The Castle Rock Town Council held a significant meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on a major development proposal for a 533.5-acre property located in unincorporated Douglas County. This area, currently used for agricultural purposes, is poised for transformation into a mixed-use community that includes residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

The development plan, which has been in the works since 2020, includes three related applications that aim to annex the property into Castle Rock's jurisdiction. The proposal outlines plans for approximately 1,800 single-family homes, 1,000 multifamily units, and 600,000 square feet of business and light industrial space. Notably, over 33% of the area is designated for open space and parks, exceeding the town's requirement of 20%.

A key aspect of the discussion was the town's strong opposition to urban-level development in unincorporated areas, emphasizing the need for such projects to adhere to local regulations. The council expressed a desire to manage the development within Castle Rock to ensure better control over infrastructure, water management, and traffic impacts. The pre-annexation agreement, approved by the council in December, set the groundwork for collaboration between the town and the property owner, allowing for a smoother transition into the annexation process.

Traffic concerns were a prominent topic during the meeting, with council members voicing apprehensions about the potential impact on local roadways. The development agreement stipulates that the developer will be responsible for addressing traffic impacts, including funding for traffic signals at critical intersections. Council members stressed the importance of thorough traffic studies to ensure that the infrastructure can accommodate the anticipated growth.

Additionally, the proposal includes a public land dedication for a future school site, which will remain available for educational or recreational use. If the school district does not request the site within ten years, the developer can repurpose it for parks and recreation.

The council's discussions highlighted the community's need for transparency and engagement as the development progresses. Several neighborhood meetings have already been held to address residents' concerns, and further public input will be sought as the project moves forward.

In conclusion, the council's decision to pursue annexation and zoning for this development reflects a strategic approach to managing growth in Castle Rock. By bringing the project under town jurisdiction, officials aim to enhance community resources, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for residents, while also addressing the challenges posed by increased development in the area.