COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — After four surveys, two community meetings, five neighborhood site tours, youth focus groups, an open house, and 20 months of planning, the Fishers Canyon Open Space Master and Management Plan has been approved.
The plan, drafted by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department, encompasses a 343-acre area in southwest Colorado Springs.
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Bordered by Pike National Forest, the Broadmoor Hotel, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, the plan will preserve the space for recreational and wildlife use.
The plan proposed a new trail system with 9-10 miles of enhancements that embrace the wilderness, as well as designated zones for bouldering, rock climbing, and a hiking-only trail loop (ADA compliant).
The team envisions a "26-mile master-planned trail" to connect the following areas:
- Chamberlain Trail
- Blodgett Open Space
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space
- Bear Creek Regional Park
- Stratton Open Space
- North Cheyenne Cañon Park
- Fishers Canyon Open Space
Additionally, 227 acres, or 66% of the space, will be conserved and designated as wildlife and habitat protection areas.
During the planning process, the city found that there were raptor nesting sites in the area that would need to be protected for the future.
To read more about the Fishers Canyon Open Space Master and Management Plan, visit the city's website.
Local reaction after Hegseth directs 20% cut to top military leadership positions
We are getting reaction to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's order to senior Pentagon leadership to cut top military leadership positions. Hegseth sent the memo to the leadership today.Join us as we follow over 50 Southern Colorado veterans on their emotional Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Witness the camaraderie and gratitude as these heroes embark on a journey to visit the monuments dedicated to their service.
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