In 2022, Tallgrass, assisted by Stateline No. 7 Architects and the Center for Business and Economic Analysis (CBEA), assembled a park feasibility study for the City of Newcastle, Wyoming’s “Heritage Park.” This facility envisions a destination park that enables the community to gather and share experiences, meet friends and visit the farmer’s market, pay tribute and play.
The process included community and stakeholder engagement at key points throughout. This study was guided by a Steering Committee of highly motivated citizens, City Staff, and the City Council members who are involved in the City of Newcastle Parks Board. As part of the feasibility study, a complete economic impact of Heritage Park was completed by the University of Wyoming’s Center for Business and Economic Analysis, led by David Aadland. The economic study revealed the immediate beneficial implications such a park would mean for the community.
The City of Newcastle is the Western edge of the Black Hills, literally and figuratively. Its beautiful location as the Southwest Gateway to the Hills hosts a variety of hidden gems and a massive industrial infrastructure. The downtown has strong bones mirroring the diverse housing stock, the industry is prominent and central to the town, and growth is modest. While tourism does not play a significant role in the towns’ economy, the area is peppered with amazing assets and curiosities that speak to the community’s potential as a robust destination.
Heritage Park is envisioned as a bridge between our visitors and our hometown. It will be a flexible outdoor destination that welcomes the thousands of visitors that pass through the intersection of Highways 16 and 85 and provides an adaptable outdoor event center that will host a variety of community events that need a home. With a Veterans Memorial, a community commons, a community stage, market space, shelters, a concession and restroom building, and room for seasonal recreation amenities, it packs a lot of activity into an acre.
The design is intended to balance the rugged character of our working town, the durability demanded by our climate, the respect we have for our heritage and veterans, and the aspirations of a community who admires a well-built tool that serves its purpose and is motivating to use.