Colorado Springs: What They’re Saying: Community leaders on the Keep It Clean And Safe (KICAS) initiative

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~ Colorado Springs, CO - The City of Colorado Springs has announced updates on their "Keep It Clean And Safe (KICAS)" program, a coordinated effort to improve the cleanliness, safety, and welcoming atmosphere of public spaces. This initiative integrates security, cleanup, and outreach services and is expanding into new locations with an initial focus on the South Nevada Avenue corridor.

The City Council voted on Tuesday to allocate an additional $458,000 from the Retail Marijuana Tax Fund for security services in the South Nevada area. This funding will supplement the $300,000 already appropriated for a total of $758,000 dedicated to targeted safety and presence along South Nevada and surrounding blocks.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade expressed the importance of this program stating, "Residents and visitors alike deserve streets, parks, and public spaces that are clean, welcoming, and cared for. That is a mission, and that is the spirit behind the Keep It Clean And Safe program."

Kevin Shaughnessy, President and CEO of Phil Long Dealerships also emphasized the responsibility businesses have in their communities. "Businesses don't just exist in the community. We are the community. And I think it is critically important that we recognize that we're part of the communities that surround us, and we have an obligation to make them as good as they can be."

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City Councilmember Brandy Williams shared her excitement about this enhancement to District 3. She believes that a visible professional security presence will help deter nuisance activity and support safer streets while presenting storefronts in a welcoming community.

CSPD Chief of Police Adrian Vasquez thanked the community for their support in implementing these efforts stating, "I thank our community for realizing that it's time to really put these community efforts in place, and we will make some great things happen."

Jariah Walker, Executive Director of Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority also highlighted the importance of partnerships with City Council in funding public improvements.

The South Nevada corridor will receive a total of $758,000 in funding for security services to increase visibility, deter illegal activity, and support a safer environment for employees, customers, and residents. This three-part approach includes Safety & Security, Cleanliness & Cleanup, and Outreach to ensure that the right tools are deployed together as needs evolve.

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KICAS is a citywide initiative that addresses the impacts of trash, crime, and homelessness. It builds on the successful work of Keep It Clean COS and the downtown Clean and Safe pilot by providing dedicated resources to keep public rights-of-way clear, de-escalate altercations, curb open drug use and illegal activity, and provide a more visible security presence. This program also connects individuals with outreach services to help them move from the streets to shelter and ultimately towards stability.

The City is inviting businesses and partners to join in sustaining these results. Phil Long Dealerships has been a financial partner in supporting innovative solutions and will continue to model how public-private partnerships can be successful.

This deployment in the South Nevada corridor is part of Mayor Yemi's commitment announced at the 2025 State of the City address to expand clean-and-safe solutions into new locations. The goal is to protect neighborhoods, businesses, and public spaces while also helping individuals move towards stability through compassion and accountability.

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