Parks and Open Space

July 1, 2023
Addressing the question: Why haven’t the Parks and Open Space in Smoky Hill
been developed as outlined in the original Service Plan from May, 1977?
Specifically: There was $30,000 that was targeted to develop Prospector Park.

Prospector Park

From the SHMD website:
This property is very steep and is difficult to use. Parking is limited. In addition, this park serves as a storm runoff collection area. We DO maintain the entrances to this area, but due to the terrain and lack of parking, there has been no plan to develop the park with any playground equipment, etc. The interior of this park remains in its native/natural state. There was originally $30k planned for development of this park in the Service Plan. Our records do not go back to 1977, so we do not know how or when this development was tabled or put on hold. But the description of this area found on the SHMD.info web site gives us some indication of rationale. The originally targeted funds have apparently been redirected elsewhere, but we have no record of When / where. It was sometime in the period between 1977 and 2010. The three areas along Berry Place and Quintero are strictly for storm drainage and flood prevention. They are maintained by SouthEast Metro StormWater Authority (SEMSWA)

Running Creek Open Area

It has no amenities. It is just a spill way that is owned by the Metro District but maintained by SEMSWA.

Big Pond Open Area

It has no amenities and is owned by the Metro District but maintained by SEMSWA.

Tumbleweed Open Area

There are no amenities. It is a drainage area owned my the Metro District but maintained by SEMSWA.

HOA Park Property Coyote Crossing Park

This area is owned by the Smoky Hill Homeowners Association. The HOA is responsible for any improvements here.