As the executive director of Trails and Open Space Coalition, Susan Davies is a leader in the local environmental and sustainability movement. She joined TOSC in 2009 and, since that time, has been an authority on all things trails-related — always advocating for the preservation of our open spaces.
Susan is passionate about the cause. Whether she’s presenting at a Colorado Springs City Council meeting or directing traffic at the Starlight Spectacular, TOSC’s annual fundraiser, her energy is contagious.
A fun fact about Susan is that her career began in Wisconsin in television journalism. Those of us who have been around long enough remember her at KOAA Channel 5 for six years before joining TOSC. In the 1980s, she even filled in on a few episodes of “Good Morning America”!
Susan is a friend and mentor to many in the community. Her legacy over the past 15 years of work is evident in this region’s open spaces. When she isn’t working for the community, she loves spending time with husband Bill, her daughter, Elizabeth and golden retriever, Mei-zi.
Thank you, Susan, for so many years of community advocacy!
Tell us about yourself.
I’ve had the opportunity to see many cities around the United States and feel so fortunate to live here. I recall a family camping trip to the Rocky Mountains when I was 15. I declared I would live in Colorado one day and 30 years later I did just that! I enjoy hiking, cycling, camping, skiing, sailing and rafting. I love the outdoors.
Tell us about your organization and how it helps the environment.
The Trails and Open Space Coalition advocates for the creation and conservation of an interconnected network of trails, parks and open spaces across the Pikes Peak region. We strive to be the community’s eyes, ears and voice for public spaces.
Why is this work important?
As our population continues to grow, it becomes increasingly important to preserve more open space with conservation values to maintain our quality of life. Access to open space, parks and trails contribute to our physical and mental health.
Our list of capital needs continues to grow. – Susan Davies
What is the Pikes Peak region doing well regarding the environment and sustainability?
We are an active community and we use and appreciate our parks, trails and open spaces. We have active friends groups who help take care of these public assets and contribute to their sustainability. More people are choosing to use bicycles (especially e-bikes) for transportation and recreation.
People are paying attention to development and participating in planning processes that lead to expanded open space.
Where does our region need to improve?
Public investment in our trails, parks and open spaces must increase. Our list of capital needs continues to grow. Promised parks, failing irrigation systems and substandard playgrounds/sports facilities need to be addressed if we are to maintain our quality of life.
What improvements would you like to see specific to the Westside and Manitou Springs?
We’d like to see improvements to the Midland Trail and support creating a trail ambassador program for the Manitou Incline. We’d like to see a northern return trail built from the top of the Incline to take pressure off of Barr Trail. Making the Westside and Manitou Springs more bike-friendly and more walkable would be great achievements.
