2025 Open Space Sales Tax Report

History of the Open Space Sales Tax

The Open Space Sales Tax was approved by Adams County voters in 1999 as a 1/3 of one percent sales tax authorized through 2006. In 2004, voters approved an increase to ¼ of one percent, or 25 cents on a $100 purchase, and extended the sales tax through 2026. In 2020, Adams County voters approved a resolution to reauthorize the Open Space Sales Tax in perpetuity.

Proceeds from the sales tax benefit parks, recreation, trails, and open space projects countywide.

Funds are distributed in three ways:

• 2% is allocated to administration costs
• 30% is distributed back to the jurisdiction where the tax was generated
• 68% is awarded through a competitive grant program

 Open Space Advisory Board

The Open Space Advisory Board, a seven-member board appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, reviews all grant applications and makes funding recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. The 2025 Open Space Advisory Board Members were:

• Jason McEldowney (Chair) – City of Commerce City
• Mark Stickel (Vice Chair) – Federal Heights
• Mark Humbert – City of Brighton
• Rolando Melgoza- Unincorporated Adams County
• Mark Volland – Unincorporated Adams County
• George Mazzotti – Unincorporated Adams County
• Paul Orland – Unincorporated Adams County

30% Shareback Funding Distributed to Jurisdictions in 2024

Open Space Sales Tax Grant Distribution (approximately 68 percent of funds)

The Board of County Commissioners makes the final decision on all grant applications. From 2000 to 2025, the Open Space Sales Tax has contributed more than $299,000,000 to parks, recreation, trails, and open space projects throughout Adams County.

In the Fall of 2024 and Spring of 2025, 48 grants were funded through the competitive grant cycle, totaling $28,945,029.68. The projects will improve trail connectivity, improve parks and trails throughout the county, construct a Korean War Memorial, and conserve and protect open spaces.

Fall 2024

On November 19, 2024, the Open Space Program received fourteen full grant applications and seven Mini Grant applications for a total of twenty-one grant submissions. The total amount requested for open space grants in this cycle is $12,775,36.90, which includes mini-grants.

Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts
Brantner Gulch Improvements at Riverdale Regional Park
Adams County, in partnership with the Mile High Flood District (MHFD), aims to address capacity concerns at Brantner Gulch and mitigate flooding and erosion issues within Riverdale Regional Park. This project will construct a new gulch to protect people and property and enhance stormwater quality. Additionally, the county plans to beautify the park and create more nature spaces. This grant application seeks funding for constructing the Brantner Gulch section within Riverdale Regional Park.
Grant Award: $2,800,000

Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts
Niver Creek Improvements
In partnership with the MHFD, Adams County is seeking funding for the design and planning of the Niver Creek Improvements Project. This initiative will enhance the Niver Creek Trail, located between Washington and York streets in the Welby community of unincorporated Adams County. Improvements will focus on creating a safe, accessible, and enriching trail experience with upgraded landscaping, expanded irrigation, and renovations to the pedestrian bridge over the channel. A public art mural will also be incorporated into the project, revitalizing the greater Welby area.
Grant Award: $350,000

Bennett Park and Recreation District
Facelift Phase V
This project addresses essential maintenance and upgrades. The goal is to improve energy efficiency by replacing outdated air conditioning, heating units, fluorescent lighting, and appliances. Regular repairs to aging equipment have proven costly, making replacements more cost-effective in the long term.
Grant Award: $105,000

City of Brighton
Bromley-Hishinuma Farm Site Upgrades
This project will revitalize the historic Bromley-Hishinuma Farm by enhancing its aesthetic appeal and expanding opportunities for community engagement. Partnering with School District 27J, the city will purchase trees from a local nursery to support Brighton High School’s annual senior tree planting day. This grant will help fund the purchase of 30 trees, an irrigation retrofit to ensure proper watering, and hand tools for tree planting. City staff will guide students on proper planting techniques, fostering environmental stewardship.
Grant Award: $16,000

Commerce City Parks, Recreation and Golf Department
Irrigation System Replacement at Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park, Commerce City’s largest park at 37 acres, features a variety of amenities that make it a popular destination. Due to its age, the park’s irrigation system has become increasingly costly to maintain. This project will replace the irrigation system with an efficient alternative, supporting water conservation and enhancing the park’s green spaces for residents.
Grant Award: $1,300,000

Commerce City Parks, Recreation and Golf Department
Eagle Pointe Pool Re-Plaster Project
The Eagle Pointe Pool Re-Plaster Project will restore the lap pool at the Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, replacing the original plaster and adding a definition tile line in the deep end. This maintenance will improve the pool’s safety, sanitation, and longevity, providing a better recreational experience for the community.
Grant Award: $80,000

Commerce City
StoryWalk in Monaco Park
The StoryWalk project at Monaco Park promotes literacy, physical activity, and community engagement. It features a children’s book broken into laminated pages along a walking path, allowing families to read as they walk. This project aligns with Monaco Park’s $3 million renovation, which includes new playground and fitness areas, enhancing community resources in underserved neighborhoods.
Grant Award: $9,000

High Line Canal Conservancy
High Line Canal North Aurora Access Improvements
Sponsored by: City of Aurora
The 71-mile High Line Canal includes a 4.8-mile section in Adams County that is underutilized due to limited access and amenities. This project will improve connectivity by adding shaded seating, signage, and enhanced plantings at the Star K Ranch and 17th Avenue neighborhood access points.
Grant Award: $350,000

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Commissioners Park Improvements
Upgrades at Commissioners Park, a three-acre facility in an underserved neighborhood, include a new shelter, 3/4 basketball court, playground, picnic area, and improved landscaping. This project also includes concrete path repairs, updates to the basketball court, and a replacement of the park’s 45-year-old irrigation system. Safety enhancements include lighting and security cameras.
Grant Award: $918,000

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Rotary Park Improvements
Hyland Hills will upgrade Rotary Park, a 15-acre neighborhood park, into a more complete destination with a new shelter, 3/4 basketball court, paved perimeter path, and waterwise landscaping. These improvements will reduce water usage and enhance park usability.
Grant Award: $1,210,000

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Evaluation
Hyland Hills is evaluating the feasibility of installing public EV charging stations at select facilities. This project aligns with the district’s strategic priorities around sustainability and customer service by addressing infrastructure needs and recommending site-specific charging solutions.
Grant Award: $14,000

City of Northglenn
Danahy Park Renovation
The Danahy Park renovation project will replace an aging playground, shelter, and site furniture; enhance landscaping; and improve accessibility. The project aligns with Northglenn’s Long-Range Plan and has garnered strong community support through public engagement efforts.
Grant Award: $600,000

City of Northglenn
Jaycee Park Renovation
The final phase of Jaycee Park’s renovation includes restroom upgrades, a new scorekeeper booth, improved drainage, and upgraded site amenities.
Grant Award: $400,000

Smart Commute
Smart Commute eBike Library & Mobility Hub Project
Sponsored by: The City of Northglenn
This project will introduce an eBike library system in Northglenn to provide accessible transportation options. Northglenn’s hub will feature smart bike charging lockers and racks at the city’s civic center, offering secure public bike parking and eBike rentals for up to two weeks. Free bike workshops will be held at this location, supporting Northglenn’s diverse community.
Grant Award: $24,985.90

Strasburg Parks & Recreation District
Facility Signage Upgrade
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Strasburg Parks & Recreation District is updating signage at 10 locations to display its new logo, which reflects elements of Strasburg’s heritage. The upgraded signage will improve facility identification, highlight community investments, and reduce maintenance needs.
Grant Award: $21,245

Strasburg Parks & Recreation District
Community Park East Phase II
This project will establish a community recreation hub with an outdoor classroom, pollinator garden, additional trails, amphitheater upgrades, and natural play areas. These improvements will enhance connections to local schools, housing developments, and other amenities.
Grant Award: $1,534,039

City of Thornton
Over, Under, and Through: Extending the Reach of Grange Hall Creek Trail
This project will extend Grange Hall Creek Trail with new underpasses, trail crossings, and waterway improvements, enhancing flood resilience and connecting underserved neighborhoods to outdoor recreation and essential services.
Grant Award: $2,498,686

City of Thornton – Parks, Recreation and Community Programs
Infield Dreams
This project will improve the maintenance of 26 baseball fields by purchasing an infield-specific groomer, which will enhance field quality, reduce staff time, and allow resources to be directed toward other park maintenance needs.
Grant Award: $25,000

City of Thornton
Pickle and a Biscuit
This project involves designing eight new pickleball courts, with four to be constructed initially at Carpenter Park. In addition, the in-line hockey rink at Woodglen Brookshire Park will be upgraded with new sideboards, fencing, and baseboards.
Grant Award: $329,407

City of Westminster
Tree Inventory Project
The City of Westminster will inventory trees on public lands in Adams County to plan for the removal of invasive species, enhance care for native trees, and identify opportunities to expand wildlife corridors.
Grant Award: $17,500

Spring 2025

On August 12, 2025, the Open Space Program received twenty full grant applications and seven Mini Grant applications for a total of twenty-seven grant submissions. The total amount requested for open space grants in this cycle is $16,169,666.78 which includes mini grants.

Adams County
Riverdale Regional Park Maintenance Enhancements
$231,373.33
Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts was awarded funding to improve sustainability and reduce maintenance challenges by replacing outdated fencing at Riverdale Regional Park. The current fencing is supplied by a single vendor, leading to long lead times and limited repair options. The new fencing will simplify maintenance, reduce staff workload, and enhance the park’s appearance.

Adams County
Riverdale Regional Park Trail Improvements
$210,000
Adams County will use funding to extend the paved trail around Mann-Nyholt Lake to improve accessibility and safety. The current gravel sections pose usability challenges, especially for those with mobility needs. The project will add ADA-compliant concrete walkways, enhance connectivity, and improve the park experience for all visitors.

Bennett Park and Recreation District
Weight Room Renovation – Facelift Phase 6
$70,000
To modernize its facility, Bennett Park and Recreation District will replace outdated equipment and reorganize the weight room for a more functional layout. The renovation includes safe, industrial-grade equipment and an updated design while preserving valuable existing pieces.

Bennett Park and Recreation District
Weight Room Flooring Phase 7
$17,500
This project will replace torn, uneven stall mats in the weight room with industrial-grade, recycled flooring designed specifically for fitness equipment. The new surface will be safer, longer lasting, and easier to maintain, completing one of the building’s last major upgrades.

City of Brighton
Brighton RecPlex Phase 1 – Community Park
$3,000,000
The first phase of Brighton’s RecPlex will deliver a vibrant new park with pickleball courts, an inclusive playground, walking paths, a concession building, and picnic areas. Designed for community engagement and outdoor recreation, the park will offer green spaces, a maintenance building, and ADA-accessible infrastructure to meet diverse resident needs.

City of Brighton
Water Tower Park Connectivity and Parking Lots
$1,050,000
The City of Brighton will enhance Water Tower Park with improved sidewalk and trail connections and additional parking to support accessibility, safety, and neighborhood connectivity. The upgrades aim to improve the visitor experience and support park use for surrounding communities.

City of Commerce City
Pioneer Park Improvements
$749,999
Funding will support major upgrades at Pioneer Park, Commerce City’s largest park. Plans include replacing two playgrounds, adding a new adventure dome, enhancing picnic areas, and modernizing infrastructure built between 2004 and 2015 to better serve residents and events.

City of Commerce City
Second Creek Trail Connections Planning
$50,000
This project will connect existing trail segments near Second Creek Trail using roads built by Metro Water Recovery. Improvements will link Bison Ridge Recreation Center to Tower Road, improving resident access and trail usability.

City of Commerce City
Interpretive Signage at CALU Park and Second Creek Trail
$5,750
Commerce City will install interpretive signage at CALU Park and along Second Creek Trail to educate visitors on the land’s Indigenous history, wildlife, and native plants. The project includes input from Tribal Historic Preservation Officers and local experts to ensure accuracy and cultural relevance.

City of Northglenn
Festival Lawn Shade Structure & Public Art Project
$560,000
Northglenn will add a functional, artistic shade structure at Festival Lawn, a central hub for concerts and events. Developed with the Northglenn Arts and Humanities Foundation, the project promotes inclusivity, comfort, and year-round use of the space.

City of Northglenn
Huron Crossing Park Safety Project
$290,500
To improve safety and accessibility, Northglenn will install fencing, pedestrian lighting, and upgraded trail connections at Huron Crossing Park. Enhancements will address resident concerns and create a more inclusive, welcoming environment.

City of Northglenn
Northwest Open Space Ballfield Shade Project
$25,000
This project will replace temporary dugout tarps at Northwest Open Space with permanent shade structures. The upgrade will improve player safety, comfort, and usability, especially during peak sun hours.

City of Thornton
Wise Water at Brandon Place Park
$805,000
This project includes irrigation system replacements, grading improvements, and water-wise landscaping at Brandon Place and Cherry Lane parks. Goals include sustainability, ADA accessibility, and improved recreational experiences through drought-tolerant upgrades and new fitness stations.

City of Thornton
Big Dry Creek Trailhead Design & Underpass Construction
$704,088
Thornton received funding to design a new trailhead and construct a pedestrian underpass near York Street, improving access to the Big Dry Creek open space corridor. The project supports trail safety, connectivity, and recreation.

City of Thornton
Drone Pilot Program
$25,000
Thornton will use two drones, one for mapping and one for weed control to support park operations and open space maintenance. The project includes staff training and will enhance GIS capabilities and targeted vegetation management.

City of Westminster
Bishop Square Park Improvements
$1,500,000
Westminster will renovate Bishop Square Park to meet ADA standards and modern sustainability goals. Planned improvements include new accessible paths, a redesigned playground, stormwater controls, and transforming an unused tennis court into a lighted recreation space.

City of Westminster
Municipal Court Park
$1,400,000
Westminster’s new Municipal Court Park will feature walking paths, shade trees, seating, and xeric landscaping. The park supports community wellness and responds to resident feedback calling for accessible outdoor gathering spaces.

City of Westminster
Westminster Parks and Open Space Equipment Electrification
$20,845
To meet new state regulations and reduce emissions, Westminster will replace gas-powered park maintenance tools with battery-powered alternatives. The purchase includes electric trimmers, blowers, edgers, and chargers, supporting the city’s environmental goals.

Highline Canal Conservancy
High Line Canal Conservation Easement Stewardship
$197,103
The High Line Canal Conservancy will use funding to support stewardship and monitoring of the conservation easement on the Adams County portion of the High Line Canal. This includes equipment, training, and a long-term endowment to protect the five-mile segment.

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Learn to Swim Pool
$910,000
Funding will support design and engineering for a new Learn to Swim Pool at Carstens-Camenisch Park. The pool will be part of a larger recreation vision that includes improved trails, accessibility, and water-saving turf conversions.

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Carstens-Camenisch Park Plan Implementation
$840,000
Hyland Hills will complete construction documents for the Carstens-Camenisch Master Plan, covering 150 acres in Federal Heights. Planned features include trails, gardens, amphitheaters, accessibility upgrades, and sustainable landscaping to serve diverse recreational needs.

Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District
Fitness Center Pickleball Court Design
$25,000
This project funds the design of new pickleball courts adjacent to the Hyland Hills Fitness Center. The effort includes community engagement, site planning, ADA compliance, and sustainable materials to support healthy, active lifestyles.

Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership
SCRGP Environmental Education
$273,947.05
SCRGP will expand its nature-based education programs for underserved youth and families in the northeast metro area. Programs use the Greenway as a living classroom to inspire environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership
Wetland Park Destination
$224,930
This project will develop Wetland Park into a vibrant community space with inclusive swings, murals, educational signage, and native landscaping. Part of the “Many Destinations” initiative, the park promotes equitable access to the Greenway.

Town of Bennett
Kiowa Creek Trail and Multi-Modal Improvements
$2,323,581.40
This project will fund the Adams County segment of a regional multi-modal trail that connects Bennett Regional Park to Kiowa Preserve Open Space. The new hard-surface trail will extend across I-70 and follow Highway 79, offering a safe, accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists. Several road crossings will improve connectivity and support regional trail access.

Town of Bennett
Trupp Park Food Truck Plaza
$25,000
Bennett will build a dedicated food truck plaza north of Trupp Park’s parking lot to ease congestion during events. The new space will improve logistics, ensure safer parking and pedestrian flow, and support the park’s growing role as a hub for food truck gatherings.

UN Heritage for Korean War
Korean War Memorial at Generals Park
$635,050
Aurora’s Korean War Memorial honors veterans from 22 nations who served in the conflict. Located at General’s Park, the memorial includes storyboards, gardens, monuments, and a reflection space, offering visitors a place to remember and learn about the war’s history.

From the Policies and Procedures

Annual Report: An annual report describing projects funded with the open space funds will be made available to the residents of Adams County annually. The county will compile information based upon reporting they receive from each jurisdiction describing how 30% Share back funds were used. The county will also compile a list of projects funded in the past year, including a brief description of each project and the amount of funding awarded).