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Robert & Jani Bielenberg, CRS, GRI,e-PRO Centennial, Colorado

Cherry Creek Schools Have Plans in the Works!

The Cherry Creek School District's Long Range Facility Planning Committee - has reported on the district's long-term needs. This was shared in their "Dedicated to Excellence", 2008 Spring Newsletter which is mailed to shareholders. The plans are due to the expected growth, indicated by the City of Aurora and Arapahoe County. Enrollment in the Cherry Creek School District is expected to reach nearly 54,000 by 2012.

The committee completed a Five-Year Needs Assessment, covering 2008-2012. This included analysis of current needs and future projections. Below is their recommendation as taken from the "Cherry Creek School District Shareholders 2008 Spring Update".

  • Major renovations of 14 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools ther were built between 1958 and 1982.
  • Mechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades at 50 locations to replace outdated equipment and ensure comfortable and energy-efficient learning and working environments.
  • Safety and security improvements to boost radio frequency transmission throughout the district.
  • Technology upgrades.
  • Construction of three new elementary schools in the south and east sections of the district: one in 2010, the second in 2011 and the third in 2012.
  • Construction of a Math, Science, and Technology facility between Prairie Middle School and Overland High School to ease crowding at Prairie and to expand the Overland Institute.
  • Preliminary design work on a new high school in the southeast area is recommended for 2011 and 2012, with construction planned for 2013 or beyond.
  • Construction of a new Student Achievement Resource Center to house Student Support programs, Information Systems, the East Area Admissions office, Athletic and Activities offices and Special Education offices.
  • Construction of a Grounds and Maintenance facility at the Arapahoe Park Transportation site.

The Board will study these recommendations in April, and make a decision on how to proceed.

New Landmark Shopping Center

Have you been to the new Landmark shopping area? It is located off of Quebec Street between Belleview and Orchard, on the east side of the street. I have been several times to the Landmark Theater. It's not the cheapest movie theater in town, but it has to be the most luxurious! Unlimited popcorn and drinks are included in the price of your movie ticket. They also have a bar area when you can get drinks and other food items. A great place to hang out, if you are waiting to meet someone before the show and you love the covered parking. You can also upgrade your ticket, which will put at the head of the line, get you some fabulous seats and waitress service. I haven't splurged yet, but it would be a nice treat on a special occasion.

After the show, walk over to Jing Restuarant for dinner or cocktails. They have a nice neuvo asian menu, a hip bar to hang out in and restrooms that you will talk about for days! I won't spoil your surprise. There are other restuarants open as well, including Teds Montana Grill, and others to come. I want to go back and visit the many boutiques and one of a kind stores.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month!

And, in order to raise awareness, I wanted to share with you a fundraising project sponsored by Arapahoe County. Painted piggy banks are being left at several locations and the residents and community are invited to participate by feeding the "piggies". All prooceeds will be donated to Families First and their abuse prevention programs. Families First is a nonprofit organization that strives to protect children by strengthening families and by providing parent education and support.

Painted piggy banks are being left at the following locations:

Administration Building: 5334 S Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado

Arapahoe Plaza third floor: 1690 W Littleton Blvd, Littleton, Colorado

Justice Center: 7305 S. Potomac Street, Suite #101, Centennial, Colorado

Public Works and Developement: 10730 E Briarwood Ave. Suite # 100, Centennial, Colorado

Sheriffs Office: 131 Broncos Parkway, Centennial, Colorado

City of Centennial Makes a Building and Park Land Purchase

The Centennial City Council voted unanimously on February 20th, to purchase two properties adjacent to the City Civic Center. The Westerra Credit Union located at 13133 East Arapahoe Road will become the new City offices later this year. In addition, the 11 acres surrounding the building can be designated as parks, open space, trails as well as other community uses.

The cost for the building and properties is $6.7 million. Of this amount, $4.1 million will come out of the City's General Fund and $2.6 million will come out of the Open Space and Conservation Trust Fund (Centennial's share of the Arapahoe County Open Space Tax and the Colorado Lottery).

The Advisory Board for Parks, Open Space, Recreation and Trails has been asked to help design the 11 acre parkland.

The City had been leasing office space for the past several years . The new purchase will provide the City with an investment rather than paying rent to another entity.

(City of Centennial News Release, as provided in the Palos Verdes Newsletter)