Colorado Springs Mayor’s State of the City: Focus on Public Safety, Housing, and Infrastructure

Photo by(Debbie Kelley/The Gazette)

In a dynamic "State of the City" address, Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade laid out an ambitious roadmap for the city’s future, framing it as a journey toward becoming a “safe, economically prosperous, culturally rich, welcoming, and vibrant world-class city.” His vision encapsulates the dual aims of reflecting on past achievements and steering toward future goals outlined in the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan.

Reflecting on Progress

Pothole Repairs: Underlining the city's commitment to improving infrastructure, Mobolade highlighted the GoCOS app's success in addressing potholes. The city has managed to repair over 73,000 potholes this year alone—an increase of 8,000 from last year. This effort complements the city’s ongoing support for ballot measure 2C, which aims to extend the sales tax for road improvements by another decade. The measure has already contributed to the repaving of 1,700 miles of roadway, a substantial achievement in maintaining road conditions.

Affordable Housing: Addressing a pressing issue, Mobolade acknowledged a severe housing shortage in Colorado Springs, with a deficit of up to 27,000 units. The city has allocated $1.6 million in HUD funds to support the development of 1,194 new housing units. Mobolade emphasized the need for a variety of housing options to cater to different segments of the population, from college graduates to senior citizens. Although the city is not a direct developer, Mobolade has been proactive in discussions with developers and exploring alternative housing solutions, such as manufactured housing.

Economic Development: Colorado Springs has seen record-breaking traffic at its airport, which is undergoing a $40 million upgrade. Additionally, the city has led the state in incentivized business projects, generating 3,000 new jobs and $125 million in projected revenue. This economic boost reflects the city's growing attractiveness as a business hub.

Community Engagement: The "1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings" initiative, launched in May, has achieved 700 gatherings aimed at fostering community connections and reducing social isolation. Mobolade noted the initiative's success in enhancing the social fabric of neighborhoods.

Looking Ahead

Public Safety: A key priority for Mobolade is expanding the police force. By early next year, the Colorado Springs Police Department is expected to reach its full authorized capacity of 819 officers for the first time since 2019. The 2025 budget proposal includes funding for 20 additional officers and an expansion of the Homeless Outreach Team.

Homelessness Response: The city’s forthcoming Homelessness Response Plan will address a range of issues including law enforcement, affordable housing incentives, and the cleaning of illegal campsites. The plan will prioritize high-need individuals and enhance public awareness.

Leadership Changes: Mobolade introduced Aimee Cox as the new Chief Homelessness and Housing Project Officer, following the resignation of Steve Posey. Cox will lead HUD-funded programs and homelessness initiatives, stepping in from a pool of 45 applicants.

Addressing Crime: Despite a decline in property crimes, robberies, and traffic accidents, the city has seen increases in motor vehicle thefts and homicides, with many involving juvenile offenders. Mobolade announced a legislative public safety summit in November, bringing together state lawmakers, nonprofits, and businesses to devise strategies to combat repeat offenses.

As Colorado Springs navigates these multifaceted challenges and opportunities, Mayor Mobolade’s address underscores a comprehensive approach to making the city a model of safety, prosperity, and community cohesion.