Community Helps Guide Future of Westminster Hills Open Space Neighborly Advice 4 7 8 10 9 12 14 Dive In A New & Improved Swim & Fitness Center
Adult Day Trips Let Us Do The Driving History and Mystery of the Bowles House Fall Events Guide
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DIVE IN
A NEW & IMPROVED SWIM & FITNESS CENTER
Westminster’s Swim & Fitness Center, nestled at 3290 West 76th Avenue, is the city’s longest-standing recreation center. For nearly 50 years, the facility has been a second home for residents in Historic Westminster interested in swimming activities, offering eight swimming lanes, a diving board, and a deep diving well. As the needs of residents have changed over the facility’s near five-decade lifespan, Westminster Parks, Recreation & Libraries (PRL) staff were eager to refresh a community favorite while adapting the aging building to modern times.
In August 2024, Westminster welcomed residents into a new and improved Swim & Fitness Center, updated to accommodate the needs of changing city demographics and desires.
Excited residents entered through a new entrance on the west end of the building, now equally accessible from both parking lots.
Just inside the door, sunlight now paints the entire lobby decorated with modern furniture, creating an open and welcoming space.
Residents immediately noticed the improvements. “I come here about three days a week,” said Young Chun, a Swim & Fitness Center regular. “Westminster has the best facilities as far as I have seen.”
In addition to the relocated lobby, Swim & Fitness Center now sports a cardio deck and weight room with fitness equipment. The pool area was painted and received some mechanical upgrades to enhance water quality and minimize operational costs. Guests can also enjoy new tile and wood in the renovated steam and sauna rooms.
George Miller, a Westminster resident who lives a stone’s throw away, comes by every day to use the hot tub, steam room, and to cool off in the pool.
“I’m really looking forward to the weight room. I don’t want to get big, I just want to stay healthy and tone up,” said Miller. “The other thing that draws me is the free breakfast for kids, with the [summer] lunch program, because where I live there are four kids, and I bring them over here to swim and have breakfast. This helps out the community all the way around.”
The project is a “comprehensive overhaul,” assured Kira Kloser, PRL’s recreation facilities superintendent. Excited about the new opportunities for residents, she continued: “Our new and upgraded community room has a capacity of about 60 to 80 and allows us to host fitness classes. We expect to have about 17 classes in total.”
Broadening the uses and offerings of Swim & Fitness Center was the City’s goal, but that couldn’t be addressed before an important overarching consideration.
“Accessibility was really the emphasis of this project,” Kloser said. Before all the cosmetic improvements came the more crucial technical ones. ADA designated parking spaces and sidewalk ramps were implemented in the parking lot and careful care was taken to accommodate short travel distances from the parking lot to the lobby, then again from the lobby to amenities.
“When buildings, just like houses, were built in the 1970s, accessibility wasn’t exactly top of mind,” reflected Tim Lachermeirer, PRL’s recreation services manager.
“When you came into the main level of the facility, there were no activities or programming on the [main] level and so you had to take stairs.”
To alleviate the need for stairs, staff engaged the public with a plan to reorient the main lobby of the building. This shift in floor plan
allowed the City to replace the existing single-person wheelchair lift with an elevator that services every floor of the facility. Residents can now also get from a car directly to the pool without changing levels.
The improvements are a point of pride for Deb Larsen, PRL’s recreation supervisor. “We are the heart of Historic Westminster,” she said. Larsen made special note that adding amenities to an already beloved pool facility transformed Swim & Fitness Center into a "one-stop-shop."
Construction on the six-million dollar modernization, partially funded by a milliondollar Adams County grant, began in 2023. Combined with Capital Improvement Project funds, the Swim & Fitness Center marks a
significant investment to revitalize one of the city’s oldest facilities.
“We continue to invest in the facilities and programs in Historic Westminster,” said Lachermeier. “We felt an importance to meet the changing demographics of the city, and really believe we can continue doing that into the future with all of the ADA accessibility improvements.”
A grand opening and 50th anniversary celebration event at Swim & Fitness Center is scheduled for September 12, 2024, construction permitting. Scan the QR code for the most up-todate information on the celebration event.
Westminster Hills Open Space Community Helps Guide Future of
The sprawling Westminster Hills Open Space (WHOS) has long been a popular outdoor destination for our community.
Located at 100th Avenue and Simms Street, the natural prairie landscape and expansive views of the Front Range draw in nature lovers from all over the metro area, while 440 acres of accessible terrain make for a uniquely liberating opportunity for dog owners to let their pets roam free.
Given the growing popularity of WHOS, the City is committed to a collaborative approach to ensure this treasured space thrives for generations to come.
Following nearly a year of active engagement with the community, including hosting a community advisory team comprised of residents representing different interests, the City presented a proposal on how to best shape the future of the area. In July 2024, City Council directed staff to move forward with the proposal to designate the land as Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Off-Leash and Natural Area. This designation protects both the 440-acre off-leash dog area and
the western half of the open space as a protected natural habitat for native wildlife.
A key part of guiding the future of Westminster Hills is the development of an area-specific site management plan. This plan created and implemented by City staff will serve as a roadmap for providing more amenities for residents and pets such as trail design, shade structures, water stations, wildlife habitat, parking, and educational signage.
and strategic trail realignment will prioritize pet safety while off-leash, and the addition of shade structures and parking improvements will enhance the overall visitor experience.
Westminster remains dedicated to ongoing public engagement as we continue to shape this beloved community space.
“Westminster Hills Open Space holds a special place in our hearts,” emphasized Herrera-
“The new management plan for WHOS is very exciting,” said Tomás Herrera-Mishler, Westminster’s Director of Parks, Recreation & Libraries. “We envision a balanced and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The new trail system is designed to protect the natural habitat while offering diverse experiences for recreation. We are confident that WHOS will be a wonderful destination for everyone to explore and appreciate.”
The future is bright for Westminster Hills, with several improvements under consideration. Proper fencing
Mishler. “The new management plan reflects our commitment to both environmental preservation and responsible off-leash dog walking. We encourage all residents to become familiar with the dog walking rules and regulations to ensure a clean, green, and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits WHOS.”
Learn more about Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Off-Leash and Natural Area by scanning the QR code or visiting www. westminsterco. gov/WHOS.
NEIGHBORLY ADVICE
We ’re here to help! For general inquiries and assistance, contact a Community Assistant.
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 303-658-2400 (then press “0” from the menu options)
When it comes to connecting with our community, we’re all ears! The City provides several different ways for residents to ask questions and share feedback directly with City Council as well as City leadership and staff.
Access Westminster
An online request center available on the City’s website provides residents, businesses, and visitors with a “Virtual City Hall.” Find answers to commonly asked questions or submit a new request, 24/7. From questions about animal management and snow removal procedures to reporting potholes and park maintenance requests, Access Westminster is your one-stop portal to connecting with the City.
Please note that requests are not monitored on a 24/7 basis and are addressed during regular business hours. If you have an emergency, please call 911. If you have a water or sewer emergency, please call 303-658-2500.
Public Comment
The community is always invited to participate in City Council meetings scheduled on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7 p.m. in City Hall. You can participate in one of the following ways:
Submit written comments in advance via email to PublicComment@westminsterco.gov by noon the day of the meeting.
Leave verbal comments in advance by calling 303-706-3111 by noon the day of the meeting.
Participate in person during live City Council meetings. To speak in person, you must sign up in the City Hall lobby from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. on the evening of the meeting. No advanced registration is required or permitted.
Engage with City Leadership
Residents are always welcome to engage directly with City leadership. You can contact City Councillors using the email addresses provided on page 3 of this magazine.
For a full directory of City Leadership, scan the QR code.
Saturday, Nov. 2 & Saturday, Nov. 9, 8 a.m. to noon 10001 Alkire St.
Movie in the ParK
“Migration”
Friday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
McFall Park 4801 W. 92nd Ave.
Presented by Intermountain Health
HolidayShowCraft
Saturday, Nov. 2 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The MAC 3295 W. 72nd Ave.
Veterans Day Ceremony
Monday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.
Armed Forces Tribute Garden 6001 W. 104th Ave.
City Council
Telephone
Town Hall
Thursday, Dec. 5
Details coming soon
Honor the Land and Streams
Participate between Nov. 4-9
Citywide event
"It’s a great way to see a L l d I fferent sorts of things across the state that you d I dn’t even know existed”
Adult Day Trips
Let us do the driving
It’s like a field trip without the school. You can have all the fun of going on adventures, seeing friends, and making new ones without the stress of grades. You could even learn something new at the Lee Maxwell Washing Machine Museum in Eaton or during the Denver mob tour without having to worry about a pop quiz. The City of Westminster is proud to offer adult day trips as part of recreation programming. These trips are open to adults of all ages whether or not they live in Westminster, and they allow you the chance to explore Colorado without the hassle of planning the trip and making the drive yourself.
The most popular day trips tend to be boat tours or anything in the mountains or Estes Park. Over the summer, a packed Westminster activity bus headed to the Flying W Ranch in Colorado Springs for an old-timey chuckwagon supper and original western stage show. It featured archery, axe throwing, a barbeque dinner, music, and more.
Some people came in pairs, some came alone, but they all met up at Westminster’s Public Safety Center to board the bus and travel together. At the end of the trip, participants said they left feeling like they shared something special with a group of people they could now consider friends. That includes Jim B. and Cheryl L., a brother/sister duo who have been attending day trips through the City for 20 years. "It’s a great way to see all different sorts of things across the state that you didn’t even know existed,” Cheryl L. said.
If you would prefer to stay closer to Westminster then matinees at Denver’s Buell Theater could be the trip for you.
"The bus takes you right up front and drops you off so you don't have to worry about parking," said Karen S., a Westminster resident who booked a trip to see "Company". This fall, there are day trips to three performances of "Hamilton", which is notoriously hard to get tickets for, unless you go with the Westminster adult day trip group, that is!
If you are attending a show, a Rockies game, or maybe even a brewery tour, you can feel safe having a drink without worrying about finding a designated driver.
“That’s a big part of the draw,” said Jennifer Jensen, a recreation specialist with the City’s Parks, Recreation & Libraries Department (PRL). “We’ll do wine tastings, and we’re even looking into adding a moonshine distillery tour. If you have a few drinks, you don’t have to drive home — our bus will take you back to Westminster,” Jensen said with a smile. If you’re still too tipsy, getting an Uber to your home from Westminster is “cheaper than getting one from Oskar Blues in Longmont,” Jensen joked.
The trips are designed for adults of all ages and happen during both the week and the weekend to accommodate different schedules. If you are nervous to go alone, Jensen says it’s worth giving it a try.
“This is a great opportunity for people to do something in a safe, controlled environment,” Jensen said. “If you don't like people, you don't
have to socialize. You don't have to interact with the group. You are an adult and can do your own thing on the trips, just make sure you’re back at the bus on time,” Jensen said.
If being social is your goal, then attending an adult trip is a great way to do it. “You can meet people from all walks of life,” Jensen said. That is her favorite aspect of the trips. “You might even make new friends. You might meet a significant other or find something new you like to do.”
It’s also a good way to not feel so alone. “If you want to try something, like going to the theater, but your spouse doesn’t, then you can go with a group of people. It makes it a little less lonely.”
Trips cost anywhere from $16-$200. Keep an eye on the City’s Activity Guide for future trips. PRL is planning a tour of Elitch Gardens, a visit to a beekeeping ranch, a trip to the Georgetown Christmas market, and more. You can find additional details and register for trips online at bit.ly/ WestyDayTrips or scan the QR code.
You can't miss it driving on 72nd Avenue past Newton Street. The tall red brick structure with gray shingles and details commands your attention. The architecture stands out in Historic Westminster, piquing the interest of residents and visitors alike. An icon in its own right, the Bowles House is overflowing with history throughout its hallways, and you’re invited inside.
The story of the Bowles House begins in 1863 when a young Edward Bruce Bowles first came to the Colorado Territory. The fearless and entrepreneurial 17-year-old had already become a man of the Wild West, making a career of riding on horseback and escorting cargo from his home state of Missouri to the rapidly expanding frontier towns of Denver, Salt Lake City, and Santa Fe.
By the time Edward Bowles decided to settle down in the area we now call Westminster, he had successfully crossed the plains of the American West 11 times.
Edward was 24 years old when he married Mahalia Elizabeth Longan in 1871, and the couple chose to homestead a parcel of land that same year. The Bowles' first built a wood frame cabin to live in and then started building a proper brick house. It took five years of construction, but in 1876 the finishing touches were added to the
The two-story house was an architectural anomaly because even though the house was the center of a working farm and ranch, there were many fashionable and high-end features included in the design. The brick arches over the rounded windows, as well as a highly decorative front porch, gave the home a more cosmopolitan feel. This Italianate-style home would have been more common in an urban 19th century setting, rather than on a working horse farm.
“It speaks to the quality of how things were built back then,” said Gary Shea from the Westminster Historical Society. “It’s an investment to build a worthy place to raise your family and pass on for generations to come.”
As a well-traveled cowboy, Edward Bowles had a knack for raising horses, especially draft horses suited for hauling heavy cargo across the plains. Many prized horses came from the Bowles property in Westminster, and Edward rode his best stable horse each year on Colorado Day in the Denver Pioneer Parade.
Along with agricultural interests including planting an apple orchard, wheat, barley, and alfalfa, Edward
red brick Bowles House we know today.
Bowles worked hard to bring railroad service to the area. He even built a depot on his property to serve as the community hub for shipping agricultural goods and travel.
The Bowles’ raised nine children together at their homestead and routinely opened up their home on Sunday mornings for community church services. It was the only functioning church in the area, and all denominations were welcome.
Later in life, Edward Bowles started shipping supplies to and from the mining town of Central City during the gold rush. “That was one of the many businesses he was involved in,” Shea said. “With those big draft horses he could haul the heavy equipment like milling machines up into the mountains.”
Edward Bowles became a wellknown and respected pioneer of Colorado before his death at the age of 76.
The Bowles children remained in the house and continued the family tradition of community service up until the home was sold in the 1930s. Over the years the house fell into disrepair, and in the 1970s the City of Westminster bought the property for the fire department to use in practice fire training and rescue drills.
However, thanks to the efforts of the former Skyline Vista Elementary School students and the Westminster Historical Society, the Bowles House was preserved, and the City was able to restore it to its original 1870s appearance. The property now serves as the Bowles House Museum, where the community can experience the ornate architecture filled with hundreds of artifacts and learn more about Westminster’s pioneering families.
To learn more about the Bowles House Museum, plan a visit or volunteer, scan this QR code or check out www.westminstercohistory.com.
