BV Parks & Trails Inventory

The Town of Buena Vista has developed several plans for individual parks and trails over the years; however, it needs a comprehensive review of the existing parks and trails infrastructure and guidance for how each piece fits into a larger community context. As a community known for its open space, there is a growing demand amongst several user groups and limited community resources on the best approach to remedy the problem.

Buena Vista has partnered with Lauren Platman and Claire Guthrie, students in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program at the University of Colorado Denver, to develop a comprehensive planning tool that integrates all trails, parks, and open space planning efforts within the community. This project serves as their Capstone which is required for the completion of their master’s program.

 This project aims to update the existing parks and trails inventory from the previous community trails and parks plans to include those within the town boundary and the three-mile area plan. Additionally, the team will identify connections and create a plan that shows how these systems work in tandem, and identify gaps to inform future improvements. 

The final report will include datasets for trails and park facilities, a public-facing platform that hosts the data, and proposed trail connections and park uses and amenities. The updated and complete inventory of park and trail amenities and infrastructure will provide town planners and community members an overview of existing available facilities and inform future park and trail planning efforts. Ultimately, we hope that a complete inventory will make it easier for community members and visitors to utilize the parks and trails system.  

We are asking you to support this process by taking our survey. We want to hear your thoughts on Buena Vista’s parks and trail systems. Tell us what you like, dislike, and want to see improved with the existing system. The survey will take no more than 10 minutes to complete.  

Claire Guthrie is in her final year at the University of Colorado Denver in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program. With her background in geology and science outreach programs, she is passionate about getting people outside and learning about the world around them. Claire’s love of education has translated into the ability to simplify complex topics through activities, presentations, and graphics. 

Lauren Platman is a second-year student in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program at the University of Colorado Denver. She is passionate about designing spaces for all people to comfortably and safely enjoy the outdoors. Lauren has been involved in nonmotorized regional trails projects through her non-profit work and has extensive experience with community outreach. Lauren’s strong geospatial analysis and graphic design skills enable her to communicate complex planning concepts to a diverse audience.