The rugged ridge overlooking State Highway 103 will remain wild, thanks to a historic land deal finalized this month. Denver City Council has approved the transfer of $2 million from the Parks Legacy Special Revenue Fund to the Parks Legacy Improvement Projects Fund, completing the city's portion of a $3 million purchase for the Tibaldo Property.
This acquisition marks a significant shift in regional conservation strategy. For the first time, the City and County of Denver and Jefferson County are holding property as tenants in common. The 167-acre parcel, formerly owned by the Tibaldo family, sits strategically between the Denver Mountain Parks' Mount Pence Tract and the state's Bergen Peak properties, effectively stitching together a larger conservation corridor in the foothills.
The deal was facilitated by the nonprofit Trust for Public Land, with each government entity contributing $1.5 million to secure the land. While the funding transfer was approved on June 10, 2024, the broader significance lies in the protection of 167 acres that were previously vulnerable to private development. Residents can view the full legislative details for File #24-0805 and #24-0806 at Denver's public portal.
This move expands the footprint of Denver Mountain Parks beyond the immediate metro area, ensuring that the high-elevation views and ecological connectivity near Evergreen remain intact. The joint ownership model sets a new precedent for inter-jurisdictional land conservation in the Front Range, allowing Denver to leverage local funds to protect regional assets.