PRESS RELEASE
Special to the Herald Times
MEEKER | Meeker’s Circle Park property has been identified in numerous public outreach efforts as a resounding priority for improvement over the past 10-plus years, including an expressed desire for enhanced access to — and utilization of — the in-town White River corridor. The current proposed enhancements collaboratively being pursued by the Town of Meeker and ERBM Recreation and Park District consist of several updates to critical public infrastrcture, including: Third Street and Tenth Street river access, Circle Park river bank reinforcement, handicap-accessible river entry ramp, new asphalt circle drive for expanded vehicle access/parking, upgraded storm drainage features, connected riverfront trail corridor, updated park lighting, fencing, landscaping and irrigation.
The primary purpose of this improvement project will be to create a welcoming and safe local recreation experience for both community members and regional visitors who frequent these sites for the premier on-site angling, RV/tent camping, and various park amenities as well as the proximity to world-class hunting, fishing, OHV system and other outdoor recreation activities available throughout northwest Colorado.
After an extensive open bid process in 2022, the Town and ERBM selected industry partner SWCA Environmental Consultants to complete the final river analysis, design planning and permitting work, as well as assist with ongoing project management. ERBM and the Town have each committed $250,000 in matching funds toward this project which will require significant additional grant support in order to complete. So far, the Colorado Water Conservation Board has awarded $150,000 toward the project and the Colorado Office of Just Transition has awarded an additional $220,000, with another grant application through Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) in process.
In October 2022 a kickoff public meeting was held to collect significant stakeholder input into the design development of this project. Now, the Town of Meeker and ERBM welcome ongoing feedback on the 30% design draft currently available online at www.erbmrec.com/parks.
Local stakeholder engagement will be critical to the success of this project. Please utilize the online feedback form or feel free to reach out to Town Administrator Mandi Etheridge at 970-878-4971 or email [email protected], or ERBM Executive Director Sean VonRoenn at 970-878-7410 or email [email protected] for more information on this project and opportunities to engage with the process going forward. Feedback on this 30% design draft is requested to be submitted by Feb. 17.
