For years, I’ve heard that one of the things that sets Colorado Springs apart, especially compared to other big cities, is how clean and well-kept it is. That sense of order and pride is part of what makes our city such a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. As we continue to grow, it’s vital that we don’t lose that edge.
That’s why I am proud to shine a spotlight on an effort that reflects both our civic pride and our shared responsibility, our Keep It Clean initiative.
Keep It Clean COS is more than a slogan, it’s a citywide commitment to removing trash from medians, streets, parks, trails, and public rights-of-way. It is powered by three forces: the hard work of our City departments, the passion of our nonprofit and community partners and the everyday efforts of residents like you.
Earlier this month, we saw what that kind of collaboration can accomplish. In just two days, five city departments joined forces to remove approximately 300 tons of trash from across the city. That’s the power of coordination and a shared vision.
While our crews worked to clear debris, our Fire Department’s Homeless Outreach Program teamed up with community partners to serve nearly 180 individuals experiencing homelessness. They provided water, transportation assistance, and help accessing housing and benefits. This is what compassion and service look like, meeting people where they are while improving our city’s health and safety.
Behind the scenes, five key City divisions – Neighborhood Services, Public Works, WorkCOS, Stormwater, and Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services – form the backbone of our clean-up efforts. These teams are often unseen but always essential.
In 2024 alone, Neighborhood Services removed over 850 tons of trash, towed 434 abandoned vehicles, and cleaned up more than 17,000 graffiti tags.
Our Public Works Operations & Maintenance Division cleared nearly 55,000 tons of waste, enough to fill 129 dump trucks, along with 740 tires and 1,400 shopping carts from roads, alleys, and medians.
The WorkCOS program, which I am deeply proud of, provides individuals transitioning out of homelessness with meaningful employment. Since 2019, 43 people have participated, and 36 have gone on to secure full-time or temporary jobs. That’s a 70% success rate, and a powerful example of dignity in action.
Our Stormwater team’s Adopt-A-Waterway program mobilized 904 volunteers who removed 29 tons of trash from our creeks and streams last year.
And our Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services team, which cares for 19,000 acres of parkland and 268 miles of trails, has already coordinated 857 clean-up projects this year alone.
Despite this progress, we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we’re proud to work hand-in-hand with local nonprofits and community partners.
I recently convened a roundtable with seven local organizations leading the charge on cleanups. Together, we identified new ways to align our efforts, increase efficiency, and strengthen our proactive response.
But here’s the truth: the most important part of this initiative is you.
Groups like the Fountain Creek Watershed District, which works tirelessly to protect our waterways, and COSILoveYou, an organization I founded before becoming mayor, continue to rally volunteers to put faith into action through meaningful service.
I’m thrilled to announce that on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, the City will partner with both organizations for two major cleanup events. The City will bring data and equipment, they’ll bring volunteers and heart. Together, we’ll focus on the areas that need us most. To learn more or sign up, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/KeepitClean.
But here’s the truth: the most important part of this initiative is you.
Keep It Clean COS is driven by residents who care. Last year, we talked about the strong connection between mental health and neighborhood connection. When you know your neighbors, you build safer, stronger neighborhoods. When you serve alongside them, those connections deepen.
Soon, we’ll be introducing Neighborhood Cleanup Kits, which will provide residents with tools and resources to lead cleanups in their own communities, with the City supporting the heavy lifting, like trash disposal and haul-aways.
And here’s something powerful: research shows that volunteering doesn’t just help the environment, it helps us. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. It increases connection, well-being, and purpose. When we clean together, we grow together.
So, let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep serving. And let’s keep Colorado Springs clean, connected, and proud.
