Community Activation Through Walkability: A Success Story from Southeast Colorado Springs
In the heart of the Southeast region of Colorado Springs, one community member’s journey has sparked significant neighborhood improvements, demonstrating the power of individual and collective action. What began as a personal health initiative has blossomed into a movement that not only improved walkability but also connected neighbors in a meaningful way.
CONO’s Lelia Gibson-Green, a cancer survivor and advocate for health and wellness, spearheaded a sidewalk project that has transformed her neighborhood. Struggling with physical and mental health challenges, she recognized the importance of walking for both her body and mind. But her passion went beyond personal wellness; she wanted to ensure that her community had safe, walkable spaces. “A healthy neighbor is a healthy neighborhood,” Lelia emphasized, echoing her vision for community-driven change.
From Personal Mission to Community-Wide Change
The Southeast neighborhoods of Colorado Springs, particularly the 80910 and 80916 zip codes, had long suffered from low walkability scores. With her background as a community leader and CONO D4 Community Coordinator, Lelia organized walking groups, coordinated events, and participated in the Colorado State Walking Fellowship Program. This six-month program not only deepened her understanding of walkability issues but inspired her to create action plans for improving her community.
One of her key initiatives, the Walkability Summit, took place on September 22, 2023. Sponsored by America Walks and AARP, the summit aimed to engage local leaders, city officials, and residents in addressing the challenges of walkability. Through a series of "Walkshops" (a combination of walks and workshops), participants conducted walking audits and identified key areas for improvement, one of which was the need for a new sidewalk on Aeroplaza Dr. between Fountain Blvd. and Fenton Road.
Building Partnerships for Success
The success of the Walkability Summit was made possible by bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including state representatives, infrastructure planners, and local advocates. The event highlighted the need for collaboration in creating safe, walkable environments.
Lelia’s ability to engage city officials proved vital in turning the summit’s insights into actionable outcomes. Todd Frisbie, Traffic Engineering Division Manager for the City of Colorado Springs, played a crucial role in securing funding through the "No Sidewalk Funding Program," which led to the construction of the new sidewalk in record time. By mid-December 2023, the neighborhood had a brand-new sidewalk, providing safe connectivity to one of the largest parks in the area, Panorama Park. Panorama Park recently received the 2024 Colorado Lottery People's Choice Starburst Award.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
The construction of the new sidewalk has already had a lasting impact on the neighborhood. "Neighbors can now walk safely without having to step into the street, bike lanes, or curbs," Lelia shared. "It's more than just a sidewalk; it’s about creating a healthier, more connected community."
The improvements have inspired other local organizations to prioritize walkability, and more walking and running groups have emerged, promoting a healthier lifestyle for residents. The benefits of being outdoors, both physically and mentally, are clear, and the community is thriving with these changes.
Lessons for Other Neighborhoods
For anyone looking to bring about similar change in their neighborhood, Lelia’s advice is simple: understand your community’s needs by conducting walking audits and collaborating with the right people. "Making your neighborhood issues known to the correct individuals will make a difference," she emphasized. The CONO Neighborhood University is an excellent resource for gaining the skills necessary to advocate for community improvements.
Lelia’s journey shows that one person’s initiative can spark a movement, bringing long-lasting improvements to an entire community. Through collaboration, determination, and a focus on health and well-being, Southeast Colorado Springs has become a model of what’s possible when neighbors come together.
Walkable communities are becoming more desirable in Colorado Springs. For more information on how to start a walking audit or improve your neighborhood’s walkability, reach out to Lelia at CONO.
