2026 Park System Master Plan | City of Colorado Springs

Planning Phase

Stay Informed

Help shape the future of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services!

Sign-up for the Park System Master Plan newsletter to receive updates on upcoming events, public engagement opportunities and more:

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Contact

Department:

Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services

Lonna Thelen, Design and Development Manager

Key Dates

Spring 2025

Data Collection, Assessments and Benchmarking
Kickoff meetings

Spring/Summer 2025

Needs & Priorities Assessment
Community Workshops
Pop-Up Events

Fall/Winter 2025-26

Park System Assessment presentation
Strategic planning
Long-Range Vision survey, Jan-Feb

Spring/Summer 2026

Draft Park System Master Plan released
- Public comment period (1 month)
- Community workshop
Parks Advisory Board presentations & approval
City Council presentation & approval

A banner image that reads "Imagine COS Parks. Building Community, Preserving our Legacy" overlayed on an image of a bridge over a waterfall

Help shape the future of parks, recreation, trails, and open spaces in Colorado Springs by following our process on this page, attending public meetings, and taking available surveys as we have them.

By gathering valuable data and seeking the community’s input on recreation trends, user engagement, and funding sources, we aim to create a roadmap for the next 10 to 15 years that reflects the diverse interests of Colorado Springs residents.

Through innovative land management practices, enriching stewardship education, and exploring creative funding solutions, PRCS is committed to ensuring Colorado Springs remains the premier destination to live, work, and play.

We look forward to hearing your ideas and insights as we shape this important plan together, ensuring it benefits the entire community.

Get Involved

Help shape the future of parks, recreation, trails, and open spaces in Colorado Springs by filling out the online survey and attending one of the remaining meetings, listed below. These meetings, the first in a series of public sessions, will provide an opportunity for citizens to help define how our park system grows, connects, and is maintained for future generations.

We are currently reporting out on the Park System Assessment (PSA). You can access this information through these options:

PRCS Advisory Board Meeting

Park System Assessment Presentation & Document

December 11^th, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – Attend virtually or in-person

City Council Meeting

January 12^th Work Session – Attend virtually or in-person.

Learn More

Park System Master Plan Development Timeline

Timeline for the Park System Master Plan

2014 Parks System Master Plan

To view the 2014 Park System Master Plan including the locations and services addressed, visit:

2014 Parks System Master Plan

Economic Benefits of Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services worked with Trust for Public Land (TPL) to estimate the economic benefits of our parks, trails and recreation facilities. The report shows that the parks, trails, and open spaces in the City of Colorado Springs are not just recreational havens but vital economic engines for the community. The 2024 report shows remarkable growth in the economic value of the city's park system since 2017, underscoring the integral role these natural spaces play in enhancing both quality of life and fiscal health.

View Report

Behind the Springs Podcast

Listen to the Behind to the Springs Podcast to learn more about the Parks System Master Plan from Britt Haley, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Director and Lonna Thelen, Design and Development Manager!

Episode 164: The Master Plan