LOVELAND, Colo. – On October 28, 2025, Larimer County officials, The Ranch Events Complex team, community partners, and Master Plan design and construction partners, Crossland Construction, Perkins & Will, BHA Design, and AVI Systems, gathered on the east side of the Pedersen Toyota Building to celebrate the official groundbreaking of Phase II of The Ranch Master Plan.
Phase II marks the most significant expansion at The Ranch in more than a decade, advancing Larimer County’s goal of creating a self-sustaining events and entertainment destination for Northern Colorado.
The event began with an Indigenous blessing led by Cody Davenport of the Meskwaki Nation and members of the Iron Family, honoring the generations who cared for this land before The Ranch existed.
“We take this time to bless this land, the machines, and the people so that all projects move forward in the way we all intend them to for our community,” said Jan Iron, Fort Collins resident and member of the Iron Family.
Following the blessing, the Larimer County Board of County Commissioners, Kristin Stephens, Jody Shadduck-McNally, and John Kefalas shared remarks on how Phase II marks the beginning of the next chapter in The Ranch’s growth and community impact.
“Today’s groundbreaking marks the official launch of Phase II of The Ranch Master Plan. It is the first visible step in a series of projects that will enhance how this space serves the people of our county. Our vision for The Ranch has always centered on connection. It is about creating spaces where residents from across Larimer County can come together, share experiences, and build community. Phase II will expand those opportunities while honoring the legacy of this important public space,” said Commissioner Kristin Stephens.
“The Ranch Master Plan is more than just a roadmap for development. It represents a long-term investment in the health, vitality, and quality of life of our community. It shows that we are planning not only for the needs of today, but also for the possibilities and growth that lie ahead,” said Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally.
“Phase II of The Ranch Master Plan demonstrates our commitment to thoughtful public service and responsible, long-term planning. This reflects sound financial stewardship and a deep respect for the public’s trust in how we manage resources,” said Commissioner John Kefalas.
Honoring Tradition and Marking a New Beginning.
Members of the Larimer County Sheriff’s Posse, including Posse Queen Alexis Badberg, attended fully mounted on their horses, adding a proud and traditional presence to the ceremony.
During the ceremony, 2026 Larimer County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Queen Addyson Gregory, Miss Colorado Lady in Waiting Lindsey Fancher-Rule, presented engraved horse reins to the County Commissioners, symbolizing the “passing of the reins” to those leading Larimer County into the future.
Guests also signed a section of the Event Lawn’s underground pipe, which will later be marked with a commemorative plaque to honor the day the community came together to build The Ranch’s next chapter.
The event concluded with a ceremonial soil pour led by the Commissioners, County leadership, and project partners, officially breaking ground on the next era of growth at The Ranch.
Phase II: Building the Future of The Ranch
Phase II builds on the success of Phase I by expanding the campus with new, modernized facilities designed to generate revenue and enhance community, economic, and visitor experiences. Key projects include:
Event Lawn and Amphitheater: A flexible outdoor venue for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings that strengthens The Ranch’s role as a regional destination for live entertainment.
Youth Sports and Hockey Complex: A state-of-the-art facility with new ice sheets, meeting growing demand from local and regional sports leagues.
Event Plaza Enhancements: A pedestrian-friendly plaza with outdoor seating, shade structures, and a community stage connecting key venues across campus.
Blue Arena Improvements: Guest experience upgrades including new loge boxes, an expanded concourse, a redesigned Home Run Bar & Grill, and an open-air terrace.
Wayfinding and Signage Upgrades: A campus-wide signage and monument program improving navigation, accessibility, and visibility.
Infrastructure and Roadway Improvements: Parking, lighting, and pedestrian connectivity enhancements supporting events and visitor flow.
Expo Hall: A new exhibition facility designed to host conventions, trade shows, and major regional and national events.
225-Room Hotel: An on-site hotel that enhances visitor convenience, extends event stays, and contributes to long-term economic sustainability.
72-Acre Campus Expansion: The County’s 72-acre property north of the main campus is designated for future growth, including potential youth sports expansion and workforce housing. Phase III brainstorming sessions launched in early 2025, with ongoing community input collected through the Imagine the Future of The Ranch survey.
Community Voices Shaping the Plan:
Nearly a decade of public involvement has guided the Master Plan’s evolution. Since 2017, Larimer County has engaged more than 12,000 residents through surveys, open houses, and stakeholder meetings. Public input directly informed the addition of outdoor recreation spaces, youth sports amenities, and accessible community areas throughout the campus.
About The Ranch Events Complex:
The Ranch Events Complex is Northern Colorado’s premier destination for entertainment, sports, and community events. Located in Larimer County, the campus hosts more than 1,300 events annually and plays a central role in the region’s culture and economy.
About Larimer County:
Larimer County, home to nearly 400,000 residents, includes vibrant communities recognized for their natural beauty, innovation, and civic spirit. The County is committed to sustainable growth, transparency, and a high quality of life for all residents.
Media Contact:
Portia Cook
Strategic Communications Coordinator
The Ranch Events Complex
[email protected]
(970) 619-4114