Boulder County Parks & Open Space has announced the start of construction for the new Prairie Run open space park, a significant 1,377-acre project in the southeastern part of the county. Work on the first phase is scheduled to begin on October 6, with a projected completion date of April 30, 2026.
The initial development will focus on creating public access in the southwest portion of the expansive site. Officials aim to open parts of the new park to the public as early as May or June 2026, providing a new major recreational area for residents and visitors.
Key Takeaways
- Project Start: Construction on Phase I of the Prairie Run open space park begins October 6.
- Size and Scope: The new park encompasses a total of 1,377 acres in southeast Boulder County.
- Timeline: The first phase of construction is expected to be completed by April 30, 2026.
- Public Opening: Boulder County aims for a partial opening of the park in May or June of 2026.
- Key Features: The site includes a dozen ponds and five miles of stream along Boulder Creek and Coal Creek.
Project Overview and Timeline
Boulder County's Parks & Open Space department is moving forward with the development of the Prairie Run open space park. The project officially breaks ground on October 6, marking a major milestone in a long-term plan to enhance public access to natural areas in the region.
This initial stage, referred to as Phase I, will concentrate on the southwest section of the designated planning area. The construction timeline is set for completion by April 30, 2026. Following the conclusion of this phase, the county plans a phased opening to the public.
According to the department's announcement, the goal is to allow public access to the newly developed areas in either May or June of 2026. This schedule allows for construction to finish and for final preparations to be made to ensure visitor safety and resource protection.
A Significant Natural Landscape
The Prairie Run site is a vast and ecologically rich area, spanning 1,377 acres. Its landscape is defined by significant water features that support local wildlife and create diverse habitats.
By the Numbers
- Total Area: 1,377 acres
- Ponds: 12 distinct ponds
- Stream Mileage: 5 miles of perennial stream
- Major Waterways: Boulder Creek and Coal Creek
The presence of a dozen ponds and five miles of perennial stream along both Boulder Creek and Coal Creek makes this property a critical environmental asset for the county. The management plan for the park aims to balance public recreation with the preservation of these natural resources.
Strategic Location in Boulder County
The park is strategically located to serve several growing communities in southeast Boulder County. It is situated just south of the Town of Erie, with the community of Niwot several miles to the northwest and the city of Longmont approximately five miles to the north.
The site's boundaries are clearly defined by major transportation corridors, making it accessible to a wide population. It is bordered by:
- County Line Road to the east
- State Highway 52 on the north
- US 287 generally on the west
- Jasper and Kenosha Roads on the south
This positioning ensures that once open, the park will be a convenient destination for residents from multiple municipalities seeking outdoor activities.
Details of Phase I Development
The first phase of development is a crucial step toward opening the Prairie Run park. All initial construction activities will take place in the southwest area of the property.
What is a Trailhead?
A trailhead is the point at which a trail begins. It typically includes amenities for visitors such as parking, restrooms, informational kiosks with maps, and trash receptacles. These facilities are essential for managing public access and providing a positive visitor experience.
The primary focus of Phase I is the construction of a new trail and an accompanying trailhead. While specific details of the amenities were not fully listed in the initial announcement, such facilities typically include parking areas, restrooms, and informational signage to orient visitors.
"The development will implement the plan in the southwest section of the planning area," stated the official release from Boulder County Parks & Open Space, highlighting the focused approach of the initial construction phase.
This new infrastructure will serve as the main entry point for the first sections of the park to be opened to the public. It is designed to provide foundational access for future trail expansions and park development.
Public Information and Project Management
Boulder County is committed to keeping the public informed about the progress of the Prairie Run open space park. A dedicated webpage has been established to provide detailed information, including maps and the complete management plan for the site.
Residents with specific questions about the construction or the project's future are encouraged to reach out to the designated project manager. This direct line of communication ensures that community members can receive accurate and timely information.
For inquiries, the public can contact project manager Obadiah Broughton via email at [email protected]. The county also offers a sign-up service for email and SMS text message updates on a variety of subjects, including parks and open space projects.