The Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department has announced a series of projects planned for 2026 aimed at improving parks, trails, and open spaces throughout the city. The department outlined key initiatives that will focus on long-term planning, infrastructure improvements, and expanded access to outdoor recreation.
In early 2026, PRCS will continue updating the City’s Park System Master Plan. This effort involves moving from assessment to visioning and strategic planning phases, with a draft plan expected to be presented to the community in the spring. According to the department, “This long-range planning effort will help ensure Colorado Springs’ park system aligns with community needs, supports sustainability and guides future investments for the next 10 -15 years.”
Several open space projects are also scheduled for completion or significant progress in 2026:
– At Blodgett Open Space, work includes completing approximately 14 miles of new trails, finishing Quarry and North trailhead projects with 90 new parking stalls, and continuing wildfire mitigation efforts.
– In Austin Bluffs Open Space, plans include finalizing about 2.5 miles of Spine Trail along with Enlightenment Trail development as part of its master plan. Other improvements involve trailhead upgrades and habitat restoration near University Park.
– Fishers Canyon Open Space will see rezoning activities to designate it as parkland (PK), continued fire mitigation work, as well as design and planning for new trails and trailheads ahead of anticipated late-year construction.
– The Snyder Quarry reclamation project in Black Canyon Open Space is set to continue earthwork, drainage upgrades, reseeding efforts, and exploring opportunities for community tree planting.
Systemwide wayfinding improvements are planned across open spaces in 2026. The department states that “PRCS is continuing systemwide wayfinding improvements in 2026 by finalizing kiosk sign art and map design early in the year,” followed by installation of kiosks and welcome monuments through midyear—including enhancements at Garden of the Gods Park.
Urban trail expansions are also on the agenda:
– The next phase of Rock Island Trail will add over two miles of new urban trail; a pedestrian bridge spanning Sand Creek; and a flashing crossing at Peterson Road. Construction is slated to begin in spring 2026 with an estimated duration of up to one year. Funding partners include Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA II), Colorado Department of Transportation grants, and revenue from the Trails, Open Space, and Parks sales tax program.
– Improvements along Pikes Peak Greenway between Cottonwood Creek and Mark Dabling Blvd. are planned in coordination with Stormwater Engineering’s Monument Creek work. This project includes replacing deteriorated asphalt with half a mile of concrete trail as well as upgraded ADA access from Corporate Drive/Park & Ride.
Additional park improvement initiatives include ongoing collaboration with residents on a master plan for Stratton Neighborhood Park—intended to guide management strategies while balancing natural resource protection with recreational use—and several bridge replacement projects across various open spaces.
At Starsmore Visitor Center in North Cheyenne Cañon Park, PRCS expects to complete accessibility-focused renovations such as expanding accessible parking areas; enhancing bus parking; adding ADA-compliant walkways; creating new visitor plaza space; upgrading restrooms; and restoring gardens using native plants alongside interpretive signage.
The department reiterated its commitment: “The Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department remains committed to improving Colorado Springs’ outdoor spaces with projects that expand trail connections, restore and protect natural landscapes and support long-term planning for the future.”
Residents interested in updates can follow @CoSpringsParks on social media or subscribe to the PRCS newsletter.
