Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) announced today the receipt of a generous contribution of $764,639 from the Garden of the Gods Foundation. The financial support was presented during the Parks Advisory Board meeting on Thursday and will fund a variety of projects and activities aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the natural beauty of Garden of the Gods Park.
"We are incredibly grateful for the Garden of the Gods Foundation’s contributions and continuous support of Garden of the Gods Park," said Britt Haley, Director of PRCS. “These funds will play a crucial role in enhancing our beloved Garden of the Gods Park, helping us to celebrate and preserve its natural beauty for future generations.”
The contribution will support several key projects in 2025 including stormwater protection measures, ensuring the park’s ecological integrity, and fire mitigation efforts that will enhance visitor and park safety. A new vehicle for park rangers will also be acquired, enabling park staff to provide improved management and service for park visitors. The funding will also facilitate the installation of trail wayfinding signage, conduct bird and bat studies to monitor local species, and support tribal consultations to continue engaging indigenous voices in the stewardship of the land.
As an additional project, separate from the contributed funds, the Garden of the Gods Foundation plans to install new directional signage and integrated murals at the pedestrian underpass beneath 30th Street. These murals, created by local artist Douglas Rouse, will provide clear navigation to both Garden of the Gods Park and the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center.
“For nearly 30 years, the Garden of the Gods Foundation has been committed to preserving and enhancing this iconic park for the millions who visit each year," said Christina Haywood, Executive Director of the Garden of the Gods Foundation. “This contribution underscores our commitment to funding essential projects that safeguard the park’s unique landscape, enhance visitor experiences, and preserve its legacy as a place that remains free and accessible to all. We are proud to continue our partnership with the City of Colorado Springs in caring for this cherished National Natural Landmark for future generations.”
2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the collaboration between the City of Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods Foundation. The Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center and proceeds from retail, food service, and program activities are used to support Garden of the Gods Park. Since its inception, the Garden of the Gods Foundation has generated over $6.8 million in support of Garden of the Gods Park that has funded a wide array of capital projects including the paving of Gateway Trail, the construction of the year-round restrooms in Parking Lot 2, and more recently, the ongoing waterline installation project.
For more information on how to donate, volunteer or get involved with the Garden of the Gods Foundation, visit GardenofGods.com/Foundation.
For more information about the directional signage and mural, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/GOGMural.