Health and Rec Committee Meeting Materials 11.18.2025 - FINALHEALTH & RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025 MEETING BEGINS AT 12:00 P.M. IN-PERSON AT AVON TOWN HALL OR VIRTUALLY ON ZOOM
COMMITTEE MEETING BEGINS AT 12:00 P.M.
1. ROLL CALL 2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 3. MINUTES 3.1 Approval of the September 9, 2025 Meeting Minutes 4. PUBLIC COMMENT Public comments are limited to three (3) minutes. The speaker may be given one (1) additional minute subject to Committee approval. 5. BUSINESS ITEMS 5.1 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan Update 5.2 Health & Recreation Committee Update 5.3 Recreation Department Update 6. OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMITTEE MEMBER COMMENTS 7. ADJOURN
970-748-4446 mlabagh@avon.org
Page 1 of 1
TO: Health and Recreation Committee Members FROM: Michael Labagh, Recreation Director RE: Harry A. Nottingham Park Master Plan Update DATE: November 14, 2025
SUMMARY: This report provides an overview of the initiative to update the Harry A. Nottingham Park
Master Plan document.
BACKGROUND: The Harry A. Nottingham Park Master Plan was developed in 2008. Although several priorities listed in the original Master Plan have been achieved or have changed, the document has not been updated accordingly. The original document can be viewed on the Town of Avon’s website at this link: https://www.avon.org/DocumentCenter/View/14134/3-Master-Plan-for-Nottingham-Park?bidId=
The Town of Avon Community Development Department engaged with a Graduate Student from the University of Colorado to complete their Capstone Project. This process included several internal meetings conducting thorough review of the current document, identifying areas of adjustment for an updated document, and redeveloping of existing plan design and graphics.
NEXT STEPS: To meet the requirements of the University of Colorado Capstone Project, the draft plan will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Health and Recreation Committee in November 2025. Staff will collect all feedback and incorporate suggestions and comments into the updated plan document. Staff intend to revisit the updated plan document in 2026 and conduct further review of the redeveloped plan with the Town Council, Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Committees.
Thank you, Michael
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A – DRAFT Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan Update – November 2025
Nottingham Park Plan2025 Update
ATTACHMENT A
Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Adopted 2012
Updated 2025
Town of Avon
100 Mikaela Way, Avon CO 81620-0975
http://avon.org/
3Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Acknowledgments
Town Council
»Gary Brooks
»Rich Carroll, Mayor Pro tem
»Lindsay L. Hardy
»Kevin Hyatt
»Tamra Nottingham-Underwood, Mayor
»Ruthi Stanley
»Chico Thuon
Planning & Zoning Commission
»Brad Christianson
»Carley Hansen
»Nicole Murad
»Brian Sipes
»Rick Sudekum
»Nancy Tashman
»Elizabeth Waters
Health & Recreation Committee
»Derek George
»Sonia Martinez
»Pat Nolan
»Kevin Hyatt
»Amy Phillips
»Lisa Post
»Kathy Ryan
»Ruth Stanley
»Nancy Tashman
»Courtney Walters Rawson
Cultural Arts & Special Events Committee
»Pedro Campos
»Alendro Cera
»Justin Chesney
»Kristen Dudding
»Ian Grask
»Amy Lewis
»Kerri Thelen
»Thomas Walsh
»Chuq Yang
Town Staff
»Emily Block, DevelopmentCoordinator
»Ineke de Jong, ChiefAdministrative Officer
»Danita Dempsey, Chief
Cultural Officer
»Jena Skinner, AICP PlanningManager
»Michael Labagh, RecreationDirector
»Matt Pielsticker, AICPCommunity Development
Director
»Eric Heil, Town Manager
University of Colorado Denver Capstone
»Sarah McLaurin, MURP
4 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments ......................................................................................................................3
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................5
Introduction & Background .......................................................................................................6
Plan Purpose ......................................................................................................................8
Existing Conditions ....................................................................................................................9
History of Harry A. Nottingham Park .................................................................................11
Avon’s Water System ........................................................................................................12
Physical Landscape ..........................................................................................................12
The Surrounding Built Environment ..................................................................................13
Events & Uses ...........................................................................................................................14
Annual Town of Avon Events (Typical) ..............................................................................16
Park Improvements ...........................................................................................................17
Future Projects or Park Enhancements ............................................................................19
Parking and Access ..........................................................................................................20
Park SubAreas & Goals ...........................................................................................................21
SubArea 1 ..........................................................................................................................23
SubArea 2 ..........................................................................................................................24
SubArea 3 ..........................................................................................................................25
SubArea 4 ..........................................................................................................................26
General Recommendations ...............................................................................................27
Implementation Strategy ..........................................................................................................29
5Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
The updated Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan 2025 addresses the evolving needs and priorities of the
Avon community since the original plan was adopted in 2009. Over the years, the Town of Avon has successfully implemented various initiatives aligned
with the original goals and has integrated suggestions from community feedback.
This revised plan highlights completed projects and establishes future goals and recommendations, covering areas not included in the 2009 document.
By combining past achievements with future aspirations, it promotes a cohesive vision for the
park’s development. Furthermore, the plan serves as a strategic guide for decision-making regarding Nottingham Park’s growth and enhancements.
It stresses the importance of adapting to new challenges while maintaining the park as a vital
community asset within the recreational and cultural landscape.
Building on the extensive community input that shaped the 2012 document, the updated plan
showcases the park’s unique history, outlines key future experiences, and presents strategies for its ongoing improvement.
Executive Summary
View over Nottingham Lake
6 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Chapter 1:
Introduction &
Background
7Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Located in the heart of Avon, Harry A. Nottingham
Park has become a beloved treasure among locals and visitors alike. Fondly referred to as Nottingham Park, this lively space is not just a park; it is a
gathering place where people come together to enjoy the beauty of nature and engage in recreational
activities.
Throughout the year, Nottingham Park hosts a variety of community events and activities, from outdoor
concerts and movie nights to seasonal festivals that celebrate the local culture. These gatherings foster a
sense of community, bringing together residents and visitors to create lasting memories.
The park’s scenic beauty is also a draw for tourists,
who come to experience the tranquil atmosphere and participate in various recreational opportunities.
With stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Nottingham Park serves as a backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and people eager to capture its charm.
As it continues to thrive as a recreational hub, Harry A. Nottingham Park reinforces Avon’s reputation as a
vibrant year-round community and a premier touristdestination.
The juxtaposition of the park is central to a densely
populated, mixed-use area of Avon. Along its northern edge, several multi-family residential projects exist,
and to the west, a diverse neighborhood and Avon Elementary School that shares the park’s recreational facilities. At the eastern end of the park, you’ll find
the library, as well as the Avon Recreation Center (“Rec Center”). For the various user groups within
the Avon community, the park serves as the primary open space and recreational resource. While the park’s physical layout significantly influences planning
priorities, the changing social and community context is also a crucial factor for this Plan.
The Nottingham Park Plan outlines a vision that
considers developments impacting the town core, along with the expressed values and desires of the current residents. Nottingham Park holds significant
value in its current state, and this document does not significantly deviate from the park’s existing
character as a scenic natural resource. Instead of proposing major changes to the park’s visual appeal or significant expansions of its recreational facilities,
this Plan emphasizes improving the quality of its elements, enhancing connectivity, and providing
essential amenities to support the various ways residents and visitors enjoy the park.
8 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Plan Purpose
The Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan (“Plan”) outlines a continuous framework for the Town of
Avon to manage and develop this vital public open space. The Plan aims to address the current and
future recreational needs of residents and visitors while being mindful of environmental, social, and economic factors. Key objectives of this Plan include
improving physical and mental health, promoting social well-being, ensuring fair and equitable access
to recreational opportunities, and providing activities and events for this mountain population.
Since Nottingham Park was established in 1978,
a number of planning documents adopted by the Town of Avon have proposed strategies and specific
recommendations for improvements in the park. Many of these associated plans have been updated since the original inception of the park Plan, including
the Avon Comprehensive Plan. However, this Plan speaks directly about the park, and not to the greater
Avon community purposefully, to thoughtfully guide the park with its sustainability.
Related Town of Avon Plans
The Town of Avon has produced numerous planning documents that reflect its evolving vision for community development, sustainability, recreation,
and public infrastructure. While not all these plans were created specifically for Nottingham Park, many contain policies, recommendations, and strategic insights that directly or indirectly influence the park’s future. As such, they provide valuable guidance in
addressing key concerns and identifying priorities for enhancing the park’s role as a central public space within the town’s growing framework.
»Town of Avon Comprehensive Plan (2024)
»Town of Avon Comprehensive TransportationPlan (2009)
»Sun Road Redevelopment Plan (2025)
»Recreational Trails Master Plan (2016)
»Avon West Town Center District Investment Plan(2007)
Avon Performance Pavilion and Lawn
9Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Chapter 2:
Existing
Conditions
10 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
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11Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
History of Harry A.
Nottingham Park
The early Eagle River Valley, which includes the
area that would later become Avon, was first inhabited by the Ute people. The Town of Avon was officially incorporated in February 1978 in
response to development pressures on ranch land following the success of the nearby Vail ski resort.
Shortly after incorporation, in June 1979, the Town dedicated 48 acres of open space in the center of Avon as a park, naming it after a prominent local
figure: Harry A. Nottingham. The dam that created the park’s central feature, the 15-acre Nottingham
Lake, was constructed the following year to serve as an emergency water supply for the rapidly growing community.
Harry A. Nottingham, the park’s namesake, was
a key figure in the valley’s history and the son of William Nottingham, an early pioneer who secured the original homestead rights in the Avon area. Born
in 1890, Harry and his brother Emmet ranched the land that would become the modern town, raising
cattle and sheep and growing various crops. Harry married Marie Cole, a seamstress and the daughter of the Avon railroad depot manager, and they raised
six children from their ranch home on Buck Creek in Avon: Winifred, Clare, Arnold, Carol, Mauri, and
Allan. Harry served as the school board president and county commissioner for 28 years, until he died in 1966. Mauri lived in the Avon area until his passing
in February 2018. Tamra Nottingham-Underwood, a descendant of this prominent family, has repeatedly
served on Avon’s Town Council since 2018.
Figure 2: Historical Sites Map
12 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Avon’s Water System
The Town of Avon owns the water rights for the lake- a reservoir, and the allowable uses (depletions) are
limited to non-potable (“Raw Water”) irrigation and evaporation. Raw water is used to irrigate the park,
feeding the lake through a series of ditches running east to west. The lake/reservoir is also emergency water for the Eagle River and the Eagle River Water
and Sanitation District (ERWSD), who operates nearby water and sanitation plants. No changes to
the lake are allowed that would change the surface area, volume of water, or evaporation rates; as such changes would require a modification of existing
water rights, a lengthy and expensive process that would require approval from the Colorado Water
Courts.
Physical Landscape
Nottingham Park is highly valued by the community as open space, a venue for community-focused
events, and a place to relax and recreate. The park’s central feature is the serene, 15-acre Nottingham
Lake which is primarily fed by Buck Creek. This resource provides the town with a critical water supply but also provides vibrant wetland habitat for
various species and offers a beautiful setting for year-round recreation. The park is also home to many
mature trees and extensive green spaces which create a calm, restorative atmosphere in the heart of Avon, ensuring all who visit have an accessible
connection to the mountain environment.
Nottingham Park is significantly enhanced by the
tranquil lake, which adds to its appeal. However, truly natural micro-environments are limited, as much of the park relies on its raw water irrigation system for
maintenance. Mature spruce, aspen, and cottonwood trees line the northern edge of the lake, providing
a pleasant backdrop along the irrigation ditch that stretches to Lake Street. Part of the overall water system the only semi-wild area is the lake’s adjacent
wetland margin near the sedimentation pond, though it remains unofficially recognized as a true wetland as
it is part of the raw-water system.
With the lake’s unusual trapezoidal shape, earthen dams and stabilizing boulders stabilize its shoreline
along the southern and western shores, restricting easy access to the water’s edge. The northern
shoreline is more inviting and features a significant beach front- one of the predominant draws of the park during the warm summer months. The eastern
shoreline features a mix of boulders, grass, and the walls of the pavilion, which features a lakeside
terrace facing west. An asphalt trail loops the lake, providing users with a connection between Lake Street and West Beaver Creek Blvd., or as an activity
like a lunchtime stroll.
Kayaking on Nottingham Lake
13Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
The Surrounding Built
Environment
Nottingham Park is surrounded by a mix of residential
and commercial properties. To the north and northeast of the park, as well as south of the I-70 corridor, the residential neighborhoods primarily
consist of medium-density multi-family condominiums and apartments. Directly west of the park, you’ll find
Avon Elementary School and a large mobile home community, which are home to many of Avon’s year-round residents. This proximity makes it easy for
residents to walk to both the school and the park.
North of I-70, larger single-family homes and
duplexes dominate the landscape as you head towards Wildridge, Avon’s largest residential subdivision that overlooks the town. Largely built out,
many of these residences serve as a mix of primary and secondary homes. Access to the park from these
neighborhoods is hindered by the interstate, limiting
options for reaching the park without a private vehicle
from this particular area of Avon, unlike the valley floor, which is very walkable and or bikeable.
At the southwest corner of the park, the southern
boundary is defined by the Union Pacific Railroad (“UPN”) right-of-way and the Eagle River Water
and Sanitation District wastewater treatment facility. On the eastern side, resort-related residential and commercial developments cluster together, leading
into the Town Core. Additionally, at the southeast edge of the park, the town has a library, the Avon
Recreation Center, and Avon Town Hall. There is a significant synergy among the park, the recreation center, the library, and the municipal buildings,
grouped in this area. The Town’s pedestrian connection or “Pedestrian Mall” connects to these
important community buildings, leading people from Avon Road at Possibility Plaza, and eventually into the Park.
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Context Map
Figure 3: Context Map
Context Map
14 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Chapter 3:
Events & Uses
15Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
The park’s central location makes it a popular
destination for locals, including nearby residents and employees from local businesses. Many people use the park to walk or bike to work, take breaks, and
enjoy lunch. Some areas are more heavily utilized than others, with certain sections designated for
passive activities and others adaptable for both passive and active uses, depending on events, weather, and the season.
The park offers a variety of seasonal activities that change throughout the week and day. Designated
areas, such as the multi-purpose playing fields, lakeshore, beach, and pathway system, host a range of daily activities. In winter, weather conditions limit
options to a few specific areas, primarily focusing on pathways and the fields, along with ice skating on the
lake when conditions allow.
Formal events and activities in the park encompass a wide range of recreational and cultural offerings.
These include weekly music events like Avon Live and Sunset Live, art festivals, and holiday-themed
activities, such as the annual Easter egg hunt. One of the most significant occasions is Avon’s Fourth of July fireworks show, which attracts large crowds.
The Town relies on its Special Events and Recreation departments to collaborate as partners for many
of the activities held in Nottingham Park, with the Special Events department primarily responsible for organizing these events and activities.
Programmed event in the Park
Walking on Park paths with a stroller
16 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Annual Town of Avon Events
(Typical)
January
Winter Fireworks in Avon
March / April Egg Hunt – Easter Celebration
May Thru Labor Day SunsetLIVE! – Music on the Terrace
June Thru August
AvonLIVE! – Music at the Pavilion
June Pride in the Park – Festival
July Salute to the USA – Independence Day Celebration
Triple Bypass – Regional Bike Race
Dancing in the Park
Lakeside Cinema
Avon Arts Celebration
August Cars in the Park
September
Paddle Battles – Stand Up Paddle Board
Community Picnic
October Vail Valley Soccer Tournament
Polar Plunge – Lake Swim
NovemberAnnual Turkey Trot – Running Race
The park effectively accommodates this wide range of activities and diverse user groups with
considerable flexibility. This adaptability is one reason why the existing infrastructure does not
require significant changes, as the format of the park in its current configuration accommodates a range of events throughout the year both public (Town of
Avon) and private.
Avon Performance Pavilion Programmed Event
Triple Bypass Bike Event
17Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Park Improvements
The Town strives to make Harry A. Nottingham Park a true community space that supports the
diverse needs of its residents and visitors. The Town continually works to maintain and enhance this space
to meet the ever evolving needs of the community.
The following projects and installations have been implemented over the last 15+ years to shape the
park and lake as a community-forward space:
Avon Performance Pavilion
The Town is proud to offer the Avon Pavilion at Harry A. Nottingham Park--a year round cultural
and entertainment venue for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, theater performances, educational
events, private functions and more.
The Pavilion includes:
»A 25’ x 45’ performance stage large enough toaccommodate a 60-piece orchestra and large
bands/groups
»The Terrace, overlooking Nottingham lake thatcan easily host upwards of 200-400 persons
»A “green room” connected to the stage withadequate space for theater performances. This
room also serve as a kitchenette for eventsincluding weddings, receptions and privategatherings
The Pickleball / Tennis / Basketball
Court
The outdoor sports courts are open seasonally, weather permitting, April through October and are
open daily from sunrise to dusk.
The Town of Avon remodeled the outdoor sports
courts during the summer of 2022. The sports complex includes six (6) pickleball courts, two (2) tennis courts and two (2) basketball courts.
Avon Performance Pavillion Programmed Event
Recreation Courts
18 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Nottingham Lake Beach
Nottingham Lake serves as the central headquarters for Avon’s summer activities in the park offering recreational activities like stand up paddle boarding,
kayaking, and peddle boards on the lake during the summer months from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day weekend.
There are two seasonal sand volleyball courts located in the beach area, and you can borrow volleyballs
from the Recreation Center. Fishing is allowed from the banks of the lake during boating hours, as well as from the docks.
Playground
In early 2017, the Town of Avon received a $350,000 matching grant from GOCO to enhance Nottingham Park’s 2-acre playground area, replacing a 20-year-old facility with new traditional and nature-themed equipment.
The updated playground features swings, a zip-line, climbing structures, and interactive equipment for children of all abilities. A Nature Play Obstacle Course includes climbing boulders, a natural play tunnel, and log steppers, while a small creek allows
children to engage with water and learn about native plants in the riparian areas
Paddleboards on Nottingham Lake Beach
Playground renovation
19Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Future Projects or Park
Enhancements
The Town has many projects and future initiatives
that are based on other adopted plans, community feedback, and industry best practices that will continue to make Nottingham Park and park for all.
The Town distributes a recreational survey every three (3) years, and a generalized annual survey to
ensure the community needs and aspirations are reflected in both the park and recreation center. The following is a list of future park projects or
enhancements:
»Pedestrian Plaza, installation of additional
public restrooms, and a seating wall near the Performance Pavilion
»Enhanced Lake Street “gateway” and crossing
plaza connecting the Pedestrian Mall
»A larger picnic shelter addition
»Skatepark (skateboarding, etc.) / Multi-use Plaza
»Historical Structure Additions to the park grounds
»A secondary Green Room to support events
»Enhanced fishing pier and boat dock relocation
»Swim beach enhancements
»Updated water system retention pond connection
»South embankment landscaping improvements
»Irrigation system overhaul
Fitness Court exercise area
Fishing on Nottingham Lake Pier
20 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Parking and Access
Many visitors access the park by car, utilizing various parking options such as the West Beaver
Creek Boulevard north parking lot, the west parking area at Avon Elementary, the municipal parking lot
at Town Hall, and public on-street parking spaces along Benchmark Road and Lake Street where EV charging stations are located. Improving the entrance
on Lake Street by improving the connection to the Pedestrian Mall, will provide a welcoming gateway for
non-vehicular users, enhancing the park’s appeal and overall wayfinding experience. Additionally, the Avon Station transportation area, just a 5-minute walk from
the park, is seeing an increase in transit riders, which helps alleviate parking demands.
Finding parking can be difficult when events at the park draw large crowds. Although there are several parking lots available, public parking operates on
a first-come, first-served basis, and convenient
spots are often limited during major events due to
logistics. Avon aims to create a new parking garage adjacent to the recreation center to benefit both park and center visitors, but the costs for this significant
improvement are substantial.
Avon aims to address these challenges by
implementing strategies to improve parking accessibility and manage demand effectively. This might include enhancing public transportation
options. Additionally, the community can benefit from better signage to guide visitors to available parking
spots, or with general communication for visitors coming into Avon. Engaging with residents and gathering feedback on their experiences will also
play a crucial role in ensuring that parking solutions are tailored to meet the community’s needs. By
fostering collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and residents, Avon hopes to create a more seamless experience for all park users while
promoting the growth of activities in the area.
Figure 4: Points of Entry and Parking Access
Points of Entry and Parking Access
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Points of Entry and Parking Access
Public Parking
Primary Entry Point
21Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Chapter 4:
Park SubAreas
& Goals
22 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Harry A. Nottingham Park is a cherished community
space, and the Town is committed to maintaining it as a welcoming area for everyone. The park offers a variety of amenities to meet the diverse needs of
the community. Planned improvements and projects will ensure that the park continues to evolve with its
users.
Several overarching goals apply to the entire
park, including those related to signage, water conservation, and programming. Additionally, some goals are more specific to certain locations
within the park, which are detailed in the sub-area improvements and illustrated on the sub-area map.
These updates, goals, and recommendations are based on public feedback, guidance from the Town’s citizen boards and commissions, research of best
practices, and input from planning efforts.
Figure 5: Park SubAreas Map
Park SubAreas
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23Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
SubArea 1
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Figure 6: Park SubArea 1
Existing Features
»Performance pavilion
»Recreation field
»Metcalf cabin
»Pump house
»Municipal building and storage
»Playground
»Picnic shelter
»Restrooms
»South parking lots
Recommendations
»Relocating Metcalf cabin
»Skate Park
»Additional restrooms, green room, and rain
shelter
»Enhanced lake street crossing
24 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
SubArea 2
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e
e
k
B
l
v
d
RiverfrontLn
L a k e S t
M i k a elaWy
Millies Ln
USHwy6
70
Nottingham
Harry A.
Avon
Nottingham
Lake
Sub Areas
Sub Area 1
Sub Area 2
Sub Area 3
Sub Area 4
Figure 7: Park SubArea 2
Existing Features
»Beach
»Volleyball
»Sedimentation pond
»Dock
»North parking
Recommendations
»Formalize the social path near sedimentationpond
»Update boat dock
»Beach expansion
25Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
SubArea 3
7430 ft
EagleRiver
W B e a v er Creek Blvd
W Beaver Creek Blvd
W Beaver
C
r
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B
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RiverfrontLn
L a k e S t
M i k a elaWy
Millies Ln
USHwy6
70
Nottingham
Harry A.
Avon
Nottingham
Lake
Sub Areas
Sub Area 1
Sub Area 2
Sub Area 3
Sub Area 4
Figure 8: Park SubArea 3
Existing Features
»Recreation trails
»Fitness courts
»Boat ramp
»Fishing pier
Recommendations
»Mental health/privacy area
»Relocation of Metcalf cabin and historic shed toform a history museum
»Relocate the boat doc to beach area and buildnew fishing pier
»Landscape the south embankment
26 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
SubArea 4
7430 ft
EagleRiver
W B e a v er Creek Blvd
W Beaver Creek Blvd
W Beaver
C
r
e
e
k
B
l
v
d
RiverfrontLn
L a k e S t
M i k a elaWy
Millies Ln
USHwy6
70
Nottingham
Harry A.
Avon
Nottingham
Lake
Sub Areas
Sub Area 1
Sub Area 2
Sub Area 3
Sub Area 4
Figure 9: Park SubArea 4
Existing Features
»Avon Elementary
»West Nottingham Courts (Basketball, Tennis,Pickleball)
»Additional Basketball Court at Avon Elementary
»Lower Athletic Field
»School parking
»Baseball diamond
Recommendations
»X
27Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
General Recommendations
Communications and Signage
To foster a comfortable environment for all park users, the rules and guidelines for Nottingham Park
should be easily accessible. Signage needs to be regularly updated to reflect any changes in rules and regulations. For example, signage indicating
that pets must be leashed at all times has been added in response to the leash law, but there is
also a designated off-leash dog area located in the northeast section of the park. Additional signage highlights permitted and prohibited activities in
various areas of the park.
History
Nottingham Park is a significant historical feature for the town of Avon and is home to historic buildings
such as the Metcalf Cabin. The Town of Avon currently lacks a history museum, making it a priority
to preserve and celebrate the rich history and culture of the community. Plans are in place to relocate the Metcalf Cabin and another historic structures to the
area to establish a history museum in the park.
Water Conservation
Water conservation efforts in Nottingham Park focus on managing turfgrass to reduce high water
consumption. This is done by prioritizing functional turfgrass that is actively used for recreation, sports,
and community events, while minimizing non-functional ornamental turf. Replacing non-functional turf areas, such as narrow strips or slopes, with
water-wise landscaping can lead to significant water savings while maintaining essential grassy areas for
public use.
Park User Safety
Ensuring the safety of park users is a priority for the Town. Various initiatives, such as crowd security and vehicle barriers, have been implemented during
public events in the park. Additionally, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are strategically placed throughout the park; some are available year-round while others are seasonal. Plans are underway to upgrade the north path from Lake Street to West
Beaver Creek Boulevard, making it wider and more accessible for ambulances, which will facilitate quicker responses from first responders to any emergencies in the park.
Programming
The summer concert series and other scheduled events in the park transform the space into a vibrant community hub for both residents and visitors. Programming on the main lawn is carefully balanced
to ensure the functional turf can remain healthy while allowing park users to enjoy the space. Maintaining a balance between events and non-programmed days throughout the park is essential for users to explore and utilize the area throughout the year.
Dog playing fetch in off-leash dog area
28 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Mental Health
Research indicates that parks and green spaces significantly benefit mental health, largely focused on urban settings. However, rural mountain communities
face unique challenges despite being surrounded by natural beauty. This phenomenon, often called the “paradise paradox,” means that communities like Avon experience higher rates of mental illness and suicide (Meyer, 2024), as small resort communities
at higher altitudes, deal with more extreme weather, prolonged winters, and limited access to mental health care facilities, which can result in transient and isolated populations. While access to parks and green spaces may improve mental health, it is not
a standalone solution for the challenges inherent in rural mountain life. Essential components of a healthy community include social connectivity and support systems, safety, and protection from displacement (Menjivar, 2025).
Avon and the Vail Valley have taken significant steps to enhance community resilience, health, and vibrancy. For example, Vail Health opened a healing center earlier this year, improving access to mental health care in the valley. During warmer months,
Avon activates parks like Harry A. Nottingham with community-focused activities such as picnics, cultural events, and town clean-ups, fostering social connections and a sense of belonging among residents. However, during the snowy season, which
can last eight or nine months, community events may decrease, making it harder for residents to stay connected. The winter months can be particularly challenging, contributing to seasonal depression (Kious et al., 2019). Prioritizing community
engagement during the coldest and darkest months with events like winter snow sculpture building, indoor craft programs, or winter clothing drives can help boost social connections when residents need it the most.
Public seating can become more than just a place
to rest, it can be a vital element in creating safe and welcoming public spaces that support mental well-being and provide opportunities for individuals to
feel more connected, comfortable, and empowered within their communities. The investment in using
“inclusive design” aims to create products, services, and environments that are accessible and usable by the widest possible range of people, regardless of
their age, ability, or circumstances. It moves beyond simply accommodating disability and acknowledges
that everyone exists along continua of capability and circumstance throughout their lives. Given the large areas for passive recreation, Nottingham
Park provides excellent opportunities for inclusive programing, like safe spaces designed for all facets
of our population.
Overall, inclusive design enhances the experience and well-being of everyone by focusing on diverse
needs and abilities. For Avon, access to well-designed public spaces for both active and passive
users, including seating beyond a simple park bench, plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being and combating the isolation associated with mobility,
depression, or sensory sensitivity. Thoughtful public and intentional spaces can create welcoming and
supportive environments that encourage social interaction, offer opportunities for relaxation, and connect individuals with their communities.
Thoughtful bench design
29Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
Chapter 5:
Implementation
Strategy
30 Harry A. Nottingham Park Plan
In our pursuit of enhancing the Harry A. Nottingham
Park, it is essential to lay out a comprehensive implementation strategy that effectively addresses the needs and aspirations of our residents. This
Plan outlines our strategic approach, emphasizing collaboration, community insights, and systematic
evaluations. By actively involving various stakeholders, including local committees and the Town Council, we aim to create a transparent and
inclusive process that prioritizes the voices of our community members.
Our strategy for the park not only focuses on immediate improvements but also seeks to integrate these enhancements into our long-term vision
through the Capital Improvements Plan. By fostering robust community engagement at every stage, we
are committed to ensuring that our initiatives reflect the desires and values of those we serve. Ultimately, this approach is designed to build a stronger, more
vibrant community asset for all.
Implementation Strategy:
1.Leverage Community Insights. Utilizecommunity survey data to substantiate our
strategic direction and implementation plans,as highlighted on page 19. This data will serve
as a crucial foundation for our decision-makingprocess.
2.Collaborative Engagement. Actively engagewith the Cultural, Arts and Special Events
Committee (CASE), Health and RecreationCommittee, and Planning and ZoningCommission (PZC) to thoroughly discuss andrefine the identified areas for improvement.Collaborative dialogue will ensure that diverse
perspectives are considered.
3.Seasonal Reviews by Town Council. The TownCouncil will conduct regular and comprehensivereviews of park operations and programming
each Spring and Fall. These evaluations willallow us to assess the effectiveness of our
initiatives and make informed adjustments asnecessary.
4.Incorporation into Capital Improvements Plan.All identified improvement areas and projects
will be formally integrated into the 5-Year CapitalImprovements Plan, which is meticulouslyprepared for annual approval by the TownCouncil. This ensures that our long-term visionaligns with available resources and funding.
5.Robust Community Engagement. Commit
to ensuring active and meaningful communityengagement throughout all phases of theidentified projects. By fostering an inclusive
dialogue, we can gather invaluable feedback andencourage community ownership in the initiatives
we undertake.
Ice Skating on Nottingham Lake
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
HEALTH & RECREATION COMMITTEE
NOVEMBER 18, 2025
MICHAEL LABAGH,
RECREATION DIRECTOR
HEALTH & REC COMMITTEE UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•2026 Proposed Meeting
Schedule
•Third Tuesday, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
•January 20
•March 17
•May 19
•July 21
•September 15
•November 17
HEALTH & REC COMMITTEE UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•2026 Committee Member Recruitment
•5 seats available in Spring 2026
•Current member terms:
•Kathy Ryan - March 2026
•Lisa Post - March 2026
•Sonia Martinez - March 2026
•Courtney Walters Rawson -March 2026
•Nancy Tashman - March 2027
•Patricia Nolan - March 2027
•Amy Cramer Phillips - March 2027
•Derek George - March 2027
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Fitness area closure recap:
October 8-10
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Aquatics area closure recap:
October 27 – November 2
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
2024 | 2025
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
Month Avg Daily
Visits
Total Monthly
Visits
Admissions
Revenue
January 632 | 660 19,592 | 20,490 $119,177 | $120,067
February 643 | 624 18,647 | 17,477 $107,215 | $113,049
March 608 | 632 18,848 | 19,612 $112,942 | $133,344
April 519 | 507 15,598 | 15,229 $84,359 | $80,003
May 246 | 311 7,620 | 9,649 $56,773 | $65,701
June 484 | 467 14,529 | 14,013 $100,596 | $102,228
July 530 | 508 16,445 | 15,755 $112,473 | $115,821
August 517 | 504 16,057 | 15,643 $97,528 | $106,360
September 416 | 462 12,484 | 13,870 $74,877 | $81,966
October 415 | 417 12,885 | 12,936 $76,742 | $81,726
November 510 15,327 $237,282
December 567 17,581 $187,897
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Black Friday Seasonal Membership & Punch Pass Sale
•November 28 – December 1
•20% - 30% off
•Avon resident rates & verification
•4-month seasonal membership option
•Online or in person only
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Avon Turkey Trot,
November 27,
9:30 a.m.
•2k - $10 & 5k - $20
•A portion of the
proceeds benefit
YouthPower365
•Snacks
•Raffle prizes
•Costumes
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Eaglebend Pocket Park construction progress
•95% complete
•Tentative Ribbon Cutting – May/June 2026
Recreation Center Aquatics Area Refurbishment
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Approve contractor agreement –
December 2025
•2026 Budget Approved – December
2025
•Design completion and approval –
December 2025 – March 2026
•Pool Area Closes & Construction
Begins – Monday, April 6, 2026
•Pool Area Reopens – Monday,
November 23, 2026
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Recreation Center Aquatics Area Refurbishment
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
•Replace water slide
•Relocate hot tub
•Lap pool gutters
•Additional water features
•Roof repair
•Pool deck concrete & drains
•Improved ADA access
•Pool HVAC & plumbing
•Pool mechanical & electrical
infrastructure
•Pool pumps
•Higher efficiency filtration systems
RECREATION DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
Updated conceptual layout - October 2025
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
Existing Pool Layout
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
Future
fitness area
expansion
Relocated hot
tub & expanded
pool area
COMMITTEE QUESTIONS & COMMENTS?
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025
THANK YOU!
Health & Recreation Committee Meeting
November 18, 2025