Dozens of homeowners speak out opposing Broadmoor land swap

It was standing-room only Thursday at a public hearing for a controversial plan to swap land involving the Broadmoor and the city of Colorado Springs.

Louise Eskanos’ snowy footprints have marked the Strawberry Fields section of North Cheyenne Canyon park for generations.

“The Broadmoor is going to end up fencing it and not making it available to all of us,” Eskanos fears.

The 189 acres in question is across from the hotel property. The Broadmoor wants to buy the land from the city to use for private parties, weddings and possibly horse stables. “In turn, the city would get 370 acres that would essentially provide better access to trails and the Manitou Incline.

“You’ve got two iconic trails, both the Manitou Incline and the Barr Trail; people come from all over the world, and we’d like the opportunity to own that property,” Karen Palas with Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation said.

We asked a Broadmoor spokesman for an interview, but he declined.

Until a decision is made, Eskanos will attend every public meeting to plead her case.

“I don’t just look backwards, I look forward also. It’s taking the future freedom from my children,” Eskanos said.

A second public meeting to discuss the land swap is scheduled for Wednesday, February 24 at Gold Camp Elementary beginning at 6 p.m.