LITTLETON, Colo. – Colorado State Parks has purchased 58 acres of private property inside of Roxborough State Park. After years of working with the Goodwin family, Colorado State Parks and Roxborough have finally helped the family achieve their dream of seeing the property preserved for future generations of park visitors to enjoy.

The land was purchased from the David A. and Nancy O. Goodwin Trusts, with financial support from the Friends of Roxborough State Park, the Colorado Lottery and Great Outdoors Colorado.

“There was a fear that if the land was not acquired by the state, it could be purchased and developed by private investors, to the detriment of the park,” said Todd Farrow, Roxborough State Park Manager. “Acquisition of the property will prevent it from being sold to another private landowner for residential development and maintain the scenic open space.

“Thanks to everyone who helped make this acquisition possible,” said Farrow. The property is located about a mile and a half from the park’s visitor center.

“The property was ranked as our highest priority acquisition project in the state,” said Brian Ocepek, Colorado State Parks’ Real Estate Program Manager.

“From a wildlife perspective, the elimination of this in holding will reconnect habitats and migration corridors,” said Ocepek. “From a public recreation perspective, a hiking trail could easily be constructed on the property that would add to the Roxborough’s trail system and enhance the overall recreation experience for the park visitors.”

Colorado State Parks has a long history with the Goodwin family, having purchased two other parcels from them in the past that are now part of Roxborough, said Ocepek. No buildings or facilities will be constructed on the property. An existing hiking trail near the east boundary may potentially be improved and extended south from the county road.

“This property is the fifth major land acquisition supported by The Friends of Roxborough State Park,” said Del Kelley of The Friends of Roxborough State Park. “Our thanks to all who have supported us. You have been our success. Come visit your investment – it’s beautiful.”

Farrow said Colorado State Parks received numerous letters of support for the project from the Douglas County Commissioners, Douglas County Open Space, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the Friends of Roxborough, and One Roxborough.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

CONTACT:
Todd Farrow, (303) 973-3959, Roxborough.park@state.co.us
Deb Frazier, (303) 514-8920, deb.frazier@state.co.us
This news release is also available at www.parks.state.co.us