A park in Westminster where Jessica Ridgeway once played has been renamed in memory of the 10-year-old who was abducted and murdered last month.
On Monday, the Westminster City Council unanimously voted to rename Chelsea Park, at 10765 Moore St., Jessica Ridgeway Memorial Park.
The citizen-led initiative was headed by Linda Mitchell and Jon Johnston of the Westminster Noon Rotary Club, according to the agenda memorandum.
The Parks, Recreation and Libraries Advisory Board and staff supported the request, said Don Tripp, director of the parks, recreation and libraries department.
“We were getting letters and calls when she went missing and even more when it was discovered she was dead, asking that something be done in her memory,” Tripp said.
The park is in the process of a redevelopment. Originally slated for 2014, the plan was moved up to next year when it was determined that the park would incorporate some of Jessica’s favorite things, like purple, additional trees and a zip-line, Tripp said.
Family members attended the meeting on Monday and addressed the council about the renaming.
“Thank you for allowing the motion of the park to even come to this level,” said family member Rebecca Ridgeway. “I just want to thank all of our community for supporting us and Jessica in the manner in which they have.”
The old park sign has been removed and will be replaced in about two weeks, Tripp said.
Provided by Majestic Metals, the new sign will come at no cost to the city, Tripp said.
The parks department staff is working with the Ridgeway family, who want the theme and dedication of the park to be joyous, in celebration of Jessica’s life, Tripp said.
The city is investing funds and accepting donations to be used for the park redevelopment.
For more information or to make a donation, call 303-658-2197.
