Land Use Planning

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Osprey frequently assists jurisdictions in building agreements about land use planning among citizens, user groups, commercial interests and others.

Thornton Comprehensive Plan:

After the highly successful subarea planning mentioned below, Osprey was hired by the City of Thornton to work with HNTB and other consultants to develop an updated Comprehensive Plan for the City. Osprey facilitated meetings of the Steering Committee and meetings with area subcommittees and the general public. The Comprehensive Plan was unanimously adopted by City Council.

Boulder Feeder Canal Trail:

Working with a team of engineers and landscape architects, Osprey was responsible for designing and implementing the public engagement aspects of planning an 11.5 mile public multi-use trail along an historic canal that provides a significant amount of water for municipal use.

Continental Divide Trail Alliance:

2008 marked the 30th anniversary of the Federal designation of the Continental Divide Trail which stretches from Canada, across the United States, to Mexico. The 3100-mile trail is 60 percent complete. The Alliance seeks to complete the trail, enhance its use and maintain the resource. Osprey conducted a quick assessment and then facilitated a Board planning retreat that formulated strategic initiatives in three major areas.

Buckley Annex:

The Buckley Annex represents a unique parcel within Denver city limits. It consists of 72 acres of land including existing buildings currently used by Air Force Defense Finance and Accounting Services. Working with a team of consultants, Osprey facilitated an extensive community involvement program. Osprey worked with several substantive task forces and the consulting team to help draft, review and finalize a report that was submitted to the Air Force. The process was not without controversy. Many in the community found the proposed density and building heights to be incompatible with surrounding land uses. At the same time, the City of Denver was striving for greater in-fill and density within the urban area. The ultimate disposition of the property is under negotiation.

Thornton Land Use Planning:

After a controversial decision to accept and then reject a WalMart, the City of Thornton wanted a land use plan with strong community ownership. Osprey designed and facilitated an intense series of meetings focused on over 3,800 acres in the northern part of the city. Working with a diverse citizen steering committee, four technical subcommittees, City staff and a local planning firm, we produced a plan within five months. The plan was widely supported by Thornton citizens and unanimously adopted by City Council.

Catawba Land Claim Settlement:

As Public Participation and Negotiation Specialist, John Huyler devised and implemented the multi-party negotiation structure and provided ongoing advice regarding land settlement negotiations for the Catawba Nation in South Carolina. This land claim originated under King George III prior to the American Revolution. It was successfully settled and signed into law by President Clinton, Governor Campbell and the Tribe.