Title
Introduction and Presentation of the North Mesa Recreation Master Plan
Body
The North Mesa Recreation Area contains the last parcel of undeveloped land identified for recreational use in Los Alamos County. With new housing planned for the Arbolada subdivision and the North Mesa Housing Project with the Los Alamos School District, proactively planning for the community’s long-term recreational needs has become a critical priority.
To address this, the Community Services Department (CSD) engaged Sites Southwest, a professional planning firm with expertise in master planning and accessibility compliance. Their approach emphasized strong community engagement to ensure the final plan reflects the values and needs of Los Alamos residents.
The purpose of the North Mesa Recreation Master Plan is to:
· Document the community’s vision for the space.
· Analyze existing site conditions, constraints, and opportunities.
· Provide a conceptual framework for future improvements and preservation.
· Ensure recreational access for all user groups, regardless of ability.
Through a comprehensive and notably well-attended public engagement process, the following improvements and amenities were identified. Participation levels for this project were among the highest seen in recent recreational planning efforts, highlighting the community’s strong interest in shaping the future of North Mesa.
Residents provided input through listening sessions, workshops, open houses, and surveys, resulting in a clear set of priorities and desired features and amenities:
· ADA-accessible restrooms and parking
· Shade structures and landscaping
· Enhanced dog park and playground
· Bike infrastructure (pump track, skills park)
· Indoor sports facility
· Picnic areas and gathering spaces
· Fitness stations and nature play
· Splash pad and hydration stations
· Inclusive trail and play design
The conceptual plan for the North Mesa Recreation Area reflects the community’s priorities and f...
Click here for full text