Rolland Moore Is Getting a Makeover (and We Need Your Input)
Rolland Moore Park has always been part of my time in Fort Collins.
When we first moved here, we lived just across the bridge and used the park multiple times a week. Even after moving, we kept coming back—to run, bike, play tennis, or just read a book on a shaded bench. I really love this park, and I’m so excited that it’s finally getting some much-needed upgrades.
Under the 2022 Parks Infrastructure Replacement Program Plan, both the tennis complex and playground at Rolland Moore were identified as outdated and in need of serious improvements. Now, with funding from the 2050 Tax Initiative—approved by Fort Collins voters in 2023—the City is kicking off its first major renovation project under this initiative right here at my “OG” park.
Let’s take a look at what’s planned—and where we still need to speak up.
Photo Credit City of Fort Collins with Design Plan for Tennis Complex
🎾 Tennis Complex
The proposed plans include replacing the old asphalt courts with post-tension concrete surfaces, which last over 30 years with minimal maintenance—a smart, long-term investment. Based on community feedback, improvements will include better court lighting, upgraded bathrooms, shade structures, benches, water bottle filling stations, signage, and more spectator seating—a huge upgrade in user experience.
Importantly, the design preserves at least two ADA-accessible courts with wider footprints. As I’ve said before: Coloradans with disabilities are not just spectators. We all want to recreate outdoors, and that means accessibility should be baked into the design—not tacked on afterward.
I appreciate the intentionality here—integrating shade, quieter seating areas for those who may be overwhelmed by noise, and stadium seating that includes wheelchair users at both the top and courtside levels. Even in the photos, I noticed representation: a person with a prosthesis and wheelchair users were included. (Though, I’d love to see active wheelchair users, not just those being pushed.)
Photo credit City of Fort Collins as first design option for Roland Moore Park playground
🛝 Playground Area
Community feedback from the April 2025 open house emphasized shade, nature-inspired play, better sightlines for caregivers, and nearby picnic space. Based on that, the City developed two redesign concepts, each including a bike and skate pump track, climbing elements, shaded areas, and gathering spaces.
But when it comes to accessibility, especially in the playground equipment and surfacing, I don’t think it’s being prioritized enough.
Fort Collins has a few standout accessible playgrounds, but we need to make every new design more inclusive. That means:
Play structures that kids with wheelchairs can access beyond just the ground level
A firm, stable surface confirmed for the entire play area
Thoughtful transition spaces so adults or children with assistive devices can join in sand play
An adult changing table in the restroom
Hooks near toilets for medical bags or equipment
Tables, gates, signage, fountains, and more that follow Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG)
We need true integration, not separation.
Current playground surface at Roland Moore that is inaccessible for wheelchair users
📣 Get Involved: Survey Closes August 15
The City hosted an open house on April 24 and is collecting public feedback through an online survey open until 5 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025. If you haven’t submitted your thoughts yet, now’s the time.
It’s not just a chance—it’s a responsibility.
Your input can shape how inclusive these spaces really are. The City is making a commitment to accessibility, but it’s on us to show them what that looks like in the real world.
Don't leave it to chance. Submit your feedback and help build public spaces that reflect our whole community—for this generation and the next.