Agenda Date: 04/15/2025
Subject:
Title
Resolution 43-2025: Authorizing an application for funding from the Arapahoe County Open Spaces Grant Program for Powers Park Improvements
Body
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From: |
James L. Becklenberg, City Manager |
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Prepared by: |
Brent Soderlin, Director of Public Works & Utilities |
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Heather Ferrari, Executive Assistant |
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Presentations: |
N/A |
PURPOSE:
Does council support a grant applications to Arapahoe County Open Spaces (ACOS) for Powers Park Improvements?
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
Sustainable Community with Natural Beauty; High-Quality Governance
DISCUSSION:
In compliance with Arapahoe County Open Spaces grant requirements and the City of Littleton’s grant policy, the city is requesting council support to apply for ACOS grant funds for:
Powers Park Improvements
Powers Park is a 4.75-acre neighborhood park located in the City of Littleton at the intersection of S Huron Street and W Powers Avenue. The main goal of this project is to provide necessary improvements and updates to the park and playground while increasing ADA access to and throughout the playground area. The current entrance on the southeast side of the park will be renovated to provide an accessible route into the park and playground area. Several improvements are proposed for the playground that will enhance the space for current and future users of all ages and abilities. The proposed play structures provide improved play value while also increasing accessibility by increasing the number of ground level play elements, installing an inclusive spinner, and providing both high and low sensory elements. The new playground safety surfacing will be poured-in-place rubber, which decreases maintenance costs and provides ADA accessibility throughout the playground area.
BACKGROUND:
Historically, the city has applied for numerous grants through the Arapahoe County Open Spaces (ACOS) grant program to make various improvements to open spaces and parks in the city limits.
Powers Park Improvements
The Powers Park Improvement Project is a park renovation that will enhance the park’s accessibility, functionality, and recreational value for the community. Many of the park amenities need replacement due to age and condition. The existing playground was installed in 2001, and the equipment is at the end of its useful life. The manufacturer no longer manufactures parts that fit the current equipment, so if a piece were to break it couldn’t be replaced. Also, the engineered wood fiber (EWF) safety surfacing is difficult to maintain and needs to be replaced.
Prior Actions or Discussions
Powers Park Improvements: N/A
FISCAL IMPACTS:
Powers Park Improvements: The total estimated cost of this project is $1,600,00. The grant request will be $600,000 and the match will be $1,000,000 partnering with South Suburban Parks and Recreation.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the resolution.
ALTERNATIVES:
If council does not approve submitting the application to the ACOS Grant Program, the projects will not be completed until funds are available. Should the grant not be awarded, city staff will determine whether it is possible to continue the projects within the current budgeted amounts.
PROPOSED MOTION:
Proposed Motion
I move to approve Resolution 43-2025 authorizing an application for funding from the Arapahoe County Open Spaces Grant Program for Powers Park Improvements.