Hidden Pointe is set to begin a landscape project which will include improvements to the entrance to the neighborhood, open space areas and trails. (photos by Lorraine Masonheimer)

by Lorraine Masonheimer and Jeff Huff

Hidden Pointe residents will soon see the results of a long-awaited community landscaping project.  In June 2006, the Hidden Pointe Homeowner’s Association (HOA) hired the Architerra Group, a Littleton landscape architectural consulting firm, to develop a master landscape plan for the community. 

The firm has experience designing passive open space parks, recreational, multi-use trails, and environmental restoration projects. The plan will establish a unique identity for the entrance and public open spaces within the development.

The project calls for the redevelopment of the median and entry along Hidden Pointe Boulevard with significant improvements to the open space bisecting Crossing Circle.  In keeping with the natural surroundings, 84 trees, more than 1,800 bushes, flowering plants and native grasses will encompass the area. Irrigation and lighting systems will be upgraded.  Neighborhood paths will be resurfaced and connections built to existing trails.

“Our goal is to provide an attractive and functional area while providing a viable habitat for native plant and bird species,” said Jeffrey Huff, president of the Hidden Pointe Metropolitan District. “We have been working closely with the HOA and the architects to ensure that the desires of the community are reflected in the final plan.”

Construction is expected to begin in mid-June and will take about ten weeks to complete.  The budget for the project is approximately $300,000 and is jointly funded by the Hidden Pointe HOA and the Hidden Pointe Metro District (HPMD).  An amendment to the service plan of the HPMD was approved by a public vote of the residents in May 2006.  The amendment gave the HPMD the authority to spend accumulated reserves on park and recreation programs including landscaping projects. According to Huff, voter approval of the amendment was a critical step to obtain funding for the project.

Coordinating with Castle Pines North Metro District and Douglas County, improvements to the median along Hidden Pointe Boulevard are still awaiting County approval.  “We are hopeful that the County engineers will recognize the importance of this project to our community,” Huff said.

“Improvements to the existing landscape have been a priority of this board since 2004,” said Rick Schafer, Hidden Point HOA president.  “Our initial survey of homeowners indicated that was their number one concern.”  Local realtor and Hidden Pointe resident Dave Warren added, “People here are proud of their community. I think these improvements will enhance property values throughout the neighborhood.”

Established in 2006 by a vote of Hidden Pointe residents, the HPMD is the successor organization to Green Valley Water and Sanitation District. Green Valley provided water and sewer services through a contract with the Castle Pines North Metro District. The HPMD provides park and recreation programs in addition to facilitating the water and sewer contract directly with the CPN Metro District.

To view the Hidden Pointe Landscape Master Plan, go to
http://www.cpnhoa.org/newHOAPages/commonPages/News.php?hoa=206.