DRCOG Honors City of Lakewood

The City of Lakewood received a 2018 Metro Vision Award from the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) for its Carmody Park Universal Playground and Outdoor Fitness Zone. The award was presented at DRCOG’s annual awards celebration on April 25.

In the summer of 2017, the City of Lakewood opened its newest and most inclusive park. Carmody Park Universal Playground and Outdoor Fitness Zone features modifications and options for disabled visitors, enhancing the quality of life for all area residents. The development of Carmody's master plan involved a community engagement program that garnered significant input and meaningful participation. What began as a traditional playground concept expanded to include state-of-the-art fitness equipment for adults near the children’s play area. Users can get a full-body workout for free while watching their children play.

“This innovative development is sure to enrich the lives of many residents. Lakewood did a phenomenal job of gathering public input and building a park that serves the community’s varied needs,” said Douglas Rex, executive director for DRCOG.

The park and playground include amenities such as a year-round heated restroom, an adult-sized changing table, plenty of shade shelters and expanded parking. The adjacent Carmody Recreation Center allows residents to plan a whole day of play and outdoor fitness, no matter their age, physical or mental ability.

DRCOG’s Metro Vision Award program recognizes exemplary projects, plans and initiatives that significantly improve the quality of life in the Denver region and its communities. The regional council has been honoring outstanding achievements for more than 30 years.