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Big Changes Ahead: Pine Canyon Ranch Project Approved

Big Changes Ahead: Pine Canyon Ranch Project Approved

June 09, 2025

June 9, 2025

I hope everyone had as great a weekend as we did—what perfect weather!

In the least surprising result of the week, chocolate was crowned the top ice cream flavor by our respondents. Congrats to Susmitha for winning the Ice Cream Gift Card (no pressure to choose chocolate, though!).

We've rounded up some stories from around the county to keep you in the loop, plus a few fun homes currently on the market. And of course, the main attraction: what’s happening this week in Douglas County. There are some great events on the docket!

Also, a quick reminder: Wednesdays are for our DougCo Pets of the Week! Send your pet pics to [email protected] to have your furry (or feathery, or scaly!) friend featured!

In today’s DougCo Download:

Castle Rock’s march toward growth continues!
Moose Warning
Homes across DougCo
Music, Exercise, Chess and more!

Here we go.

The Digest

Pine Canyon Ranch Development Approved in Castle Rock Amid Public Concern

I know this one is controversial but, this represents some more big changes in Castle Rock. A major new development is coming to Castle Rock as the Town Council approved the annexation and rezoning of the historic Pine Canyon Ranch—a 150-year-old cattle ranch—paving the way for up to 1,800 homes, open space, and commercial sites, including a potential hotel and spa. The property, previously in unincorporated Douglas County, is located on both sides of I-25.

The approval follows years of debate and controversy over traffic, water usage, and the project's overall scale. While the annexation passed unanimously, the development plan passed by a close 4–3 vote. Some councilmembers voiced strong concerns about density and infrastructure strain, but others argued the town had more control if it moved forward under Castle Rock’s oversight rather than the county's.

A 30-day referendum period is now in effect before the annexation and zoning become final. Developers say updated traffic studies and ongoing collaboration with the town will be part of the next steps in this long-anticipated project. Read more here.

Young Hero in Parker Honored with Superhero Award After Life-Saving 911 Call

When 10-year-old Eli Carey noticed his 8-week-old brother choking late one April night, he sprang into action—calmly calling 911, giving his address and phone number without hesitation, and helping guide emergency responders to his family’s home in Parker.

His quick thinking earned him the 911 Superhero Award, presented by Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly during a surprise ceremony at the Leman Academy of Excellence. Dispatchers praised Eli for showing rare maturity under pressure, a quality that even many adults struggle to demonstrate in emergencies.

Eli’s heroic actions not only helped save his baby brother’s life but also brought the community—and dispatchers who rarely meet callers—together in a moment of gratitude and celebration. Read more here.

Moose on the Move: Castle Pines Residents Urged to Stay Alert

Deputies spotted a moose near Happy Canyon and I-25 in Castle Pines on Wednesday morning. While the animal left the area on its own, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents to stay alert, drive cautiously near open spaces, and keep pets leashed. Moose may appear calm, but officials warn they can be unpredictable—especially in new environments. Read more here.

DougCo Weekly Giveaway

Congrats Susmitha from Lone Tree for winning the Ice Cream Gift Card this week! I am thinking of the best place I recommend, I’ll get back to you later today. Thanks for all of the support to the newsletter, you are one of the OG’s!

This Giveaway ends next Sunday, June 15 at noon MST.

You can send in a submission by doing the following:

Answer a poll hidden in one of the weeks issues.
Connect with our social accounts and submit your newsletter subscriber email to a a form I have posted on our instagram and facebook account!

All of these will count as individual submissions. And make sure the emails you submit on Facebook and Instagram forms are the same that are signed up here because this giveaway is just meant as a benefit to subscribers, not social media treasure hunters so any non subscriber emails submissions will not count.

Our Social Accounts: Instagram I Facebook

DougCo Homes

Who doesn’t love some real estate window shopping? We’ve rounded up a few intriguing listings—from great deals to dream homes—currently on the market in Douglas County. Dive in and enjoy the views!

Local Events: Monday-Wednesday

This section includes only the major events happening soon. Check the Weekend Lineup later in the issue for some help planning out your weekend!

Family Fun

Baby Literacy Book Club
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕘 9:45–10:30 AM
📍 Castle Rock Library, Conference Room F

For babies (0–18 months) and caregivers—join a fun session focused on early literacy through stories and tips. No registration needed.

Bark for Books
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕞 3:30–5:00 PM
📍 Castle Rock Library

Kids ages 6–12 can build reading confidence by reading aloud to therapy dogs. Registration required for a 15-minute session.

Play Chess!
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Parker Library, Event Hall A & B

Drop in for casual, all-ages chess—open to all skill levels.
Questions? Call 303-791-7323.

Yoga in Festival Park
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕡 6:30–7:30 PM
📍 Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock

Experience the union of body, mind, and nature with free outdoor yoga classes. All levels welcome! Registration recommended for weather updates.

Teen Summer Book Club
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕛 12:00–1:00 PM
📍 Highlands Ranch Library

Grades 9–12: Talk books, eat pizza, and have fun! YA titles available May 27. Registration required.

Adventure Book Club
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕐 1:00–2:00 PM
📍 Highlands Ranch Library, Event Hall B

Grades 4–6: Read, discuss, and do a fun activity! Registration required.

Don't Bug Me, I'm Reading: Powerful Pollinators
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕑 2:15–3:00 PM
📍 Castle Rock Library, Event Hall A & B

Explore the world of pollinators beyond honeybees in this fun, interactive Summer Reading event for ages 4+. Learn how these insects support ecosystems and how you can help protect them. Presented by Butterfly Pavilion. Register here.

Teen Library Connections
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕓 4:00–5:30 PM
📍 Lone Tree Library, Kids Corner

Middle and high schoolers—earn service hours while shaping the library for your peers!

Play Chess!
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕠 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Highlands Ranch Library, Event Hall B

All ages welcome! Drop in to play or learn—lesson starts at 5:30 PM.

🎷 Jazz in the Park
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕡 6:30–8:00 PM
📍 Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock

Enjoy a relaxed evening of live local jazz in a cozy, vendor-free setting. Bring your blanket or lawn chair and soak up small-town vibes. No food or drinks served onsite, but downtown restaurants are just a stroll away!

Adult Community Events

Gentle Yoga
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕙 10:00–11:00 AM
📍 Parker Library, Event Hall B

Unwind with gentle stretches, breathing, and movement—perfect for all levels seeking a calm, restorative practice. Make sure to register!

Living & Aging Well Luncheon
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕦 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
📍 Lone Tree Golf Club, 9808 Sunningdale Blvd
💵 $16 (includes lunch) | Registration required

Enjoy lunch and a talk from the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado. Hosted by the Living & Aging Well Commission.

Castle Rock Chess Club
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–7:45 PM
📍 Castle Rock, Event Hall A & B

Drop in for friendly chess competition open to all ages and skill levels. Everyone’s welcome!

Adaptations Book Club
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕜 1:30–4:30 PM
📍 Castle Rock Library

Watch and discuss book-to-film adaptations with fellow adults. Movie will be shown during the meeting.
📖 Reading list available online.

Fired Up: I Want to Start a Business
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕠 5:30–7:30 PM
📍 Castle Rock Library, Event Hall A & B

Thinking about starting a business? This workshop is perfect for new or aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn about customers, legal requirements, permits, insurance, and how to set your business up for success. Register via SBDC. Questions? Call 303-791-7323.

Teen Reads for Grown-Ups
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕡 6:30–8:00 PM
📍 Castle Rock Library, Event Hall A

Adults, join us the second Wednesday of each month to discuss popular young adult books from various genres. Register now!

Adult Events

Brewery Boot Camp
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–7:00 PM
📍 Lone Tree Brewing Company

Get fit with a total body workout at the brewery! All levels welcome, equipment provided, and enjoy discounted drinks after. Just $15 to join the fun and earn your beer!

Silent Book Club @ Lone Tree Brewing (Parker)
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Lone Tree Brewing – Parker

Bring your current read, grab a drink, and enjoy quiet reading time with fellow book lovers. No pressure, just pages and pints.

Trails N' Ales Run Club
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–7:00 PM
📍 105 West Brewing, Castle Rock

Run with the crew, then enjoy $1 off beers!

Trivia Night with Jake Woods
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Downhill Brewing, Parker

Two rounds of trivia and chances to win free beer every Monday. Come test your knowledge and have fun!

LTBC Run Club
📅 Mon, June 9 | 🕡 6:30–7:00 PM
📍 Lone Tree Brewing Company

Join a quick 5K run and then unwind with 15% off draft beer! All paces welcome, plus mileage incentives.

Dart League
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕕 6:00–10:00 PM
📍 105 West Brewing, Castle Rock

Join the fun and show off your skills every Tuesday night!

Charm Necklace Crafting @ Lone Tree Brewing
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Lone Tree Brewing Co.

Get crafty with Craft and Connect! Design your own charm necklace while enjoying a brew. All skill levels welcome. Tickets here.

Trivia Night at Max Taps
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Max Taps Co, Highlands Ranch

Trivia is back with a new contactless format! Bring your cell phone, enjoy prizes, and grab a spot early—tables are first come, first served.

JEOPARDY! Bar League Trivia
📅 Tue, June 10 | 🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co., Castle Rock

Play America’s Favorite Quiz Show live! Free to join with prizes. Bring your team for two hours of fun.

Trivia Night
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Lone Tree Brewing, Parker

Test your trivia skills and enjoy great brews! Bring friends and have fun.

Trivia Night @ Parker Pour House
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Parker Pour House, Parker

Grab your team and your thinking cap for a fun-filled evening of trivia, drinks, and prizes!

Trails N' Ales Mountain Bike
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕕 6:00–7:00 PM
📍 Meet at Bison Park, then 105 West Brewing

Ride the trails and earn $1 off beers back at the brewery!

Music Bingo @ Iron Mule Brewing
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Iron Mule Brewing, Castle Rock

Test your music knowledge and win prizes in this fun twist on bingo—great brews, good vibes, and tunes all night long!

Wednesday Night Dart League
📅 Wed, June 11 | 🕡 6:30–8:30 PM
📍 Max Taps Co, Highlands Ranch

Join weekly dart fun with teams, house darts (or bring your own), and gift cards for top teams at season’s end!

Weather

Weekend Lineup

🎶 Live music

We love being part of this thriving, tight-knit Douglas County community! If there’s an upcoming event, a favorite neighborhood spot, or a local business you think we should feature, drop us a line at [email protected]. And keep those adorable pet pics coming for our Wednesday Pet of the Week—seriously, they brighten our whole week.

Thanks for reading and making the DougCo Download what it is. We’ll be back Wednesday with more heartwarming highlights, can’t-miss happenings, and all things local!

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