As Colorado Springs gazes into the future of its park system, residents are speaking out about what they want: soaked in sweat from a solid trail run or just basking in the simple serenity of their local park, they’re crystal clear about their preferences. Apparently, fewer shiny new additions and more TLC for the parks and trails already nestled in their backyards is the cry heard by city officials. In a recent city report, it turns out that locals would rather maintain and spruce up the existing greenery and pathways than plant new ones.
The data isn’t pulled out of thin air; a public work session is on the books where the City Council will chew the fat over the findings from the City of Colorado Springs’ Park System Assessment, as reported by the City of Colorado Springs. This assessment, just the appetizer before the main course, Park System Master Plan update, gives an inkling of what’s to come: 80 percent of those surveyed seemed to firmly want to first do right by the parks and facilities already in existence.
“This assessment gives us a clear understanding of what residents value most and where we need to focus our efforts,” Acting Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director Kim King told the City of Colorado Springs. In a city where nearly everyone is a hop, skip, and a jump away from their nearest park, residents didn’t just stop at maintenance; they hankered after improved safety, cozier amenities, and a trail network that feels less like a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces…