Friends of Horse Lovers Park, comprised of LCS-Westminster Partnership IV and Horse Lovers Management Corporation, have entered into a development and management agreement with the City of Phoenix for the 50-acre Horse Lovers Park located at 19224 N. Tatum Blvd.
LCS-Westminster Partnership IV is the joint venture owner of Sagewood, a
316-residence, upscale Life Plan Community in northeast Phoenix, located adjacent to Horse Lovers Park.
With a commitment to maintain the rustic western character and charm of the existing park set in the Sonoran desert, plans are to upgrade and expand the current facilities to provide enhanced equine services for the horse community of northeast Phoenix and accommodate a variety of special events. Friends of Horse Lovers Park and the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department have been working together on a new conceptual master plan to spearhead the future development of the equine park.
“We have carefully designed the redevelopment of Horse Lovers Park to expand and modernize the equine facility and its infrastructure, ultimately creating a landmark for the community,” said Mark Perry of LCS-Westminster Partnership IV.
“We hope to inspire and drive investment partners and donors for future enhancements including a covered riding arena, covered stalls, establishing
spectator walking and parking areas, creating a small community park with garden and relocating the entry,” Perry said.
By implementing portions of the Horse Lovers Park’s enhancements through public and private resources, the necessary revenue will contribute to its new construction, future development and ongoing sustainability.
In operation for 30 years, Horse Lovers Park features equestrian and multi-purpose trail systems and arena for riding, roping and cutting. The park is run by Horse Lovers Management Corporation, a non-profit organization that provides a staff of volunteers for community programs and events including equestrian clinics, The Horse Tales Literacy Program, Special Olympics, 4H and other organizations that bring horses and people together in a loving and learning atmosphere.
“We are excited to have an operating partner like LCS-Westminster for the next phase of Horse Lovers Park and supporting its overall mission,” said Ross Libonati, President of Horse Lovers Management Corporation.
Horse Lovers Park shares its northern desert boundary with the Sagewood senior living community, and just west of the park is a trail system that connects the Reach 11 multi-recreational trail system to its western perimeter of Cave Creek Road.
Plans are also underway for Sagewood to partner with Horse Lovers Park as an additional amenity and resource for equine therapy for veterans, collaborating for maintaining adjacent trails and attending weekend events.
“Taking good care for the future of Horse Lovers Park demonstrates responsible stewardship and celebration of the natural environment, while offering additional opportunities for intergenerational play and social interaction,” concluded Perry.
A recognized leader in senior living communities nationwide, LCS has pledged
$2 million in improvements to Horse Lovers Park over the next five years.
Friends of Horse Lovers Park have teamed with a group of local leading architects, landscape architects/planners and engineers to prepare the conceptual master plan.
Horse Lovers Park is working with Phoenix Parks Foundation, a nonprofit organization that assists the City of Phoenix by enhancing and maintaining safe parks and preserve system for the enjoyment of local residents and visitors. Interested donors may make tax-deductible contributions to Phoenix Parks Foundation in support of Horse Lovers Park, by visiting phxparksfoundation.org or calling 602-262-4885.
