Hogan Koesis, an experienced trail developer and park manager, has had his hands in trail projects in the greater Durango area, New Mexico and Texas. Now, he’s setting his sights on Durango Mesa Park.
The Durango Mesa Park Foundation announced this week it has hired Hogan Koesis to lead development of Durango Mesa Park, including its much-anticipated bike park as the new director of program management.
“Durango Mesa Park has the potential to make a big impact on this amazing town and for future generations,” he said in a news release from the Durango Mesa Park Foundation. “This project aligns perfectly with the best place to live in the nation, making it an easy choice for me and my family.”
Koesis said the bike park is designed to turn non-cyclists into cyclists and the planned trail network will connect bikers, hikers, runners and equestrians to nature.
“We're excited to get back to the mountains, in particular Durango, because from our perspective, it's the best place in the world to live, work and play,” he said. “Durango Mesa Park is going to make it even better and return Durango to its status of mountain bike capital of the world.”
Durango Mesa Park Foundation Executive Director Moira Montrose Compton said Koesis’ expertise and passion will contribute to turning Durango Mesa Park into a “world-class destination for outdoor enthusiasts.”
She said the next two years of infrastructure and park amenities construction will lead to the next chapter in the park’s development.
Previously, Koesis worked with Durango Trails in 2018 to build the Three Springs beginner single-track trail system. He worked with Purgatory Ski Resort to secure equipment donations for the project, according to the foundation.
Koesis also represented Purgatory at a panel “that developed the Hermosa Creek Watershed Management Plan, incorporating nonmotorized trails in the San Juan National Forest for e-bikes” and designed and approved new mountain bike trails in Purgatory’s master development plan.
Koesis was a liaison between construction and parkgoers in Bentonville, Arkansas, and managed projects on over 150 miles of new trails in northwest Arkansas and Centennial Park.
He also helped promote and develop amenities in Angel Fire Bike Park, New Mexico, and Spider Mountain, Texas, the foundation said.
“Hogan Koesis has a proven track record in creating and enhancing recreational spaces, making a significant impact on the communities he has served, including the Durango community,” the release says. “Prior to joining Durango Mesa Park Foundation, Koesis played pivotal roles in various projects across the nation, contributing to the growth and success of mountain biking destinations.”
cburney@durangoherald.com
