The original item was published from January 11, 2018 2:43 PM to December 14, 2021 10:07 AM
There’s a lot in store for the Town of Parker in 2018. Here’s what we’re most looking forward to in the year ahead.
The Schoolhouse reopening
Three years of renovation will finish in early 2018, as The Schoolhouse on Mainstreet reopens to the public. Once a traditional school for Parker and the surrounding community, the historic 1915 original building and later-constructed annex have been revitalized, enhancing the community hub complete with a dance studio, event and meeting spaces, a theatre, plus a new box office and concession area.
First Town Services Fair
Plans are coming together for a Town Services Fair to be held later in the year. The event will provide residents with a chance to learn about the many services and programs provided by the Town of Parker and meet with Town employees all at one time in one place. Look for additional details to be shared in the coming months.
A growing trail system
Last year, the second and third phases of East-West Trail construction began expanding the multi-use recreational concrete trail between Newlin Gulch Boulevard and Chambers Road, as well as between Motsenbocker Road to the Cherry Creek Trail. These phases complete the Town’s portion of the proposed regional trail extending from the Cherry Creek Trail, westward to the western Town boundary and eventually through Douglas County to Lone Tree. Work on connecting the Salisbury Park Trail to the Cherry Creek Trail is anticipated to begin this spring as well, further connecting the Town and regional trail systems.
Harvie Open Space improvements
Initial minimal improvements are scheduled to begin at the Harvie Open Space in 2018. Conceptual plans are still being finalized for the 74-acre site, which will include soft-surface trails, a shelter area, picnic tables and benches. With this addition, the Town now manages more than 1,200 acres of open space.
Town website redesigns
The primary Town of Parker (www.ParkerOnline.org) and Parker Parks and Recreation (www.ParkerRec.com) website are getting makeovers, and the public will play a pivotal role in their development. Community members will have multiple options to provide feedback on the websites, both in-person and online.
Be on the lookout for new PACE Center and Parker Police Department websites in the near future, too!
Run Series returns
After record-breaking participation in 2017, the Parker Parks and Recreation Run Series features four events this year. The fun kicks off with the signature Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day 5K/10K and Kids’ Dash on Feb. 10 at Bar CCC Park.
Also returning this year are the Cattle Crossing 5K and Family Fun Trek on June 2 at Tallman Meadow Park, the So Long to Summer 5K/10K and Family Fun Trek on Aug. 11 at Salisbury Park and the Turkey Day 5K FUN Run/Walk on Thanksgiving day, Nov. 22, at the Parker Recreation Center. For more information on the Run Series, visit www.ParkerRec.com/RunSeries.
New community engagement tool
Work is underway to launch a community engagement website where residents may learn more about Town projects and initiatives, provide feedback and share their ideas. The site is expected to debut in the first half of the year.