The Fort Bayard Revitalization Plan is a guiding document intended to preserve and revitalize the historic site, with the goal of repositioning it as a successful tourism-based asset that contributes to regional economic development while celebrating Fort Bayard’s cultural heritage. Shaped by extensive community engagement, the plan balances historic preservation with improved public access and outlines recommendations to support cultural, natural, recreational, and community resources, as well as tourism.

The project consists of three phases. Phase 1, Discovery, analyzes existing conditions, policies, and facilities and engages stakeholders to identify needs, challenges, and opportunities. Phase 2, Visioning, is a collaborative process that evaluates market trends and establishes future land use, mobility, and placemaking priorities that support equity, sustainability, and economic vitality, ensuring the project is shaped by and for the community. Phase 3, Plan and Adoption, focuses on developing strategies, policies, and investment frameworks, incorporating community feedback to refine design concepts and finalize the plan for adoption and implementation.

As the project has progressed, four guiding themes have emerged that reflect both what Fort Bayard can become and what the revitalization effort aims to achieve. Together, these themes establish a cohesive framework to guide the transformation of Fort Bayard into a unique and intentional place.

The Discovery theme highlights opportunities for exploration and learning throughout the site. Closely connected is the Multiculturalism theme, which reflects Fort Bayard’s rich and layered history shaped by many different groups over time. The plan embraces this legacy by supporting diverse cultural narratives and accommodating multicultural celebrations and events.

The Health and Wellness theme builds on Fort Bayard’s history as a place of healing, including the historic hospital, while recognizing its potential to support healthy lifestyles for local residents today. Finally, the Natural Recreation and Adventure theme acknowledges the site’s proximity to regional outdoor destinations and its existing amenities, such as trails and disc golf, while envisioning expanded recreational opportunities through future design.

Based on research and feedback from the first public meeting, three design approaches have been developed, each focusing on different on-site programming. All design approaches prioritize preservation of the historic core, with the intent to preserve and restore as many existing buildings as possible. These approaches are not final and are intended to spark discussion and gather input to inform the final design concept. Community members are encouraged to share what they like about each option, as elements can be mixed and matched to create a design that best reflects shared priorities for the site.

The Fort Bayard Village design option is a community-driven approach designed to serve Grant County and surrounding regions by offering a range of housing options and complementary community amenities. This concept focuses on supporting local residents while also functioning as a visitor destination. Potential amenities include a learning center, community center, library, small shops, offices, and neighborhood-scale retail.

The Village concept envisions a village center that integrates housing, retail, offices, and community amenities to create a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Proposed uses are intended to fill existing gaps in the surrounding region while complementing nearby uses and strengthening the overall community fabric.

The Fort Bayard Trailhead is a recreation-focused design approach centered on natural recreation and adventure that welcomes both residents and visitors while supporting the local recreation economy. This concept builds on Fort Bayard’s proximity to regional outdoor destinations and its existing recreational assets. Key amenities may include a bike park and shop, a nature-focused visitor center, an adventure hotel, RV parking, glamping sites, camping areas, and a community park.

The Trailhead concept envisions Fort Bayard as a regional gateway to outdoor recreation, making trails and amenities more accessible to the local community while attracting visitors from beyond the region. Proposed uses are intended to strengthen recreation-based tourism while complementing existing and future outdoor opportunities at the site.

The Fort Bayard Resort is a destination-focused design approach centered on heritage tourism, wellness, and retreat, intended to drive the local economy while providing shared amenities for both visitors and residents. This concept builds on Fort Bayard’s historic character and tranquil setting to create a place for rest, learning, and rejuvenation. Key amenities may include an RV park and campground, a hotel with spa and wellness facilities, rehabilitated historic cabins, and a range of shared indoor and outdoor amenities.

The Resort concept envisions Fort Bayard as a welcoming destination for extended stays and retreats, offering experiences rooted in history, health, and nature. Proposed uses are designed to support economic vitality while complementing the site’s cultural resources and enhancing access to wellness-oriented programming.