The original plans for the Montery Horsepark have been revised. Funds for the original plans were based on part by the hope of San Francisco hosting the summer Olympic Games and having the Monterey Horsepark as the location for the equestrian sports. Another site was chosen over San Francisco and with that a loose of the major funding for the park. The following information was distributed to our trail advocate Maribeth Hogoboom.
The new Monterey Horsepark plan is the result of the new partnership with Monterey Downs LLC.
“The original plan has been revised to include compatible land uses that will ensure the financial viability of the horsepark. The Horsepark itself has been condensed, but still includes all of the features of the original plan.”
“Approximately 26 private yards of about two acres each will be available for lease or purchase. Additionally, a thoroughbred training facility, mixed use village known as country walk, and a variety of housing options have all been added to the new plan. The planning area for the Monterey Downs and Horse Park is approximately 450 acres.”
“As planned from the beginning MHP plans to enter into partnerships with CSUMB to host the university’s future equestrian team, the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, and the Monterey SPCA.”
“The Horsepark is designed as a year round facility for a variety of shows including dressage, driving, endurance,eventing, reining, cutting, para-equestrian, show jumping, vaulting, breed shows pony club and other events.”
Development within the plan includes apartments, townhomes, single family homes and the private yards. It also includes Country Walk.
“Country walk is an open air gathering place that will connect the MHP to the Training Center. It is a mixed use town center that will include restaurants, shops and a farmer’s market. Families will be able to stroll through Country Walk or ride in horse drawn carriages as motorized vehicles will not be allowed in this pedestrian center. Country Walk will also include a 6500 seat covered arena for indoor equestrian events, concerts and shows. The arena will be located at one end of Country Walk, near a small hotel so visitors will be able to stay close to their horses and events when they visit the Monterey Horse Park”
As soon as the Ft Ord clean-up is finished MHP plans to resume tours of the site for the Friends of MHP.
