~ The City of Colorado Springs has received a significant grant from the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) to aid in the reclamation and revegetation of the Black Canyon Quarry property. The $300,000 grant, awarded through DOLA's Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Fund (EIAF), will be utilized by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department.

According to PRCS Director Britt Haley, this grant marks a major step towards restoring the Black Canyon Quarry. "We are grateful to DOLA for their support in reclaiming this land and enhancing the ecological health of our community," Haley stated. "As an organization committed to sustainable practices, we are dedicated to benefiting both the environment and our residents."

The project will focus on extensive earthwork and revegetation efforts to reclaim the quarry site, fulfilling a key condition of its purchase. This includes grading, earth moving, surface compaction, reseeding, erosion control, and implementing effective stormwater management practices.

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Maria De Cambra, Executive Director of DOLA, expressed excitement about supporting this project through their Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Fund. "This project aligns with DOLA's mission to enhance livability and resilience in our communities through strategic investments," De Cambra said. "By preserving natural resources and restoring the quarry to its original state, we are improving air and water quality, supporting wildlife, and creating new opportunities for outdoor activities."

The Black Canyon Quarry Open Space property was acquired by the City of Colorado Springs in September 2020 with funding from the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) sales tax program. Following the reclamation work funded by DOLA's grant, more than 150 acres of open space will undergo a master planning process with opportunities for public input on future use and development.

This project represents a commitment to sustainable development by both DOLA and the City of Colorado Springs. The long-lasting benefits of this grant will bring positive impacts to the community, including improved environmental health and increased opportunities for outdoor recreation.

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