In 1999, a series of public meetings to gather input on opening Pikes Peak’s south slope to recreation was attended by eager outdoor enthusiasts. Using input from those meetings, a sweeping master plan for the entire mountain, including the south slope, was completed in 2000.
So why were residents streaming into a hot conference room at the Leon Young Service Center Tuesday night, 10 years later, to discuss the possible opening of the mountain’s south slope? This meeting was organized by Colorado Springs Utilities, the department in charge of the south slope and its collection of seven reservoirs fed by Pikes Peak snowmelt and rainwater.
The original plan was never implemented, resulting in this eerily similar gathering. “Wow. Déjà vu,” said one person attending.
Those who were at this meeting were hesitant to guess when or even if they would ever explore the south slope trails. Some utilities employees believe a 2012 opening could be possible. Others are more pessimistic, remembering the 25-year wait for the opening of the North Slope. And still others recall that disasters such as the terrorist attacks of 9-11 and the Hayman fire of 2002, both of which were used as excuses by CSU to keep the gates locked, could occur.
But still, the overall mood was of subdued optimism. Even though the south slope has never opened, advocates for its expanded use aren’t giving up. A citizen advisory board has been working for several months on the new Colorado Springs Utilities Watershed Access Plan.
Another public meeting is planned for January, 2010. And CSU is still gathering input about how the south slope should be used recreationally. Should there be camping? An overnight hut system? Rock climbing? Fishing? If you missed this meeting, let CSU know your feelings about this hidden treasure by calling 448-4800 or checking on plan updates at csu.org
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