Recreation & Parks reports surging participation; seeks targeted CIP for playgrounds and Red Rocks repairs

Recreation & Parks staff delivered a metrics‑driven presentation showing large year‑over‑year increases in events and registrations and the revenue implications for the department.

"In 2024, we jumped to a 106 events, 67 programs, and then forward 20.5. We hit a 179 events, and then 72 programs," the presenter said while outlining program growth. Staff added that the registration platform grew by roughly 1,300 new accounts and that total platform users climbed by about 4,200 — a nearly 48% increase from prior years.

Officials noted that many new users come from neighboring communities and that nonresident fees have helped offset some program costs. The presenter also described a recent donor contribution stream: "So we have about $80,000, which, in total over a couple years, we're looking to also put, towards, our playground at Brewfest." That money, staff said, would be combined with general‑fund capital allocations and master‑plan guidance to prioritize playground replacements.

Recreation staff emphasized access and equity initiatives — shuttle service to events, adaptive programming, and expanded garden access — while warning that indoor multi‑purpose space remains the department's largest unmet need. Councilors pressed staff for cost estimates for indoor space and for plans to coordinate with schools, and staff said the master plan will inform priorities and selections for capital work.

Council members signaled support for proactive Red Rocks improvements but asked staff to return with cost scenarios and code‑compliance implications so council can weigh near‑term actions against master‑plan outcomes.