Title
A Resolution Authorizing the Acquisition of Approximately 200 Acres Owned By Joanne R. Watkins for the Purpose of Public Open Space and Trails as an Extension of Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Presenter:
Chris Lieber, Park Development Manager/TOPS Program Manager
Body
Summary:
On April 1, 1997, an ordinance implementing a sales tax for trails, open space and parks was approved by the citizens of Colorado Springs. This tax went into effect on July 1, 1997. In 2003 this ordinance was amended to extend the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) sales tax through 2025. The TOPS Working Committee is responsible for setting priorities and making recommendations for the expenditures of TOPS funds. The TOPS Program has identified the 200-acre Watkins property (Property), located adjacent to Cheyenne Mountain State Park and along Rock Creek, as having open space values that merit preservation. Acquisition of the Property would serve as an extension of Cheyenne Mountain State Park, provide future trail access for the Cheyenne Mountain Heritage Trail, and connect Cheyenne Mountain State Park to the Pike National Forest.
Previous Council Action:
N/A
Background:
The Property (Property), currently owned by Joanne R. Watkins (Seller), more specifically known as Tax Schedule Numbers 7500000243 and 7500000061, lies along Rock Creek, immediately west of Cheyenne Mountain State Park, between the State Park and Pike National Forest.
The 2014 Park System Master Plan identified this area as an open space candidate meriting conservation. The 1997 Open Space Master Plan identified this area as having some of the highest natural resource values in our community. The property boasts outstanding perennial water resources, unique geology, vegetation and wildlife habitat.
The TOPS Program partnered with Colorado State Parks in 2001 to acquire the original 1,600-acre Cheyenne Mountain State Park. In 2008-2011, the City purchased addition...
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