Wagner Park in downtown Aspen reopens after weeks of closure

Wagner Park, one of over 30 parks and playgrounds maintained by the city of Aspen and a popular spot for dogs, sports, and more, reopened Monday after weeks of closure.

The closure was a routine annual closure “to give this facility a rest from daily usage, sporting, and event stresses,” according to Steve Barr, city of Aspen Parks and Open Space parks operations manager. 

“By using simple industry techniques to aerate, top-dress field with fresh material, plant new seed, and cover with growing tarps, we stimulate new grass growth and reset the overall health of the facility before the winter,” Barr shared in an email. “I checked it out today and it looks amazing.”  

The grow tarps, which Barr considers “key” to the process, are placed over the surface to effectively raise the temperature of the field to promote grass growth. Due to the dropping temperatures this time of year, grass typically goes dormant and the speed of growth slows.

“Due to our climate, we need as many days of growth as possible to keep this facility vibrant and healthy,” Barr said. 

Ideally, the tarps stay on for two weeks, according to Barr, followed by a number of days for the grass to dry before mowing it.

“We are so thankful for the patience of the community and for them allowing us the opportunity to always provide the most exceptional facilities,” Barr said.