City council plans $700K Centennial Park upgrades including solar lights and story walks

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on March 13, 2025, in Englewood City, Colorado, showcased several exciting developments aimed at enhancing community spaces and recreational opportunities. The discussions primarily focused on improvements to Centennial Park and updates on the Bates Logan Park project.

A significant highlight was the proposed enhancements for Centennial Park, which include the installation of ten solar lights along the walking path, floating docks, and a bird blind to promote wildlife observation. The commission is also introducing a "story walk" feature, where children can read books displayed on pedestals as they walk along the path. This initiative, in partnership with the local library, will feature bilingual books and will rotate throughout the year, encouraging literacy and outdoor activity among young visitors.

The commission is seeking a $500,000 grant from Arapahoe County to support these improvements, with a total project budget of approximately $700,000. The matching funds will come from the city’s open space fund, and the grant application is due on April 11, 2025. The commission expressed optimism about the project, which aims to enhance the park's usability and aesthetic appeal.

In addition to Centennial Park, updates were provided on the Bates Logan Park project, which is progressing on schedule. The basketball court has been completed, and work on the bicycle portion is expected to finish by early summer, coinciding with a planned grand opening celebration. The commission emphasized the importance of community engagement during this process, with plans for a large ribbon-cutting event.

Further discussions included the ongoing renovation of the Southwest Greenbelt trail, which is transitioning from asphalt to concrete to improve accessibility and safety for users. The commission also addressed community feedback regarding the proposed dog park at Cushing Park, with suggestions for its design and management, including the potential for a pass system to regulate access.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to enhancing recreational facilities and fostering community involvement in Englewood City. As projects move forward, the commission will continue to seek input from residents to ensure that developments meet the needs and desires of the community. The next steps include finalizing grant applications and continuing to monitor the progress of ongoing projects, with updates expected in future meetings.