~ Colorado Springs, CO - The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department has announced plans to begin improvements to the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center in early March 2026. These enhancements aim to improve accessibility, visitor experience, and educational programming at the entrance to North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

The project, which is set to begin on March 9 and conclude on May 22, 2026, will include the construction of a new outdoor plaza and classroom space. This space will provide a flexible area for school programs, community events, and interpretive education. In addition, the project will also involve the creation of ADA-compliant pedestrian routes, renovation of public restrooms, relocation and improvement of parking, and removal of damaged site lighting.

According to PRCS Parks Operations Administrator Cathy Railton, these improvements are crucial in ensuring that the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center remains accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for all residents and visitors. As the primary gateway to North Cheyenne Cañon Park which welcomes approximately 450,000 visitors each year, the center plays a key role in environmental education and visitor orientation.

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During construction, there will be some impacts on visitors including a closure of a section of S. Cheyenne Canyon Road adjacent to the facility for most of the construction period. Parking Lot #1 ("Pull-Off 1") will also be closed but parking will still be available at Parking Lot #2 ("Pull-Off 2") via Evans Ave. Visitors are advised to follow posted detour signage while construction is ongoing. However, the Visitor and Nature Center will remain open except during limited hazardous construction activities.

Funding for this project comes from a combination of sources including support from the City's Office of Accessibility, Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART), Mary Starsmore Fund of Pikes Peak Community Foundation, Friends of Cheyenne Cañon, and the North Cheyenne Cañon Park Ambassadors Gift Trust. This collaborative funding approach reflects a shared commitment to accessibility, visitor experience, and long-term stewardship of North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

For more information on the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center improvements, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/StarsmoreImprovements. The City of Colorado Springs is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the natural beauty of North Cheyenne Cañon Park for generations to come.

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