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City of Golden Open Space Master Plan

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Panoramic view of Heritage Dells Park in summer with a person sitting on a park bench.

Phase 2 Will Kick Off This Fall

You can find more details of Phase 2 on the Path to Play page.


Open Space Master Plan -- Phase 1

The Open Space Master Plan -- Phase 1 document was finalized and is now available for review.

Survey Results

The survey, open from July 11 to August 15, 2023, was designed to gain a better understanding of the uses and values of open space by residents and visitors of Golden. Your feedback will help us develop an Open Space Master Plan that reflects that reflects the needs and values of our community.

We received 279 unique responses, only four of whom indicated they do not live in Golden. Approximately 85% of respondents indicated that they interact with Golden’s open spaces one or more times per week, and most respondents (88%) said they visit Golden’s open spaces year-round.

Please view the Survey Results Report to see all responses received.

Community Meeting

Thank you to community members who joined City of Golden staff and project consultants at a meeting on July 11, 2023 to hear about project updates as Golden works towards building an Open Space Master Plan.

The City of Golden and its consultants discussed draft Open Space Mission, Vision, and Definition statements in the presentation, which can be found in the slideshow presented at the community meeting.


Background

The City of Golden has a strong commitment to provide the highest quality parks and recreation facilities and recreation programs possible for its citizens. A few years ago, in 2016, the City of Golden Parks and Recreation Master Plan identified open space and natural areas, plus trails and pathways, as the most important of current city facilities; the top priorities to add, expand, or improve; and top priorities to benefit health and well-being of Golden residents.

Why create an Open Space Master Plan for the City of Golden?

Many other communities along the Front Range in Colorado have Open Space Master Plans. The City of Golden is home to one-of-a-kind, world class resources and natural areas and open spaces, but lacks a comprehensive definition and plan for open space. The City of Golden is aiming to build out an Open Space Master Plan, with the engagement of the community, to support the City’s needs.

What will the Open Space Master Plan include?

The primary purpose of the Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan is to create a clear and concise policy for open spaces within the City of Golden. At the onset of this process, developing a clear definition for open space will be the City’s top priority, which will serve as a starting point and framework for making policy, administration, and management decisions about open space. The final plan document will provide considerations for open space preservation and protection, development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions.

Who does this impact?

Since access to the outdoors is part of daily life in the City of Golden, the City is seeking diverse feedback from people who live near natural areas or open spaces, people who enjoy and seek more access to the outdoors, conservationists, and more.

How is the City of Golden developing the Open Space Master Plan?

After a bidding process, the City of Golden selected Great Ecology to serve as consultants in the development of the Open Space Master Plan. Great Ecology has worked with communities across the nation on the design, restoration, enhancement, and study of ecosystems, open spaces, and parks. As part of the planning process, a working group made up of community leaders will help to guide the City and consultant team on the development of the plan framework. At key stages, the City will look to community input and feedback on the technical development of the plan components.

Phase 2 Will Kick Off This Fall

You can find more details of Phase 2 on the Path to Play page.


Open Space Master Plan -- Phase 1

The Open Space Master Plan -- Phase 1 document was finalized and is now available for review.

Survey Results

The survey, open from July 11 to August 15, 2023, was designed to gain a better understanding of the uses and values of open space by residents and visitors of Golden. Your feedback will help us develop an Open Space Master Plan that reflects that reflects the needs and values of our community.

We received 279 unique responses, only four of whom indicated they do not live in Golden. Approximately 85% of respondents indicated that they interact with Golden’s open spaces one or more times per week, and most respondents (88%) said they visit Golden’s open spaces year-round.

Please view the Survey Results Report to see all responses received.

Community Meeting

Thank you to community members who joined City of Golden staff and project consultants at a meeting on July 11, 2023 to hear about project updates as Golden works towards building an Open Space Master Plan.

The City of Golden and its consultants discussed draft Open Space Mission, Vision, and Definition statements in the presentation, which can be found in the slideshow presented at the community meeting.


Background

The City of Golden has a strong commitment to provide the highest quality parks and recreation facilities and recreation programs possible for its citizens. A few years ago, in 2016, the City of Golden Parks and Recreation Master Plan identified open space and natural areas, plus trails and pathways, as the most important of current city facilities; the top priorities to add, expand, or improve; and top priorities to benefit health and well-being of Golden residents.

Why create an Open Space Master Plan for the City of Golden?

Many other communities along the Front Range in Colorado have Open Space Master Plans. The City of Golden is home to one-of-a-kind, world class resources and natural areas and open spaces, but lacks a comprehensive definition and plan for open space. The City of Golden is aiming to build out an Open Space Master Plan, with the engagement of the community, to support the City’s needs.

What will the Open Space Master Plan include?

The primary purpose of the Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan is to create a clear and concise policy for open spaces within the City of Golden. At the onset of this process, developing a clear definition for open space will be the City’s top priority, which will serve as a starting point and framework for making policy, administration, and management decisions about open space. The final plan document will provide considerations for open space preservation and protection, development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions.

Who does this impact?

Since access to the outdoors is part of daily life in the City of Golden, the City is seeking diverse feedback from people who live near natural areas or open spaces, people who enjoy and seek more access to the outdoors, conservationists, and more.

How is the City of Golden developing the Open Space Master Plan?

After a bidding process, the City of Golden selected Great Ecology to serve as consultants in the development of the Open Space Master Plan. Great Ecology has worked with communities across the nation on the design, restoration, enhancement, and study of ecosystems, open spaces, and parks. As part of the planning process, a working group made up of community leaders will help to guide the City and consultant team on the development of the plan framework. At key stages, the City will look to community input and feedback on the technical development of the plan components.

CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

If you have any questions about the master plan, let us know! We'll do our best to get an answer to you as quickly as possible.

  • Share Golden residents have already stated important priorities, including the following: "City of Golden Comprehensive Plan 2017 Goal 6: Preserve the natural beauty of unique geologic features, extended stretches of the foothills, riparian corridors throughout the community, and unbroken stretches of natural environments that define Golden. • Strategy 6.3: Identify features in Golden that should be protected. Features to be protected and preserved include geological formations, plants and wildlife, waterways, quiet soundscapes and the night sky." This seems to emphasize protection and preservation, rather than recreation. Are these same priorities guiding this process? Please also explain why the majority of the pictures included in the consultants' slide show are of concrete trails, parks, and related facilities and recreation? Thank you. on Facebook Share Golden residents have already stated important priorities, including the following: "City of Golden Comprehensive Plan 2017 Goal 6: Preserve the natural beauty of unique geologic features, extended stretches of the foothills, riparian corridors throughout the community, and unbroken stretches of natural environments that define Golden. • Strategy 6.3: Identify features in Golden that should be protected. Features to be protected and preserved include geological formations, plants and wildlife, waterways, quiet soundscapes and the night sky." This seems to emphasize protection and preservation, rather than recreation. Are these same priorities guiding this process? Please also explain why the majority of the pictures included in the consultants' slide show are of concrete trails, parks, and related facilities and recreation? Thank you. on Twitter Share Golden residents have already stated important priorities, including the following: "City of Golden Comprehensive Plan 2017 Goal 6: Preserve the natural beauty of unique geologic features, extended stretches of the foothills, riparian corridors throughout the community, and unbroken stretches of natural environments that define Golden. • Strategy 6.3: Identify features in Golden that should be protected. Features to be protected and preserved include geological formations, plants and wildlife, waterways, quiet soundscapes and the night sky." This seems to emphasize protection and preservation, rather than recreation. Are these same priorities guiding this process? Please also explain why the majority of the pictures included in the consultants' slide show are of concrete trails, parks, and related facilities and recreation? Thank you. on Linkedin Email Golden residents have already stated important priorities, including the following: "City of Golden Comprehensive Plan 2017 Goal 6: Preserve the natural beauty of unique geologic features, extended stretches of the foothills, riparian corridors throughout the community, and unbroken stretches of natural environments that define Golden. • Strategy 6.3: Identify features in Golden that should be protected. Features to be protected and preserved include geological formations, plants and wildlife, waterways, quiet soundscapes and the night sky." This seems to emphasize protection and preservation, rather than recreation. Are these same priorities guiding this process? Please also explain why the majority of the pictures included in the consultants' slide show are of concrete trails, parks, and related facilities and recreation? Thank you. link

    Golden residents have already stated important priorities, including the following: "City of Golden Comprehensive Plan 2017 Goal 6: Preserve the natural beauty of unique geologic features, extended stretches of the foothills, riparian corridors throughout the community, and unbroken stretches of natural environments that define Golden. • Strategy 6.3: Identify features in Golden that should be protected. Features to be protected and preserved include geological formations, plants and wildlife, waterways, quiet soundscapes and the night sky." This seems to emphasize protection and preservation, rather than recreation. Are these same priorities guiding this process? Please also explain why the majority of the pictures included in the consultants' slide show are of concrete trails, parks, and related facilities and recreation? Thank you.

    Southplan asked over 2 years ago

    The 2017 Comprehensive Plan Guiding Principles address change in values over time. It suggest we direct and manage change to ensure the direction of the community is reflected. For that reason, it is important to continue reaching out to our community with in-person meetings and surveys to ensure all residents have an opportunity to participate in public process. The project team recognizes that over the course of five years a lot has changed, primarily due to the Pandemic and a change in values. For that reason, the OSMP will reflect current priorities that may or may not reflect change since 2017. Regarding the slide show photos, our Great Ecology consultant responded to questions the evening of the presentation acknowledging the windshield tour of open spaces and explained they are aware there is much more to Golden’s open spaces than hardscape recreational areas. They are an ecologically-focused team, and support conserving and restoring natural areas.

  • Share Could you please state or clarify the stage/phase that the July 11, 2022 meeting will focus on. This seams just a bit unclear to me. I thank you for taking the time to respond to me. on Facebook Share Could you please state or clarify the stage/phase that the July 11, 2022 meeting will focus on. This seams just a bit unclear to me. I thank you for taking the time to respond to me. on Twitter Share Could you please state or clarify the stage/phase that the July 11, 2022 meeting will focus on. This seams just a bit unclear to me. I thank you for taking the time to respond to me. on Linkedin Email Could you please state or clarify the stage/phase that the July 11, 2022 meeting will focus on. This seams just a bit unclear to me. I thank you for taking the time to respond to me. link

    Could you please state or clarify the stage/phase that the July 11, 2022 meeting will focus on. This seams just a bit unclear to me. I thank you for taking the time to respond to me.

    Patricia asked over 2 years ago

    Thank you for your interest in the meeting tonight! The July 11, 2022 public meeting will address definition, vision and mission of open space areas. This is phase one of a two phased planning project. When completed, phase one will create the framework for a larger plan that will provide guidance on classification of land parcels as well as create policy and a management plan.

  • Share Will there be a paved shared path going parallel to 93 and north table mountain to connect to 58th street? on Facebook Share Will there be a paved shared path going parallel to 93 and north table mountain to connect to 58th street? on Twitter Share Will there be a paved shared path going parallel to 93 and north table mountain to connect to 58th street? on Linkedin Email Will there be a paved shared path going parallel to 93 and north table mountain to connect to 58th street? link

    Will there be a paved shared path going parallel to 93 and north table mountain to connect to 58th street?

    Clairebonneau asked over 2 years ago

    The property you inquired about falls under Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) management. The JCOS conducted a Colorado Front Range Trail Update Meeting, which is available to view as well provide feedback.

    Thank you.

  • Share Why wouldn't the City of Golden Open Space Master Plan follow the Jeffco Open Space Plan keeping land in its natural ecosystems with a few trails for hikers (No bikers, they go too fast, and scare the animals and hikers. There are paved bike paths for them). We must set aside wild land for animals in their natural habitats before there are no animals. on Facebook Share Why wouldn't the City of Golden Open Space Master Plan follow the Jeffco Open Space Plan keeping land in its natural ecosystems with a few trails for hikers (No bikers, they go too fast, and scare the animals and hikers. There are paved bike paths for them). We must set aside wild land for animals in their natural habitats before there are no animals. on Twitter Share Why wouldn't the City of Golden Open Space Master Plan follow the Jeffco Open Space Plan keeping land in its natural ecosystems with a few trails for hikers (No bikers, they go too fast, and scare the animals and hikers. There are paved bike paths for them). We must set aside wild land for animals in their natural habitats before there are no animals. on Linkedin Email Why wouldn't the City of Golden Open Space Master Plan follow the Jeffco Open Space Plan keeping land in its natural ecosystems with a few trails for hikers (No bikers, they go too fast, and scare the animals and hikers. There are paved bike paths for them). We must set aside wild land for animals in their natural habitats before there are no animals. link

    Why wouldn't the City of Golden Open Space Master Plan follow the Jeffco Open Space Plan keeping land in its natural ecosystems with a few trails for hikers (No bikers, they go too fast, and scare the animals and hikers. There are paved bike paths for them). We must set aside wild land for animals in their natural habitats before there are no animals.

    PH asked over 2 years ago

    The City of Golden works with Jefferson County Open Space on many trails and open spaces issues regarding management. Visit the Colorado Front Range Trail Update Meeting link to learn more about the June 23 meeting conducted by Jefferson County Open Space. You will find an option to view the presentation and participate in a survey. After the City of Golden’s Open Space Master Plan public meeting tonight, July 11, you can also provide comments and feedback here on Guiding Golden. The meeting will be recorded for you to view if you are unable to attend, and a survey which will remain open for four weeks.  

    We encourage you to provide your comments to both Jefferson County as well as City of Golden Open Space Master Plan consultants.  

    Thank you.

  • Share If I live in unincorporated Golden, am I still able to be a part of this discussion/provide feedback? Thank you! on Facebook Share If I live in unincorporated Golden, am I still able to be a part of this discussion/provide feedback? Thank you! on Twitter Share If I live in unincorporated Golden, am I still able to be a part of this discussion/provide feedback? Thank you! on Linkedin Email If I live in unincorporated Golden, am I still able to be a part of this discussion/provide feedback? Thank you! link

    If I live in unincorporated Golden, am I still able to be a part of this discussion/provide feedback? Thank you!

    MT asked over 2 years ago

    Yes, you can participate in the public process by attending the meeting at the Golden Community Center tonight, July 11, 2022 at 6pm and also taking the survey which will open tonight and remain open for four weeks. If you are unable to attend the meeting, a recording of tonight's public meeting will be available to watch afterward online at GCO.tv and here on Guiding Golden.

  • Share I would like to see open space trails and pathways separated for biking and hiking. This would avoid conflicts and keep things flowing on busy weekends. Thanks on Facebook Share I would like to see open space trails and pathways separated for biking and hiking. This would avoid conflicts and keep things flowing on busy weekends. Thanks on Twitter Share I would like to see open space trails and pathways separated for biking and hiking. This would avoid conflicts and keep things flowing on busy weekends. Thanks on Linkedin Email I would like to see open space trails and pathways separated for biking and hiking. This would avoid conflicts and keep things flowing on busy weekends. Thanks link

    I would like to see open space trails and pathways separated for biking and hiking. This would avoid conflicts and keep things flowing on busy weekends. Thanks

    vernecarlson asked over 2 years ago

    Thank you for your comment. Your input is appreciated!

  • Share Will steps be taken to ensure that undeveloped acreage is kept in its natural state to ensure maximal undisturbed wildlife habitat? Human presence in an ecosystem decreases biodiversity, even if it’s just via a dirt path. Thank you for keeping this in mind, as sharing our town generously with wildlife is extremely important to many Goldenites. on Facebook Share Will steps be taken to ensure that undeveloped acreage is kept in its natural state to ensure maximal undisturbed wildlife habitat? Human presence in an ecosystem decreases biodiversity, even if it’s just via a dirt path. Thank you for keeping this in mind, as sharing our town generously with wildlife is extremely important to many Goldenites. on Twitter Share Will steps be taken to ensure that undeveloped acreage is kept in its natural state to ensure maximal undisturbed wildlife habitat? Human presence in an ecosystem decreases biodiversity, even if it’s just via a dirt path. Thank you for keeping this in mind, as sharing our town generously with wildlife is extremely important to many Goldenites. on Linkedin Email Will steps be taken to ensure that undeveloped acreage is kept in its natural state to ensure maximal undisturbed wildlife habitat? Human presence in an ecosystem decreases biodiversity, even if it’s just via a dirt path. Thank you for keeping this in mind, as sharing our town generously with wildlife is extremely important to many Goldenites. link

    Will steps be taken to ensure that undeveloped acreage is kept in its natural state to ensure maximal undisturbed wildlife habitat? Human presence in an ecosystem decreases biodiversity, even if it’s just via a dirt path. Thank you for keeping this in mind, as sharing our town generously with wildlife is extremely important to many Goldenites.

    Laurel asked almost 3 years ago

    This first plan will only encompass a framework to identify a clear definition, vision and mission. Phase two, when funded, will create policy and a management plan. Please look for more information soon to participate in a public meeting and survey for you to share your values and thoughts.

  • Share Why will the final document only "provide considerations for open space development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions," when a major part of an open space plan should also provide for preservation and protection of open space? on Facebook Share Why will the final document only "provide considerations for open space development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions," when a major part of an open space plan should also provide for preservation and protection of open space? on Twitter Share Why will the final document only "provide considerations for open space development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions," when a major part of an open space plan should also provide for preservation and protection of open space? on Linkedin Email Why will the final document only "provide considerations for open space development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions," when a major part of an open space plan should also provide for preservation and protection of open space? link

    Why will the final document only "provide considerations for open space development, re-development, maintenance, enhancement, and future acquisitions," when a major part of an open space plan should also provide for preservation and protection of open space?

    shalegal asked almost 3 years ago

    Thank you, and everyone else, who brought this wording to our attention! Our open space is a treasure, and the preservation and protection of it is always a top priority. The chosen wording on this page, however, did not adequately reflect that priority, or the full scope of the project. We have changed the wording to better reflect the intention of the document by adding "preservation and protection" at the beginning of the list of considerations.

  • Share Why isn't this important endeavor more widely and loudly advertised? Every citizen of Golden and the visitors that use our Open Spaces should be aware of Golden's commitment to steward our precious natural resources. on Facebook Share Why isn't this important endeavor more widely and loudly advertised? Every citizen of Golden and the visitors that use our Open Spaces should be aware of Golden's commitment to steward our precious natural resources. on Twitter Share Why isn't this important endeavor more widely and loudly advertised? Every citizen of Golden and the visitors that use our Open Spaces should be aware of Golden's commitment to steward our precious natural resources. on Linkedin Email Why isn't this important endeavor more widely and loudly advertised? Every citizen of Golden and the visitors that use our Open Spaces should be aware of Golden's commitment to steward our precious natural resources. link

    Why isn't this important endeavor more widely and loudly advertised? Every citizen of Golden and the visitors that use our Open Spaces should be aware of Golden's commitment to steward our precious natural resources.

    Ashley asked almost 3 years ago

    Thank you for your interest in the City of Golden’s Open Space Planning. The current project is framework to create a definition, mission and vision which will set the foundation for a phase two plan that will identify open space parcels as well as create policy and management practices. You will soon see more information on the framework to include a public meeting in April and a public survey around the same time. When these two items rollout, staff will post on Guiding Golden and other social medial outlets.

Page last updated: 22 Aug 2024, 09:48 AM