Historic Park Planning

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An aerial view of the barns and land surrounding the Highlands Ranch Mansion, with residential neighborhoods and mountains in the background.

On April 30, 2026, Shea Homes will convey approximately 197 acres of ranchland to the Metro District. This land is centrally located in our community and surrounds the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr. This conveyance will expand the current Historic Park to almost 250 acres for the benefit of the community. The land features pastureland, along with 13 existing outbuildings and the iconic windmill that stands on the elevated hill south of the Mansion.

The Metro District's intent is to preserve the history of the property while providing opportunities, programs and amenities to help all ages explore the heritage of our region.

How the Historic Park will take shape

An old stone windmill with an attached small building. The development of Historic Park will unfold in three thoughtfully planned phases – each one shaped by community involvement:

Planning: Listening and learning together - The Metro District will focus on engaging with our community, gathering ideas and learning what residents, local businesses and Douglas County partners want the Historic Park to become. Using this feedback, a consultant will help develop a conceptual plan that outlines potential amenities, estimated construction costs and a long-term operational approach. Before any work begins, the community will have a chance to review and comment on this conceptual vision.
Design: Bringing the vision to life - Once the conceptual plan is refined, the project will move into final design. This phase sharpens details, improves cost accuracy, and further evaluates how the park will operate. Community feedback will continue to play an important role as the final design takes shape.
Construction: Turning plans into place - Construction timing and phasing will be determined once designs are complete. The Metro District will explore whether amenities are built all at once or introduced over time – always with flexibility and long-term value in mind.

How you can get involved

Don't miss any updates by signing up for our project emails, and consider supporting enhancements by donating to the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Historic Park Preservation fund.

Location

The existing Historic Park and the approximately 197-acre conveyance surround the Highlands Ranch Mansion to the south and east. The Mansion is located at 9950 E. Gateway Drive.

The full property is generally bordered by E. Gateway Drive, E. Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Summit View Parkway, and S. Ranch Road/Sterling Drive.

FAQs

What is the vision for Historic Park?

The Metro District has worked with the community over the years on a vision for Historic Park land to become a passive park that will provide opportunities to enjoy nature, honor our history, and provide educational opportunities. Going into the public process the vision remains the same, and we hope to hear more specifically from the community about their needs and desires for the development of this park.

What is the timeline for development of Historic Park?

The public outreach and input process will begin in the second quarter of 2026 and continue through 2026. Following public input, the Metro District will analyze the input and engage a consultant to develop a concept plan in 2027. Public input will be sought on the concept plan before moving into final design. Final design will drive the schedule of improvements. The project may be completed in phases.

How can I provide input?

Will all the existing buildings be renovated and open to the public?

During the planning and design phases, staff will work with consultants to evaluate the structural integrity of the buildings and define potential uses for the structures. To the extent structures are safe, have a defined purpose, and it is financially feasible, they will be renovated. The park and renovated buildings will be open to the public; however, the hours of operations are not yet known. During the planning and design process the operational plan will be developed.

Ranch buildings inventory:

Historic windmill
Silos (2)
Barns (4)
Bunkhouse
Cottages (2)
Sheds
Blacksmith shop
Laundry/power plant building
Stables

Will Historic Park have sports fields?

What will the improvements cost, and how will they be funded?

There are currently too many unknowns to accurately estimate future construction and operating costs.

In the Metro District’s long-range financial plan, staff earmarked $10 million for initial design and for a portion of the improvements. Once the concept plan is completed, staff will generate estimates and assess options for phasing construction and funding for improvements. Simultaneously, a business plan will be completed to understand ongoing operations cost.

Understanding these costs will help guide the final design phase.

What will happen to the land in the meantime?

Highlands Ranch is currently under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to heightened fire danger conditions.

Highlands Ranch Metro District

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Historic Park Planning

How the Historic Park will take shape

How you can get involved

Location

FAQs