Monday, December 12, 2011

Findings from Mile High Greyhound Park public meetings shared parks & recreation, Arts, entertainment and retail top of mind

COMMERCE CITY, COLO. - Tonight, the staff of Commerce City's Urban Renewal Authority shared the results of the public outreach activities associated with the Mile High Greyhound Park (MHGP) during a city council project update.

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) held 14 large and small-group meetings from September through October, with more than 450 attendees from a variety of audiences. The URA received more than 750 suggestions during the meetings and additional 50 comments from the city website.

"The goal was to collect input from the community on development desires for this important infill development within the city," said Interim URA Executive Director Brian McBroom. "I want to thank our residents, business community and numerous interest groups for participating in this important process. As we move forward, all ideas shared will be tested for market feasibility, culminating in a site plan later next year."

From a quantitative standpoint, the three types of development most desired by participants include parks and recreation/sports; arts and entertainment, and retail businesses. The URA also heard several qualitative themes emerge during the public outreach, including:
· Some type of open space/community town center
· Inclusion of a hospital/urgent care trauma unit
· The need for significant roadway improvements and consideration of transit
· Keep current track/grass infield intact
· Desire for high density on the west, lower density on the east, with open space/town square in the middle
· Continuing education/trade school
· Support for the location of the proposed Boys & Girls Club

In addition, there was an overall desire to offer an experience not available elsewhere - attracting people from outside of Commerce City and providing residents a reason not to leave town for entertainment/retail needs.

Ideas generated by the community will be tested for market feasibility beginning in early 2012. Viable suggestions will be incorporated into a site concept plan, which is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

In addition to the public outreach report, URA staff provided an update on the status of planning activities and the project's participation in the 10th annual Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge, sponsored by the Commercial Real Estate Development Association known as NAIOP.

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