Salida, Colo. – Construction on the South Ark Neighborhood Infrastructure Phase I project continues to make significant progress, with a major milestone recently completed. The onsite utility improvements have been substantially finished, including two river crossings and critical infrastructure work within the open space adjacent to the Arkansas River. This work required the temporary closure of portions of the open space area to protect public safety during construction.
With these improvements now complete, the City is pleased to announce that the open space area will reopen to the public on Saturday, July 11th, 2026. Residents and visitors can once again access the area, including the newly constructed sidewalks leading to and across the pedestrian bridge near the Hampton Inn, across from Milford Street.
As a reminder, municipal code requires that dogs remain on leash within the open space area and trail corridor. Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage and safety guidance while construction is ongoing. The contractor and the City request that no one cross over construction fencing as they are in place to protect people from active work zones.
Sanitary sewer installation work is currently underway along County Road 104 near the Green Gate access point. As a result, this access point will remain closed through the remainder of July but expect that it will be open in early August. Access to the disc golf area and surrounding open space may be temporarily adjusted as construction progresses, and users are encouraged to follow posted detour and access information.
The City would like to reassure residents that the general area currently used as open space will remain open space following completion of the infrastructure improvements. These investments are designed to support future workforce housing development while preserving public access to recreational amenities and enhancing trail connections throughout the area.
The City appreciates the community's patience and cooperation as this important infrastructure work continues toward completion.