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Conservation efforts extend Townwide

Town of Castle Rock • Spring 2023

MAGAZINE TEAM

Assistant Town Manager

Kristin Read kread@CRgov.com

720-733-3552

Communications Manager Melissa Hoelting mhoelting@CRgov.com

303-660-1365

Sr. Communications Specialist Carrie Mahan Groce cmahangroce@CRgov.com

303-660-1381

Communications Specialist Joelle Beckett jbeckett@CRgov.com

303-660-1387

Communications Specialist Katy Houston khouston@CRgov.com

720-733-2237

Communications Specialist Sydney Kozel skozel@CRgov.com

303-660-1382

More than spring is green in Castle Rock

One hallmark of any thriving community is that it cares for and looks out for all of its parts. In Castle Rock, this means we watch out for the future of our residents by conserving and protecting our valuable natural resources and our historic character. In this issue, we highlight examples of conservation, both large and small. From ensuring energy efficiency in new construction and in Town facilities to conserving resources and preserving and enhancing our water and environment, read on to learn how we are taking care of our home.

8

Fire and water can mix

CRFD’s incredible water savings from just one equipment purchase

10

Responsible growth

Conservation and preservation are cornerstones of planning

16

Pitching in POST Partners volunteers care for the Town’s outdoor spaces

20

Stormwater secured

Improvements in Craig and Gould paving the way for our water future

Photos by: Lisa Christianson, John Leyba, Nick Lucey, Liberty Pro Imaging, Mark Sims, various staff and volunteers

Graphic designer: Joelle Beckett

Amazing open spaces WELCOME

The phrase “open space” evokes beautiful images. But, the Town’s roughly 6,000 acres of open space offer the community much more than pretty pictures. Open spaces contribute to our quality of life, our health and our local economy.

In fact, open space is so important to the Town that the phrase is mentioned 41 times within our Municipal Code, our Town laws. Public safety — also vitally important to our community — is mentioned only half as many times, with 23 references in the code.

The Town is extremely proud to have nearly onethird of our land area set aside as open space. And, we are always looking for opportunities to preserve more land for the community to enjoy.

We’re fortunate that our newest open space area, Metzler Family Open Space in northcentral Castle Rock, was donated to the Town. The Estate of Robert F. Metzler had the legal right to develop its 60 acres into homes and

businesses. Instead, they saw more value in ensuring the community could visit the family’s historic homestead in perpetuity. A parking lot will soon open to allow greater public access onto the property.

Both avid enjoyers of the outdoors, we encourage everyone reading to get outside to appreciate our Town open spaces. Find maps and other information about these properties — including regarding the Town’s commitment to conservation — at CRgov.com/OpenSpace.

Whether you’re seeking solitude or togetherness, we know you’ll find a faraway feeling close to home at our amazing open spaces.

Town Manager David L. Corliss TownManager@CRgov.com

Mayor Jason Gray Mayor@CRgov.com

Mayor Gray in search of additional open space for the community to enjoy.

Help shape the future of Castle Rock

Volunteer for a board or commission

Community participation at all levels of local government is valued and encouraged. Castle Rock Town Council invites residents to get involved in their local government by serving on one of the Town’s boards or commissions.

Boards and commissions are made up of volunteers who Town Council appoints to study community issues and provide recommendations to Council.

Each April, Town Council recruits for upcoming board and commission vacancies. This year, applications will be accepted April 1 to 24. Candidates will be interviewed by a team that includes the Council liaison, Town staff and a current member of the board or commission. Recommendations for appointments are made to Council for formal approval, and terms begin June 1. Appointment terms are generally two years, with a maximum of three terms.

For board and commission vacancies and information on how to apply, visit CRgov.com/Boards.

Town boards and commissions

Board of Adjustment

Hears and decides requests for variances from strict enforcement of the zoning and sign codes. Also responsible for hearing appeals to any decision or determination made by an administrative official. Decisions by the Board of Adjustment are final, subject to judicial review.

Meetings: First Thursday of each month at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Tim Dietz

Board of Building Appeals

Hears and decides appeals of orders, decisions and determinations made by the Chief Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of Town-adopted building codes and regulations, as well as the Town’s contractor registration ordinance.

Meetings: First nonholiday Monday of March, June,

September and December at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Ryan Hollingshead

Castle Rock Water Commission

Reviews issues related to the master plan for capital improvements, water rates and fee structures, and policies proposed to Town Council.

Meetings: Fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Mayor Jason Gray

Design Review Board

Reviews all development applications that require a Downtown site plan to achieve the goals and objectives of the Downtown Master Plan, the Downtown Overlay District and the Historic Preservation Plan. Comprised of two Downtown property owners, two representatives each from the Downtown Development Authority and

Historic Preservation Board and one representative from the Planning Commission.

Meetings: Second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Desiree LaFleur

Historic Preservation Board

Protects and preserves the history of Castle Rock by recommending historic structures for designation as historic landmarks. Reviews and approves new construction and design renovation requests within the Craig and Gould neighborhood to maintain the area’s historic and cultural heritage. Three board members must be residents or property owners within Craig and Gould. Additionally, three members are required to have backgrounds in education or experience in archaeology, architecture, history or planning.

Meetings: First Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Desiree LaFleur

Parks and Recreation Commission

Makes recommendations to Town Council regarding the master plan, the three-year strategic plan, the annual operating budget and the fee schedules for the Recreation Center, Miller Activity Complex and Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course.

Meetings: Third Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Tim Dietz

Planning Commission

Reviews development requests, zoning change requests, and other proposals for future growth and development in Town, as outlined in Municipal Code. Holds public hearings, may request modifications to proposals and works to reach a consensus on advisory recommendations to Town Council.

Meetings: Second and fourth Thursdays of each month at 6 p.m.

Council liaison: Mayor Jason Gray

Public Art Commission

Identifies priorities and goals concerning the acquisition of art for public buildings and parks within Town. Appointees are residents and/or artists in the community.

Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 4 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Tim Dietz

Public Safety Commission

Advises Council and Town staff on recommendations concerning levels of service, local public safety issues and funding for the Fire and Rescue and Police departments. Assists with the review of annual operating and capital budgets, as well as strategic planning and identifying goals and objectives related to staffing, facilities and community needs.

Meetings: First Thursday of each month at 3 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Laura Cavey

Public Works Commission

Makes recommendations to Council related to a variety of transportation projects and services.

Meetings: First Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

Council liaison: Councilmember Ryan Hollingshead

Council liaisons

In addition to serving as liaisons on the Town’s boards and commissions, Councilmembers represent the Town as liaisons to numerous local, County and regional committees. Some of these organizations include the Douglas County Youth Initiative, Denver Regional Council of Governments,

Centennial Airport Community Noise Roundtable and Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority. To learn more about each Councilmember’s board, commission and committee involvement, visit CRgov.com/MeetCouncil.

Laura

District 2 lcavey@CRgov.com 303-663-4406

Ryan Hollingshead District 1 rhollingshead@CRgov.com 720-733-3585

Max Brooks District 5 mbrooks@CRgov.com 303-663-4403

Desiree

Kevin Bracken Mayor Pro Tem, District 3 kbracken@CRgov.com 303-663-4402

Mayor Jason Gray Town at large Mayor@CRgov.com 303-663-4401

Cavey

Tim Dietz District 6 tdietz@CRgov.com 303-663-4405

LaFleur District 4 dlafleur@CRgov.com 303-660-1384

Town website gets a refresh

The Town of Castle Rock’s website — CRgov.com — is its primary communication vehicle. Last year alone, the website saw about 1.2 million visitors.

The official online source for Town information is getting a new look and several enhancements to make finding information even easier. An improved search function and updated navigation will more efficiently connect site visitors to resources. Information from Town departments, such as Parks and Recreation, Castle Rock Water, Police, Fire, Development Services and Public Works, will also be more prominent. The Town calendar has also been simplified to give a better look at what’s ahead. And, the site is now more user- and mobile-friendly.

Check out the updates scheduled to go live in mid-April at CRgov.com. Then, provide your feedback on the refreshed design and ease of navigation at CRgov.com/Feedback.

Online water portal and paperless billing available

Castle Rock Water’s updated billing system and online portal use upgraded security and advanced technology to provide customers with 24/7 access to their water accounts. Visit CRgov.com/MyWaterBill to create your new account or to sign up for paperless billing. Paperless customers will receive a digital bill — along with the Your Town Talk newsletter — by email each month rather than by mail. Just as every drop of water counts, so does every piece of paper.

The portal also allows customers to make a one-time payment, set up autopay, schedule payments on a chosen date, view water consumption data, track household events that may change consumption and more.

Don’t have an online account? Sign up today at CRgov.com/MyWaterBill. It’s quick and easy, all you need is your bill with your account name and number.

Necessary enhancements to create train quiet zone underway

Trains passing through Downtown Castle Rock are required to sound their horns because the railroad crossings on Second, Third and Fifth streets are located on the same level as the road. To create a quiet zone, the Town needs to implement safety-enhancing improvements.

Earlier this year, Union Pacific Railroad replaced track at the Second and Third Street crossings. The installation of this track and a gate system, plus upcoming curb and sidewalk improvements at these crossings, will allow for a quiet zone. Once Union Pacific completes its remaining work, the Town will notify appropriate agencies. After inspection, residents will no longer routinely hear a horn when a train passes through Downtown. Train engineers will have discretion to sound horns as needed for safety. For more information, go to CRgov.com/QuietZone.

Annual roadwork refresh focuses on eastern region of Town

Each spring, the Town begins a roadway refresh that extends the life of our streets through the Pavement Maintenance Program. To maximize Town resources, this program divides the Town into five major regions, focusing on the neighborhood streets of one region each year, along with a few primary roadway projects Townwide.

Beginning this April and reaching completion by fall, the Town will address 83 lane miles of roadway, primarily in eastern Castle Rock. Residential streets in the Founders Village area are the focus of this year’s neighborhood roadway refresh. Primary roadway projects include Fourth and Second streets in Downtown, Woodlands Boulevard and northbound Mikelson Boulevard from Ridge Road to East Sovereign Street. Learn more — visit CRgov.com/PMP. Read more about roadwork in Town on Page 22.

Workers apply a slurry seal to extend the life of roads.

Celebrate nature

Community events care for our water, our landscape and the Earth

Earth Day, Saturday, April 22

For more than 50 years, April 22 has been designated as "Earth Day." On this day each year, people worldwide join with others in their communities to clean up and restore natural resources and celebrate the Earth.

On Saturday, April 22, Festival Park will become Castle Rock’s Earth Day headquarters. Everyone in Castle Rock is invited to join their friends and neighbors from noon to 3 p.m. for an Earth Day festival. Come to Festival Park to mark the day and learn more about environmental conservation. You’ll find educational information from local nonprofits, crafts, demonstrations, vendors featuring upcycled goods, music and food trucks. It will be a day to act, learn and enjoy.

For almost a decade, volunteers have helped the Town celebrate Earth Day by restoring disturbed areas at Philip S. Miller Park or along Sellars Gulch in Downtown Castle Rock. In 2022, 130 volunteers each spent three hours harvesting and planting willows. Continuing the tradition, this Earth Day, volunteers will plant native grasses at Festival Park and remove invasive plants, including watercress, in the park and along Sellars Gulch. Find out more at CRgov.com

Spring Up the Creek, Saturday, May 6

Warmer temperatures bring spring cleaning. You can help clean up the outdoors at the Town’s Spring Up the Creek event. This year marks 20 years of community members helping to keep our Town’s waterways clean while promoting the importance of protecting the environment.

Join us and give back to your community by picking up trash and keeping Castle Rock and our local watershed beautiful. All ages of volunteers are welcome. This is a great opportunity for youth to fulfill needed community service hours. Learn more and register at CRgov.com/SpringUp.

This event is hosted by Castle Rock Water in partnership with Douglas County, Castle Pines Metropolitan District, Plum Creek Water Reclamation Authority and the Chatfield Watershed Authority.

Saving lives and saving water

How CRFD conserved 3.5 million gallons of water in one year

Each year, Castle Rock Fire and Rescue conducts tests on every fire truck pump, as mandated by the National Fire Protection Association. During the annual test, an apparatus pump blasts out water in order to measure the gallons per minute discharged, which helps find any signs of damage or underperformance. When a pump does not work correctly, it could affect CRFD’s response to an emergency.

When a traditional test is conducted with no additional conservation measures in place, the water that comes from the pump pools on the ground. One typical apparatus pump test requires about 64,750 gallons of water.

When testing the whole CRFD fleet, this amounts to about 500,000 gallons used per year for the larger fire apparatus. This practice led Logistics Division Chief Jim Gile to spot an opportunity to make a positive difference for the Town.

“On the Colorado Front Range, we not only have elevation to deal with, but we also have desert," explained Gile. “Therefore, if we waste water and it runs onto the ground, it is gone. We don’t get it back.”

In 2018, Gile submitted a proposal to procure a pump test trailer, called a Draft Commander. The Draft Commander holds 2,000 gallons of water, and CRFD recycles

The Draft Commander trailer connects to the fire pump on an apparatus for required annual pump testing.

CASTLE ROCK FIRE AND RESCUE

HOW MUCH WATER?

Castle Rock Fire and Rescue conducts an annual test on every fire truck pump, as mandated by the National Fire Protection Association. With the help of the Draft Commander trailer, CRFD is helping conserve water with each pump test. Each jug represents 1,000 gallons of water. All numbers are approximate. The figures represent a normal annual pump test and may vary based on setup time and testing efficiency.

water from the Draft Commander, through the fire pump on the apparatus, and back into the Draft Commander.

“By recycling water in the Draft Commander trailer, we’re able to reuse this small amount of water to pump test,” explained Gile.

In the first year of using the Draft Commander, CRFD had just acquired several new apparatus that needed to go through additional pump testing. Without the pump test trailer, the team would have used 3.5 million more gallons of water, compared to only 2,000 gallons of water that was used.

In total, CRFD has conserved over 5.5 million gallons of water since the program began in 2019. Their success earned the Logistics Division a Town of Castle Rock Project Green Award for its water-saving efforts last year. CRFD has expanded this program and conducts annual testing for neighboring fire departments.

“We want to show residents that we’re taking the time to protect our resources. As a department that uses water in day-to-day work, we are always looking for opportunities to conserve wherever we can,” said

New landscaping coming to Fire Stations 153 and 154

Landscaping improvements are planned for Station 153 in Founders Village and Station 154 in The Meadows. Both locations will receive a ColoradoScape update that incorporates low- to very-low-water-use plant materials.

The Fire Department, in partnership with Castle Rock Water, completed initial inspections and landscaping designs and will remove highwater-use Kentucky Bluegrass at both locations. CRFD plans to begin these landscaping updates this spring, pending funding.

Learn more about ColoradoScaping on Page 12.

Fire Chief Norris Croom. “Castle Rock is one of the best places to live and call home, and we want to do our part to secure water resources for generations of residents to come.”

6 WILDLAND TYPE-6 BRUSH TRUCKS DRAFT COMMANDER TRAILER

3 QUINT LADDER TRUCKS

5 ENGINE FIRE TRUCKS 2 WILDLAND TYPE-3 BRUSH TRUCKS

OF WATER USED PER VEHICLE IN AN AVERAGE ANNUAL PUMP TEST... ...OR JUST THIS

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

withPlanning purpose

Conservation strategies in Castle Rock development THEN

Open space conservation

As a cornerstone of the Town’s 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan, responsible growth guides every development project in Castle Rock, and protection of open space is required. The Development Services team works with developers to ensure projects adhere to a 20% open space minimum, which supports the plan’s goals to “protect and conserve natural resources, sensitive areas, ridgelines and areas of open space throughout the Town.”

By protecting natural resources, providing places for recreation and preserving environmental and ecological

functions, Development Services helps enrich residents’ quality of life.

Energy conservation

The Town adopted the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code, which regulates design and construction to improve levels of energy use in all new structures. The code is updated regularly and requires developers to use the latest energy standards within all new buildings in Castle Rock. These codes have helped builders track the total energy performance of their structures and make adjustments for additional energy improvements.

In 1901, James E. Fetherolf built a two-story structure at 403 N. Wilcox St. from locally quarried rhyolite, further expanding the building in 1910. This nationally landmarked property’s historic name is the Keystone Hotel.

Conservation is top of mind in every step of the development process in Castle Rock. The Town’s Development Services Department has implemented sustainable practices within its planning, building and zoning services. From requiring energyefficient building standards, to preserving open space and beloved historic landmarks, the team is dedicated to preserving Castle Rock’s past and supporting responsible growth in the future.

Mark your calendar: May is Historic Preservation Month. Celebrate with trolley rides and a family friendly scavenger hunt around historic Downtown hosted by the Castle Rock Museum. Stay tuned to the Town’s Facebook page (@CRgov) for more information.

Learn more about the Town’s historic preservation efforts at CRgov.com/HistoricPreservation

Historic preservation

Conservation is not just about protecting ecological resources — it also involves safeguarding the origins of our story.

Much of Castle Rock’s charm is found in historic buildings and a rich cultural past. Another of the four cornerstones within the 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan is distinct Town identity. Development Services directly strengthens this cornerstone through its historic preservation efforts.

In 1995, the Town created the Historic Preservation Board to preserve local historic and cultural heritage. Working alongside the Development Services team, the board reviews

new building applications and ensures that development aligns with “Castle Rock Style” — a publication that serves as a guide for new construction and alterations to historic structures in Town.

In 2007, Town Council adopted the Town’s Historic Preservation Plan, which established goals and policies to guide the community regarding future decisions that could impact the Town’s historic resources. One of the plan’s goals is to provide incentives for the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic properties. Since that time, the Design Assistance Program, the Downtown Historic Preservation Grant and the Local Restoration Grant have all been created to support the historic preservation of Castle Rock.

The current owners purchased the property in the 1990s, restored the building and opened Castle Cafe Restaurant and Lounge. The second story houses apartments, and the first floor is also home to Next Door Bar.

CASTLE ROCK WATER A BEAUTIFUL

ColoradoScape — Castle Rock Water’s name for water-wise, creative landscaping — offers color and beauty with minimal upkeep and less water consumption. How? By replacing nonnative, water-guzzling grass lawns with plants well adapted to our climate, mulches to suppress weeds and efficient irrigation systems.

With almost half of the water we use at home dedicated to maintaining our landscapes, imagine the savings (of water and money) by cutting back on outdoor watering!

Ready to convert to a ColoradoScape? Use these tips to get started:

ColoradoScape Make a Plan

Getting trees, shrubs, plants and boulders in the best place always goes better with a solid design.

Observe the sun and shade patterns in your yard. Plants in south-facing areas will typically get more sun and require more water.

Know how tall and wide each plant will be. Be patient — plants need two to three years to be fully established.

Pick Plants

Select plants carefully for Castle Rock’s semi-arid, high desert climate. Use CRconserve.com/PlantFinder to help choose from about 300 plants carefully curated for our climate.

Shrubs come in many different shapes and sizes that can add interest to a design. Splurge on a bigger specimen to use as a focal point.

When using gravel and rock, break the area up with other design elements including boulders, mulched areas and plantings. Plant in both rocked areas and mulched areas. A welldesigned space won’t be a sea of rock.

Consider large boulders to “ground” the landscape design. Think about how boulders appear in nature — group various sizes together.

Gayfeather

ColoradoScapes are coming CRFD stations see Page

BEAUTIFUL WAY TO CONSERVE WATER

Add trees to provide shade and cooling to plants and to sections of your home — you’ll save water and energy. Placing deciduous trees on your home’s east, south and west sides will provide shade during summer and allow the sun to come through during winter.

Plant ground covers in front of perennials and shrubs; use them to replace grass lawns in low-traffic areas. Mulch keeps soil cooler, reduces evaporation and minimizes weeds. Coordinate shape, color and function with plant types, trees and house color. Organic mulches include wood chips, chunk bark, shredded bark, pine needles, lawn clippings and straw. Install 4 inches worth of these materials.

Inorganic mulches are stone-based and include rock, cobblestone, pea gravel, lava rock and crushed rock. These last longer than organic mulches.

Contest

Win a front yard makeover! Create an entertaining 30- to 60-second video about why your lawn sucks — water, that is. Then submit it between April 1 and April 30 for an opportunity to win a $9,000 ColoradoScape front yard makeover. Find details at CRconserve.com/Contest.

Perennial plants come back each year. Using an assortment will ensure blooms throughout the growing season. Place perennials in front of shrubs, with the smallest plants in front. Create a powerful effect by planting in close groupings. This keeps plant roots cooler and can reduce the need for water.

Use annuals to add great seasonal color and fill in bare areas.

A low-water landscape is a balance of soft and hardscape elements like rock, mulch and plants.

Ornamental grasses add height and texture in a design — plant them as a backdrop to perennials and annuals.

Make an irrigation plan. Drip irrigation systems for landscape beds can reduce water waste from evaporation by 20%! Group plants according to their watering needs, and use irrigation designed for that zone.

Start planning by visiting CRconserve.com/ColoradoScape. Sign up for a ColoradoScape Design Workshop at CRconserve.com/WaterWiser and see if you qualify for a ColoradoScape renovation rebate at CRconserve.com/Rebates.

Oak tree Oak tree

ColoradoScapes coming to stations —

" CASTLE ROCK POLICE DEPARTMENT We like to say our job is

to protect and shred!

Going green with the blue

Castle Rock Police Department provides one-of-a-kind conservation opportunities

Sustainability efforts come in all different packages. Whether it’s recycling, adding solar panels or landscaping yards to be more environmentally friendly, going green has a unique look no matter who you ask. The Castle Rock Police Department is no different, having found special ways to take care of the environment and its resources.

Officer Seth Morrissey (left) and Officer Jake Coyle (right) on patrol on Sellars Gulch Trail.

CASTLE ROCK POLICE DEPARTMENT

Bike patrol

Castle Rock is home to over 110 miles of trails and more than 50 parks. These outdoor opportunities benefit residents and visitors, as well as the police officers who are working to keep them safe. Members of the Community Partnership Unit serve as the Police Department’s bike team, which regularly opts for two wheels over four.

“Rain, snow or sunshine, it’s not uncommon to see these officers riding around Town year-round,” said Special Operations Commander Mark Galvan. “Bike patrolling gives us the chance to use less gas, reach areas of Town that may not be as accessible by car and is a direct way to interact with residents on the trails.”

“On any given day, we can ride 15 to 25 miles,” Police Officer Jake Coyle added. “We like to say our job is to protect and shred!”

There are currently 13 Castle Rock Police officers who are certified as public safety cyclists through the International Police Mountain Bike Association.

“Flushing medications down the toilet creates the need for more advanced and costly water treatment options,” said Castle Rock Water Director Mark Marlowe. “Dropping unused medications at the Police Department is a great way for people to help prevent water pollution. We’re grateful for the partnership between our two departments to keep the Town’s water clean.”

While the DEA events are held twice annually, the Castle Rock Police Department also has a drop box for medication in its main lobby, 100 Perry St. Available Monday through Friday during regular business hours, this service is offered as another way to make sure prescription and over-thecounter drugs, vitamins, pet medications and more can be properly discarded.

“In 2022, we collected 1,170 pounds of medication in our lobby drop box,” said Investigations Commander Tim Gorman. “The benefits are really twofold: we’re keeping these drugs out of Castle Rock’s water but also away from individuals or children who shouldn’t have access to them. It’s nice to know the community uses this service, and we’re glad we can provide it for them.”

Other green initiatives

The Castle Rock Police Department continues to find other ways of protecting valuable resources where possible. For example, CRPD used recycled turf from one of the Town’s athletic fields when designing its outdoor fitness yard.

Drug take-back efforts

Every year, CRPD participates in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s National Prescription Drug Take Back events. Held in April and October, these opportunities provide residents a safe way to dispose of their unused medications.

“Not only was the reclaimed turf costeffective, it also allowed us to expand our department’s robust wellness program by providing officers and staff with another option that promotes mental and physical health,” said Commander Galvan.

In addition to its gas vehicles, the Police Department also has a handful of electric and hybrid vehicles in its fleet. CRPD also uses various solar-powered signs to assist with crime prevention and pedestrian and traffic safety.

More than 175 pounds of drugs were handed in to Castle Rock Police Department during the fall 2022 Drug Enforcement Agency's National Prescription Drug Take Back event. The next event is April 22.

Recycled turf used on CRPD's outdoor workout area is part of the Police Department's conservation efforts.

PARKS AND RECREATION

HELPING US SHINE

Volunteers contribute to the beautification of Town’s parks, open spaces and trails

As the saying goes, “many hands make light work.” That’s certainly the case for the Town’s POST Partners program. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the program and dedicate hundreds of hours each year to enhance the community’s outdoor spaces.

POST stands for parks, open space and trails. The volunteer program was started in 2007. Now, the program averages more than 100 outings a year, with over 1,200 volunteers.

“POST does so much more than trash cleanups,” said Program Coordinator Marcy Jones. “The variety of projects we’ve done is tough to count.”

The value of service Castle Rock gets from POST volunteers is immeasurable but, last year, it equated to more than $125,000 in time and labor contributions. That’s countless trash cleanups and trail maintenance outings; numerous split-log bench installations; and dozens of special projects with Scout troops, church youth groups and businesses.

POST volunteers help keep parks, open spaces and trails looking good.

“The amount of work we do through POST Partners is pretty remarkable,” said Jones. “From weekly park cleanups, to trail maintenance groups, to landscaping projects, there really is something for anyone looking to get involved in the community.”

One thing that makes POST Partners so unique is the range of volunteers. High school students meeting their graduation requirements, court-ordered community service participants, families and individuals of all ages regularly take part. The program proves there’s plenty people can do to volunteer for the Town.

While trail maintenance and trash cleanups are important, POST also organizes several special projects. These include dog waste station sponsorships, painting trees with a sand and paint mixture to keep beavers from felling the trees for dams, and planting trees for Arbor Day.

As part of Arbor Day, the Town has planted over 20 trees each year since 1986. And, that’s just one environmental day celebration. Volunteers can join events for Earth Day in April, National Trails Day in June and Public Lands Day in September. In the past, these outings have included activities like willow harvesting and planting along Sellars Gulch, constructing the Legacy Trail at Gateway Mesa Open Space and collecting and discarding knapweed at Quarry Mesa Open Space.

The POST Partners program is a remarkable example of how volunteers can contribute to the high quality of life in Castle Rock, connect with other residents and take pride in the community where they live. Ready to pitch in? Head to CRgov.com/Volunteer

POST project helps Colorado bluebird population soar

Colorado bluebirds are native to Castle Rock. And, thanks to a POST Partners project, the birds are thriving.

Since 2007, through the Colorado Bluebird Project, the Town has worked to improve the vitality of bluebird populations throughout the State and inform and educate the public about bluebirds and other migratory songbirds. Each year, trained volunteers help maintain and monitor nest boxes throughout the community.

With the addition of 12 boxes this spring, at Metzler Family Open Space and Cobblestone Ranch Park, there are now 202 nest boxes installed in Castle Rock’s parks, open spaces, trails and other public spaces, like schools. Thanks to the project, nearly 8,000 bluebirds, swallows and other native birds have fledged from these boxes.

This program truly illustrates how a small volunteer act can have a big impact on a community. Learn more about the Colorado Bluebird Project at CRgov.com/Bluebird

Bluebird Project volunteers check nest boxes.

2022 highlights

Staff team aims to paint the Town green P

rotecting Castle Rock’s natural resources is a top priority for the Town of Castle Rock and is outlined in the Town’s 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan.

In 2008, Town Council implemented a resolution to promote a paperless work environment within Town departments, and the internal, employee-led Project Green program was created. Over 15 years, the Project Green team — a dedicated group of staff volunteers — has grown the program to include educational opportunities, events and creative solutions toward a more sustainable work environment.

Programs and initiatives

65 pounds holiday lights recycled

Project Green has implemented numerous programs to empower Town employees to adopt sustainable practices while on the job. In addition to document shredding and electronic recycling events throughout the year, the Green Team has placed stations inside Town buildings where staff can recycle batteries, plastic bags and even holiday lights.

two cleanup events cleaning up streets in the Downtown area. Two events are also planned in 2023.

In support of the Parks and Recreation Department, Project Green helps to promote the Christmas tree recycling program, which has recycled over 11,000 trees.

Community cooperation

11 Town staff volunteers

64,600 pounds paper shredded

In 2019, the Town participated in a Trex® composite decking recycling program, collecting over 500 pounds of plastic recyclables in six months. In turn, the Town received a Trex® park bench, now located on the northeast side of Town Hall.

If you’ve taken your pooch for a walk at Rock Park, you may have noticed (or made use of) the handy pet waste station located at the main trailhead. This station, along with another located on the southeast side of Town Hall, are sponsored by Project Green.

384 pounds plastic film recycled

Trash cleanup

Project Green organized a Road Rangers roadside cleanup crew in 2022 and held

In addition to supporting conservation efforts within Town departments, Project Green members also volunteer within the community, promoting sustainability education and events. Look for the Project Green team at Spring Up the Creek in May and Bike to Work Day in June.

Green Leaf Award

Each April, in honor of Earth Day, the Project Green team presents an individual and a team or department with its Green Leaf Awards. Recipients are chosen based on their commitment to sustainable practices and Projects Green’s GREEN values: Goal attainment, Responsibility, Environmental protection, Efficiency and Natural resource conservation. The award, custom-made of reused wood and metal topped with a sparkling medallion of recycled glass, is engraved with the winners’ names and reused year after year.

11,377 Christmas trees recycled (since recording began in 2016)

349 pounds single-use batteries recycled

Road Rangers volunteers keep roads clean.

The Town was awarded a park bench made of recycled materials for collecting over 500 pounds of plastics.

According to the Alliance to Save Energy, buildings account for about 40% of all U.S. energy consumption, so balancing energy efficiency management while keeping safe, functional facilities is crucial.

The Town of Castle Rock’s Facilities Division oversees major capital improvements, as well as performs general and preventive maintenance-related and repair services, for all 30 Town buildings.

Last year, the Facilities team addressed 3,300 work orders, with 1,786 — 53% — of those being preventive maintenance related.

“Financial stewardship is very important and, by taking care of our assets, we’re able to help prevent unexpected and, often, very expensive failures in the future,” said Facilities Administrator Scott Smith. “Another way we’re taking care of resources is by implementing strategies that conserve energy.”

One of the Facilities team’s largest energy conservation efforts focuses on installing energy-efficient LED lighting in Town buildings. Each LED fixture significantly reduces electricity consumption and waste. Light dimmers and occupancy sensors are added in areas where it makes sense so lights can be turned down and only turned on when a space is occupied.

The team is also using daylight-harvesting technology in some buildings. This is an automatic lighting-control strategy where sensors detect the amount of natural sunlight coming through windows and adjust supplemental interior lighting up or down to maintain a target lighting level.

Light saver FACILITIES

Mechanical systems in Town buildings are another focus area. At the end of life cycles, old heating, ventilation and air conditioning units are replaced with newer, more efficient technology. New rooftop HVAC units are equipped with variable frequency devices so motors can be ramped up and down slowly, which is easier on mechanics. Night and unoccupied set-back modes allow auto temperature settings depending on building occupancy. And, with remote HVAC controls, the Facilities team can identify and troubleshoot issues from desks or remotely, saving time and resources.

“These efforts are very important, but the top priority is ensuring Town staff and building visitors enter and occupy clean, safe and functional facilities,” Smith said. “Our motto is to take care of the buildings and the people who occupy the spaces, ensuring they’re comfortable and functional.”

Facilities team aims to keep buildings functional, safe

Town Facilities workers fix a light pole at Philip S. Miller Park.

CASTLE ROCK WATER

Foundation for the future

Craig and Gould North ready for next 100 years with new infrastructure

The historic Craig and Gould North neighborhood is a beautiful intersection of our Town’s past, present and future. Some homes have been there since the neighborhood was developed in 1879, and others are just being built on the rare empty lot that remains today. With lovingly maintained homes, historic and modern, the neighborhood was due for an update to its water infrastructure.

Water lines generally last 50 to 100 years. Both the water and sewer lines in this area have been updated since 1879; however, little rehabilitation has occurred since the area’s roads were paved in the 1980s.

Craig and Gould is the Town’s oldest neighborhood, built on land donated in 1874 by namesakes Jeremiah Gould and John H. Craig. It is generally located between Front and Gilbert streets and Rock Park and Sellars Gulch Trail. This latest rehabilitation project addressed the portion of the neighborhood north of Fifth Street.

Castle Rock Water’s strong rehabilitation program tracks several indicators such as line breaks, valve leaks and sewer overflows to determine the necessity for updates. In 2007, Craig and Gould South rehabilitation was completed due to these indicators. Although the need to upgrade Craig and Gould North was indicated then, the budget and resources to complete the project were unavailable until 2019. During the wait, the neighborhood experienced several problems that necessitated incremental replacements of water and sewer mains until the full project could begin.

The most pressing issue in the northern neighborhood was flooding, and this indicator allowed the Stormwater Division to authorize the Craig and Gould North project. The neighborhood’s roads were built with a reverse crown design to allow stormwater to flow to the middle of the street and drain away. However, heavy rains, the lack of storm drains, steep terrain and limited water capacity caused the roads to flood easily, often overflowing onto properties in the subdivision.

With an emphasis on stormwater mitigation, the new design of roads in the area generally includes a crowned center to shed water and the addition of stormwater drains and inlets, along with curbs, gutters and sidewalks. Older water and sewer lines have also been brought up to modern standards and sizing.

During planning, Castle Rock Water’s primary considerations were fitting the large stormwater infrastructure into the already crowded right of way,

Craig and Gould

An unused water pipe from 1916 remains buried in the Craig and Gould neighborhood.

the steep terrain and maintaining access for residents.

The project cost $9.4 million and, after two years of design, took 18 months to complete. Castle Rock Water worked closely with residents to ensure their needs were addressed. Six open houses were held for the neighborhood to inform the design. During construction, the department continued to address resident concerns as they came up.

Craig and Gould North now has appropriate street parking for homeowners, ADAcompliant sidewalks and relief from potential flooding. Residents can also look forward to better water pressure, fewer sewer backups and reduced service disruptions from line breaks.

CASTLE ROCK WATER

Infrastructure rehabilitation is an ongoing program, and other neighborhoods have undergone similar upgrades. Recently, the Glover neighborhood received updates, along with many Downtown alleyways. The Plum Creek neighborhood is next on the list.

Craig and Gould North now has modern technology for treating stormwater using an underground vault. This water quality-enhancement structure collects rainwater and snowmelt, drops out harmful contaminants, and helps make stormwater that reaches East Plum Creek cleaner.

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Castle Rock, Craig and Gould North is now paving the way for the future.

History lovers:

Be on the lookout for Historic Preservation Month events in May, including a scavenger hunt, trolley tours and the burial of a time capsule in the Craig and Gould North neighborhood. Activities will be posted at CRgov.com/Events.

Crews install the water quality vault.

After: The repaved street includes sidewalks, drains and gutters.

Before: The original reverse crown design had water flowing down the middle of the street and did not have sidewalks, gutters or drains.

PUBLIC WORKS

Elevating value

When shopping, how do you know if a product is a good value? You may decide that good value is defined by the price or quality of materials. Perhaps you decide to buy a product based on the company’s high level of customer service.

In that same way, the Town’s Public Works Department aims to provide value to residents through its transportation projects. How does our community determine if an infrastructure project was a good investment of Town resources? Through public feedback, residents defined the term “value” in regard to Public Works projects through the following elements: low downtime, reliability, high safety, low life cycle cost and low environmental impacts.

Just like the ancient Greeks believed that the classical elements of air, earth, fire and water harmonized together to create the universe, Public Works’ value elements harmonize

Public Works gives “green light” to conservation measures while offering excellent services within budget

Echo Hollow Street in the Crystal Valley neighborhood was part of Public Works' Pavement Maintenance Program last year.

with staff talents and skill sets to create synergy that Public Works Director Dan Sailer has coined “elevating value.” “When we elevate value at Public Works, we ensure that we are delivering the best possible products and services for our residents while staying within budget,” said Sailer. “When residents are out biking, driving or walking through Town, we hope that the behind-the-scenes considerations that go into building our roads and signals and taking care of our streets shine through.”

Pavement Maintenance Program

Conservation efforts are geared toward the value of low environmental impacts. Every year, the Town’s Pavement Maintenance Program team recycles and reuses both concrete and asphalt to extend the life of residential roads while minimizing the use of raw materials where possible. For example, when a street is reconstructed, the pavement and concrete curbs and gutters are pulverized. Contractors are then able to reuse the crushed materials, mix them with water and no additional chemical additives, and create a more environmentally friendly stabilizing material for the foundation of the street.

Traffic signal timing improvement program

Last December, the Traffic Engineering Division implemented a timing improvement program for traffic signals on major roadways in Castle Rock. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion during peak periods, improve safety, and lower vehicle idle time, thereby reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

Nonsignalized intersections may be controlled with roundabouts. These offer benefits also — the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that roundabouts reduce fuel consumption by 30%, as well as reduce noise and improve air quality when compared to traffic signals and stop signs.

Snow and ice mitigation

During snow and ice mitigation efforts, the Town keeps it “green” by following industry standards set by the Denver Regional Council of Governments and Regional Air Quality Commission.

The Streets Division uses a digital mapping system to track when and where salt and sand are dropped on Town roadways. After a winter storm passes, the system creates a map of where all the sand is located. The Town’s street sweepers can quickly sweep main streets within 10 days, as required by the Regional Air Quality Commission. The project

Roadwork roundup

Here are some of the major road projects planned throughout Town. The construction timelines are subject to change.

• Plum Creek Parkway widening: underway, to be complete by summer 2023. CRgov.com/PlumCreekPkwy.

• Ridge Road widening: underway, to be complete by summer 2023. CRgov.com/RidgeRoad.

• Crystal Valley Parkway roundabout: construction spring 2023. CRgov.com/CVR.

• Four Corners intersection improvements: construction late 2023. CRgov.com/FourCorners

• Crystal Valley interchange: construction anticipated by late 2023. CRgov.com/CVI

• Crowfoot Valley Road widening: construction 2024. CRgov.com/Crowfoot.

• Fifth Street widening: construction 2024. CRgov.com/FifthStreet.

earned the division an internal Project Green award in 2021 for the elimination of printed snow route maps in favor of digital maps. See Page 18 to learn about Project Green. Through thoughtful planning of its conservation measures, the Public Works Department ensures that residents continue to experience Castle Rock as an exceptional place to work and call home.

Plum Creek Parkway widening started in 2022 and is set to be completed in summer 2023.

It’s