Housing development could replace golf course in northeast Colorado Springs

The Springs Ranch Golf Course in northeast Colorado Springs opened in 1997 but could be replaced by new homes, apartments and town homes.

Classic Homes, a local developer and builder, is considering the possibility of purchasing the land bordered by Constitution Avenue, North Carefree Circle, Tutt Boulavard and Barnes Road.

“The rumor started around six months ago and now we know it’s a fact,” said Homi Waldorf, who moved from Arkansas to a home along the course less than two years ago.

“I invested $60,000 into renovating this home because I wanted to be here for a long time,” she said. “I like having all this space around me and great scenery. But I’m more worried about the growing population and increased traffic that a development will bring.”

The course is already surrounded by several apartment complexes, single-family home subdivisions and other housing units.

A spokeswoman for Classic said the proposed deal is still in the discussion phase, and that Classic will analyze feedback from four public meetings before announcing a final decision.

The proposed development also requires a zoning change, from agricultural to residential, by the city.

Shawn and Rebecca Ho also live along the course.

“I’m frustrated and disappointed that the mayor and the city are allowing this to happen,” said Rebecca Ho. “There was an original agreement to keep this property as open space. The golf course owner got a discount to acquire the property.”

Waldorf said Classic has offered to provide a small parcel on the north end of the property as open space, but many homeowners said that’s unacceptable.

Nearly 3,000 homeowners could be affected by the plan, particularly those who live in homes along the course that offer unobstructed views of the mountains and the open course area.

Some of those homeowners are organizing a petition drive to block the zoning change.

Several homeowners told KRDO Newschannel 13 that they have sold their homes, or will consider doing so, with the likelihood that the course owner will sell to Classic.

Some golfers said they like the convenience of having a golf course on the city’s northeast side, but can understand why the owner may sell it.

“They haven’t been taking care of it like they used to,” said Steve Hummel. “That makes it hard to enjoy playing here.”

Springs Ranch officials were unavailable for comment Thursday.

One neighbor, Lisa Thayne, said she welcomes the construction.

“We don’t have enough housing and we need more,” she said. “It’s nice to have the recreation, but the golf balls hit houses and cars. There are other golf courses people can use.”

Waldorf said she doesn’t resent Classic or Springs Ranch for considering a deal.

“I blame the city for putting us in this situation,” she said.