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Developer offers land for park tied to proposed 165-unit senior housing on Plaza Drive
Summary
Shea Properties offered to donate roughly two acres adjacent to a proposed 165-unit affordable senior housing project on Plaza Drive in exchange for the District reimbursing park construction costs estimated at $2.3–$2.5 million; staff will return next week seeking board direction.
A developer has offered land for a neighborhood park in a proposed affordable senior housing project on Plaza Drive, Highlands Ranch Metropolitan District staff told the board at a Feb. 18 study session.
General Manager Stephanie Stanley said Shea Properties plans a 165-unit affordable senior apartment project and has offered to donate approximately two acres adjacent to the development for a new park. Under the proposed arrangement, Shea would construct the park and the District would reimburse construction costs, which staff estimated at $2.3 million to $2.5 million and suggested could come from the District’s General Fund balance.
The draft concept plan presented by staff includes parking (which may help support nearby Fly’n B Park), raised-bed community garden plots, outdoor fitness equipment, walking paths and open lawn space. Stanley said the park is intended primarily to serve nearby residents, including seniors, but would be open to the broader community.
Board members asked about long-term maintenance obligations, accessibility and parking. Stanley said staff will further evaluate ongoing maintenance estimates and the county approval process for the housing project. Director Jones asked about the Capital Improvement Plan posting and other budget impacts; Stanley and Director of Finance and Administration Tiffany Hooten said the District's General Fund balance currently exceeds policy minimums and that maintenance estimates will be reviewed.
Stanley described the presentation as informational and said staff will return at the Feb. 24 board meeting to seek direction on whether to move forward with the partnership and any reimbursement arrangement. No formal board action or vote occurred at the study session; the matter is expected to be placed on next week’s agenda for potential direction or action.
If approved for further consideration, staff said they will provide additional detail on projected maintenance costs, final design, estimated construction schedule and any required county approvals. The board thanked staff for the information and indicated interest in reviewing the item at the regular meeting.
The District’s presentation to the board did not include a developer agreement or final cost-sharing terms; those would be subject to subsequent review and formal action if the board directs staff to proceed.
