Many efforts are under way to make Downtown more energy efficient and environmentally responsible.

The Downtown Partnership Sustainability Committee conducted a survey in December 2009 to assess levels of interest and concern. The majority of respondents expressed the desire to know more about what other groups are doing. Renewable energy and learning more about lowering energy usage and reducing utility bills were of high interest as well.

Respondents also indicated more focus should be devoted to:

 • Transportation and a trolley
 • Creation of an urban center, and the planning needed to support it
 • Promotion of recycling
 • More education about all aspects of sustainability

Additionally:

* 90 percent reported they recycle to be environmentally and economically responsible;
* 50 percent reported they participate in community events or planning for a more sustainable Downtown.
* 85 percent recommended joining the National Historic Trust’s Main Street Program

The Sustainability Committee will release a proposed Action Plan for Downtown in mid to late 2010.

Resources

Colorado Springs Utilities — Energy efficiency tips, calculators and more for business:
http://www.csu.org/business/greenback/energy/tips/item1316.html

Colorado College sustainability virtual walking tour:
http://www.coloradocollege.edu/welcome/tour/sustainability/

City of Colorado Springs Environmental Sustainability
http://www.springsgov.com/SectionIndex.aspx?SectionID=39 

CH2MHill
90 S. Cascade Suite 700
719.633.8805
http://www.ch2m.com

El Paso County Environmental Services
http://adm.elpasoco.com/Environmental%20Division/pages/default.aspx

Greener Corners
719-466-5574
http://www.greenercorners.com/CO/ColoradoSprings/