Britt Haley, Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services for the City of Colorado Springs, will retire at the end of the year. The city announced that Kim King, currently Assistant Director and a 25-year veteran of the department, will serve as acting director after Haley’s departure. A national search for a permanent replacement is planned.
Haley’s tenure saw several major projects and land acquisitions aimed at expanding access to parks and open spaces throughout Colorado Springs. Her leadership contributed to significant community improvements, including expansions at Corral Bluffs, Wild Horse Ranch, Blodgett Open Space, and the creation of Fishers Canyon Open Space. Other notable initiatives under her direction included revitalizing Panorama Park, introducing e-bike access on many city trails, and building Grey Hawk Park in northeast Colorado Springs.
Mayor Yemi Mobolade commented on Haley’s impact: “Britt has served Colorado Springs with vision, grit, and a deep reverence for the beauty of this city. Her leadership has been marked by remarkable stewardship of our natural treasures and a commitment to expanding access for every resident. In a city defined by its abundant parks, trails, and open spaces, Britt helped ensure that these lands continue to tell a story of conservation, belonging, and possibility.”
Haley began her work with the City in December 2012 in the Attorney’s Office before joining Parks in July 2017. She became director in September 2022.
During Haley’s time as director, the department received reaccreditation from the National Commission on the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies in 2025. This recognition places Colorado Springs among only about three percent of park systems nationwide with such accreditation.
Kim King currently manages multiple divisions within Parks & Recreation as well as golf courses and cemeteries operated by the department. She holds degrees from the University of Colorado in organizational management (bachelor’s) and business administration (MBA), along with professional certification since 2013.
