by Lane Roberts

Playing at any of the three parks in Castle Pines North (CPN) can be lots of fun for kids - - until they need a restroom. A lack of restroom facilities at CPN parks have been an ongoing problem for as long as the community has existed.

On Monday, March 19, the Castle Pines North Metro District Board of Directors approved funds to build three “vault” restroom facilities at all three parks in CPN which includes: Coyote Ridge Park, The Retreat Park and Daniel’s Gate Park.

According to Charlie Fagan, Metro District parks and open space manager, vault toilets are less expensive to build because infrastructure to water and sewer does not have to be constructed. “We can build three vault restrooms for what one restroom requiring water would cost us,” said Fagan. “This is something CPN has needed for years. Our ball fields are busy and these kids need access to restrooms.”

A “vault” restroom, commonly used throughout Colorado’s State Parks, is a waterless toilet system that provides environmental and economical solutions for outdoor areas such as parks and trails. Ventilation of the facility helps minimize odors.

Bids for the project will be obtained during the next few weeks. The District hopes to begin this project in early summer. The estimated cost for the three restrooms project is $95,000.

For more information, please e-mail or call 303-688-8550.