Cheyenne City Council discusses Greenway funding and recreational facility needs

The Cheyenne City Council convened on July 12, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the 6th Penny Projects, focusing on aquatic facilities and greenway expansions. The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to enhance natural areas and address flooding issues through dredging projects, which are expected to take time due to annual funding limitations.

City officials discussed the anticipated financial contributions from the 6th Penny tax, with projections estimating the city's share to be around $70 million over the next funding cycle. The distribution of funds typically allocates 45% to the county and 45% to the city, with smaller percentages designated for surrounding areas.

Brenda Moreau, the deputy city treasurer, provided updates on the current financial status, revealing that there is $1.5 million allocated for Greenway maintenance and $1.3 million for Greenway expansion. These funds are part of a broader strategy to improve recreational spaces in Cheyenne.

Council members also addressed the potential for a pedestrian bridge across I-25, which could serve as a connection point for the Greenway system. Discussions included the challenges of integrating new greenway loops into existing neighborhoods, emphasizing the need for careful planning and maintenance considerations.

A notable point raised during the meeting was the lack of an indoor turf facility in Cheyenne, which Councilman Esquivel identified as a significant gap in the city's recreational offerings. He suggested that acquiring such a facility could garner strong support from the community in future funding initiatives.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing recreational infrastructure while navigating financial constraints and community needs. The next steps will involve further planning and collaboration among city officials to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.