Growing?

Cheyenne Mountain State Park (Colorado Springs, CO) might be expanding! Many residents around the park are trying to sell their land for open space purposes. Unfortunately locals are probably thinking El Paso County can’t afford to buy it all with all of the budget shortfalls facing the area. No worries though, this purchase would be done by TOPS (Trails, Open Space, and Parks). TOPS is a local committee who’s mission is to guide our city in the prudent acquisition, development and preservation of Trails, Open Space, and Parks, thereby creating a legacy for future generations in the Pikes Peak Region.

THAT ROCKS! The addition would bring the park another 120 acres, to it’s already 1600+ acres. Negotiations are still being made over the price. City Council members and the Parks Board will have sign off on the deal. The TOPS committee plans to tour the property for sale on 01/06/10 (this Wednesday). My fingers are crossed.

TOPS Working Committee’s Mission:

• Work together, in accordance with the TOPS Ordinance, to guide our City in the prudent acquisition, development and preservation of Trails, Open Space, and Parks, thereby creating a legacy for future generations in the Pikes Peak Region.

Quick Facts about TOPS:

• July 1997 Colorado Springs established the TOPS open space conservation program
• At City Council?s direction, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board created the TOPS Working Committee
• TOPS is funded through a 1/10^th of 1 percent sales tax for trails, open space and parks and expires in 2025.
• In 2003 voters approved extending the TOPS program through 2025.
• TOPS Protected Open Space Exceeds 6,178 Acres!
• TOPS has built over 32 Neighborhood Parks!
• TOPS has constructed over 46 miles of Urban Trails!

Seriously if you live in the area or are planning a trip to Colorado’s Front Range our newest state park is well worth the visit. With awesome trails and a great chance to ride/run hard during one of the many races/events held there every year which include the Xterra trail run and marathon as well as the 1st race of the PPRR winter series!