Colorado Springs officials have released a draft plan for Old Stratton Park and are calling on nearby residents to examine it and offer their opinions before a final version is prepared. The document lays out a short-term vision centered on reopening and managing the park in a way that honors its historic character, natural surroundings, and neighborhood context. It also raises the possibility of building a centralized gathering space for visitors, contingent on securing funding and partners.
One notable element of the proposal is a rezoning of the site from residential to public park designation. The city has also signaled an intent to develop educational programming at the site while keeping close watch on on-site natural systems, including vegetation, wildlife, and water. The draft additionally addresses what should be done with structures already standing on the property and maps out management approaches covering topics such as water use and dog access.
Residents who want to engage in person have a meeting on the horizon. The city has scheduled a community gathering for August 18 at 5 p.m. in the Old Stratton Park community room on West Cheyenne Road, where attendees can pose questions and share their reactions directly with the project team. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., ahead of the 5 p.m. presentation.
Senior Planner Connie Schmeisser, speaking on behalf of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, said the draft reflects what the department has already heard from the community. She encouraged anyone with a stake in the park's direction to review the document, attend the meeting, and submit their thoughts.
Those unable to attend in person can respond through an online survey that the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has posted on the city's website, alongside the full draft plan, with submissions accepted through August 23. Once that window closes, department staff will go through the community responses and use them to revise the draft before a final plan is produced.
How significantly the submitted feedback will reshape the proposal — and when the city expects to release a finalized plan — has not yet been announced.