ;parkland` and
facilities are in verygood condition.
Community Parks
Wheat Ridge Park: (WRD; Acq + Dev = QS)
W. 44th Avenue &Field
Wheat' Ridge, Park is the`local park of the City.
Centrally, located, and the most `heavily used,
the park includes the Anderson Building and the
City's ver
y popular outdoor pool and water slide:
Ballfelds, soccer fields,,a playground and it
'
pavilion also attract substantial"use. This large
park also fronts onto the Wheat Ridge Greenbeft
' and Clea[ Creek where, access to the Greenbelt
Trail and passive recreation use areas may be
found The Park is m very.good condition: After
the City, realigns the main entrance, a. traffic
light, crosswalk'antl more, pronounced signage
would, greatly enhance the entrance: Parking'
de- sign, the park coultl also be"improvetl:
Wheat..Ridae.Munici al Pool,
(AcqWRD, Dev = Federal Grant),
W."44th Ave.,&:.Field
The Municipal'Autdoor-, •Pool is'located within"-
Wheat., I ge-Park adjacent to the Anderson
i Building This 50-meter pool provides 6mout-
'standing resource for competitive-and.noncom-
petftive swimming. The water slide also attracts
l many visitors..The pool and deck area are in
' excellent condition.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Section 11. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
Prospect Park: (PAD, Acq +.Dev = WR„Coors/,.
Brannen` Sand and Gravel); .
W. 441h Avenue and Robb,
This It Wheat. Ridge's next most heavily used
park: In addition to softball, baseball,, football
fields,. a; pavilion' and other: facilities, the park is `
strongly Influenced by the presence of Prospect
Lake, :as well as access tothe Greenbelt. Tabor.;
Lake can also be easily accessed from Prospect.
Park. The park is in very -good"condition. Better ,
entrance signage. ;is needed. Parking lot design
could also be .improved to provide additional
parking with less Iimpact to the park. Shoreline
plantings along sections of-Prospect Lake would
'improve the appearance of the lake and-its ?
4unctionai value ;as wildlife habitat: The over-
abundance of Canadian geese ban`be a prob
lem. .
Panorama Park: {tNRD, Red = Os)
1N: 35th Avenue Fenton
As its name indicates, Panorama - Park is ` a
popular community park with a vista of the Front
Range. In addition to baseball and soccer fields,-
a, football field.!and a basketball court, four,_,
lighted tennis oouns.are"provided. The park is
characterized by, mature, trees and' shrubs. A.
Urge hillside is used as an informal arnphithe-
ater for park performances during the summer.
Overall, the "park, in good coriditioni:7he. eest-
room 'is: aging and parking design could be
improved.
Paramount Park: {Acq = ORD,•Red OS).''
W 29th Avenue and Kipling
Paramount Park was completely renovate
1989 and is In.excellent condition. AS the new
Page '5 _
Section 11. `Ex&ing.Park and Recreation; Resources
home for. GirIIs.Softball, Paramount Park also.'
provides a soccer area, play structure, basket-
ball hoops, shelter and picnic area. It has an
outstanding view of brown Hill Park and Crown`.
Hill Tower.
Johnson'Park: (donatedto WRD)
W: 49th Avenue and Wadsworth
' One . of Wheat Ridge's older parks ; Johnson.
Park lies on the south bank-:of Clear Creek near
the east end: of the Greenbelt. Access is a.
significant, problem: as" it is possible only via:
southbound Wadsworth. It is ,a popular Green
belt Trail access-point and also has a small,
'pontl which is often stagnant or low during part
of the year. It, is, one of Wheat Ridge's few
natural "area parks. Presently; the. park is in poor
condition. In addition to the access and stag-
nant pond problems, the playground equipment_
and the restroom are in need of replacement:
'Parking could be better organized and designed'
to moresmoothly. link with the Greenbelt Trail: '
More functional and attractive signage is need-
ed.
Randall Park: (Acq;+' Dev - WRD)
W. 43rd Avenue and Gray'
One of Wheat Ridge's smaller community parks,
Randali Park provides softball, tennis and. bas=;
ketball facilities. There is,.also a play, structure`
and a picnic shelter. The park is in good condk
aion. The'restroom>is aging. Parking is inade-.
.quate. Presently, a large amount of use would`.
negatively impact the neighborhood:. -Parking.
design could be improved.
Page 6
Neighborhood Parks
Abel-Bacher Park: (Acq + Dev = OS)
W 45th Avenue and Vance
Apel-Bacher Park provides three tennis courts,
a.picnic area and a play, structure. The park is in
good condition. The play. structure will need,
replacement in the near future as the wood is
beginning to rot. .
Hayward Park: (Acq = OS, Dev = WR)'.
W: 29th Avenue and.: Wadsworth
Hayward,Park is the community,park adjacent
to the Wheat Ridge Municipal Building.,ln adiii
tion -to a very popular "loop trail, the park also
provides a 'picnic area and play structure "The:
park is in excellent condition.: Some shoreline;
planting along the fountain pond would;ennance
its appearance.
Stites Park; ;(Acq + Dev.= WP ID),
W1 29th" Avenue and. Newland%
Stites Park is a community/neighborhood park.
Though small, the park's primary function has:
been as a softball field. There is also a small
playground' and two basketball hoops. Stites
Park is in poor condition The :ballfield backstop:.,
is 'too close to the: intersection at ,29th and
Newland, and the outfield is restricted in:size'by
an. adjacent, residence: The playground equip
ment and basketball,,hoops need replacement
and relocation away from existing residences.
Cityof Wheat Ridge
~ I
"r
`
Section II.' Fisting Park and Recreation Resources
Some sensitive; riparian areas along the trail' are
Wildlife has identified Clear Creek as a potential
experiencing resource damage. resulting from
urban fishery.
the use of mountain bikes off the "paved trail. "
Presently; the prime reoreationai :value of. the
Lakes and Ponds
Creek:is its scenic quality and natural'resource
habitat value within the Greenbelf.
In addition to Crown Hill Cake (discussed above
wfth Crown Hili'Park), the City is fortunate to
Community Facilities and Meeting:. Spaces'
have four signfcant lakes along` the western" "
segment of the Greenbelt; Prospect Lake, Tabor
Anderson Community Building: (WR)
Lake; West Lake, and Bass Lake ; All of these
W 44th: Avenue and Field'.,
lakes are, sucoessfuily reclaimed,gravel ponds. "
The Anderson Building is the City's only"athletic '
Though swimming is not'permitted, non=motor
recreation building. Located et "Wheat' Ridge
ized boating and. fishing are. Little boating
Park,Ahe Anderson building serves as the locker
actually occurs: The "lakes are stocked with
and shower room facility for the outdoor .pool.
warmwate port
r s.fish bythe Colorado Division of
The other main -.facility 'in; the building- is the
and
Wildlrfe att ract numerous shoreline fisher-
gymnasium,; popular for basketball use.. The
"
men.
Anderson Building `also houses an exercis
e
>
equipment room, recreation program offices acrd
The lakes provide a particularly scenic.oP
en
a ve
rY"limited e
amount of stora9e spac. %
.
space. resource In ,addition to the passive "
recreation opportunities,provided, they contrib-
The Anderson Building is in fair condition. The
ute to the unique and valuable character of the
gymnasium has undersized' sidelines making .
,Greenbelt. . They"are .an especially important
competitive use difficult. The locker. and shower
component of She wildlife .habit at.value of t-he
rooms are aging; as is th16.:6xercise equipment.
Greenbelt
The administrative offces;are,inadequate and. ,
storage space is badly needed. From the ezterl,
- Clear Creek
-or, the buiitling isan eyesore in Wheat Ridge`s
m
ost important "park.,
Clear Creek is a very significant natural resource
-
within-the. City of Wheat Ridge. It. 1s the back
> Wheat Ridge-Corimuni Center:
bone of the Greenbelt and provides at recreation
(Acq + Dev; = OS)
al corridor of highly ,signrficant value to the
6363 W.35th'Avenue "
community. its. visual resource value and wildlife
habitat:value" are immeasurable. attributes to the
Afthough the Wheat Ritlge Community Center 1s
I quality"of the Greenbelt.
in .very good condition, there . is 'inadequate -
Y
space to meet athe programs desired. An'
The creek presently has inadequate, flow for
exercise room is:one shortage, as well as the
boating or tubing. The;Coloratlo division of
need for<adtlitional multi-purpose rooms.
i
Parks and Recreation Master.Plan
Page 9
i
section 1(. Existing Park and Recmatioh Resources
Richards-Hart Estate: (Acq + Dev. = OS)
W. 27th" Avenue and Benton
Another historic landmark in Wheat Ridge is the.
Richards-Hart Estate. This attractive=structure;
located In southeast Wheat Ridge, has been
beautifully renovated and hasbeen listed on the
National Register of Historic: Places. It provides,
both"a community meeting space 'and rental
facility, and also attractive, Iandscapad grounds.
Some of the gardening is the "product of servic
es provided by the Wheat Ridge Men's Garden.
Club. The grounds also include a picnic area, a..
play structure and a duplex used as a rental
facility. An Advisory Committee, consisting of
an eight-person task force,. is appointed by the
. mayor..The, building and gtoands are" in excel-,
lent, condition due to the work of many.
Ye"Olde Firehouse: (Acq =.`WR)
W 32nd Avenue and Depew
This small meeting space,, in eastern Wheat
Ridge, is in very good condition.
Berbert House: (.Acq = OS).
W. 44th Avenue,and Robb
;Located at the entrance to. Prospect Park, 100
Berbert House p essrtly functions as a" pre
school facility during part of the day, and a
community meeting, space ; at night:: It. is , rem
quently used by athletic organizations'for meet-
"ings during the evenings .'-It•is,in very good
condition.
Page 10
Wheat Ridge Municipal Building: (federal grant)
W. Mh,Avenue and Wadsworth
As a public community facility, the.Wheat Ridge
Municipal Building also provides community
meeting spaces.
Park" Pavilions: , (Wheat ` Ridge and Prospect
Parks)
The pavilions at Wheat Ridge and Prospect
Parks • are" available for special . events ona
reservation basis from the City:'They, are heavily
used for an array of programs and activities.
Smaller shelters-are also located in other parks,
including Paramount,' Randall, Panorama. and
Crown HiIL?
Biking and:Hiking Tracts
The only, designated biking'andhiking trail.in.
Wheat Ridge is the 5-mile Greenbelt, Trail. This
eight-foot wide asphalt trail is "continuous from
Youngfield' Street on the west; to Harian Street
on the east; with an interruption at IGpling Street
where thertrail• crosses at street grade: at 41st
Avenue. This trail receivesa very" large,;amount
of use from bikershikers and runners and is
used by both Wheat Ridge-and,. regional resi-
dents. Equestrian use is" also permitted and
there are soft trail excursions along the western..
portion of that trail; for .equestrian' use only.
During the?winter, th.e trail is popular ;for cross-
country skiing.
The four most significant access points; include;
the YoungfOld Street Trailhead; the: Harlan "
Street Trailhead; Wheat Ridge Park; and Pros-
pact Park: There are several additional access`:
City of Wheat Ridge
Section U. Existing Park and Recreation Resources .
points on the north and south side of the creek.
other playgrounds are maintained by Jefferson
Refer to Map 2
County Schools. -The City used Land and Water
Conservation Trust Funds (State Lottery) and
At the present time the Greenbelt Trail does` not
Jefferson County Open Space Funds to fund its
link_with regional trail systems: The Harlan Street "
portion of the developments.
Trail head is less than a mile, at street grade, ,
from a northwest Denver bike trail. There' isa
•
Several: sports groups .or associations use-
f
` trail segment heading west from `the
short
school,fields: These include Youth Soccer, Boys
Your gfield Trailhead, built by Jefferson County
BaseballGirls Softball and Adult Soccen,Boys
Open'Space. No linkages,occurwith Arvada to
Basketball uses school gymnasiums by agree
"
the north .or Lakewood to the south.
ment. Private recreation organizations pay a;fee
Jo use`school facilities.,
Wheat Ridge does not have a bikeway system"
"
as a component of its street system.
See Table 11-1 Existing Parks and OperiSpace
for an inventory of the,; outdoor. `and and,
recreation facilities at the_ public schools.
II.D. School System
The Jefferson County Public School System
ILE- Recreation Programs
provides - significant additional "recreation; re-
sources within` Wtieat",Ridge. `There are six
-
The Wtieat Ridge Parks and Recreation. Depart
elementary schools, two junior high schools and
merit promotes and sponsors a greatyariety of
one senior high school within =the "CThe
recreation' programs for pre-schoolers, youth,,
locationsof.these, schools are indicated"on Map
adults and senior citizens: These programs are 11
Existing 'Recreation, Resources.. 'These"
Well, publicized` in City recreation brochures
schools provide an array;of outdoor and indoor
mailed to every residence in Wheat Ridge.., To
tacilitie"s used by Wheat Ridge. groups by agree-
indicate the nature"and extent of the programs,
ment with the School District.
the following is a listing of the 127 programs
offered;during Elie surrimer."of 199M"As this-is a
playgrounds at Kullerstrand, Marten sen,
The
summer activities "schedule,.'thereis emphasis- -
"
Wilmore-Davis and Pennington Elementary ,
on outdoor activities. The numbers in parenthe-
Schools were developed as cooperative ven-
ses indicate the number of events, where appli-
tures betweenthe City of Wheat 'Ridge; and
• "
e., x
Jefferson County. Public-Schoolsto allow and "
promote public: use of these playgrounds when
Pre-School:
this does, not, conflict with .school "activities.
"
These, playgrounds are Wheat Ridge public "
1. Parent/Tot Get-Togethers
recreationfacilities: The ; playground " at
2. Cookie Makers and Cookie Monsters "
I
Kullerstrand Elementary is maintained by Wheat
3. Parent/Tot IVlovement,and Exercise "
Ridge; Parks Maintenance and Forestry:' The
4. Gymnastics" Exploration
I
Parkstand Recreation Master Plan
Page tt
Section II. EAsting'Park and Recreation, Resources
5. Big Wheet Race (1)
19. Team-Tennis (C.A.R.A.)
6. Pre-School Special Days.(7)
20. Girls Gymnastics
7. Parent.and. Tot Swim Lessons
21. Boys Gymnastics.
8. Pre-School I Swim Lessons
22. Summer Gymnastics Clinic
9. 'Pre
School II Swim Lessons
23: Boys and Girls Tumbling
24. Piranhas Swim Team
Youth:
25. Beginner Swim Lessons
26. Beginner Swim Lessons`{Evenings)
1. Red Cross Babysitting ,Course
27: Advanced Beginner Swim, Lessons
2. " CheeId6ading Clinic
28. intermediate Swim Lessons
3. Hug-a-Tree
29. Basic Water Safety'
>4. Ballet and Creative Movement
30. pining
5. Kids iJeed It Too
..'Pottery
Adult Sports: "
7. So You Want to be an Actor
8. Overnight Swim and Slumber (1)
1. Basketball Drop-in
i9. Youth Trips (6)""'',
2.' Summer Basketball League
1.0. Summer Fun Club
Golf Lessons
"
4; • TaeKwon. Do
Youth Sports:
5'. Private/Semi-Private Tennis Lessons
6. Tennis 4essons
1. Basketball Drop-in.
7. Tennis _Lessons (weekend's)
2. Basketball insfructional Camp
8.` Volleyball Leagues,
3. Learn;to Skate
9:;. Volleyball brop in .
4. Learn to Bowl
10. Co-EdDoubles Volleyball League
5. Wheat Ridge iN(dget Football Association
1-1. Outdoor"Co-Ed Volleyball League ;
6. Golf Lessons
14Gymnasium -
7. Girls Volleyball ;Camp
13 Municipal Pool
84 Youth Volleyball Camp: '
14. Water Safety Aid
`9. Girls Doubles Volleyball' Cam p,
15. Emergency Water Safety
10: Colorado Comets" ProfessionafSpecer'
16. Adult Learn to Swim
Gamp
i7. Water Exercise with Child'Care
11. Colorado Foxes/Emilio Romero 's Soccer" •
" 18. Aerobic Dancing`
Academy
19. Jazzercise
12. Little `Kickers
26. Body Fat Testing: and Health Screening
13. Soccer (Spring.and Fall),
21. Yogac(se
14. Sports Camp
22 Early Bird Aerobics
15..TaeKwon Do :
23;-Co-Ed` _Low Impact Aerobics
16. Hershey Track and Field Meet
24. Nautilus instruction
17. Tennis Lessons
25. Nautilus .
18. Tennis Lessons (Saturdays)
Page 12
Ctty of Wheat Ridge
Section 11. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
Adult Miscellaneous:
7. Computer Experience
8. Advanced Computer -;Appleworks<
1.. Basic Dance of India
9. Knitting - Crochet
2. Dog Obedience
10. Painting
3. -Furniture Refinishing.
11. Recdrd Your Oral History
4. Happiness Gardens
12. Take Chargebf Your 'Life
5. Nail and Hand Care
13. Jewelry,Workshop _
6. Night Walkers - Greenbelt
7. The Willmaker - Legal; Seminar ; •
Senior Special Events
8. Introduction to IBM/IBM Compatible PC'§
9. Lotus 1-273 for the IBMf IBM Compatible'PC
1. 5K Walk Series
10. WordPerfect on the IBM/IBM Compatible PC
2. Open Spabe:Walki,
3. Dining the American Way (1)
Outdoor Recreation: -
4. Get Together in'the Park (1)
5, " Newcomer's Continental Breakfast (2)
1. Bike/Camping-Trip for Youth.
6. 'Annual Breakfast Picnic (1)
614
2. Fundaen
mtals of Canoel
7. Annual Dinner Walk (i)
3. • Hunter, Safety..-.
4. 'Spin Fishing with Lures
SeniorSpecial Activities:
5. Winter Park Mountain Biker
6. Bicycle Information Class
Artreach -
7. Canoeing the Yampa
2. Armchair Travel
3. Card Party
Programs for Individuals with Disabilities
A, 'Play Chess Ior .Fun
y
5 Elderhostel
1: Saturday Recreaiion.Club
6. Friday.- Series
2. Handicapped Swimming Lessons
7. Fun Bridge
8. The Great Sandwich Exchange Day
? Senior<Classes: (in addition to other classes
9. Second Saturday PotlucK
previously listed)
Senior Trips. and Tours
1 Exercise for Men Only;
2 Fitness and Fun
1 Open Space Walks (3) r
3. Steetching for Bolter. Heafth
2. Mini Trips O
6
4, Pool Walking
3. -Peaceful Valley' Lodge overnight
5. Water "Exercise
4. RTD Trips (8)
" 6, Clay Sculpture and Pottery
b. Charter'Bus Trips (3)
Parks and Recreation Master PGW7 7:
Page 13-.1
Section'll. Existing Park and Recreation Resources,_
Programs offered vary with the seasons. During
ILF. Participation in Activities
the colder .weather seasons,, more indoor activi-
ties are offered. The 1991 Winter/Spring Activi-
"
park and recreation: use in -Wheat Ridge is.
ties Guide-included-many additional, as well-as.
directly reflective ofAhe^parks, facilities and '
new activities for youth, for example; Christmas
programs that are available, and the user age
Break and Spring :Break activities, And a new .
groups. When asked -to indicate what activities i
after school sports program Additional pro-
they most .frequently enjoy, recreation question-
grams were also offered for adults and seniors.
naive respondents reported the.'following.
Recreation programs offered.by"the City are a
1. Walking
function of expressed interest, the availability of
2,gicycling""
instructors-and meeting spaces, and registra-
3. General Park Use
;ion. As a result; recreation programs are under
4:Swimming
constant evaluation and each new recreation _
5. Fishing
guide or brochure reflects the necessary Chang-
6. Exercise Classes."
es. The programs must pay for themselves
7. Exercise Equip t,
through program #ees..and charges. Those
programs with less than the required number of
As the majority of respondents were adults, and
participants are discontinued. Thoughthere is a':
not students or.youth, this list indicates adult
substantial number of programs for youth; City`' .
recreation -participation in Wheat Ridge. The -
programs' clearly' reflect the high demand ,for -
uses are also reflective of two user, groups,
activities for middle age adults and senior citi-
middle age adults and senior citizens. Bicycling,
zens.
swimming, 'ekercise classes and the use of
exercise equipment are generally indicative of.,
'
The Parks and Recreation. Department also
the adult'.fitness movement. Walking and gener=,
organizes-park-performances during.;;the.sum,
al'park use can be indicatorsof senior citizen_
mer. Events have been presented at Panorama.
s
Park using the Parks and -Recreation -
u
e. -
Depart-ment Show Wagon as a stage. outdoorperfor-:
Wheat Ridge Recreation Program use
mances: have also been held at Wheat Ridge
Park. - -
Based on registrations, for recreation programs
taken at the Anderson Building; as of August 15,
the Wheat Ridae Community Center provides
1990, registration for' 1990 was equal:fo 3,619 :s'
An outstanding program resource for Wheaf.
adult individuals •representing _ one. household. ,
Ridge's significant'population"of•seniors. Agreat-
The demographic distribution: of registrants is
variety of ;activities;, programs, classes, events,
shown in Table.ll-2 on the follgwing page:
etc., is,offered through the Community Center:
The geographic distribution of registrants within
Wheat Ridge is fairly equal,` the largest, City
registration coming from between "'Sheridan
is
Page 14
City of Wheat Ridge
Section 11. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
- Total visitation to all Wheat Ridge.Municipal Pool
(Organizations:
activities has been as follows:
Affiliates of Jefferson County. Sports Leagues:
* 1985: `20,709
Wheat Ridge MidgetFootballAssociation
450
* 1986: 39
Wheat Ridge' Junior Basketball
B
1
aseball
Wheat Ridge Junior,
*
_,1987: 37,490
. Wheat Ridge.:Girls Softball
* -:1988: 43,640
* 1989: 48,514,
Additionai:Organizations:
1990: 47,949
Girl Scouts of America
Boy: Scouts of America
Wheat Ridge Parent Association Swim
Visitation to the Wheat Ridge-Community Center
Team (Piranhas) "
#4r Senior programs is also substantial., Annual
Adult Soccer
visitation: has been fairly steady over the last
• Taskmasters (faeKwon Do)
several years-
Adult Softball .
* ,1982: 22,678
1983, 22,970
`Clubs:
* 1984: 25,100
* 1985: Closed for. Construction
• Klwanis Clulis
* 1986: 21,349.
Gub,
Rotary
'
. Wheat Ridge-Art League
*
1987: 19,059
Optimists
* . 1988: 19,764
Prospector's Square Dance Club
:1989: 20,785
Wheat Ridge Historical Society- (see.
* - 1990: 20,742
below) -
• " Sweet Adelines
Rocky Mountain Movie Club
Typically, about 85% of the visitors are Wheat`
The Friendship. Force
Ridge residents.-
Wheat Ridge Men's Garden Club
Roving Stage Theatei.+
1.G. Private Resources
senior clubs:
In addition to the facilities and services provided
AARP -Association for the Advancement
through the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation
of Retired ;Persons (Wheat Ridge/
;Department; there' are several private organiza_r
Edgewater Local Chapter)
'
tions; Clubs and facilities available' to Wheat
Bunke Guild
Club`of Mountain View; Wheat -
Kiwanis
•
-Ridge 'citizens;. These include the following:
.
-
Ridge, Golden K
Facilities located outs6 bf Wheat ;Ridge; are
Woodcarvers. Guild .
included, under the next section, Regional Recre=
World War 1 Veterans and Auxiliary
ation Resources.)
Page 16.
City of Wheat Ridge,
Section II. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
Prorate Facilities:
ILH. Regional" RecreationAesources
• SunsetBeach Fitness and;Racquet Club .
World of Health'and Fitness
There are numerous Pubiic and. private recre-
ation resources surrounding 'Wheat Ridge.
• Outdoor Volleyball Courts (U.S. Volley-
These resources presently provide many oppor- '
ball Association).
tunitiesfor Wheat Ridge residents.
• ApplewoodKnolls Swim antl Tennis Club
Holiday inn West (indoor pool)
Stay Trim Heafth Club
• Lakemount Golf:Center -briving Range•
ILH.1. ;Federal Resources "
Located on Colorado's Front Range,: Wheat
The Wheat Ridge Historical Saci
Ridge, residents.have easy access to the wealth"
of public lands-"along Colorado's Front Range,
Established in 1974, the Wheat Ridge Historical
as well at on the western slope. Bounded on "
Society is the primay organization in research-
the north and west by i-70; citizens`can,quickly
and making public; historical information "
y
enter C.olor6do s "high country and points be-
about the City. Through museum displays, :
yond.
programs, lectures and publications, the Histori-
cal Society has attracted a large number of
members and visitors. Annual events include the
` p.H.2. State Resources
May Festival, a historical -craft. demonstration
and exhibition;;a project'at the Carnation Festi
Golden "Gate State, Park, managed by the •Colo-
val In August, and Apple Cider Day in October..
redo Division of Parks and Outdoor; Recreation;
Special tours of the Wheat Ridge Historical Park
is located along the foothills to the west of
are also offered.
Wheat.Ridge. Golden Gate State:Park provides
The Historical Society also oversees the Wheat
hiking, picnicking and camping opportunities.
'
There are also two Colorado Division of Wildl
.
Ridge Historical Park at 46th and Robb..The
State Wildlife Areas m"the vicinity of Wheat
Historical Parkas a collection of five buildings
Ridge. Ward" Ponds, at 140 'ant >VVard Road,
which tell the story of the community datin
g
; provide warrhwater fishing; and non motorised
back to 1859: These include the Museum (brick
boafing opportunities. " Lowell Ponds' at 56th
bungalow), the Sod House, the•Post Office; the
Way and.Lowell. Boulevard, provide fishing,,'
storage, and display building; 64 169 Gabin
picnicking and biking. `
moved from Johnson Park.` In •1973„ the ;Sod
House became.the.third`structure in Jefferson,
Additional State Parks in the metropolitan area.
County to be entered on the National Register of
include;; Chatfield Reservoir;" Cherry .Creek
Historic Places.`
Reservoir; . Barr LakeBarbour Ponds; ,
Roxboeough Park; Castlewood ;Park; and
Eldorado Ganyon:State Park.
Parksand Recreation Master Plan
Page'77 "
Section II. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
I1.H.3. County Resources r
parks'close to Wheat Ridge. Arapaho Park, at. <
44th and Indiana, provides two ballfields, bas- -
The Jefferson County Open Space Program is
ketball, tennis, volleyball, a play and picnic area.
one of the most successful, progressive and
Maplegrove Park, at,32nd and Holman, provides `
innovative, county open space programs in the.
one ballfield, two football fields and a basketball
Country. This, program has developed superior'
court.
regional facilities„ such as' Crown. Hill Park;. ,
which adjoins Wheat Ridge's southern municipal;
boundary., The program is a constant source of
11:1. Natural Resources
additional: funding' • for land acquisition and.:
7
special projects. Since the creation of the pro-r;
Relative to'parks and recreation planrting,• the
gram in 1972, Wheat Ridge' has reaped many,
following natural resources are considered of ,
benefits for the acquisition and development of
communityyalue, Most also serve an important
itsparks .and open space 'system.:There are ,
ecological (functional) value.
Additional Jefferson County 'Open Space re
sources near Wheat Ridge.. `
Creeks and drainages'' "
. ' Lakes and ponds (natural.or man-made)
Located in Wheat Ridge; the Jefferson County
Natural 'areas (undeveloped lantl/o""pert
Seniors Resource Center (3227 Chase Street) is
space)
a help center which provides aid for.transporta=
Wetland areas
Wildlife habftat areas
'tion, employment, legal issues and personal:
Senslt. I--'' : tat, ton„ eg. riparian or
care,
creekside vegetation
• brban forest (native Andman-introduced)"
II.H.4. ' Private Resources
• Scenic resources
100-year floodptain
As Wheat Ridge is bounded on three sides by
Natural resources often provide both an oppor-
three 'd'ifferent municipalities, there, are many
tunny and a constraint to park and recreation ;
`public and private park and recreationkesources
`
development and use. For ":example; wildlife
Map Regional Recreation
within the, re,
habitats and wetland areas ;provide` both a
Resources- which follows this section,illustrates,
1- 1
natural and community function," and value.' .
the names, locations and distances; of these
1Nhile these areas may be excellent for-wildlife -
facilities from Wheat Ridge., Regional facliities in
'
viewing, they are also sensftiVe areas subject to
highest demand are 'indoor swimming pools;
access or development and sub-
inappropriate
golf cou.rses"and ballfields '(league use). Water
-
sequent resource damage "
world, on west 89th Avenue, is another signifi-
cant.private resource.
Because of the overlapping function and use of
natural resource"habitats and natural or open
The Prospect Recreation District headquarters;
space parkland, it. is highly appropriate to '
are located at 42nd and Xenon within Wheat
achieve .many protection and enhancement
Ridge. The Recreation District manages" two
goals for important habitat areas in conjunction';
Page 18
City of Wheat Ridge ,
Section II. Existing Park and Recreation Resources
i
with parks and recreation planning. In Wheat
ous songbirds, predatory birds (hawks and
Ridge; his is operationally logical as City forest- .
eagles). • Waterfowl (geese, tlucks etc.) : are
ry is within.the-Division`of Parks' Maintenance
abundant on the nearby ponds.
and Forestry.
Clear Creek has also been,,identifed by CDOW
In addition to 'this multiple resource value ~of
as a potential urban fishery: Though some sport
natural resource areas ; and recreational open
fish (primarily largemouth, bass) maybe found in
space, these lands can often serve other com=
Clear Creek, the small amount of flow and warm
munity_functions; such as stormwater detention
temperatures presently _limft ooidwater sport
.and land use buffering. Successful multiple, land
opportunities.
fishery
use isdependent on inter-departmental commu-.
nication and coordination.
100 Year Floodplain. Much of the ,100-year
'
floodplain overlaps and, extends beyond the
The Wheat Ridge blear' Creek Greenbelt is the
Greenbelt. Because typical development is
most significant natural resource within the City,
prohibited within the floodway and restricted
as. it includes every one of the natural resource
within the floodplain, its logical use is as natural
values Aderitified above.'As a'scenic, passive
resource habitat and for passive recreation. `
and.active use open space area, the Greenbelt .
provides important wetland and wildlife habitat
Lakes<and Ponds: Four significant lakes are.
values to the City. Its rich riparian vegetation
located along, the western and of the, Greenbelt..•
and cottonwood growth provideAhe structural
prospect Lake and Tabor Lake are located. to
vegetative, diversity common to quality habitat. -
the north of Clear Creek and West Lake and
areas. '
Bass Lake are • situated on .the south of the
I
oreek. These lakes, which.are reclaimed gravel
The,IJ.S.• Fish and Wildlife Service has docu-
pits, provide attractive amenities and recreation
mented that one threatened plant' species,
.
resources to both-Wheat. Ridge and the region.
Spiranfhes diluvialis, or Ute ladies' tresses: is
They are stocked by'CDOW with wgrmwater
found in only five small;populations in eastern
sport fish and are popular .bass fishing locations..'
Utah and two ,small populations `on the Front
Bird wa#ohing is a popular activity, as abundant
Range of Colorado. According to USFWS, "Most
waterfowl and other,: birds frequent the area.
of the populations in Colorado occur on 'city
Non-motorized boating , is allowed, . though .
owned by the Cities of
park and greenbelYareas
uncommon.
Boulder and Wheat Ridge.'
Lena -Gulch and Rocky Mountain` Ditch: •As
} According to the Colorado Division-of Wildlife,
drainageways through Wheaf•Ridge both Lena
the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt provides some of • .
Gulch and'Rocky Mountain Dtch provide ripan-
the most valuable wildlife habitat: along Colo-
an, wetland •and wildlife resource habitats.
rado's Front Range. Large and small mammals;
Additionally, they provide. visual 'amenities at
including deer, `fox, beavers and racoons,, may
many locations. Although Lena Gulch is structur- .
be found along the Greenbelt, as well as numer-
ally channelized along segments, other, seg-
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 19
Trail
to 04
32nd
f--
Legend
Community Park
Recreation/
Community
Building
Lake
Neighborhood Park
44- Open Space
School
i
Schools
1
Kullerstrand Elem.
2
Prospect Valley Elem.
3
Pennington Elem.
4
Wilmore Davis Elem
5
Mortensen Elem.
6
Stevens Elem.
7
Wheat Ridge Jr. High
e
Everitt Jr. High
9
Wheat Ridge High
WHEgp
Existing Resources
U 1 ! m
PARKS & RECREATION
c0c011N ° City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
>ea z,oo
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MASTER PLAN
Shalkey Walker Associates Inc.
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Trail continues
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32nd Ave.
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Kullerstrand School
Wheat Ridge Greenbelt
PARKS & RECREATION
City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
P Denotes parking area
JA Arrow denotes access to Greenbelt or Greenbelt Trail
1200 3600
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June 1991
MASTER PLAN
Shalkey Walker Associates Inc.
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White Ranch Park
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Regional Resources
• Sloan Lake Park
• Harald Lutz Sports Complex
• Slinger Soccer Complex
• Lakewood Park
• YMCA Park
• Youth Memorial Park
Recreation Centers
• North Lakewood Community Center
• North Jeffco Racquetball & Fitness Center
• Arvada Tennis Center
Seniors Centers
• North Jeffco Senior Recreation Center
• Jeffco Senior Resource Center
Arts Centers
• Arvada Center For The Performing Arts
Golf Courses
• Applewood Golf Course
• Indian Tree Golf Course
• Case Golf Course
• Lake Arbor Golf Course
Swimming Pools
Indoor
• Applewood Athletic Club
• Westminster SWIM & Fitness Center
• George J. Meyea, Indoor Pool
• Ralston Center and Indoor Pool
• YMCA Jeffco Branch
• North High School Indoor Pool
Outdoor
• Surfslde Outdoor Pool
• Lake Arbor Outdoor Pool
• North Jeffco Center & Outdoor Pool
• Sunset Beach Fitness & Racquet Club
• Applewood Knolls Swim & Tennis Center
• Secrest Outdoor Pool
• Berkeley Park
• Morse Park
0 Public Facility
■ Private Facility
Regional
Recreation Resources
PARKS & RECREATION
City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
1 mile FM" 3 miles
2 mile=
June 1991
MASTER PLAN
Shalkey Walker Associates Inc.
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100-Yea1 Floodplain
Riparian Vegetation
Pond
Note: The Wheat Ridge Clear Creek Greenbelt
is an area of diverse riparian vegetation
Which provides a corrldor of high wildlife
habitat value and scenic quality.
vNHEAI-
Natural Resources
PARKS & RECREATION
°otoRP19 City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
"""==I
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Tune 1991
MASTER PLAN
Shalkey Walker Associates Inc.
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Section III. "Wheat Ridge Demographics
SECTION III. WHEAT RIDGE DEMOGRAPHICS'
I
]ILA.` Introduction:
census data, when it becomes available. This
organization of,planning units will `also allow for
the integration of future data and trend monitor-
The fallowing are summaries. Of demographic
ing efforts at the neighborhood planning area
trendg;for Wheat Ridge which are, factors in
level.
j parks and recreation planning. This, discussion
provides perspective on.changes within the local
Although some preliminary 1990 Census data is
population. Emphasis is. placed on changes in
final data were not available at
utilized here, the
the number of people, requiring services, in-the
"
the time of this report preparation. As the'most
age of the people requiring services, and in :the
current information available is highly desirable
1rfestyles and, needs'of these people.
in park Wand recreation planning, it''is recom- .
mended that the, data be integrated as it
In addition to City-wide, trends, information has .
becomes available.
also been segregated 6y the six'subareas.or
neighborhood planning ` units used in the
development ` of the 'City's Comprehensive
h
s
e
11L,13. Population and. Household
e same ;six.
e are t
velopment Plan The
D
planning areas used for organizing public
'Characteristics:
meetings for the Parks and Recreation Master
Plan, and, to some extent, analyzing recreation
emulation Characteristics;
questionnaire_'results. Structuredas logically.
distinct geographical units in the City, these
The City of Wheatflidge has been characterized
areas also coincide with `U:S. Census Tract ,
by a stable population, for the past twenty years.
` Boundaries,to aid in the integration of final 1990 -
Table 11,1711 below indicates this..
' Table iil~ #
'Population
1Nheat Rldge, leffco, Denver Metro Area"
• ;percent Changg
~ t #y
- Wheai'R~tlge ~ X9.'795 ,
3(1;293 29 $38 >1,.796 ; # 5%
Jetfetsbn County 233,031 . 371;753 x133,Q5I1 59 596 16 5°h
23720$
Denver Metro Area
51$ ?I61 fe$s inn 3(1.6°,6 :16 5°k
,
~ ~ <;~ource ;tJ S Denstisand IZR~DB
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page ;21
Section,lli: Wheat Ridge Demographics,
In contrast, both Jefferson County and the six-
i
This suggests that the' population is aging more
county 'Denver Metropolitan Area have experi-
rapidly relative to smaller populations of younger ;
enced much greater gains in population over the
generations. This is consistent with national
past 20 years. The lack of growth in Wheat
trends. Table III-3 on the following page takes a -
Ridge, is partly attributable to the lack of devef-
closer look at this shift in :age distribution. It
opable land within the City and Wheat Ridge's
confirms that the population of those 17 and ,
relatively fixed municipal boundaries:'
younger has been °deciining; while there 'has
been an increase in the population of those 55 '
Wheat Ridge's population has also been consis-
and older. The share of the. population; for those"
tently older than that of the County and the
17, and younger,, went from 32% in'1970,, to
metro area. Table III-2, below, summarizes this
19°YO in 1989. The share of the population for
trend.
those 55, .and older went from 19° in -1970, to
30% in 1989.
i
Table 111.2::: ' •
Medtan Age
Wheat RidgE JEfferson County, Denver-:Metre A~[ea
A i
i
Wheat Ridge 30 8 33 7 38 0 >
Jefferson County 28 8 29 i 32 8
=
penver Metro Area 26 4
29 9 32 7
Source Y~RCOC , ; '
r ~
I
1 '
~ i
Page 22 -
City of Wheat Ridge
IL
Section III. Wheat Ridge Demographics
i
IILG. Implications to Parks and
Today, there' are more, single parents and
R@Cr@BtlOn Planning
single heads of households. This is true of
both the younger ages (18 to 34) and older
ages (55 and over). The specialized parks
Specific demographic trends maybe identified
and recreation needs of single parents and
from, the. proceeding data. that have, direct
single head, of households will tie-anon-
bearng on parks and recreation planning within
going concern.
the City, of Wheat Ridge. These trends are
summarized here.
5. In terms of Neighborhood Planning Area
characteristics, the more senior populations
1. 'Wheat Ridge's population will most likely
are_.located`in areas'3, 4 and 5 (those
remain stable in the future. An terms-of
areas east of Wadsworth and' between
parks and recreation planning; the primary,
Kpling and :-Wadswort h, south of .Clear , j
issues will' . not . be. serving a -greater
Creek). The younger populations are
population; but in determining who needs'
locatedIn areas'2 and 6 (piyrirnarwest of j 11
to, be-served and what types, of services
Npling). Meeting .,the diverse, needs ,.of
are appropriate in'response-;to changing
age
these groups, both' in .terms of..-
n.
eds.`
differences and geographic location, will be
a necessity of City parks ,and recreation ,
The number of Wheat Ridge residents over
planning.
the age of 55 has increased from 5,82.9 in -
1970 to 9;400 in 1989. Their percentage of
6. The 'highest income households are
total population has. increased-from 19% in
located in the area west of Wadsworth and
1970 to-30o.6 in 1989! The rovision of ark
south of Clear Creek: Plannin Area 6 .
_ and recreation services. for senior citizens
Wheat Ridge, , in general,, is at the same
will be an on-going concern over the next -
approximate' income level as he Denver
25 years.
Metropolitan Area- However;, there ,;'are '
several pockets of households with annual
3.- Although. the number of-youth under the
incomes'- of , less than $7,500. While
'age of 17 has been declining in recent
recognizing the wealthier portions of, the
'
rears (from'32% of the total population in,
community, parks and recreation provision
1970, to 19% in 1989), local school'officials
must also respond Io the lower income
confirm that .there-: is a new 'boom' of
groups. ;
younger children.affer, what they termed,
was the "baby bust " This boom is unlikely
7. 'Growth and ;development trends indicate
to require- :the creation -of new , school -
that new 'development is locating in t. o.
facilities, but it does imply the need for; the
; western portion o1 the City. in the eastern
continuedprovision of park and recreation
portion, some rejuvenation of historically
services, and, facilities for young families
older neighborhoods is taking' place as
'
.
` and children.
areas.
younger residents move into these
JI
Wheat Ridge will continue' to need, to..:,
, The general decline in household size in
provide parks and recreation services for a .
Wheat Ridge (and nationally) reflects -
broad range,of individual and family needs j
changes in the traditional family structure.
throughout the City:
.3
Parks.and Recreation Master Plan
Page 37
:r.;;i
Section IV. Park and Recreation Needs j
I
SECTION IV. °PARK AND
RECREATION NEEDS
N.A., Introductlon
Wheat Ridge and its history are important Vari-
ables affecting suggested NRPA standards. j
This section addresses; park and recreation
standards and guidelines are "primarily
NRPA
needs that have been identified for the City of
'
.
based°on community population and the corres-
Wheat Ridge. These needs are then used
as the
ponding-parkland and facility needs to, accom-
basis for making the Master Plan Recommenda-
modatethis population.
tions-which" iollow. Park andrecreation needs
have been determined using a variety? of.
methods and analyses. These 'include the
IV B.2. Parkland and Open Space Needs
following.
National :Recreation and:-Park Associa-
As indicated previously, Wheet.Ridge's current
tion Standards
`:population is 30,000 and is projected to remain
Recreation Program Trends "
fairly stable However, Wheat Ridge's population ;
rCitizen Input' "
could exceed 30;000 as the City not com-
Parks and Recreation: Questionnaire
pletely built-out. Although population,projeetioni
Public Meetings
were as high as 44,000 'in'ahe mid-70`s, this is ~ ; ' - .
' lnterviews-of:Pr'ivateOrganizations,
no longer considered reasonable. According to
" • "
. ;City Staff and Advisory Committee Input .
the Wheat Ridge Planning Department, a future
`
population of 35,000 to 37,000 is possible. For
The" remainder of this section provides discus'
`
the purposes of applying NRPA standards, a
these.
sion of
build-out, population of 37,000ls' used for den-' j
.
eral planning. Needs are defined for the present
population of 30,000 and a potential population
IV.B... National Recreation and
of 37,000. .
Park Assoc'ratlon'Standards .
'
Wheat R. idge currently owns and manages 1„0
IV.13.1 `Introduction
acres oif mini-park and neighborhood parkland.
and 107 acres of community parkland. Addition-
The National Recreation and Park "Association .
".ally the City manages 272;acres of open space ,
(NRPA) has developed a'generic class cation
(including the Greenbelt) and has use of 440
system to assist communities in developing
acres of open space when including the ti68
plans for specific kinds,"of park and recreation
acre Crown Hill Park (Jefferson County-Open ,
facilities. As NRPA indicates; 'this classification,
Space): >
j.
system is intended to"serve as a guide to plan=
Wing - not as an absolute blueprint.' Geographic
NRPA suggests that communities maintain
j
attributes, demographics the economic base of" .
` minimum standards of 6.25 acres of,%deVeloped
1 Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 39
Section IV. Park and Recreation Needs
The strict application of these standards indi-
there is relative homogeneity in terms of geog-
cates that Wheat Ridge is deficient in all, park-" .
raphy, ` development types and accessibility.
land types at the current, population of 30;000.
This is not true of Wheat Ridge.
The City will be more deficient If the population
exceeds 30,000 and additional parkland is:.not
developed, or additional open space is not
MB.3. Activity and Facility Needs
acquired.
The National Recreation and Parks Association
Caution, must be exercised in evaluating the ,
also suggests activity and facility needs based
significance of these deficiencies...For example,
on community population:. These standards are .
a current shortage of -10 acres of open space,
somewhat dated (1983)and do not reflect some
gives no consideration 'to the fact that Wheat
more recent trends, for example the decline in.--
Ridge manages,a250-abeecontigu6utgreenb6lt
"demand for field hockey and the increase ;in
along a substantial creek, and has a 1684cre
demand for soccer fields, It is important to'
open, space park to use: NRPA standards do
recognize that NRPA standards do _not reflect
not weigh the significance of total park acreage.
local or;'special demands: However, .they do
against. the size, location and quality of-, re-
provide a good general indicator of activity and
sources available. Nevertheless ,using NRPA's
facility needs.
minimum standards, there is a deficiency In both
community and neighborhood parkland.,-
it is important to note that these standards do
not reflect school needs.? Only, facilities at the
NRPA standards also suggest service radii in
joint-use; agreement schools are included in the
either; miles or travel time for certain types of
inventory of -existing facilities. These include
parks. Suggested standards are as follows:-'
` Kullerstrand, Martensen, 'Wilmore-Davis and
Pennington Elementary Schools. Table IV-3 `on
Mini-Parks = 1/4' mile or less '
the following page indicates the application of '
these standards to Wheat 'Ridge. . The column
Neighborhood Parks:-. to 1 /2 mile
entitled 'Additional. Need at 30,000 Population"
Indicates the need above existing . (1991)
Community Parks -"1 to 2 miles ,
facilities. The column entitled "Additional Need
at 37,000 Population" indicates the need above
Again, caution must be Used in application of-
thd'Additional-Need at 30,000 Population'
such service radii: In general, NRPA standards. -
' were designed for urbanized communities where
•7
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
I
page 41
1
Section IV. -Park and Recreation Needs
• Basketball: It is not felt that the NRPA start-
Adult Softball:: The same comment as for
= dard reflects the true demand for outdoor
baseball applies here:
basketball, (non-school use); There will be
the need for additional basketball courts in
Field Hockey: There' is adequate room in
" conjunction with the construction of `new.
existing parks for this use. Actually, the
parks, the renovation of existing parks or the
NRPA standards area bit dated. As soccer
use of additional facilities by joint agree-
has increased in popularity, field hockey has
merit.
declined.
Racquetball,There is a present need for at
Football:.Wheat Ridge has an adequate
least two racquetballcourts.
number of municipal football fields.
• Ice -Hockey.-. W Ridge's population
Soccer: Wheat Ridge, has an adequate
cannot support the development of an` ice"
number of municipal soccer fields for youth
hockey facility for. 'municipal' use alone.
soccer.
Locate need will have to be provided by
regionalfacilities.
Gott Driving" Range: Although "NRPA stan
dards would not indicate the need for. a golf
Tennis Courts. The atiove analysis assumes
driving range in, Wheat Ridge, this would be
that the six school: tennis courts (Wheat"
contested by many local golfers. At the time
"
Ridge Senior High. - 4, Everitt Junior High -
this'report`writing; a commercial driving
of
2)`are available for public use. if these courts
ranges being constructed north of k70.
are not available for public use tluring peak
use periods; the City would need five add!-.;,
Running Track: Between the GreenbeltTrail,
tional courts; above the i0 municipal courts
Crown Hill Park, school tracks;; and other,
the. City now has, to meet present need, or
facilitiestherei are adequate municipal run-
potentially nine additional courts at a popular
ningare
. 0: i,
Lion of 37,000.. '
Multi Use Courts: The `City has"a present"
need for two additional multi-Use courts.
Volleyball: Uolleybaff nets can: be set up m
City parks. There is adequate ',parkland for .
Trail System: With.the excellent foundation
this use..
of the Greenbeit Trait, the City needs"taplan "
"
and ; implement a citywide recreational
Youth Baseball/Youth Softball: The"NRPA
J
"
bikeway system "This `would, include on- .
here. There is
standards' are not accurate
-
°
11so some uncertainty as to the number of ,
approp,Pate; as welt
street bikelanes, where
fields that will, be available in the future; as
as regional bikeway connections.
this is partially 'dependent on Jefferson
Archery Range: Though land may be avail-
bounty School policy:: There is a present
able- forthis ,use, NRPA standards do .not „
' need for additional baseball fields for generaP
indicate' sufficient demand for an archery
municipal and league use:
range with any city population under 50,000.
i
I
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 43 '
Section IV.. Park and Recreation Needs
meets, there is a need for an indoor pool
improving walking routes to, and within
to,supplement the outdoor pool. The need
City parks (12 comments).
for a pool forminter, bad weather and night
use is present, as well as the need,for a
5. Safety and -Park 'Patrol: A number of
better teaching. pool. Addftionally, -there is
people suggested increasing the level. of
adequate demand for an adtlftionai pool `to
patrol within City parks and :along " the
meet needs during peak use periods.
Greenbelt. Greater user safety and a
reduction in vandalism were expressed.
2. Bikeway System: A range of comments
desires. Safety along: the more remote.
Was received about improving,and
sections of the Greenbelf Was a -commonly
expanding the City bikeway system.
expressed concern (12 comments). .
Comments included; the desire for regional
conhections;bett er linkages'- with the
6. New 'Recreation Center: Several people
Greenbelt Trail; completing the crossing at
commented in support of a new recreation
41st and Kipling; developing, a. City-wide
center. Suggestions for.facilities included; "
bikeway system using appropriate b
: ity
an indoor swimming pool; basketball
stri lets; and better connections and access
courts,; racquetball courts; antl additional
to City parks:(21 comments)'
activity,/ meeting rooms (10 comments).
3. "Open Soace'and Passive Recreation Use
7: Municioal Golf Course: Several comments
Areas: Many comments were received en-
were in support of Wheat Ridge developing
couraging the: acquisition of more parkland
and operating a municipal golf course (10
for open space and passive recreation use.
comments).
Comments pertained to buying land while
it is available; the importance of open
B. Greenbelt Expansion: Several people sug-
space 'as natural resource habitat
gested that the City (or some other entity)
(wetland,,/wildlife); the aesthetic or, visual
purchase additional and to expand the
resource value of open space; and the
Greenbeltwhereverpossible(8comments).
need for more passive recreation use areas
_
in both existing City parks and new parks
9.. Neighborhood Parks:_Several respondents
117 comments).
indicated the desire for more neighborhood `
parks'(8 comments).
4 Hiking and Walking Trails: Similar to com-
merits about the bikeway system, there
10: Youth`Park: A few comments spec 'rfically
was a number' of ' comment's - about
pertained to the, desire fora youth; park (7
improving and expanding the City's hiking'
comments).
and walking' trails. Some comments
expressed concern for pedestrian safet
the Greenbelt as a result of conflicts with
Recreation Programs: There were only a few
bicyc. lists. "Other comments suggested
l
comments `about City recreation and leisure
i
page 50
City of Wheat Ridge
Section IV. Park and Recreation Needs
programs. Five respondents wanted more aduR
IV.D.S: Private Organizations
programs (no specifics). Two respondents
wanted more senior programs (no specifics):
Telephone interviews were conducted, with
one comment, pertained 'to the need for more
representatives of private.. athletic; leisure and
youth programs, and one other comment ex-
" civic organizations to assess their need for park
pressed the need for more pre-school programs
and recreation services.. The following is a
(no specifics)." `
summary:
Questions 7, 8, and 9 asked about age, gender,
Youth Soccer: facilities , at City parks and
"
and household size. This information has been
schools. were reported to be adequate for City
previous ly.discussed.
recreational programs.
470. Any other comments or suggestions
Midget Football Association: They would like to "
see the 1'00-yard field at Prospect Park relocated
reaarding Wheat Ridge's park and recreation
slightly to the west due to, the lack of a five yard
system? This question solicited a diverse range
bufferzone on the east. _
_ of responses. Many of the comments reiterated
or reinforced previous comments or answersto
Junior Basketball• :They indicated displeasure at
other questions. They "were also "very similar in
"
having to pay to use Jefferson County School
content to-responses on pnorltlest Many of the
gymnasiums as i4 reportedly results in a lower
;responses indicated that citizens wanted to see
"
turnout: and is a problem during Christmas
Wheat idge
develop some key recreation
vacation when the schools: are closed.
facilities and, did not like having to drive some
distance and pay 6:6 se - a private facility o'r, a
Junior Baseball: They have indicated the desire
faciiity'managed by another municipality. There " "
for one or two additional fields. They also indi-`
was the suggestion that- Wheat Ridge become
cated displeasure at having to pay"to u"se Jbi
more self-sufficient in its park and recreation
son County'school fields.
facilities.
Girls Softball: They indicated thatParamount
Though there "were a few specific complaints
Park, their new field, will serve theft needs for
about one thing: or another, many of the com-
the present. They 'do anticipate the need `for
erits were unequivocal compliments about the
m
"additional fields -in"the future to meet growing
"
park and recreation , facilities and programs.
enrollments.
Many compliments, referred to the adequacy of
the facilities, 'tha quality, of. maintenance and the
Adult Softball: Presently they share the junior
pleasant demeanor of the?City parks and recre-
baseball field at Prospect.Park."They reported "
the need for two additional fields because of the
ation staff. A complete list of all the comments ,
'
growth in enrollment..
(par a phrased)
is located in the Appendix.,
Adult Soccer.: Tile" men 's'soccer team uses
Prospect Park in the winter;and the"8idge Home
during thesummer. With league use';growing in
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
page `5t
Section IV. 'Park and Recreation Needs
the metropolitan area, they indicated the need
The function of the Advisory, was to.
for additional fields (preferably lighted).
provide guidance and review of both the pro-
cess used in preparing the Master Plan, as well
Piranhas Swim Team: They reported being very
as its recommendations. Because of the diversi-
happy with the City pool ` They would like to
ty of the Committee: members, it was possible to
have an indoor pool for winter use..
get a range. of perspectives on many key issues: -
The AdvisoryCommittee assisted in planning ;
Taskmasters (TaeKwon Do): They reported the
the, public involvement process, as well as in
need for-additional gym space as they can use
reviewing data, and, analysis developed during
school facilities for only part of the year.'
the preparation of this Plan.
'Other organizations, including the Kiwanis; the
Rotary Club;'the Art League; the Prospector's
IV..F. Park and Recreation Needs
Square Dance Club; and. the Optimists were
also contacted and indicated, that they were
IV: F.1. Introduction
"
satisfied with their facilities, or"what was provid-
.
ed by the City.
This section provides an - assessment of park
and recreation needs. These needs were deter
TheLutheran Medical- Center is the "largest
-
mined by.analyzingi
employer in Wheat Ridge. It hasrecreation
facilities, 'including, a ballfield, to meet present
Wheat `Ridge" demographics. and socio-
needs.
economics.
National Recreation and- Park Association
Standards.
IV.E. Staff and Advisory Committee
Recreation program trends.
Input
Citizen,input.
Staff
and Advisory Committee input.
Members of the'Parks and Recreation Depart-
ment Staff, as well as an Advisory Committee
IV.F.2. Parkland Needs -
771
provided-input into, the development of this Plan,
Parkland needs are described°for each parkland
The Advisory Committee consisted of two
type; mini-parks; neighborhood parks; corrimu.
members of the Parks and Recreation Staff (the
nlty Parks,';regional parks, and undeveloped
Parks and, Recreation Director and the Recre=
parkland or-open space.
'ation Superintendent), three. members of ".the
'
Parks and Recreation Commission,;two,mem-
Mini-Parks: Mini Parks, or pocket parks serve as
bars of `the" Planning Commission° and two
special use. parks. Typically they are. totlots,."`
members: of the City Council:
small urban parks, e.g. Town Center Park, small
parks easily accessible by particular age or user
groups, or'some other type'of special, use par,
Page 52
City of Wheat Ridge;`
Section IV.. Park and Recreation Needs
Mini-parks are needed wherever there is a
parkland use in a specific geographic area of
concentration in population for. special use
Wheat Ridge.
groups, e.g. family-unit; apartment buildings
where> small children are common, or near
It is felt to be inappropriate to adopt the NRPA
senior citizen housing.
- acreage standards as a realistic goal'in terms of
absolute parkland need. Though. Wheat Ridge
There is the need for at least one mini-park for
may presently need approximately 10 to, s25
young ;children in each of the six Neighborhood
additional acres , of neighborhood parkland
Planning Areas. The mini,-parks do not need to
throughout the City, acreage needs are also -a
be accessible by foot from any neighborhood
function of existing facilities and locations and
and they can also be provided by school facilk.
geographical or, physical ?barriers: Even at a
ties. Mini-park functions can also be provided or
population of 37,000, it is unlikely. that ;Wheat
developed within existing. or new neighborhood
` Ridge would have need for 36.25- additional
or community parks. -
acres of'neighborhood/mini parkland.
Neighborhood > Parks: Neighborhood parks
Commbri t~Parks: Wheat Ridge presently has
should be located approximately 1r/2 mile from
107 acres of. community parkland. NRPA stain-
most residential areas; Neighborhood. park
dards would indicate that:the City is currently
functions can be incorporated into some com-
deficient by 43 acres of community parkland
munity'parks. As mentioned above, neighbor-
and ttis would:-increase to 78 acres with a-
hood parks can also incorporate mini-parks:
potential population of 37;000.
Wheat• Ridge presently has 10 acres of devel-
The majority of Wheat Ridge's community parks
oped neighborhood parkland (Includes a small
has. baseball, softball or ::soccer. fields. The
amount of mini-park acreage)-- ;Using NRPA
presence of these fields defines the Use of the
standards of 0.25 acres of mini-park per 1000
park for community-wide use. Wheat Ridge's
population, and ,1 acre of neighborhood park- -
two, largest and ' most popular parks, Wheat
land per 1000 population, Wheat Ridge would
Ridge Park and Prospect Park, have excellent
have a.; present; need of,27.5 acres; of neighbor-,_
community ballfields.
hood/inini parkland. At a potential population of
37,000; -Wheat Ridge would have a need of
According to NRPA.standards, Wheat Ridge has
36.25 acres acoording to; NRPA standards.
an adequate number of -both baseball and
softball fields for youth and adults, not including
Wheat Ridge is in need of additional neighbor-
school ;neetls. However, the Junior Baseball
hood parks. Thesouth•central (Plannin6A rea.5)
"Association reports the need for one or iwo
and the southwest (Planning Area 6) parts of the
additional fields; the Girls ;Softball Association
City have a distinct lack ;of parkland, with the
can predict the ` possible need for. additional
exception of public schoolsfacilities'. Each of:the
fields. as enrollment grows; the Adult Softball
six Neighborhood Planning, Areas: is in need; of
Association reports the need for two additional
neighborhood parkland as a specific type' of
Parks end Recreation Master Plan
Page 53,
Wheat Ridge. has needto acquire additional
open' space for passive recreation use and
habitat preservation. Although lands may be
added to the Greenbelt; the City also needs
some open space or undeveloped land within
the Neighborhood Planning Areas.. This>need
can be fulfilled through out-right acquisition, the
purchase of conservation easements and other
means.
M'F.4., Traii system Needs
As bicycling, walking; running and horseback
rfdingtare verypopular activities in Wheat Ridge,
existing trails receive a'heavy amount of ruse.
Traii "needs may be fdentffied under two broad
categories. (t); Trails to, and within existing
parks;;e.g. the loop trail within Hayward Park or
the Greenbelt Trail, and (2) on-street bicycle
lanes for` both commuter use and recreational
use. The on-street lanes can also provide
access to, and between various park and recre-
ation facilities.
The 5-mile Greenbelt! Trail, with its regional and
local linkages .and. access points, Is Wheat
Ridge's most signcant trail resource. The trail
surrounding Crown 1401 Lake is also a significant
resource. What is clearly lacking is on-street
bike lanes.
Through coordination with Wheat;Ridge Public
Works, an on-street bikelane system should be
developed.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Section IV. Park and Recreation Needs "
W.F.5. Recreation Program Needs
Input received in the public meetings and the
recreation questionnaire provided few specifics
on recreation program needs. No suggestions
were provided about the provision of any specif-
is programs. General comments by-participants
Include the need for additional programs for pre
schoolers and latch-key `kids, as well is`for,
adults and seniors. Some `individuals indicated `
that the City needs to do more to "get the word
out" on;programs and activities.
Pre-Schoolers: Advances in pre-school program'
devefopment have increased the popularity of
such programs. `Programs are nowavaliable to
pre-schoolers (eg. ballet,.: creativemovement;
music and. gymnastics) that were unheard of 20
programs
years ago. The demand-for pre-school
is also a reflection of the increasing need for.
day, care as both, parents work in many families.
Additionally, there is an increasing .number of
single working parents where day care needs.
are potentially even more difficult to manage
and afford. .The;: present `need exists for the continuation andexpansion of pre-school pro-
grams. This need will become greater •in the
future. >
Youth/Latch-Keys Kds: There is a growing
population of youth with working parents, who, ,
lack activities, facilities and supervision du ring
the period between when school is out and their`
parent(s)' arrive home from work. Additionally,
many of these youth do not have school athletic
programs to participate in during after-school
hours, or are not inclined towards athletic activi-:
ties. With the increased enrollmentin the ele-
mentaryschools there will be a growing popula-
Von of Patch-key kids., Again, Wheat Ridge
Page m
Section'iV. Park and Recreation Needs
should continue` to provide programs for. this
age group and enhance and expand programs
to meet future growing needs:. These may be
intermural sports`programs or special activities,
arts and crafts, etc.
Teenagers: Teenagers are, perhaps; the most
.difficult age group for :whom, tq provide
recreation and leisure programs. Students on
school sports teams or involved in extra-
curricular activities at their schools are provided
for. Teenagers notinvolvedin school athletics or
programs generally. do not seek these kinds of
activities outside of the school environment. It is
also common within this age group for youth to
avoid structured: activities' or so-called "teen
programs". Though it is very difficult;to develop
and implement ' programs or activities 'for
teenager's, Wheat Ridge, like most communities,
must recognize the need to attempt_to deal.with
this problem. The inability of many communities
to do'this has, in part, exacerbated social and
family problems that teenagers face.
Adults: `Adult fitness programs have become
very popular over the.past decade. What started
out.as a-brazeo has become a way of life for
many adults. As health and fitness concerns
have increased, so,have the. demands for adult
fitness facilities andprograms. Bicycling, run-
ning, walking, swimming,' aerobic exercise and
the use of exercise equipmenthave ail become;:
increasingly popular. Man adults exercise:daily,
often before work, during:1unch breaks, or.after,
work or evenings.'
Recognizing thatprivate health clubs have part ly .
providedfor this:need, there is still a. municipal
need to continue to provide, programs and
Page 56
facilities for adult exercise anal fitness. Specific
facility needs are addressed below.
There is' also an'increasing, level of interest in ,
adult education programs. This may be, in part,
a reflection of the increasing numbers of single.
parents and single heads of households.
Seniors : 30% of Wheat Ridge's population is 55
years old, or older.: This is a very significant
statistic. The need :to provide recreation and
leisure programs and activities for seniors has
been long recognized by the City, and is evi
denced in the number and diversity of programs
offered. In addition,. the Wheat Ridge Communi
ty Center provides an outstanding 'resource for
seniors. '
Questionnaire and public meeting results indi
;
cated that; for the most part,; people were very
satisfied with -the senior , programs available.
Where individuals, indicated the need for addi-
tional senior.programs, it was difficult for them-`
to be specific.
With the significance of this population; group, it
is clear that Wheat Ridge will need toycontinue
to provide an array, of senior, programs and,
activities. Presently; there is ashortage of space
at-the Wheat Community Center, specifically an
exercise room. There is a present and' future:
need for additional passive and active meeting`
spaces forthe specific use of senior` citizen s.
Cityof Wheat Ridge'
Redesign your
trailhead and
bikeway con vu
Trail continue.
to Golden via
32nd Ave.
I
Improve bikeway connections
II con- es
to Denver/Adams Countl
C
SYSTEM .G.E
• PARK PATPOL
RENOVATION OF EXISTING PARKS
. JOHNSON PARK
STILES PARK
• SIZE IMPROVENE AT IMSTING RANKS
General location of a
_ new neighborhood park
NEW PARKS
NN
IMHFOO
Ma
F
M
M
NII
RI
PROPOSED
PARK
. MU_R DCOMFURK
Legend
WHEAT RIDGE GREENBELT IMPROVEMENTS
GULCH
LENA
AND
POCKY MOUNTAIN DRCH-
Community Park
TIAL ACCES
S
ti
/
R
N µ
P
Sua
ecrea
on
p
EURUDl
KUNG RENWAMON
Communit
. INDOOR SWIMMING POOL
y
RECREATION
DEmm
Building
• ARSORC UM
Lake
SCHOOLS:
1 INLLEIMIANDELEMENTARY
2 PROSPECT vµ ELEMENT.Y
Neighborhood Park
D RGUMOTON EIEuEWRRY
♦ WIIM]PEOAWS ELEMENTARY
_
5 M ENSEN ELEMENTARY
_
B anvENS ELEMENTARY
P8G8
Open Space
T WHEAT RIDGE JUNIOR HIGH
8 EvERITT JUNIOR HIGH
9 WHEAT RIDGE HIGH '
School
~F WHEgT Master Plan
h~ \ Rio
U rC*1
PARKS & RECREATION
C°toRACity of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
moortmir N
1991
MASTER PLAN
Shalkey Walker Associates Inc.
1"1
^~1
W
U3
M
LID
a
r.:
Section, V. Recommendations
SECTION V. RECOMMENDATIONS
U.A. lntfodUCtiOR ' .
quality of-life for the citizens of the City-
The provision of a'superior,. arks and
This section addresses the parks and recreation
recreation. system As recognized as, a
important amenity contributing to the
s stem recommendations. These recommenda
y
well-being of Wheat Ridge residents, as
lions identify the: philosophy and direction of the
well as the image and corrtmunity identi-
Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
`
ty of the City of Wheat Ridge;
Plan are directly responsive
The elements ofthe
to the park and''recreation needs discussed in
2. All parks and recreation planning and
• the previoussection,.and the existing park and _
development will be accomplished in 'a
recreation resources available to the community: -
manner which fully considers public
A,discussion of Plan implementation is provided
'
'
health, safety and welfare.
Ridge
in the foliowing,
section;Nap 5, Wheat
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, s located at
3: The City of Wheat Ridge will' provide a
the end of this section.
balanced and equitable park arid re'cre-
ation system which, 19 -responsive to all ,
The Master Plan recommendations are ;orga-
age groups and" user .groups, and. will
nized as follows:
also meet' the needs of special user "
Master Plan Goais
groups.
Systemwide Recommendations
Developed Parkland :
4. The City of Wheat Ridge will provide a ,
Open ,Space
diverse system of developed parkland
Trail Systems
natural areas, trail systems, -
open space
Recreation;Facilities
,
Recreation Programs:
and recreation programs and facilities-to
• fVatural Resources
meet the needs `of 1Nheif-Ridge's pres-
r
ant population, as well as future genera-
bons. '
•
:B. Masher Plan Goals
V
r5 The maintenance: of existing parkland
At, an adopted: element'of the City of eat
ty; to the ae
and, facilities will take-prior'
Ridge' Comprehensive Developrnent Plan, the
quisition or deveCopment of_ new parks
Parks and Recreation Waster Plan,:is based on
and facilities., The `city should not ac-
goals".which provide the: frantework and guid
quire or develop more parkland or facili-
ante forthe Plan. These goals are as follows
ties than it • can reasonably administer
and maintain.
1. The Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation
- " Master Plan is intended to ;enhance the
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 59
Section V: Recommendations
6.
The City of Wheat Ridge recognizes the
sources should be encouraged and
communityand regional valueand signif-
promoted .by the City:.,
icance of natural and historic resources.
Parkland and facilityplanning will accom-
modate and promote land planning and
V.C. Systemwide Recommendations
development which are sensitive to these
resources.;
A number of recommendations aPPIY to Wheat ,
7.
As an element of : significant natural
Ridge's entire park and recreation system.
resource and recreational value to the
These recommendations pertain to bgth the'=
community, the City: will do everything
upgrade orimprovement of existing facilities and
resources, as well as the' development of new
within its ability to secure and maintain
the long-term management of the Wheat
resources. The recommendations are not listed.:"
-
Ridge Clear Creek'G.:
in sequence of action. Although they are indica-
.
tive of general priorities, they` would overlap in
JJJ i3.
Recognizing the value of cooperative-
implementation. The basis for each `recom- .
planning within Wheat Ridge,City goV_
mendation is provided.
ernment, with other :municipalfties, the
c
`
1
Maintenance of Existing Parkland Facili-
School District and regional recreation
providers, the City will continue to foster
ties and Programs: The first priority of the Parks '
'
and develop cooperative plannmg .ef=
and
Recreation Department should -'be the
forts. These efforts' can result
in the
maintenance of existing parkland, facilities and
,
provision of, additional high quality rec
re- ,
programs. The City should not<acquire or devei-
-
at on resources
At reduced, expense to
'op additional parkland or facilities If this results
the City.
in lowering the level of maintenance and/or a -
reduction of standard improvements at existing':
9,
Wherever possible; utilize parkland and
facilities. Consistent' with this, all renovation or
open -space, planning and design to .
development of parks should be performed-in' a
compliment; and promote the city S-
manner which minimizes ma ntenance2require
image and identity. This can be accom-'
merits
.
pli5hed through • urban. design, open
"
Basis for Recommendation
- This is a standard
space buffering, City entry point or
gate,.
.
way" design and promotion of .the visual
Parks and. recreation planning principal. To
arts..
overextend budgetary resources results in the '
degradation, of existing resources and the even-
tl).
Utilize parkland, open space and recre-:
tual expenditure of unnecessary funds in reno= -
ation planning and programming as a:
eating facilities that were permitted to become
means of public education for all age '
rundown. Building parks requiring high levels of
and user groups. The interpretation and
maintenance exacerbates the problem.
appreciation of natural and historic re=
' Page•so
City of Wheat Ridge .
Section V. Recommendations ,
2w, Planning for Ultimate Need: Wheat Ridge
Because there is limited. undeveloped land
is limited in its ability to grow substantiaily,, either
within the current municipai:boundaries, suitable
in geographic size or population. rrifted poten-
land should be acquired. for. present and future
ft exists for annexation. The City's municipal
parkland needs.in accordance with this Master
boundanes'are fairiy weli fined, with Denver to
Plan. initially, this may take precedent to park 6,.
the east, Lakewood to the south, Arvada to the
land development If there 'are budgetary con
north and unincorporated.Jefferson County and
straints: It is fully appropriate to acquire, park
Golden to the west. The City, is, for the. most'.
land for future developed park uvei even if the
part, land-locked. An is unlikely to result
detailed uses are unclear at the time of acquisi-.
in significant population increase.`If residential
tion', provided suitable parkland is acquired
annexation did :Occur; parkland and recreation
initially. Lands considered for acquisition should .
needs would beadjusted accordingly. Although
rneet minimum criteria. Suggested open space
Wheat ;Ridge-is'largely built-out, some popula-
acquisition guidelines are .provitled in,,subse-.
tion increase is `likely.
quent discussion:
The current population ofWheat Ridge is 30,000
The City should also keep an up-to-date invento-
and it is projected that his population will re-
y of ail potential land acquisition opportunities.
main fairly stable: For the;purposes'of parks,and
This will allow the City to prioritize potential
recreation pl'a'nning, it is recommended that
acquisitions, plan for their costs, and act quickly
planning occur for a potential future population -
ft the" need arises. The City may also wish fo . '
at full, development. This potential population is
considers land banking program as'a method
considered to be about 35,000 to,37;000 peo,-
of administering acquisition;
pie. This Plan recognizes: and accommodates a
potential population of :371000 and therefore
Basis for Recommendation; If land acquisition is
plans -for potential uftintate`neetl. The Plan also
delayed, suitable parkland_ :may be; developed , ,
addresses tioth short"range and long range
for other uses:. 0
% timethe more suitable
needs.:
' acquisition areasmay be lost to other uses anal
land costs may escalate, increasmg'the cost of
Basis for Recommendation:' Because, Wheat
;:future acquisitwn'. A far-sighted acquisIf,
- Ridge :!is fairly ;well landlocked, andwith: a. _
program will also greatly reduce the likelihood of
limited amount of land for residential, commer,
needing'io utilize:'eminent domain authority to
cial or parldandAeivelopment, it 'is most prudent,
acquire strategic'-parkland or land` for facility
to assume' a maximum; planning population.
development. Ad iitiona"'"land acquisition Was'.
ThIs will assure th"at the City tloes not allow an
an, importa
nt priority in citizen input received.
_ increase in population .."beyond fts ability. `to
ubl
during, pic meetings and in the :recreation,
provide. adequate park and recreation services.
questionnaire.
' 3. Land Aeouistion: The acquisition of land
4. Muitipte 'Land Use Planninc: 'Closely " .
for parkland development and`iope' space
1.1
related to- the issue of land acquisition, is the
should be an im ortant: priority of the Ci,
nonce _t of multi 1e land tannin This PIan,
. 3
Parks and Recreation Master Plan -
Page 61
I
immeasurable community, and regional value:
Presently, much of the Green belt is leased from
Coors under a 25-year.lease agreement. The
current lease will expire: in approximately 2005..;
Because of the;mport ance of this resource, it is;
recommended. that Wheat Ridge work in coop-
eration with Coors and-'other landowners to
reenbelt. "The
secure continuous access lathe Greenbelt'
purchase of conservation easements ',should
also be considered. This will provide the Cit-
,y
with the security, it needs to efficiently plan-for
'
Greenbelt future use and: improvements. ,
It is also "recognized that undeveloped lands
adjacent to the Greenbek contribute immensely
to the open space, and natural area quality and
appeal' of the-'Greenbelt:: Much of, this land is
within: the, 100-year floodpiain, and already sub-
ject to d"evelopment" restriction. Working within
the comprehensive planning framework of the
City, a'goai of the Parks and Recreation Depart-
"ment should be to identify adjacent lands of.
high scenic value and buffering quality, and fo'
seek to protect: these lands from, inappropriate
development which may have amadverse: 'im-
pact on "the Greenbelt. A number of develop
ment.gu'idance mechanisms, including the, use
of conservation` or scenic easements could `be
used to accomplish this, goal.
Working with State and local groups, it is also
recommended that an on-going mechanism be
created to specifically address the quality and'
enhancement'.of the Greenbelt and to make
recommendations for -its irnprove-ment.7he use.
of.volunteers,is encouraged.
Basisfor Recommendation: The community
regional value of the"Wheat Ridge; Greenbelt is
widelyrecognized. Virtually all age groups utilize
i
Parks: and Recreation Master Plan
Section:v. Recommendations'
the Greenbelt. The protection and enhancement`
of this resource was a clearly stated issue of the
public, as well as City Staff, the Master Plan
Advisory Committee and the Parks and Recre
ation Commission.
8. City-Wide Biking And Walking Trails: it is
recommendedthat.the City of Wheat Ridge plan.
and, implement a City-wide biking and walking
'trail system for use by all :age groups. In addi
tion to providing recreation and.; commuter:
routes, this trail system hould'connect with
T egional trail systems to expand this opportunity,
for•Wheat Ritlge:residents.
Basis for Recommendation: Walking and 1510Y
cling are two of :the most. popular activities'in
WheatFiidge. Input froth, the. Recreation Dues
tionnaire and the, public meetings strongly.
support. the development of a bikeway/hiking!`
system.
9. Park Maintenance: $hopc" Park Mainte-_
nance Shop facilities are presently inadequate irr-
size to handle present and future needs-.The
existing shop should be expanded or relocated
to, a larger site, or addi ional shop facilities
should tie provided elsewhere.. ,
Basis for Recommendation: inspection of the,
shop facilities and comments of City Staff, pro-'
vide the_basis-for this recommendation.
10.: . Water: In the development acid mainte-
<
nance of parkland, every reasonable effort
shouid;be. made to conserve water through" the
use of ,appropriate plant materials, properly
designed and maintained 'irrigation systems and
the selected use of non-'irrigated open space.:`
Additionally, the City should protect its existing::
Page: 63;:
Section V. Recommendations
water rights and secure additional rights, when
Basis for Recommendation: Developed parkland
available; or as `needed.
provides almost the only municipal opportunity,
to display temporary or permanent` outdoor
Basis for Recommendation: Wheat Ridge, as is
visual art. it also promotes a working relation-:;
the Front Range of Colorado, is characterized
ship between the City and `local and regionai-
by a semi-arid climate. Bluegrass turf and orna- .
artists and, art organizations which can be of
mental ;plants require substantial amounts of
clear mutual benefit to. both.,..-,
irrigation to prosper. As water costs will likely
increase. in the future, and.because this area is
13. Park Patrol::There is apublic perception-
subject to periodic drought,.'an over-reliance on
and concern,that there is inadequate patrol on
;irrigation is unwise. The protection of existing
the Greenbeltand within City parks to assure
municipal water,rights andthe`potential acquisi-
user safety and reduce vandalism. It is recom-'
tion of additbria(rights is prudent. -
mended that through public ;education,'proPa
park design andadequate patrol, that user ;
11.. i na e: An, attractive and. functional -
safety is increased and vandalism reduced.
signage;system provides elements of cohesion,
identity, and: image to any park system. It is
Basis for 'Recommendation: There ;has been
recommended. that Wheat Ridge develop a ,
repeated public concern over, user safety; espe--
standardized park 'and open space signage
cially along the Greenbelt. _
system.
14.,::" Volunteer Services: There are many
Basis for. Recommendation: Auniform signage
individuals and organizations that could provide•<=
system is, considered a basic element of any
volunteer services in park and. Greenbelt inter-:.
-.quality park system. Presently, there is inade=.
pretive education programs. Through,the use of,
"quate and inconsistent signage within Wheat
a "volunteers coordinator", or by some other
Ridge's park .system. This is particularly true at
means, the:City is encouraged to tap the willing
ispecific locations and access, points;along the
public resource available within Wheat Ridge.
Greenbelt.
12. Art in ~ Parks:. Certain parks- may be . -
V.D. Developed Parkland
appropriate for the;permanent displayor tempo-
raryexhibition of visual arts; such as park sculp-
Recommendations for developed parkland are
ture This can serve the dual function of promot-
-
-
discussed for each:parkland type.
These include
ing both ,
parks and the. visual arts. Ideally 1 artin
,
mini- arks;' nei hborhood
parks, community
p
g
parks would be located in areas of high visibility
. .
,
, _
parks and regional :parks. Park definitions are
and suitability to :context. Involvement of the
considered to be more of a function of he type '
Wheat Ridge Art League may be very appropri-
ate.
of park use than acreage. Discussion begins
with recommendations pertaining to existing %
parks.
Page 64 •
'City of Wheat Ridge
i
V.DA Renovation of Existing Parks.,
Johnson Park: As one of Wheat: Ridge's older,
parks;, Johnson Park is :in need of renovation::
Access is presently difficult; as entry can only be.:
made: offof southbound Wadsworth and d is`:.
unlikely that a`north-bound turn lane could be
negotiated on this State Highway, 'due to limited
sight. distances and road width. •It is recom -
mended that vehicle: access from the south
through the use of an existing right-of-way be ;
eicplored.
Parking,-could ' be better organized and the
playground equipment needs replacement;, as
does the restroom. The trail could be : more
-properly aligned in relation to the:park edge-and
vehicle parking. ]f possible, a,method should be
devised to circulate water in the small pond, as
it is stagnant: or verylow during much of the
summer., This may prove: impossible as;-the
pond's water supply is seepage from the hillside.'.:
to tliesouth. If the pond remains a problem in
the future, filling is an ,option, though a detailed
assessment would be.required to.determine the
best means of accommodating 'the seepage.
Better trail signage is needed.
Basis of Recommendation: Inspection' of the
park and public input.
Stites ParSt* es-, ark, is also in need of
general renovation. The, playground equipment-
-Is, in'n.'eedof replacement. The-balifreld back
stop is too close to the intersection of 29th.and
Newland and presents a'safety problem. E~xpen-' -
sion of the_ park would allow fortotai redesign,
possibly including adequate room for a larger*.
baIM Id and restroom Parking organization
also needs redesign.
.a
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Section V. Recommendations
Consideration should also be given to providing
neighborhood park functions at Stites, as well
as the more community-oriented balifield. use.
With the addition. of other ballfields;in the City, it
may tiemost appropriate ,to, convert Stites'
. balifield for pick=up game use and limit league
use. This would be more conducive to a neigh:-
borhood park.
Basis.of Recommendation: Inspection of park."
Wheat.% Ritlge Park: After the realignment of
the.. entrance with Field Street, a:;traffic llght,
crosswalk and'. morepronounced entrance
signage should. be installed: Improvements
should-> also be made to parking lot 'design`
within-the Park; making use of recently acquired
property.
Basis of Recommendation: "Inspection of Park.:
Agel-Backer Park: The playground equipment
needs replacement. The wood structure is
beginning to deteriorate.
Basis of Recommendation: Inspection of'park.
Prospect Park: Parking lot improvements.
should;be made within Prospect Park. Presently,
the parking unnecessarily dominates the Park.
Native shrubs should be planted`•,along seg
ments of the_ Prospect, Lake shoreline' to in-
crease its visual appeal and to improve the Lake
as wildlife habitat: Shoreline bank stabilization
is needed. Better entrysignage is recommend-
ad. As op'p'ortunities become available, retie-':
sign andfor expansion ofthe park should occur,.
It is recommended that more passive use areas"
be provided.; Because the pavilion is heavily,
used, a second pavilion or. shelter should be
provided in conjunction with a passive use area.
Page 65
Section V. Recommendations
are without adequate neighborhood parkland.
Stites Park expansion and redesign as 'a
The development of. these parks. would also
neighborhood park.
accommodate any future neighborhood park
: ed"of an additional 36:25
need, e.g. parkland no
Neighborhood Planning Area 5:"' (between
'
acres of mini and neighborhood parkland over
of Clear
ii ling and'Wadsworth, south
present amounts fora population'of 37,000.
Creek)
The following".are. neighborhood parkland rec-
One neighborhood park between 38th and
ommandations : given 'the location of existing
44th Avenues.-
- • One neighborhood park between 32nd and
nei hborhood and communi
g ty, parks; the loca-
38th Avenues. ,
tion of. school facilities; the physical and:.geo-
graphical barriers within the City;- and needs
Neighborhood Planning Area 6: (between I-70
identified by the public. Allr"ecommended neigh-
and Kipling, south of Clearr Creek)
boyhood parks. include a mini-park and should'
`
be as centrally-located within the recommended
One neighborhood park "between "Clear
`area as possible.
Creek and 38th Avenue:
One:neighborhood park between 38th Ave-.
Neighborhood Planning''Area f: (north of 1-70,
nue_and32nd_AVenue.'(fhe Rancho Del Sol'
West of Wadsworth)
property.. at West 34th Avenue "and Union
could provide`for this park)
" One neighborhood park.
In total, 10 neighborhood'parks.(incorporating
Neighborhood Planning:Area (between 1-70
mini-parks are proposed: for ,Wheat Ridge. `
and. Clear Creek, west of Wadsworth)
Three of these parks could be located at.exist-
ing parkland sites, Stites Park, Rancho Del S,ol'.
• One neighborhood park west of Kipling;and,
Open Space- and 'Mugele Open Space. Refer
north of 44th Avenue.'l(Mugele Open Space
to the Master Plan Map at the end :of this seo-
could provide for this park
Lion.
One neighborhood"park east of Kipling and
;
north of 44th Avenue:-
Basis for Recommendation: NRPA -standards
Neighborhood Planning Area-3 : (east of Wads-
and an analysis-of the Neighborhood Planning
'
Areas indicates a deficiency in neighborhood
worth north of 38th Avenue)
parks. The results of the Recreation Question-
• One-neighborhood park.
nacre, also confirmed the need for additional
"
neighborhood parks.
Neighborhood Planning Area 4 (east of Wads- . `
" worth,aouth of 38th Avenue) _
Community Parks: NRPA "standards indicate a
present deficiency of 43 acres of community
•
One neighborhood park between 32nd and "
parkland and a possible future deficiency of Z8
38th Avenues.
acres at a population of 37,000: Despite,- this
_
Parks and Recreation Master Plan'
s
Page 67
Section V. Recommendations
apparent acreage' deficiency, Wheat Ridge, for
the most part, has a very adequate community,
park system when factors of function and loca-
tion are` assessed. To meet all 'present and
future needs for community parklands the follow-
ng recommendations are made.
1. Ne"ate Property: it is recommended
that the 3=acre Newgate property be developed
as a passive-usecommunity river park.
Basis for Recommendation: The Newgate Prop-.
erty is currently undeveloped Cityparkland. Its
location. and site characteristics do'not support
its development as a neighborhood- park. "The
development of this parcel As-a•rlvbr-oriented.
community, park represents its optimum use.
2. Ballfield Complex: The most; significant
community park recommendation of this'Master
Plan is the development ofa.lighted four-plex:or
ballfield complex with four ballfields: Such- a
facility would require approxim4tely,`25 acres,
including parking.and could possiblybe located
north of 1-70 where larger parcels of:land may
be more-available-and where there wouldbe far
less or no impact on residential areas,;-e.g., from .
lighted ballfields. This complex would-meet the
needs of. both youth "and ' adult softball and
basebaltprograms as well as provide additional
field space for other sports,' e.g. soccer. "The
construction Of-this, complex Would also take
pressure off the `-use of ballfields, within the
existing,'-City parks. This will allow: for more
practice use of existing ballfields, more passive.
use in some community parks, and the possibili-
ty of alternative uses within one,or;more
City
parks, e.g. the relocation of a ballfield to allow
for a more passive-use community park.
Basis: for Recommendation Many of the sports
leagues and organizations indicated the present
need for more ballfields and anticipate an.in
creasing. need in the 'future. The need for a.
fa suitable for tournament play was also
indicated... Wheat Ridge's existing, community
parks are.dominated by ballfield'use. `There is,
a need to reduce the use pressure on existing`
fields.
3. Youth Park: it is recommended that thes..
City investigate providing skateboard and BMX;
bicycling opportunities within a new or existing
park. Such uses would probably, be incompati-
ble with a neighborhood park,and more suitable
within a larger community park or some special
facility.
Basis for-Recommendation: Skateboarding and
BMX bicycling are,verypopular sports. Due to:-
the nature.of the actvfties, they require special
facilities and are incompatible with many other'
'active and passive recreation'. uses. The Recre-
ation Questionnaire: also indicated sizable sup
port,for the provision of facilities to accommo
,date these: needs.
4Lake Park for the PhysicallJ Disabled., .
The City should develop access and a shoreline
use area along one of the Greenbelt lakes-for
'
the specific use of the physically disabled. Such
a,-facility could provide. for, general day use,
picnicking,:_fishing, nature study and/or scenic
appreciation' for this special user group.
Basis for'Recommendation: It is common prac
tioe to provide for the, physically disabled inRhe
`development of parks and recreation systems,` s
wherever:possible. The development of a specif
Page 68 City of Wheat Ridge
' .
n
Section V. Recommendatios i-
is facility for the physically disabled responds to
Crown Hill Park, many citizens felt that Wheat
a very real social need:
Ridge- should acquire, additional open space
within. the` City. It is felt that part of this need 1i
5. - Joint Venture with the Lutheran Medical
an indicator, of the need for more passive natural
Center : The City should. enter into discussions
area parks.
With -the Lutheran Medical Center over the
possible joint use of recreation facilities to the ,
mutual benefit of the :City and the Medical
VS.1. Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Improvements
Center: "This could provide an additional com-
rnunity recreation resource.
A number of recommendations is provided
regarding the, design, maintenance. and man-
Basis.for Recommendation: The Lutheran Medi-•
agement of the Greenbelt.
cal Center is the largest`empioyer in the City" of
WheatRidge.,Given the mutual gains that could
1. The Youngfield Trailhead. should to be
tie achieved, a cooperative arrangement wit
completely redesigned to accommodate more "
the Medical Center could be very beneficial.
vehicles" and 'in. a more organized fashion.
Access off and,on to Youngfield' is presently
unsafe. More attractive and functional si6na'gd Is
V.E. Open SpaCe . '
also needed.
' "
2- The linkage at the Youngfield "Trailhead
The National Recreation and Parks Association
with the. Jefferson County Open Space trail to
suggests that communities maintain about 15 "
acres of open space"per
1000 population: This
Golden is not well defined. Regional: trail con=
,
nections -should tie vigorously promoted
" would equate-to a present defciency of 10 acres
of open'space and a deficiency of'115 acres"at
Better tiailhead identification should be
3 "
a population of, 37,000. NRPA standards ;are
, 11. - j .
.
created at the Harlan Street Trailhead at the east .
and, must be viewed in; the
only guidelines,
'
end of the 'Greenbelt. "Signage- identifying the
spec
rfic conteict: of Wheat Ridge. The. presence"
connection with the Denver metropolitan trail
and true community value of two superior open
j"
,
space resources, the,Grnbelt and Crown Hill "
system should also, be installed.
Park, are not reflected in the deficiency'•indicat
ed by the NRPA guidelines The value of having
4. Identify and organize all access points-to
the Greenbelt Trail from both the north and
large, .contiguous open space areas outweighs-.
south of Clear Creek. Make the appropriate
attempting to identify precise open space needs .
physical improvements, including the installation
by acreage calculations.
of signage at the designated access, points: {
?ost signage and establish:obstacfes or barriers
Nevertheless; the importance of open space and
at undesirable access points.
natural areas was clearly stated in, both the
Recreation Questionnaire. and the public meet-
ings. Despite the presence of the Greenbeltand
i
Parks `and Recreation Master Plan -
Page 69"
mental or historic interest. An interpretive>pro
gram could also provide educational opportune-.
ties explaining`the process of gravel extraction,
mined land reclamation, and the successful
development of attractive fishing.;ponds.
14. Through.the.useof a .volunteer coordina
tor, explore establishing volunteer-supported
interpretive programming for the Greenbelt.
These:individuals could help support the envi-
ronmental and, historic interpretive program.
15. Wheat Ridge should•consider the acqui-
sition`of [ends, or the.'purc
or, scenic easements, from willing sellers for
lands adjacent to, the Greenbelt. Expansion of
the Greenbelt is desirable where`possibie. `The
City should also'make everyreasonable effortto
protect lands adjacent t - the Greenbelt from,
inappropriate developmeritwhich:would detract
from the visual and habitat quality of the Green-
belt.
Basis for Recommendations: The Wheat. Ridge
Greenbelt is very highly rated and 'appreciated
by the citizens of Wheat :Ridge and the region.
Considerable input pertaining to_the Greenbelt
was received in the Recreation Questionnaire
and atthe public meetings. Additional input was
received from'City -Staffand 'advisory" groups.
Field investigations were:. also -conducted. The .j
recommendations are based on this input and
collected field data.
V.E.2:'"161ear Creek
Clear Creek is the.:spine of the Wheat.. Ridge
Greenbelt and the most significant natural
amenity within the City. Although it is the basis
i
Parks and Recreation Master. Plan
Section V. Recommendations
of a very diverse;vegetative and wildlife habitat
ecosystem and is of great visual merit, the creek
itself is used little for recreation.
Wheat:Ridge should make every effort to protect
this valuable resource and encourage its mainte
nance and enhancement as a recreatpriall and
natural: amenity. ;The City should foster cooper-
ative planning efforts with'Coors, the Colorado
Division of Wildlife and other` interested parties
to ensure this protection and enhancement of_
Clear. Creek. . As,, the Division of Wildlife . has
identified Clear. `Creek 'as , a potential urban
fishery, the City should work with the Division:
and others, to see to the development of a
quality fishery within Wheat Ridge.
V E.3:.Lakes and, Ponds
Crown Hill Lake and the Greenbelt Lakes (Pros.
pest Lake, Tabor Lake, West Lake` and Bas
Lake) all provide special assets to Wheat Ridge.
These lakes provide numerous recreational and
natural.resource `benefits .to the community in,
additionto their, function as.aquatic open space.,
This Master Plan recognizes the significance' of
these, resources and encourages the City to'
continue to.value and protect all lakes. Specific•
recommendations include:
Protect the visual resource value'of the lakes'
by avoiding, Any ,#ype of development, or.
modification.that detracts from their aesthet-
ic quality Or natural, appearance.
Encourage their continued use and function
as natural resource areas and enhance their'
value as wildlife habitat'aIreas where appro-;
priate. For, example, more plantings (shore=
Page 71
Section V. Recommendations'
line treatment) along all "lakes would in-,
cent to Lena Gulch near Kipling. If development -
crease the diversity of wildlife species.
occurs along either Lena Gulch or Rocky Moun-
tain Ditch;' planning' should consider the provi-
Working with,the Colorado Division of Wild-
sion of recreation easements.
life; establish :wildlife habitat `"management
goals and implement improvements to
Basis for Recommendation: Public input, as well
achieve these goals. in addition to the objec=
as,Staff and advisoryinput strongly supported; -
tive of enhancing wildlife habitat, manage--
-the investigation of the open.space'and recre-'' "
ment'problems,such as the overabundance
anon potential of Lena Gulch and Rocky Moun-
of Canadian geese at Prospect Lake,should .
,
tain Ditch:'
be addressed. The City should work closely
with the CDQVJ in the management and
Stocking of the Greenbek lakes, as well as in
V.E.S: Additional Open Space
or cooperative ventures.
It'Is recommended that Wheat Ridge: acquire
The recreations) value of the lakes. is appre.
additiona1''open space, as suitable lands and..
ciated by all age groups: Presentand future
`
funding
bscorn e
available. This open space will `
planning and design should recognize the
'
-
,
,
provide needed undeveloped, passive recreation 1
diversity. of user types
(passive versus ac
opportunitieswithintheCity'sneighborhoods,in'
Alva) and accommodate 'the needs of both.
natural areas, or along the ..Greenbelt; Lands ,
As some of the lakes are difficult to get to,
access" shouid'be improved for the general
suitable for an space acquisition may include:
publicand those with physical disabilities,
ends within the't00-yearfloodplain
Areas of high wetland value
Areas of high wildlife habitat value "
V.E.4. Lena Gulch and Rocky Mountain Ditch
Areas;of scenic value
. ' Trail corridors
• Lakes and ponds
As natural resource corridors, Lena Gulch "and
Lands'unsuitable for active' recreation level-.
Rocky Mountain Ditch should"provide additional,
opment
open space, greenway and trail corridor seg-
Buffer zones to separate incompatible land
ments. Continuous` trail access along either the
uses
Gulch or` the Ditch may not, be possible or
• Lands, adjacent to existing open space
Agricultural land'
desirable due to limited easementwidth, proxim:.-
Other lands unsuitable for`general develop-
ityto residences,' flood control improvements, or ,
ment
other barriers.- Important wetland and, wildlife
Lands which -are accessible
"
habitat or riparian" vegetation shoultl be dis=
A. suitable ,for multiple„resource uses,
;
turbed as little as possible. ,
e.g. open space which. provides natural
resource habitatstormwater detention and
The use of•conservation or scenic easements to
passive;recreation
• Lands which are affordable, point-Ventured,
protect important areas should be explored:
dedicated, etc. _
Wheat Ridge has already; acquired. areas adja-
`Page 72
City of Wheat Ridge .
Section V.. Recommendations
V'F- Trail SyStemS
the need to improve and expand :the existing
bikeway'.system and seniors have indicated the
The City's Comprehensive Development. Plan
need for more walking opportunities. This rec-
includes abikeway plan element. 'The purpose'
ommendation is a direct,response.to a stated
of this bikeway; plan for,the City of Wheat Ridge,
public need.
is to '.provide a means: of transportation` by
linking the various neighborhoods, parks,
schools, and commercial areas. in addition,
V.G. Recreation Facilities
walking and biking are recognized as.forms of
recreation..."
V.G.1.. Existing Facilities .
This piarr discusses bikeway design guidelines
Existing recreation facilities. were evaluated as to
and safety guidelines. The plan also includes a
their physical condition, functional value and
conceptual City-wide bikeway/walkway align-
areas of potentialiimprovement.
ment it is a recommendation ofthe Parks and
Recreation Master. Plan . that the bike Alert
And arson Commuity Building: The Anderson
element of the City's Comprehensive Plan be re
;Community Building will need to be completely
evaluated and uptlated.'
renovated within,the_nezt decade: The building
is substandard in both function and appearance.
It should be a.goal of the City to implement a
The gymnasium , has 'inadequate sideline dis-
locai and regional bikeway system which links
lances. There is inadequate officwand storage
` the Greenbelt Trail with other bikeways between
space: The Nautilus equipment is aging, as are
and within City parks and City streets: This
the locker and shower rooms. There is also the -
would require the coordinated effortof the Parks
need for additional muRi-purpose rooms for,
Department, , Planning Department, Public
- active and passive programs, and activities. The
Works, as well as other `City departments and
renovation should accommodate ` all `these
regional recreation providers.
necessaryimprovements.
Effort should be .placed in the development of
Basis for Recommendation: Facility`inspectibn .
on-street designated bike lanes where this is
and stated public need:
feasible and appropnate.~ on-street bicycle
The,
lanes, should provide major north-south and ,
Wheat Ridae Community` Center: With the
east-west routes, as well as a secondary system .
expanding needs; of Wheat ,Ridge seniors, the
on less busy streets"providing necessarylinkag
Community .Center is in `'need" of additional
es.
°apaCo. 'An exercise room>and additional multi-
purpose rooms have been tlentIfied as immedi-
Basis : for Recommendation: According #o the'
ate needs. As the:`Sao will not allow for building
Recreation Questionnaire; walkingand bicycling
expansion, additional space will be needed
> were two .-of-the most popular recreation activi-
elsewhere. These facilities should be provided ,
ties in Wheat Ridge Adults have commentedon
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 73
Section V. Recommendations
in the Anderson; Building renovation, or by some
courts or `hoops should, be. provided in the:
other means.
renovation of existing parks or the development ;
of new parks, where appropriate to the design of
Basis_ for Recommendation: Facility inspection
these parks.
and stated public need.
°
The provision of all of these facilities is recom-
Additional community/recreation
facilities,
mended..
including the Richards HartEstate;> Ye Olde
Firehouse and the Berbert House :were also
Basis'for Recommendation: Application of NRPA `
evaluated. No deficiencies'were found and no
standards and stated public need. NRPA stain-
recommendations for these facilities are made at
dards applied to meet local need,'
this time.
Indoor Swimming Pool: It is recommended that` ;
the City construct and operate.an indoorswim-
V.G:2. Recommended Facilities
Ming pool to supplement the use of the outdoor
pooi,during the summer, and to provide a Winter
National Recreation and =Park Association
use facility. The pool Would provide a much '
standards '
needed teaching pool, high school level compe-
Mon pool, and an off-season pool.for general
The application of Nationai.Recreation and Park
recreational swimming and aquatic programs. ,
Association facility standards indicates the'need
There are three development. options:
for the following facilities. `
1. Build the pool as .q stand-alone facility:
Racquetball courts.
on an appropriate site.
Tennis courtst= The' number of rcourts is
2. Pending feasibility studies, incorporate
dependent-onpublic availability of school
"
the pool into the renovation of the An-
courts. The City presently needstwo
add-
derson Building.
tionaL courts.
_
Indoor multi-purpose, oourt
(basketball,
s
•
13^ Incorporate the'pool into the construe-
,
volleyball; tennis) in addition to the renova
tion=of a -hew recreation center, .
tion 'of the Anderson building gymnasium.
Sesis for Recommendation: An.indoor swim-
Although` the application of NRPA standards
Ming pool was the number one priority for the
does not indicate the needfor additional basket-
construction of new facilities .ident'rfied in- the
ball `courts, or hoops, or;baseball and softball
Recreation Questionnaire. This need was also '
fields, there is a present. need for two base-
clearly stated in the,public meetings.
ball/softball fields. With the expansion of league
use, there Will be a future need of two additional
New Recreation Center' It isrecommended that
baseball/softball fields. - Additional basketball
Wheat Ridge construct and operate a mid -size,.
Page 74
City of Wheat Ridge'
Section V. Recommendations
recreation center. This center would, provide for "
Basis for Recommendation: The need to create
a wide range" of facilities and activities. The
a parkland/recreation resource of community,
center could possibly replacethe Anderson
identdy_and regional attraction.
'Building, or be built as a; stand-alone facility. if
the center is built as a stand-alone facility,. he
physical programming would depend on the
V.H. Recreation Programs
nature of the Anderson Building: renovation.;
'Wheat Ridge Will rcontinue o need-to provide "
The following is a suggested facility program for
diverse recreation, programs for; all :age groups,
a new recreation center:
from, youngsters entering, the ' elementary
Indoor swimming pool
schools, .to the sizable populationof Wheat,..
• Locker and showerJOOms
Ridge senior citiens. Demographics indicate"
Multi-use courts (basketball, volleyball or
that all age groups will be represented in Wheat .
tennis)"
Ridge's population for many years to come:
RacquetbalLcourts
Exercise roo'rin with new equipment
" . , Several multi-purpose.. rooms-for active and
The City twill need to continue to evaluate pro- "
passive programs and,generaI community
grams on a frequent be M& in the effortto meet
use
current needs. Expansion and/or diversification
• Administrative offices :
of programs for"pre-schoolers, latch-key kids,"
• -Storage areas
youth, -teenagers; adults% and seniors will be
desirable.
Basis for Recommendation: The development of
a recreation center received support in the".
Recreation programming should give special- "
Recreation Questionnaire; the public meetings
consideration to": Wheat Ridge's large- senior
and in,Staff and advisory, review. "
citizen population: 30% of Wheat Ridge's popu-
lation-is 55 years'of age or;older_
Wheat Ridge;: ArboretumThe City. should ex=
plore the development ofia community arbore
Basis of Recommendation: Wheat Ridge's _
turn. 'This facility could ?be 'developed as a
demographic profile, recreation program trend
;
cooperative effort and util ie volunteer services; ,
"
;and public comment supportthese'"recommen-
as available The purpose - of" the arboretum
lotions.
would :be to demonstrate and .celebrate the
-City's agricultural and gardening hisiory, as well
11
Despite `the frequent mailings of :recreation
as to provide an historical and environmental
'
brochures," some people- feel ttiey; could be' ,
Such:a venture"could involve
learning center.'
better'informed,,The. City should- makeevery.
the cooperation of the City, the Wheat Ridge
reasonable effort to °get the word but.
for its
Historical Society, local garden .clubs; private
activities and programs.
organizations and the schools. Developed'and
` marketed properly, an arboretum could provide
'Basis for Recommendation Public comment:
a regionatattraction and economic stimulus.
i
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 75,
Section V Recommendations
The City should investigate potentials for joint,
V.1. Natural Resources
venturing specific` programs and.activitieswith•
other municipalities where it is mutually benefi-
It is a fundamental recommendation of
this:
cial.
,
Master Plan that the park <and open space` c
system become a; City-wide vehicle for the
Basis for Recommendation: Public comment
"
conservation or preservation of important natural
And the :opportunity
to expand programs: and
resources. The recommendations in this section
activities on acost-sharing :ba
have often referred. to natural resource habitat
values and the appropriateness of protecting
Wheat Ridge Historical Society: It is a recom-
mendetion of this`. Plan,thaYthe .City ` Parks and,
and interpreting such resources within the realm
Recreation Department work in'a closer manner
of parks arld recreation planning.
with the Wheat Ridge Historical Society Histori-
.
cal resources provide cultural amenities; leisure
The most important habitat values include the
wildlife and wetland" values associated with the
and recreation activities and historicalparksltes
Greenbelt, other drainages, and the lakes and
of community value-and use.
ponds. , Wherever possible, Parks and open.:_
'This Plan' further recommends that the Parks
space planning `should attempt to preserve
and'Recreation Department, in conjunction with
important resource areas. Additionally, these,
the Wheat, Ridge HistoricaLSociety, complete a
areas can be used t6 enhance wildlife' habitat.
comprehensive inventory of historical` sites and
Wildlife habitat improvements, such as selective
-
resources within Wheat Ridge. This inventory.will
planting, should occur in conjunction with the
help guide future historical activity programming;
renovation °of old parks, as well, as, in the con- -
as well as provide the -Parks and-Recreation
.
struction of new parks. .
Depart ment with -data concerning the possible>
acquisition or joint use of historical resources.
Open space dedication, acgwsftion or ° the
purchase of conservation ,easements can, be
Basis of Recommendation: This recommenda
some of the City's most powerful means of
,
natural resource'protection and the preservation
tion• received the support of the Wheat Ridge
Wal Society, 'City Staff and the:Advisory
of important habitat areas. The Wheat Ridge
Committee.lt is also consistent with the empha-
Greenbelt is an excellent example of this, Crown
is placed on environmental 'and historical
Hill Park (Jefferson'County Open Space) is
,
resources within this Parks and Recreation
another excellent example. The City, should use -
Master Plan
_e
means to encourage habitat protection
.
and enhancement inAts parks and open space .
planning and design.
Page 76
City of Wheat Ridge
"C.
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Section UI
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IMPLEMENTAfiION
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Section VI. Implementation.
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1
SECTION VI. IMPLEMENTATION
VLA:' Introduction "
It is recommended that the City implement this
Plan, in phases, . over the next 25 years, or
-roughly by the year, 2015 For recommendations
This section provides suggestions and guidance
and actions that directly relate to population, the
in the implementation of this Parks and Recre-
implementation of this Plan: should follow one of
ation Master Plan. Discussion is provided; on:
Plan priorities, scheduling, existing and potential
courses.
two
funding mechanisms, ; and the -process for .
Implement the recommendations, and use
amending fhe Plan.
the National :Recreation and Park Associa-
tion Standards for general"guidance, to meet
This Master Plan provides the general frame-
the needs fora population of 30;000:
work and specific direction for themaintenance,
i
acquisition and development of Wheat'Aidge's
if the population exceeds 30,000; implement
parksand open space system. The Plan also
the recommendations' and-use'the NRPA
recognizes this -importance of the, ity's'recre-'
standards as `'guidance to meet the future
6 on,, continuing education and, leisure `pro-
population utilizing, the information and
grams and, orgariiied activities: The Plan
ne , eds'identified for a population of 37,000
identrfe"s the need to provide additional space
- as a'basis. of comparison.
for these uses.
This implementation strategy requires that the
City monitor population and demographictrends "
VI.B Key Considerations
..,to assure that there is adequate lead time to
secure Additional'iand,.as`may be needed. This
strategy' is also based on specific findings of this
This i§1along-te. rm Plan. The full implementation
11
Plan. The most significant findings affecting
wiLF; result in the provision of all of
of the;-Plan
'
'implementation include the following:. ,
s'parks and open space needs
Wheat Ridge
and, recreation facility needs. The ability to
"
'
` It is;unlikely that Wheat Ridge will need'to
needs of
ultimate
identify, within reason, the
.
Acquire large -parcels-'of open space for
the community is. due to the fact that the,munici-
con murn wide recreation or,natural,habitat
pal boundaries are unlikely to 'expand to any
`
function and use. These needs are already
will
great degree. It is unlikely that the City
n H111
provided by ;the Greenbeltand;.Cr
annex areas ;of significant present or.future
,
u ;be
Park. Atlditional' open sp ace: sho Id
residential population. Additionally, the Plan is
n
acquired n a as-n, eededand case-by-case
flexible in that it allows for phased parkland
basis. This }will involve a community 2nd
development and open space acquisition in
neighborhood legel assessmenfof the merits
direct response to population and need at, any
of the acquisition of a particular parcel being
given time. The Plan canaccommodatei growth.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 77
i
6. . ` New recreation center.
7. Municipal golf course
8. Greenbelt expansion
9. 'Neighborhood parka
10. Youth park
Input received. in the public meetings generally
supported,the above priorities. Additional input.
was rreceived -from interviews conducted with
private recreation organizations and City Staff.
Additional factors also affect the prioritizing of
Plan actions. Funds must be available for land
acquisition (if, necessary), development, opera,-
,
tions and maintenance: The timing-of. the fund-
ing mechanisms chosenwill affect implementa-
Yiort The more capita l,intensive projects _will• `
.require more advanced financial planning, and.
potentially more complex land. acquisitionand
physical planning and design efforts.
While improvements are being made, it is impor
tant to keep present maintenance at its appro-
priate levels. The maintenance of existing`park-
land:and recreation facilities should never suffer
because of budgetary shortages 'resulting .from
the acquisition and/or ' development of new,
parkland or facilities Over-extending the City's
ability to maintain parkland and facilities would
be very costly to the City over the'long-term.
In keeping with this philosophy„ it is. recom-
mended that the -renovation of existing parks'
may take precedence over the, development of
new Darks.
Recommendations pertainingao the renovation
of the Anderson Building, the constructioh of an.
indoor pool and the construction of a recreation
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Section_VL . Implementation'
center are completely interrelated'. At some
point, key decisions will have to.be. made.
The most critical: decision is whether the City
wishes: to pursue a recreation center. The rea-
son is as follows. If the Indoor pool is not,con',
atructed in .conjunction with the recreation'
center,: the construction of a center is not likely
to be financially feasible. Use intensive and ataff
intensive, facilfties such at recreation centers can `
often come close to breaking even, or even
generating some surplus jrevenues, from user`
fees.
If there are not enough amenities at a recreation:
:Center ,'the center will not attract enough visitors `
for user' fees to at least substantially offset,
operations. costs.- An indoor pool is an anchor
facility fora recreation center. Without it, anew
recreation center 'would not be recommended.:
In this case, it would be desirable to locate the
indoor pool in conjunction with s major renova=
tion of the Anderson Building; if feasible. Or,> it
may be:desirable to build the indoor pool as;a,;
stand-alone facility with the Anderson building.
renovation not-housing the indoor pool.
Therefore,,the decision regarding the nature of
the Anderson Building renovation cannot be
made untilthe decisions pertaining to the recre-
atior center and indoor pool are made: These.
decisions will affect both the specifics of any,
renovation of the. Anderson Building, and also
whetherit is"desirabieto proceed with feasibility,
studies ; to determine whether an Anderson'
Building renovation" could accommodate an'',
indoor pool and/or additional facilities.
Given the above considerations, the following..,
are recommendation of what are.feit toi be the
Page 70
Section VI. Implementation
top ten priorities. Though listed as priorities,
the cost :'of improvements are provided by
many of these actions would overlap or be
Wheat Ridge. Because of the remendous value
implemented concurrently.`
of this 'resource to, the City, and the fact that
planned improvements will cost the City addi--`
" If. Maintain 'existing parks, open 'space
tionai funds, a long-term management arrange-- , -
and recreation facilities "
ment-is "essential.
Basis of Recommendation: As has been,
4. Construct an indoor swimming pool.
stated in this document repeatedly,
appropriate maintenance levels for exist-
Basis of Recommendation: Wheat Ridge'
ing resources must not suffer at the cost
citizens indicated that an indoor swim-
of new facilities.
erring pool should be'the number one`;
priority for the construction of new facili- ,
;2. As land and funding are available,
ties: As explained :above, :decisions
acquire 'parkland for future- develop-
regarding the construction of a new
ment and open space use.
recreationcenter and/or the"renovation -
of the Anderson "Building have to be
Basip of Recommendation: Because of
made first.
the limited, amount of "undeveloped land
in, Wheat Ridge, it is essential that the
5. Develop a city-wide biking and hiking
City acquire necessary parkland "for ;
trail system.
neighborhood park "development and,
open space use in accordance with this
Basis of Recommendation:.-This. was
Master Plan. This should be done only
also a "high priority among Wheat Ridge; "
as adequate funding for, : acquisition;
residents. in addition to recreational trails '
development and maintenance are se=
to supplement the GreenbeltTrail, there;`
cured, so.as not to over-extend the "
was also a stated need for an on-street t.
Parks Department's maintenance capa=
bikelane system for both co
' mn ater and
bilities (the number one priority)..
. regreatiowdse:
3. Working in cooperation with Coors.
6.. Construct anew recreation center.
secure along-term lease or manaw
ment agreement for the Wheat Ridge
Basis of Recommendation: Fifty percent
Greenbelt lands presently owned by
of the questionnaire respondents and
Coors.
many individuals at the public meetings
supported the construction of; a recre.-
Basis of Recommendation.-Presently , the "
ation center •to house the indoor swim-
managgment responsibility and most of
Ming pool as well as additional facilities.
Page 80
City of Wheat Ridge
Sectiomyl. Implementation
i
7.
Develop parks.
i
facility would assist in interpreting and
celebrating the City's history, as well as
Basis of Recommendation In actor-
potentially providing a regional attraction
dance with the direction of this, Master
fostering community image and identity.
Plan, develop parkland as land and
:funds are available:- The most pressing
As described, in more detail under the schedul'
parkland need is-for small neighborhood
ing, it should be -recognized that many of these.
parks which provide both active and _
priorities'would ovedap.in implementation. It is
passive uses.
not meant to be implied'thafeach priority must
-
be dealt;with'and completed in sequential order.
8.
Develop: a balifieid complex_
These priorities are provided to indicate a logical
-
sequence of actions, understanding that land ;
Basis. of Recommendation. The con
and funding availability may change the priori
struction of a balitieid -complex would ,
ties.
assure adequate balifield space for pies=
ant and future use; as ..well as reduce
use pressure on` existing- community
"VLD. Schedu ing -
fields. This will also allow for the consid
eration of-alternate uses at one or move
existing community parks. .
It is the recommendation.of this Plan that ail ,
Plan elements be, in place: within the next 25
years. Those actions which are directly relafed
9
Develop public access alongport ions
of Lena tGulch and Rocky Mountain
to an increase in population would, not be
Ditch where feasible and desirable.' .
implemented until the: occurs:
B
The 25-year timeframe is.felt to be an appropri-
asis of Recommendation:' Both Lena
Gulch and Rocky Mountain Ditch provide ,
ate period of time to allow the City to implement .
potential recreation corridrs..Afthough
the. Plan elements, ft permits adequate time fior
physical, - managerial. and . natural re-
physical and financial planning. However, :the
source .constraints may prevent the
timefr ame and the implementation of Plan
constr'uctionofcontin ousts menu
ait
"seg
elements musfbe sensitive to land and funding .
'
`
or public access, both these corridors
availability In this regard, the 25=year impiemen
should be studied for the provision of
tation period is a goal, not a necessity
intermittent access.
As mentioned above; the impleme"nta"tion of the.
1D.
Develoo' a Wheat Ridge Arboretum::
Plan elements will- overlap 'sign ificantly While
short-term improvements are being made; e.g. . ;
'
"Basis of, Recommendation: A Wheat
the construction. of a neighborhood park, the
Ridge Arboretum would provide a unique ,
City m- ;be in the long-term process of plan'-
d
•I
resource`to the'City of Wheat Ridge. The
;
Wing an
arranging funding for an indoor -pool.
3
~
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
%
Page 41
Section VL Implementation
" Applicability.- - What potential revenue source
VIA Amending the Plan
will be tapped?
Voter Acceptability Can sufficient voter
This Master Plan establishes clear direction and
support be garnered?
concrete',goals for : the implementation. of a
comprehensive parks and recreation system for.
Experience has, shown that user fees can be 'a
Wheat Ridge. The "Plan is also designed to be.
Very effective revenue source for capital and
flexible in both the location. and, timing of key
personnel intensive facilities where high levels of
improvements. Amendments to the Plan will be -
use are achieved. Such facilities would include
necessary with the passage of time. As Plan
indoor' swimming` pools and recreation centers.
elements are completed, reference to their
This can be seen in the substantial revenues
recommendation can be deleted from both
.generated by Wheat Ridge's outdbor:swimming
narrative text and mapping. It is more likely that
,pool at Wheat Ridge Park. >
Plan elements may be added.
Umited duration 'sales tax levies are gaining "
The Parks`. and Recreation :Master Plan is" an
acceptance as 6.popular mechanism. This is
adopted "element of the City of Wheat Ridge ;
because they achieve predictable lds; are
Comprehensive Development, Plan. Avouch,
relatively;.easy and inexpensive to, administer;
amendments to the Parks Plan are :made in
and often receive strong voter acceptability at
accordance with the process of amending any,
least in terms of the mechanism, although not.
element of the City's Comprehensive Plan: The
necessarily with respect to the tax rate or dura-
following is an outline of this process for an
:lion.
amendment td the Parks and:Recreation Master !
Plan
tn'addition to direct funding, land'developer
dedications or new development dwelling unit
1. A proposal ! is made to add, delete or : "
fee's (impact fees), `can also provide parkland
change a sign 'rficant element of the Plan.
and open space or an additional cash source to
purchase these.
The proposalis brought before the Parks
and.' Recreation Commission for review.
-
A special;potential forthe City, of Wheat Ridge is
and analysis: The Parks and Recreation
cooperative planning and funding: with the
Commission 'makes arecommendation'
-Jefferson County School' District for the joint use
on the proposal" and : passes this on to' .
and,development'of projects. This would reprer
the'Planning-Commission. .
sent,an expansion cf an in--place mechanism.
The Planning Commission reviews the
There is`no single "best" mechanism for all
proposal and makes a recommendation ;
potential acquisition and development" scenari:
based on its analysis. ; -
os. Rather, desired parks "and recreation plan-
ning, policy development; and the funding
4: A public hearing is publicized and held
structure must be developed simultaneously.
to receive comment, on the proposal.
Page 84
City of Wheat Ridge'
V
d
_ i
REFERENCES
I
Documents`.
•
City "of Wheat Ridge Comprehensive Development Plan
•
City of.Wheat Ridge Parks and Open Space Plan, 1975
•
City of Wheat Ridge Annual: Budget, 1990.
•
Jefferson County Open Space Master Plan, 1989
• -
Recreation, Park :and Open Space Standards and Guidelines, National
Recreation and Park Association, 1983
•
Green Survival City,-Application by the City of Wheat Ridge, 1982
•
: Cole Directory, Cole Publications,'1990
Personal Comrnunication: '
i
Colorado Division of Parks and"Outdoor Recreation
•
Colorado _DiJision'of Wildlife
•
'Jefferson County Open Space
•
Jefferson `County. R-1 School District
•
City and 'County of :Denver
•
City of Lakewood
•
"City of Arvada" : • ' .
City,of Edgewater .
•
Various Wheat Ridge City Departments
'
"
•
recreation organizations
Vanous.private
Wheat, Ridge Historical Society "
•
Richards-Hart Estate AdvisoryCornmi ee
•
.
Other community ions%
,
i
I
i
i
i
'i
7
~
,i
i
1
.5; 5
PUBLIC MEETING COMMENTS
Area 1•
Tuesday, October 2,199
No attendance (Area 1 is the very, small residential area north of 1-70.)
Area 2
Tuesday, October 9. 1990
•
There is a tied for more passive-use parks. j
•
The'playground at Prospect Park is overused; on weekends.
•
75-acre parcel at 42nd and Pierson owned by the Lee & Baugh .
Look at 6:0
.
Ditch Company for parkland acquisition
. More balifieids or a ballfield eomplex is needed. Look at vacantproperty north
of 1-70. L.
.
Would like to see Mugele Park developed as a passive use- park with ,A soft
trall
•
Move the Old Post. Office tdjhe Historical-Park.
Purchase the house south of 46th on Robb .and'the house,on 44th and Robb., ,
Expand the Historical Park to 44th Avenue. `
t t
he Rock property.
Purchase
Would like the Ranger Program reinstated.,
Improve the Johnson Park Playgrournd.
•
More recreation .programs 'are. needed for middle-aged people,
J1 •
More senior programs are needed west of Kiping.
7- F
•
More travel programs are neededdor seniors.
•
The armchair travel, program should :be expanded.
l
ses
raft
i
s
n
•
as
.
s c
en
or c
d
There is a"need for more adult a
•
more. indoor"and outdoor basketball; courts ate needed.
•
There is :a need for more passive use areas at Prospect Park.;
•
A'playground should be developed:at Mugele Park.
'Because' Wheat 'Ridge Park is centrally located add more, facilities to it, ,
ncluding:battin0 "cages.
•
There is a`need for a "sports complex."
- - 3 i
The City needs a large recreation center wfth,a Wheat:Ridge "focus," including
basketball' courts, racquetball' courts and meeting rooms
- •
Construct a pedestrian bridge across Clear, Greek West of Tabor Lake.` ,
y
Id
•
i
The Clear Creek Greenbelt Trailhead at Youngfeld needs to be reconstructed.
•
What about a possible joint venture With the Lutheran Medical Center for a
recreation center?" -
The City, needs a. golf course.
•
Crown Hill Open Space is a great resource.
Area & -
Thursday, 'Se tpmber 27 1990,
•
Crown Hill Open Space is great for exercise.'
.
" What about stocking fish- in:Clear Greek?"
Aproperty at 3835 Oiis is ,available for parkland acquisition.
il.
Would like an indoor swimming pool
"i •
Upgrade the Johnson Park-Plavground. "
Put a stripe on the Greenbelt path to, separate pedestrians and bicyclists.
•
There needs to be-a-space ,for skateboard use.
Area 4
alVednesday, September 26, 1990
There is'a"need. for more' passive. parkland in this neighborhood. This has
been an ongoing request since the 1970s.
•
Jefferson County ,Open"-Space, monies should not be -used for park
maintenance or development
"
Reinstate: the Park. Ranger Program:
•
Do a joint ,venture with"Edgewater propertyat 29th and Kendall (5.5 acres)
Acquire propertyy"adjacent to Town'Center Park to further soften the impact of
the parking lot.
•
.The City needs more open. space land. Acquire land While it is still available..
•
Acquire the Qualteri property.
•
-Wheat Ridge needs addftional recreation facilfties; including racouetball courts, ;
an indoor.swimming pool, basketball courts and a"golf Course:, -
•
"City. residents should get reduced rates at'the Applewood" Golf Course. f
•
What about covering the existing pool?
" , •
The, City" does not?need more totlots. ,
.
.":Complete the Greenbelt Trail crossing at Clear Creek and'
9
.
`Reinstate the Park RangerProgram_withthe horse patrol.
" .
: it is important to be able to walk to the parks,
.3
i
• "
The existing senior programs are good, but there needs to be,,,more room for
these programs. `
•
Improve safety on the Greenbeit. There isa conflict between pedestrians and
bicyclists.
There needs to be.better signage at the Greenbelt trailheads.
•
A bicycle safety program is needed.
•
What about an education/theme park designed by children?
Area 5:
Tuesdav.`September 25. 1990
•
The City needs a.Tecreation center with an :indoor swimming; pool. :Where
'would it be located?
i •
There needs to be more patrolling of the Greenbelt. "
' •
The City should- use horse patrol, as, opposed to motorized patrol of the:
Greenbelt:
•
, Reinstate'the Ranger.Program.
•
, Wheat Ridge needs more bike paths.
.
"There needs to be safer access to the. Greenbelt from the-hill above Johnson ;
"
Park (Brentwood or Balsam).,
•
, Purchase the Truck Driving.t6hool for addition to the -Greenbelt
•
Concern was expressed for safety at the playgrounds:
Acquire the Greenbelt, as opposed to extending short-term leases.
•
Cover the existing pool wlth an air supportsystem for winter, use.
•
Increase the patrol of the Greenbelt ;'(horse patrol).
•
Have organizations: "adopt''. portions! of the Greenbelt as service projects
•
Reinstate the Ranger. Program (horse patrol):_ ,
•
" The City needs more passive/natural parks,
The City needs a covered swimming pool.
•
Do not use Wheat Ridge Park for the Carnation `Festival:"
•
Develop a sports complex-north of 1-70.
•
" Place more trash receptacles'on the Greenbelt.
. The. bar next to Wheat Ridge Park presents an unsafe situation.
•
Do not place more'trash receptacles on the Greenbelt.
l s
h".
There needs to be more access to the Greenbelt east.of Wadswort
•
How, is the water quality'of Clear Creek?
•
There"'needs to be more recreation programming for the- youth of working
adults after working hours;: especially, swimming and gymnastics.
•
Light the access to Johnson Park.
Purchase the Truck Driving School for addition to the Greenbelt.
•
The City needs a square dance, hall.
•
The City needs a golf course.
•
Maintain the rural quality of the City.
More pedestrian access is needed to crown Hill Open Space and other: parks..
'Get more lottery funds back: into the parks.
• '
Acquire the Truck Driving.School and the concrete plant.;
•
Move the old Post Office to the Historical Park.
• .
The Parks Department and the Historical Society need to work more closely
together.
•
More pedestrian ad bicycle'access to the parks is needed. `
•
Use Open Space funds for park development:
•
Purchase additional open space,land for natural, areas.
•
Increase the level of maintenance at'parks before developing new parks.
Area 6:
Wednesday. October 10J996
" •
The City needs to complete: the Clear Creek 'crossing at Kipling.
•
The City should reinstate the Park Ranger/Horse Program on the Greenbelt.
•
Emphasis should be on land acouisition, Iand.bi§nking and an increase in ppen
space.
•
There should be more-dirt trails.
•
Protect the wildlife; habitat areas:
•
Do not alloy public access, along Lena Gulch to protect wildlife' ha.bftat :areas'
w
The City needs a longer term lease'or - the Greenbelt.
•
The. summer recreation programs are very good. -
•
There should be more swimming lessons.
• ,
The City needs on; indoor pool.
It Would be nice 'rf the City provided:horse riding,programs and a riding area.
• "
Mugele Park should be developed as a rest area for 1-70-
What' about the Parks and-Recreation Department.(Forestry) having its own
nursery?
1990-CIT
i' OF WHEAT RIDGE PARK
S AND RECREATION QUESMONNAIRE-
.
In each of the following questions, pigase
circle the appropriate response. .
1.` How often do yoo or metnbers of your `hoilwhold participate in the Mowing activities each year?
Occasi
onally Oftot FY*wn ty Never.
(l-]O):; . (11-20) (2I+) (0)
Horseshoes 1
...:::........2
b.
•
- Skating - .1
...-..:.......:.2 - .....;,-4
C.
Softball ............1
....:`::3 .............3 .::.:4
d.
, Football.......... .....;>:...1
2. I i` ....3 ....,.;::i
e:.-
Sager ......---......I
...:.:..........:2 -:......3 '-4 - '
!
-
-:.Basketball ..-.......:c .....i9-.....1
..::-:.......2 `.....3 .
g.
-Golf
..3 .......4 ,
h
,
Tennis ....-i- ri ..I
::2 _.3 t..-..4
- i.
Racquetball . -
j.
Volleyball I
2 ; 3 4
Swimtoing .1
..::'.........'.2 ...3 .......,7
. • . I.
-?BsteisaMmess Classes :'i • 1
i.3 3 ,4 `
. m.
f: Eserehe Equipment
....5......... 2. .......::....3 ._:4
. R..
.
.~Watking/loWng ..1
2-..... ...-,....3 ..:'......,.::.1
. a -
-Brsydmg ..1
..:.•;..........2. .......:....3 .....:...4
p.
"P'sshmg ..1
.:i.'........•2 .3 .......:4
q
Elms,
• > a e
'Adult Education Classes 1
L
Arl and Crafts Classes". 1
2' ...........3 .:7: ,
- t.
-.Senior Fattest; lasses.,:;` .1
:_2. ...3 ..4
u.
Senior Progams/Activities'........ . 11
........2-:
.
.
:Other General Park Use . , . 1
: 2......... 3 4
, .
2.
Do you, or does, anyone in your household
participate m any of the following city provtdrd o gallized
activities (please; not include participation is school teams)?
Yac 1Vo
..a.
Youth Soccer..... t
.,....2% , r
,:i.. b.
-Youth Baseball .....--,........:::..1
2'- - -
' a
Youth Football . . 1
i
it .
:Youth Basketball
C.
Youth Softball;'..:: .1
. , .....2.
.
.
.Youth Volleyball .......:.:..4
.....:2<..-
-
-
-Adult Soccer.'..
i
:
.
6.
Ailuit,Basketball 1
.......2.
•
- i. •
Adult Softball:: . 1
_ .
_ ...•7 _.2, :
-
i,
Aduh Voleyball ..1
.
.......2
3. Do
you believe that there are too maw; eaotigh ornot enough of the fopowing GStypark and iecwtion :
fatalitjes?
Tao Alavry Fnau~Ir Nat Frtago
a.
Totkxs : 1
:...:y.....:.2-- ......::...3-
b.
Neighborhood-Parks" 1
.2 .3
. .
C.
-community :Parks'
:
.
-
-
d.
Pec estan Centers .......1
, ;
_..3
' L ,
kke/BikeTrai(s
2: ..3 , ,
- L
Undeveloped Open Space .1
......2'- ..3 - .
Outdoor swim niog Pools .1
..::.........:2 % 3
-
-
- h.
Santa melds.' C..1
_
...::.....:..r2` ......::::...3
' i.
: .1
Footbid FieWs
....s:........2 .......;:...3
'
_
-
- k.
Outdoor BasketbW Cass': i
......2-
s..:...3
t
Teen's Courts 1
....::.:.......2 ..:1::..3
'Smallplaygioonds for tarc.ouside of parks.
''serving rrsidentul areas with a varkrY Of, activities, 4, Play areas; acids, courts, etc. .
'''Passive and: autire reaeational areas gar the community at hop. , _
.
4.
How would you respond to the following statements?
Ss a+IstY Agw. A&w. Disagm, S6ungfy Disdgrtre "
a. -'-tam pkased.with the City's -
'
parksystem ..1 .....-_.2 ......:......3 . :.4
-
b'. I-am pleated with the 10y,
-
mettatioa programs
e I am satisfied-.with the facilities
' .
available in the City parts : I 2.- :-.....3 4-
-
d. The parks aft generally safe _
._..~and aura nive; : .......:....1 ......:..2 3...; : ........-4 .
•
C. -''Ike parks Jim:wtll mainumed , 1 .....:........2 $ 4 .
' f. -I. feel that adequate information
-
'is available about City park and
.
mcmatiogpmgrams J...1 ...::........2-: ,..".-....3 4" .
Senior facilities and programs -
h 7-would like to see the Park itangcr
Progmm teinatated .....:-L 1 . 2, ...3 ...;.4 _
i
•
is - User feel ehirged- for 6ty-here- -
ation programs am reasonable 1 .2 3 .......4
j. I would support a modest u6i
increase to develop more.. fadli-
.
jl.
ties sad, programs ......r: .1 2: : 3 ..:i 4,
Please indicate•whether you think Wheat Ridge needs the following facilities.
Yv. No
a. Indoor Swimming Pool..: 1- ....::....2
Youth Park:apecUically for. skateboards sad BMX's 1" i .2
.
c . `New Multi=iuc-lieemationCsnter 1-- ......,.~....2 - "
6. ' .
Please list up to three priorities, either facilities and/or programs, which you believe should be improved
or provided.for in the Wheat Ridge Parks-and Recreation Master Plan:.
•a.
b.
c
What is your age? -
Under 24 , 1 8:, Are you male 1. or feutale~ 2
25-34 ....r . : 2"
35.44' , 1:, 9'.. HOW many people.in your household?
4554 4
5
65+: 6
i0.?-
Any biker"comments or suggemons;relori[* Wheat Ridge's park an d'ieveatioli:system?
1
t '
.1
THANK YOU VERYMUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND COORERANONI
Responses to `Questionnaire Item #10 "Any other comments or '
suggestions regarding.Wh ' t`Ridge 's park and recreation: system?"
1 _
Need a pool `both sides of'Wheat Ridge.
Z
Overall pleased.
3.
Thank you!
4., `
So far I think you are` doing a`good job.. Please don't let it go down the drain.
Thank you. `
5:..
, Most arks in area are well maintained and don't::seem to be used much. A good
variety of programs and equipment.
6:.
' -Our 6rea is a great place to live.
7. °
No comment pretty satisfied wi#h what's available.
8. .
Asa sen!orcftizen, I do not Participate.': But good luck! -
Fine,people"who let their dogs empty themselves in the walkways.antl then don't .
'
pick it up: .
10 P.
general, I am very `pleased with the parks around Wheat Ridge: -
11 s
Wheat Ridge, has an, excellent recreation and parks program.. Am extremely
pleased with the summer swimming program-andd,haJing an Indoor ,pool, would be
wonderful addition. Everyone we have'dealt wdh'has been professional; courteous , : .
. • , _
and knowledgeable: Keep, upthe great work!
I i 12
There are not nearly enough'planned;teen activities.
1
i
-I
I
13.
-
If we plan fora recreation center, I hope it will be centrally located on Wadsworth
I
property, or even in connection with Lutheran Hospital Open Space money
i
should not be used for maintenance!
14:.
Should pay more attention to citizen input. Too much park sacrificed in lieu of '
payment from developers.
15.` -
Sts. Peter and Paul Church Annual Picnic held at Prospect Park has had bad and
years. This year was good because
unclean (filthy) bathroom facilities in the'last 2-years.-
of porta-johns.
16.
j
Spending money unnecessarily-such as the stone` wall at the park north of 26th
Avenue and west on Wadsworth. Just what does that stone wall prove for the
park?? To me it is:just a waste of taxpayers, money for the cost of the wall, it ,
Could be used somewhere else to more good. -
17.' •
i
I know4 this is just for recreation , but it would be nice if the City of 1Nheat"Ridge
would consider,in the near future to build a .senior citizen complex-- cheaper rent
with facilities.
18:
Open space Ma open space easements and.purchasezof developmentrights.
Trees and more trees: Lena. Gulch natural bottom. Rangers, yes: Horses, yes.
19..
Keepyool .open through Labor Day, Better, swimming instruction quallity
20:,
Only support new facilities if it is possible to finance with; no new taxes. There is
no information 'about the useof school playground faciiit!es --very confusing..
Need to publish policy as to what can be used, when and where'-
21:
Use lottery funds to cover the;City Pool so it !s available for year-round use.`
22..
My property borders Mugele Park. I enjoy the wild birds. I would like to seethe
park stay passive or open with pine trees; a- meandering path' for, walks and • ;
horseback riders, picnic tables and perhaps a playground: Eliminate weeds, plant.
I
i
natural grasses or xeriscape,
I
23. Not enough ;advertisement to let public know what is available. Youth need a
place to call, their own where they can be open with themselves; learn what their
dreams are, makeright decisions - would help decrease teen violence and
suicide.
24.
Undevelo d areas. should have trails, , because of cactus, thorns and thistles
Pe. ~
(problem when walking dog); also should be cleared of broken glass.
25:,-
Pedestrian/bike bridge across Kipting? would 'help. Please don't, put tunnel
underneath. It would be a very. dangerous place. Tunnel under highway j
Boulder has much graffiti and stories ofrape and indecentexposure. Needs to be
in view of many.
26.% -
No younger children in family .now so not knowledgeable on some questions.
27,.
We mostly ride bikes. in Prospect Park and the.Greenbelt: ,It's very pleasant, but
would like to see more patrol for fast bike riders and possbl"e crime. Asa female,
-
' J1` i t _f 2 a .J 1 V
I ❑(7~-nUl ICdIc: A[11C Lo-I IUG dIW11C U U, IM IC1 V.
28
RE: 'Youth park, for skateboards% and BMX's - Uability :and supervising may not j
be cost effective. - j
i
29
Parks are„ fine, but you need. more community parks-- playground type for
children.
30.-
Mare in our-70s,'and health is not good; we do not participate in parks but want -
the young children and those..who enjoy sports in the park system to continue
enjoying them "
31:'
It would' be 'very. helpful if -the aerobics instructors had portabie microphones . ;
attached to them.so everyone could hear their instructions. You:would probably
,
It is
get more people to stay and return if they could hear and be'able to follow
Harder to d6-the exercise if you don't know what to do,
32:
My family did" use all-the facilities in Wheat Ridge and I will use the senior activities.
this is just a,very busy ttme and t don't think I representthe area. Sure wish this
had gone to a family:
li
33
I.think we are very, fortunate to have what we have. We think our parks are well-
kept.
34: _
1 enjoy the open space at 32nd and Kipling very.. much. Thank you for making it
available!
35.:
You're doing a good job, but since Wheat Ridge has a larger senior population,
safety is a big concern. Give kids a safe place to skateboard 'and that will allow
others a quiet place for themselves, Now If you'd get your act together Re: road
construct!on,:we could all be,happy!
36.
If the City isgoing' to continue ahe -tree planting program, see that services are
.
prov!ded as 'promised.
3T..
Would like to see an'. indoor swimming pool,, racquetball courts, " basketball &
volleyball'courts included in new rec. "center. continue and lengthen season for . .
Sunday night` concert ' in park series.
38:.
I am 'overall pleased with parks system but would appreciate iacilities,such, as,;
Foothills offers 1 _e plan to use.youth,.boccer,'etc.,, etc.; 4h6n'6hil&en -ire old
enough.
39:
Funds from open space 'prograrn,sliould be used for original intentions:-- more
open space, not maintenance. Range, program was veryworthWhile for young "
people as well as park users; Sad it's not stilt going. Greenbelt is especially
i
valuable and`unusuaL? Good for, all, ages
40.
at W.R: Senior Center. -
Expanded facilities for W.R. Senor Center, !ncreas.e staff
41
Better publicity. "The twice a-year booklet just does notdo the job. How, about ;
inserts in the Sentinel? Or something. like that?':
42
Find :.a way for police'to patrol: Greenbelt --.widen paved-paths to ~accomrnodati
i
police car.-77 maybe` unpaved,paths on either side of paved path:
a
,
43:
None. Keep`up the good work!
,F
44.
If adding facilities, let user fees support ;instead of adding a -tax
45.1 '
You do a fine job on parks and recreation.
46.
The City may, look into providing a' pedestrian controlled "stop, light': at the
intersection of 41st and IGpling or expand the drainage of Lena's Gulch to provide.
passage similar to that offered at Youngfield and wadsworth.
47.
Fora small city, Wheat Ridge does, a good job,with its park and recreation_syswm...
48.,
t think youngsters of all ages could participate in this. A youngster: spending time
i
in this sport`is keeping out of trouble.
49:.
Pleasege bike path to not come down 41 st Ave. Thank you.
50,
Abridge or 'underpass connecting the Greenbelt across Kipling @ 41st Ave.
51
Don't use our open space money on indoor projects!
52
Need more after dark patrols.
53:
'Safe convenient access to Greenbelt from neighborhood. Obtain' additional open
space specifically 11.5. Truck School property adjacent to Johnson Park.
55.
Ea6i6r ak6ess,to, parka: I like the idea of connecting parks;.etc:, by.walking/biking.
The Tree C4.can't be, too green. Yes.to a nature park. ;1 know:..this is-not your i`
dornain but if would ;benice to green up; and unify the appearance of.WadSworth
south of 1-70: Arvada has improved north of I-70 with boulevards: ,
56.-
Need alight ofsome kind at the.restroom at Randall Park: The softball fields need
'
'
to be; updated
to match theguality of basebal4 fi
elds (i.e.; covered dugouts, bat '
racks, helmet racks) "
5T. ;
Parks are noisy. '
58.
Parks Dept. is doing-a good job, esp.-`enjoyed the flowers this year. Glad to see
the fountain 'at Times:Square running again. Would like to see, "adopt a trail" prog.
i
for litter pickup. Would like to see occasional trash cans along the:Greenbeit, esp. '
nearWR Park-used by Junior Hi students. Open space used for acquis. of land
i
while -available..
" 59:
i
Do something about sprinkler'. system at. Paramount Park, Many areas get no
water. Should. have checked before planting. Whole park will be nothing but
weeds again. Add dirt to low spots (water kills grass). Remove weeds and crab • -
grass from bum areas: Seems millions of $ have been wasted-
E
60.11
In regard to your, questionnaire, .I am not familiar with the parks, and recreation
areas. in Wheat Ridge and am. not able to submit to your; questions.' Sorry; but I
f
am not a dayto-day resident,anymore in beautiful Wheat; Ridge, Colorado:
61::
I
Won't lottery revenues, continue to fund; recreational facilities? Generally, 'I think
you've made excellent progress;--from Youngfield east Greenbelt totiot 38th and
Parfet, etc
62.
Provide access to Greenbelt at west end from area south of 38th Ave. riding,
walk ng.along Youngfield is. dangerousCrossing Youngfeid at 32nd to access
service road is not much better Upgrade path north from Simms north of 38th.
i
63.
Really impressed with Anderson Builtling faci1.y.Great pool and good instruction"
for youth: Also, gymnastic :classes for youth. Great instruction, Our City has"an "
outstanding center... Parks in generahseem quite"adequate: Indoor pool not"a
main priority YMCA.in Lakewood has :a fine onel
64. `
. Since we are` seniors we 'do not use soccer, basketball, etc:, but I do think the .
young, people. need these things. We both love the Crown Hill Park and :use it
every day: rThe plantings are really doing nicely.'
65.
ee just moved into the area one year, ago and are. very impressed-with1bia perks
system in general., The Greenbelt bike/Walking path is great. More'!na'tutal" parks
like this would be wonderful.
f
66
Suggest outdoor swimming pool near center of'City;
i
I
1
67.
Landon Youngfield at the Greenbelt is-markIed'for sale.; . use. open space money
to buy, owned by City trees could be added. There is a safety factor with bikes'-
1
on only paved. path on Greenbelt. Most bikers do not announce their coming.
66;
On the whole, good work!
69:'
Repair bike trail - tree damage; paint line down middle of bike-path --more caution,,
signs; betterand safer access to bike path, e.g, Wadsworth and Johnson Park;
get Denver and Golden to "extend bike path; no trash cans; have' nature
interpretation center, pollution problerrm;` patrol bike trail. -
70
Anderson Swimming Pool Area: limited picnic area, uncomfortable tables, should
allow noriswimming family access to area. If parents couldwatch swimmers; better
control' of kids. Expand Sod House and Historic District (more).
71>
RE: <Tennis at Panorama Park: Am in groups that play there; every morning.
Need assurance that no events will be scheduled in AM Schedule lessons in
afternoon. Increase courts from 4 to 6 and keepthe m' close together. •Thanks for `
s..<
good maintenance of:court
72
There desperately needs. to be a safe continuity, of a path across- Kipling'orr the
Greenbelt. Someone. is gongto get killed crossing Kiping. Need to go, under
Kipling at Clear Creek or .south
-
7a
Need more classes and activities for working families.
74.
day at Panorama park --.mostly
We Have a.large' number of tennis players every
seniors this should be encouraged and developed:
75.
My son is avid skateboarder. `No 'legal 'place where he can skate: other. than our
property. We've been to at least one mountain town that has a' modest
skateboard park. We` need to provide a place for this activity for:our youth:
76
Need more totlots.
77: .
Let user fees pay, for these facilities (new). Lease ground from Crown Hill-., -
i
Cemetery and open space fora golf course (W. :32nd-Ave.