District discusses community park phase and four-court pickleball concept; staff to pursue detailed design

The board received an informational presentation on the Community Park schematic, including a phase 1a concept for four pickleball courts, and gave staff guidance to advance design and outreach.

Chad and the DHM design team reviewed a schematic that includes field realignment, restrooms, irrigation improvements and a pickleball core. Staff reported an initial project estimate of roughly $4.66 million with a 20% construction contingency and an optional lighting package estimated around $100,000. Staff said existing on-site soils appear usable for construction, which would reduce the need to import material and lower cost and schedule risks.

Recreation director Amy noted that summer programs are winding down and that the district will host part of the Colorado USTA tennis tournament this fall. Board members pressed staff on programming, reservation and league models, potential revenue-generation to offset operations, coordination with nearby schools and shopping centers, and parking capacity for four courts. Staff said the parking at the proposed location is adequate for a four-court facility and reminded the board that another four courts are planned to come online with adjacent property development.

Funding options discussed included a Plains Metropolitan District settlement account (staff reported $1,140,000 in that restricted fund), the conservation trust fund and district reserves. Several board members expressed support for moving toward detailed design, noting community interest and the potential for revenue programs; staff said detailed design, permitting and procurement steps remain before any contract or expenditure and proposed bringing a design item back for board consideration.

No final action or appropriation was taken; staff will return with next-step timing and cost details for board review.