Message from the City Planning Director
As the newly appointed Director of the City Planning Department, I’m excited to share this annual report. This past year, our team tackled big challenges, advanced meaningful projects, and drank more coffee than we care to admit.
In 2024, we saw momentum across the board: the Southeast Strong Plan moved from vision to draft, we took bold steps on accessory dwelling unit reforms, and downtown development kept climbing—literally, with high-rises like One Vela. We launched updates to our annexation strategy and rolled up our sleeves to review everything from mixed-use campuses to giraffe exhibits. It’s been a year of building—physically and strategically.
Moving forward, our focus remains on growing responsibly, listening closely, and planning with purpose. Whether it’s housing, mobility, infrastructure, or revitalization, we’re here for the work that makes this city thrive.
Thank you to the residents, developers, community leaders, and staff who help turn vision into reality. We’ve got big goals, a great team, and a growing city to serve. So... let’s go, Colorado Springs.
— Kevin Walker, Director, City Planning Department