COS Creek Plan
COS Creek Plan and Project Overview
In November 2022, the COS Creek Plan Oversight Committee, comprised of Pikes Peak Waterways, the City of Colorado Springs, and Colorado Springs Utilities, entered into a 20-year collaborative agreement to work collectively to complete an ambitious plan to restore the natural functions of Monument and Fountain creeks as they flow through Colorado Springs and south toward the Arkansas River Basin.
Primary Goals
- Restore natural creek systems by reconnecting floodplains and improving ecological health.
- Unlock long-term community and economic benefits through smart, coordinated investment.
- Create a premier destination for recreation, trails, and outdoor experiences.
- Build a stronger sense of place that reflects Colorado Springs’ identity and natural beauty.
Project area as outlined in the COS Creek Plan
What’s Happening Now?
COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study
The project is in the planning phase. The COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study is the first step toward a potential federally supported project. This study will identify the best solutions for restoring creek health and reducing flood risk. The goal is to secure federal partnership and funding by 2028 to bring projects to life.
Grant Support
Pikes Peak Waterways is pursuing several grants separate from the COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study to support implementing the COS Creek Plan.
Project Process
This is just the start of the process to make the COS Creek Plan a reality. It will take several years of studies and design before any work begins on the creeks.
Project Steps
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1
Set the Vision
COS Creek Plan -
2
Set the Baseline
COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study -
3
Secure Funding
Grants and Federal Partnership -
4
Implement Projects
Section 203
What is the COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study?
- The COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study, also known as a Section 203 Feasibility Study, is the pathway to making real creek improvements possible. It is the formal planning process required to advance a project toward federal funding and construction.
- This study is locally led by the City of Colorado Springs and the COS Creek Plan Oversight Committee. It follows federal standards. Instead of waiting for the federal government to start the process, the City is moving faster by leading the study itself.
- The study will identify the best, most cost-effective solutions to restore creek health, reduce flood risk, and improve community access.
Why does COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study matter?
- It unlocks federal partnership. Completing the study allows the project to be considered for federal authorization and cost-sharing (typically 65% federal / 35% local).
- It moves the project forward faster. A locally led study avoids delays tied to federal funding cycles and gives the community more control over timing and priorities.
- It creates decisions that are data-driven. The study evaluates environmental, economic, and community benefits to maximize value for the region.
What will the study do?
-
Analyze
Analyze current conditions of Monument and Fountain creeks, including flood risk, ecosystem, and infrastructure. -
Develop
Develop and compare alternatives for ecosystem restoration, flood risk management, recreation, and community improvements. -
Identify
Identify a recommended plan (Tentatively Selected Plan [TSP]) that delivers the greatest overall benefit to the community and environment. -
Review
Meet federal environmental review requirements (National Environmental Protection Agency [NEPA]) for transparency and environmental protection.
Feasibility Study Project Area
COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study Project Area
The areas outlined on this map are included in the COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study. This project area is slightly broader than the one in the COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study.
This map is a draft and subject to change as the feasibility study progresses.
Funding
Funding and Partnerships
Pikes Peak Waterways is pursuing several grants separate of the COS Creek Plan Feasibility Study to support implementing the COS Creek Plan.
- Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) grants are helping fund detailed planning for specific sections of Monument Creek.
- A federal WaterSMART grant is supporting development of a long-term water and restoration strategy.
These investments allow for planning that is thorough, science-based, and ready for future construction funding.
Feedback
Your Voice Matters
- The community and stakeholders will see gradual, long-term improvements — not overnight change.
- The community’s input matters and will directly shape priorities, design ideas, and solutions.
- This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the creek corridors into assets the whole community can enjoy.
Please take a moment to look through the information below and provide input.
