The City of Colorado Springs is inviting residents to weigh in on a draft plan that would shape the future of Old Stratton Park. The draft plan introduces ideas for reopening and improving the park while preserving its natural resources and character.

The city is asking for feedback on those parts of the plan, as well as a potential community space in the area. Among the more significant proposals outlined in the document, part of the new plan includes rezoning the area from residential to a public park.

Officials also say they plan to introduce education opportunities while monitoring resources on the site, such as vegetation, wildlife, and water resources. The draft plan outlines the city's plans for what to do with existing buildings and structures in the area while remaining within their guidelines, and includes several steps the city plans to take toward a resource management plan, including for water and dog use in the park.

Residents have multiple ways to engage with the process. The city is inviting residents to a community meeting on Aug. 18, where they can ask questions and learn more about the plan. The meeting is in the Old Stratton Park community room at 5 p.m. The city's Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has a survey open through Aug. 23 for residents to give insight on the plan, and the full draft plan as well as the survey link are available on the city's website.

The public comment period closes Aug. 23, and it remains to be seen how resident feedback will shape the final version of the plan before any formal action is taken.