In a move that could reshape the eastern edge of El Paso County, commissioners have approved the initial phase of a proposed housing development that may bring up to 5,000 new homes to land bordering Schriever Space Force Base. The decision marks a pivotal moment in the county’s long-term growth strategy, balancing rural preservation with the pressures of population expansion and housing demand.

Location and Scope

The proposed development spans approximately 3,200 acres east of Colorado Springs, adjacent to Schriever SFB. The land lies near Highway 94, a corridor already seeing increased interest from developers due to its proximity to military installations and open space.

Developers, led by La Plata Communities, envision a master-planned community that includes residential neighborhoods, parks, trails, and potentially commercial zones. The project is still in its conceptual phase, with future approvals required for zoning, infrastructure, and environmental impact.

Map preview below shows the proposed development area near Schriever Space Force Base.

What’s Been Approved

The county’s vote approved a sketch plan, which outlines the general layout and land use intentions. This is not a green light for construction, but it allows developers to begin detailed planning and submit formal applications for subdivision and rezoning.

Key elements of the sketch plan include:

• Up to 5,000 housing units
• Mixed-density neighborhoods
• Open space preservation
• Road and utility corridors

Infrastructure and Water Concerns

Residents and planners alike are raising questions about the project’s impact on:

• Water supply: Eastern El Paso County relies heavily on groundwater and limited aquifer systems. The developer will need to secure sustainable water rights and infrastructure.
• Traffic and roads: Highway 94 and surrounding routes may require upgrades to handle increased volume.
• Schools and services: Local school districts and emergency services will need expansion to support the influx of families.

Military Compatibility

Schriever Space Force Base leadership has expressed cautious interest in the project, emphasizing the need to avoid encroachment that could interfere with operations. Noise, light pollution, and security buffers are among the concerns being reviewed.

Community Response

Public feedback has been mixed. Some residents welcome the growth as a solution to Colorado’s housing shortage, while others worry about losing the rural character of the region.

“We’re not opposed to development,” said one local resident during public comment. “But it has to be smart, sustainable, and respectful of the land and the people already here.”

What’s Next

The developer must now submit formal applications for:

• Rezoning and subdivision
• Traffic impact studies
• Water resource plans
• Environmental assessments

Each step will involve public hearings and county oversight. The full buildout could take 10–20 years, depending on market conditions and regulatory approvals.

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