Old Stratton Park master plan finalized, city prepping for 2027 opening

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The City of Colorado Springs says it has finalized its Master and Management Plan for Old Stratton Park.

The over eight-acre property located on West Cheyenne Road submitted a draft plan for the space back in August. The city says the finalized plan was approved by the city's Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Advisory Board earlier in September. The plan has been in process since 2024.

According to the city, the plan focused on creating a park that was focused on walking, nature and learning about the property's history.

“We’re grateful to the neighbors, residents and community members who shared their time and feedback throughout this process," PRCS design and development manager Lonna Thelen said in a press release. "Their input helped shape the final plan and how we balance public access with protecting the natural character of the park. This plan gives us a practical way to begin welcoming people back while being intentional about protecting what makes this property special."

The city says the plan is to implement improvements in the park and open it to the public sometime in 2027. Renovations include a soft-surface walking trail, creek overlook points and boundary markers to distinguish it from private property.

The original space, Cheyenne Park, was first completed in 1902 as a place visitors could enjoy the creek and pond, according to the city. After the death of the original developer, portions of the land were sold off but the remaining space was eventually acquired by the city that turned it into Old Stratton Park.

Dogs are not going to be allowed in the park because of the "small and sensitive nature area," according to the city. It also means there will be no bikes or e-bikes allowed.

More information on the park, including the full Master and Management plan can be found on the city's website.

Stay up to date with the latest local news, sports, and investigations by downloading the KRDO13 app. Click here to download it from the Apple App Store. Android users can download it from Google Play here.