The GGP partnered with the Town of Pagosa Springs to create a highly functioning multi-use community park with the help of some impressive funding such as the Colorado DOLA grant for $275,000 as well as multiple other fund resources including $125,000 in matching grants.

Flanking the San Juan River, the GGP’s three geodesic domes are sprinkled around a quaint amphitheater, standing as simple yet striking structures along the town’s meandering public river walk. The park itself hosts music events and many community-focused and educational opportunities as well as producing, donating, and selling vibrant produce. A Rotary Garden has sprung up as well as new experimental fruit trees in hopes of withstanding the local wildlife and rugged local climate.

Involved with this non-profit for years and even serving on past boards, Courtney has been influential in bringing to fruition its worthy mission to educate the community in sustainable agricultural practices, and the values inherent in food equity, assuring food safety, and improving mental, emotional, and physical health. In addition to the overall design, the architect was heavily involved with coordination of mechanical engineering and local contractors throughout the project.

Each dome is designed to serve a specific function for community, educational, and innovative uses. Geothermal in-floor heat in the interior walkways keeps the spaces warm in winter months. Built-in beds create functional growing opportunities. The Innovation dome even encompasses a closed loop aquaponic growing system and pond yielding veggies and fish, with loft above for additional space and equipment needs. CKS designs are woven throughout, including the public restrooms, solar PV panel shading, interior greenhouse detailing, as well as the geodesic dome construction detailing with local manufacturer, Growing Spaces.

Today the GGP project is a testament to prioritizing innovative design practices with vitality in creating inviting public gathering spaces.