Home|About|Master Plan|About The Master Plan

About The Master Plan

The Ranch's Master Plan: Looking Toward the Future

The Ranch Master Plan is the long-term roadmap guiding how the 315-acre campus will evolve to meet the needs of a growing Northern Colorado. Rooted in extensive community outreach and extensive market research, the plan strengthens The Ranch’s ability to host local traditions, attract regional events, and operate sustainably well into the future.

A Plan Built with the Community, and Built for the Future

More than 12,000 residents and counting have helped shape the vision for The Ranch through surveys, town halls, stakeholder workshops, outreach, and community events. Their input established clear priorities:

Stronger youth development and 4-H programming
Accessible, community-focused indoor and outdoor spaces
Modernized venues for concerts, sports, and festivals
Safer and more intuitive campus navigation
Improved event and tournament capacity
Responsible financial planning and long-term sustainability

The Master Plan translates these themes into a phased reinvestment strategy that protects The Ranch’s identity while preparing for continued regional growth.

Two Phases Working Toward One Shared Goal

The Master Plan is built around two major phases, each addressing a different set of needs but working together to ensure long-term success.

Phase I: Community-Focused Foundation (2019–2024)

Phase I established the foundational improvements needed for future growth, shaped directly by community priorities. These investments enhanced accessibility, strengthened youth programs, and modernized core infrastructure.

Phase I Projects

Arena Circle & Roadway Improvements: Upgraded circulation, entrances, and signals for improved access.
Origin Arena: A new indoor space for year-round 4-H programs and community events.
RV Hookups & Outdoor Arena: 95 full-service RV sites and an expanded outdoor arena (200’ x 400’) for multi-day use.
Equestrian Center Expansion: Doubled warm-up space and enhanced guest amenities.
Land Acquisition (72 Acres): Securing space for future growth and community-driven development

Phase I built the baseline infrastructure essential to the campus's growth and diversification.

Phase II: Commercially-Focused Growth (2025–2030)

Phase II introduces revenue-generating venues and modernized facilities that strengthen The Ranch’s regional competitiveness while reducing long-term reliance on public funding.

This phase includes improvements funded through public investment (Phase IIa) and larger, market-driven facilities developed through public–private partnerships (Phase IIb).

Phase II Projects

Campus infrastructure, wayfinding, and sign enhancements: New monument and digital signage to improve navigation and visibility.
Event Plaza Enhancements: A 130,000 sq. ft. outdoor hub with a community stage, play area, and shaded pavilions.
Event Lawn & Outdoor Amphitheater: A 21-acre Event Lawn, accompanied by an additional 6,000-capacity Amphitheater with a teaching kitchen and multi-use event space.
Youth Hockey & Sports Facility: Redevelopment of the Pedersen Toyota Center into a multi-sport facility.
4-H Outdoor Archery Range: Ten shooting lanes with 2D and 3D targets, shaded gazebos, and viewing areas.
Event Center Expansion & Modernization: Upgraded entry plaza, open-air lounge, and expanded premium spaces.
Exposition Center & Full-Service Hotel: A 100,000+ sq. ft. expo hall with a 225-room full-service hotel to attract regional and national events.
72-Acre Expansion Planning: Early visioning for future mixed-use growth and innovation.

Together, these Phase II improvements expand capacity, elevate guest experience, and set the stage for sustainable operations.

See how each phase plays a unique role in securing The Ranch’s future.

Why This Matters for Larimer County

The Master Plan is designed to deliver long-term value that strengthens The Ranch’s role as both a community anchor and regional economic engine.

For Residents

Accessible community spaces, strong 4-H programs, and local traditions protected for future generations, ensuring The Ranch remains a place for families, youth, and community connection.

For Visitors & Businesses

Modernized venues that attract tourism, lodging, business activity, concerts, tournaments, expos, and regional events previously unavailable in Northern Colorado.

For the County

A financially sustainable campus aligned with voter intent and broader County goals, including the Climate Smart & Future Ready Strategic Plan.

For the Future

A clear path toward operational self-sufficiency when the dedicated 0.15% tax sunsets in 2039, reducing dependence on public funds.

For a Growing Region

A thoughtful balance between growth and identity — expanding capacity for more visitors and business activity while delivering new, unique experiences that honor The Ranch’s agricultural heritage and cultural roots.

Grounded in Purpose. Built for the Future.

As we continue moving our vision forward, staying grounded in the "why" behind it all is important. Our mission, vision, and purpose guide every step of the Master Plan and reflect our commitment to the community we serve.

Our Commitment to You

Deliver a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose event campus that serves diverse needs.
Engage stakeholders at every step to ensure community-informed decisions.
Grow campus amenities in a sustainable way that reflects local priorities.
Expand programming to drive positive economic impact across the region.
Ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the campus.
Create lasting economic opportunities for Larimer County residents and businesses.

County Leadership: Turning Community Vision Into Action

While community voice shapes the Master Plan, its implementation relies on the leadership and stewardship of the Larimer County Board of County Commissioners, who are responsible for: