The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department announced on Mar. 6 that it will begin improvements to the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center in early March 2026. The project aims to enhance accessibility, visitor experience, and educational programming at the entrance to North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
The upgrades are significant because North Cheyenne Cañon Park receives about 450,000 visitors each year, making the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center an important site for environmental education and orientation. Planned improvements include a new outdoor plaza and classroom space, ADA-compliant pedestrian routes, renovated public restrooms, improved parking areas, and removal of damaged lighting. The new plaza is designed to provide flexible space for school programs, community events, and interpretive education.
“These improvements ensure that the Starsmore remains accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for all residents and visitors,” said Parks Operations Administrator Cathy Railton. “This project reflects the City’s continued investment in North Cheyenne Cañon Park and our commitment to stewardship of this cherished natural resource.”
Construction is scheduled from March 9 through May 22, 2026. During this period, a section of S. Cheyenne Canyon Road next to the facility will be closed for most of the construction timeline. Parking Lot #1 will also be closed; however, Parking Lot #2 will remain available via Evans Avenue. Visitors are advised to follow posted detour signs. The Visitor and Nature Center will stay open except during limited hazardous construction activities.
Funding for the project comes from a mix of city resources and community partnerships including support from the City’s Office of Accessibility, Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART), Mary Starsmore Fund of the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, Friends of Cheyenne Cañon, and North Cheyenne Cañon Park Ambassadors Gift Trust. This collaborative approach highlights a shared commitment to accessibility and long-term stewardship.
More information about the project can be found at ColoradoSprings.gov/StarsmoreImprovements.
