These are exciting times for the people who reside in or visit Green Mountain Falls! The community is buzzing about the following projects. Stay tuned as plans unfold and take the opportunity to weigh in and add your voice as possible.
New pool and park design
Preliminary plans are in the works for a renovated and re-designed pool and park, including the possibilities of an improved sports court, hot tub, fire pit, grill area, splash pad, community garden, sensory park, musical swings, dog park and even a miniature golf course with art sculptures.
On Wednesday, May 8, six architectural and landscape studies students from the University Technical Assistance Program (UTAP) of the University of Denver presented four schematic designs for the Pool Park redesign to 15 attendees.
Their adviser, Jeffrey Wood, also attended. The town received a matching grant from the Department of Local Affairs to have UTAP help with the Pool Park project.
Nancy Dixon, secretary of the Parks, Rec & Trails Advisory Committee overseeing this project, said, “PRTAC is excited to partner with UTAP to use community input to design a new, inviting and engaging Pool Park for GMF residents and visitors to enjoy.
“The request for feedback has been extended to a broadened audience including past and present residents, summer cabin families, regular visitors … anyone who has an interest in our mountain town. The public is encouraged to weigh in on the designs!”
The final design and funding for the project has not yet been determined. Possible funding sources such as gifts and grants are being considered.
You can view the four designs, complete PowerPoint and make constructive comments by emailing nancy.dixon1963@gmail.com. It’s not necessary to pick just one design… mix and match your favorite components!
The Pool Park is projected for completion in the spring of 2026.
Gazebo Bridge Project
The Gazebo Lake geese seem to be finding their way even though the lake has been drained to accommodate repairs and reconstruction of the bridge leading to the small Gazebo Island.
The Air Force Academy Department of Astronautics Engineering designed and constructed the bridge in fall 1990. It has been well-used since that time, servicing anglers, tourists, wedding parties, hikers, egg-laying geese who choose the flower pots on the island for their nests, musicians, gazebo painters and more.
The bridge project includes replacing the deck and supporting structure, repairing the piers, upgrading the electrical system and adding new benches and light fixtures. In addition, concrete will be added from the existing sidewalk to the bridge to allow for better accessibility.
The bridge project has been made possible through a generous grant from the El Paso County Community Development Block Grants, and is projected to be completed soon.
Horse Wellness Meadow
Green Mountain Falls has a history of horsemanship as well as equine love and care that’s about to receive a reboot. A Horse Wellness Meadow is being manifested on a 30-acre plot just off U.S. Highway 24.
The project is designed to rehabilitate performance horses in partnership with the Historic Green Mountain Falls Foundation and Elite Equine Rescue.
A free ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for 2-3 p.m. Saturday, July 13, during the Green Box Arts Festival. All are invited to attend to learn more about this project and its volunteer opportunities. Register at greenboxarts.org.
Mucky Duck closes, El Pueblo Cantina opens its doors … soon!
Starting in 1984, the Mucky Duck restaurant welcomed local residents and visitors alike to its charming (and slightly funky) indoor dining area with piano and fireplace as well as its beautiful patio with majestic mountain views.
Although the well-loved restaurant has closed its doors at 10530 Ute Pass Ave., another gem is soon to open in this small mountain town.
El Pueblo Cantina promises to serve an “elevated dining” experience. Projected opening date is sometime this summer. Stay tuned for more information!
Send news and/or photos to judypiazza@gmail.com.judypiazza@gmail.com