CASPER, Wyo. — The Casper Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has announced that the North Platte River Park No. 2 Simple Master Plan is now open for public comment. This master plan aims to guide the development of city-owned land located north of the Ford Wyoming Center, offering an opportunity for community involvement in shaping the future of the area.
The comprehensive master plan was presented to the Casper City Council at a work session on July 25. The plan evaluates various aspects, including infrastructure and transportation needs, while providing illustrative plans and layouts of potential uses. Additionally, the plan puts forward implementation strategies, including policies to protect adjacent recreational uses, according to a news release by the MPO.
Spanning 111.5 acres of vacant land, the Casper Highlands, as the contracted Ayres refers to the area in an effort to reduce confusion, is currently under the ownership of the City of Casper. The area is located north of Events Drive and east of Interstate 25. The public is invited to view the proposed master plan here or at the Natrona County Library in downtown Casper. The review period for the plan will continue until Monday, Sept. 4, with opportunities for the community to share their insights and suggestions.
MPO Supervisor Beth Andress expressed excitement about sharing the design with the public and receiving valuable feedback. “This simple master plan will help guide the City of Casper in potentially developing this area, creating a space that compliments current adjacent facilities and uses,” she explained.
The Casper Area MPO provides cooperative, comprehensive and continuous transportation planning to the Casper urbanized area. The support provided by the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration covers over 90% of the costs related to transportation planning projects in the Casper area. The funds require a local match and are administered by the MPO Policy Committee, comprising elected and senior administrative officials from each local government in the Casper area, according to the MPO news release.
Regular projects undertaken by the MPO include a five-year Long Range Transportation Plan, subarea traffic studies, trail plans and transit development plans, all aimed at enhancing the transportation network and quality of life in the Casper community.
The public comment period on this master plan presents an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the future of the Casper Highlands.
