Larimer County updates timeline for ranch projects; event lawn construction to begin

County staff updated commissioners on multiple projects at the Larimer County ranch during the Sept. 15 work session, including wayfinding, schematic design for phase 2, a new restaurant, parking improvements and event-lawn construction.

Leslie Ellis, director of Community Planning, Infrastructure and Resources, said the ranch is moving forward with requests for proposals for a wayfinding project and that the contract for schematic design of all phase 2 projects is scheduled to be completed by Dec. 29. She told commissioners the Blue restaurant is expected to wrap up work by Sept. 28 and that parking-lot work plus County Road 5 work should finish at the end of the month.

Event-lawn work: Ellis said the notice to proceed for the event-lawn contractor was issued last week and that construction will begin soon; the board previously signed the agreement for that work. She also said staff will schedule work sessions in November and December to review the final master plan and continue conversations around financial feasibility for the ranch.

Accessibility and visitor assistance: Staff said the county adjusted accessible parking at the ranch to separate vehicles from pedestrian circulation and to provide accessible spots closer to facilities; the county advised visitors who need assistance to flag down staff wearing yellow shirts for help or rides.

Discussion vs. action: These were project updates; no formal votes were taken. Commissioners asked about potential site visits and were told staff would check for opportunities to schedule a visit.

Ending: Staff will continue monthly project reporting, complete schematic design by late December, and begin event-lawn construction following the notice to proceed.