FAQ
Has a final master plan for City Park been identified?
No. Several alternative plans and phasing options are currently being considered. A work session with City Council is scheduled for October 22 to review and discuss these options with Council.
Prior to the October 22 work session, City staff met with community participants from the design workshop to review, refine, and discuss the alternatives.
How will the character of the park be preserved?
Preserving the character of the park is a high priority. Both the mature tree canopy will be protected and broad, green open spaces will be maintained throughout the park. Tree protection and preservation during design and construction will be closely coordinated with City Forestry staff. A certified arborist will be on-site at key times during construction to ensure protection of existing trees and their root systems.
Historic elements such as the moss rock walls, statue of Liberty, WWI cannon, trolley, and historic depot will also be preserved and protected.
Are there adventure-style course zip lines proposed in the tree canopy?
A new playground in the park is being considered, but no determination has been made about what kind of equipment or features may be included. New features will be designed to blend in color, theme, and character with the park. Ground level zip line features are very popular, and can be currently found in Lee Martinez, Twin Silo and Radiant Park playgrounds.
Is additional outdoor lighting proposed?
No determination has been made about what kind of lighting improvements may occur in the park. Park lighting is typically provided along walks, parking areas, or in common gathering areas to improve safety. New lights will meet dark sky requirements.
What will happen in the area where the old City Park train used to operate?
No determination has been made. Concepts considered to date include a small shade/picnic structure and large open lawn area with pockets of informal planting beds. The space could predominantly be used informally, with the ability to reserve the space for small events.
Are gardens proposed in the park?
No determination has been made. New planting beds may include low water use and wildlife habitat friendly shrubs, ornamental grasses and perennials. Drifts of native/adaptable plants could be added to support pollinators and wildlife and define quiet seating areas within the park.
Where will the new City Park Train be located?
Several locations for the new City Park Train are being considered, including south of the CSU ball fields and in the park core area. A final location for the train has not been determined.
The new City Park Train is consistent in size and scale to the old train. The train tracks require a larger area in order to meet current safety standards for turning radius. The new proposed track is 11% greater in length than the old track length.
What is the overall community feedback on the City Park Tomorrow Plan?
Polling and overall feedback in 2016, 2018, and 2019 indicated majority support for the plans and various elements proposed. However, a final plan for the park has not yet been determined. Community feedback will continue to inform the master plan, design elements, and vision for the park.
To what extent was the City Park Train discussed at the design workshop?
Discussion during the workshop included a broad spectrum of opinions, including advocates for a new City Park Train as well as those who oppose the train being re-introduced to City Park. During the workshop, several participants expressed a desire to shift City Park Train to another park.
Voters approved a ballot measure to fund re-introduction of the City Park Train at City Park. The 2015 Community Capital Improvement Projects ballot language reads:
“This project will bring back the City Park train in a new, expanded location in City Park.”
What funding sources are currently available for the project?
Approximately $900,000 is available for a first phase improvement project at City Park. This funding comes from the 2005 Building on Basics ballot initiative:
“The City has four older community parks (City Park, built in 1911; Edora Park, built in 1971; Lee Martinez Park, built in 1976; Rolland Moore Park, built in 1984) and over 30 neighborhood parks. This project will add improvements, such as new playground equipment, picnic shelters, restrooms, landscaping and sidewalks needed to keep our parks useful, enjoyable and attractive.”
In addition to the $900,000, approximately $350,000 is available from the ballot approved Community Capital Improvement Program for purchase, fabrication, and basic installation of the train and tracks in the park. Any site-specific modifications necessary to accommodate the train in a new location, including demolition of existing structures, tree protection, grading and drainage adjustments, irrigation or utility improvements are not included in this cost, as these costs vary and are specific to the train location determined.
What was the purpose of the two-day community engaged workshop?
The purpose of the two-day design workshop was to focus on an overall vision/master plan for the park, including the best location(s) for the new City Park train in City Park.
How can I stay involved and informed as the project progresses?
Regular updates will be made to the project web page at fcgov.com/parkplanning.