Mayor Yemi delivers “Halftime Report” of first term at 2025 State of the City Address

Today, Mayor Yemi Mobolade delivered his 2025 State of the City Address, describing the occasion as a "halftime report" highlighting the progress made during the first half of his term, and the forward-looking playbook to "finish strong" for Colorado Springs, along with how we can continue building a legacy of investment for the next generation.

Speaking to nearly 900 community and business leaders, City employees, and residents, Mayor Yemi outlined progress across five strategic priorities (Public Safety, Infrastructure, Housing & Homelessness, Economic Vitality, and Community Activation) while spotlighting local heroes and the shared values driving the city forward.

"We will keep our eyes on the end zone, digging deep, pressing forward, and finishing strong," said Mayor Yemi. "It is our turn to plant seeds of safety, infrastructure, public spaces, and visionary opportunities, seeds that will grow into shade we may never sit in, but that future generations will one day enjoy."

A full copy of the speech can be found on the City website at: ColoradoSprings.gov/StateofCOS2025

Key accomplishments highlighted in the 2025 State of the City by Strategic Priority Area:

Public Safety

• Historic police staffing: Over 250 officers hired since June 2023; CSPD reached more than 800 officers for the first time in history earlier this year.
• Reduced crime: Homicides down 20%, motor vehicle theft down 41%, and overall property crime down 16%.
• Emergency response improvements: 911 call center is at its highest staffing level since 2018.
• Fire service milestones: Ribbon-cutting for Fire Station 24; expanded whole blood program that has saved more than 80 lives since it launched.
• Wildfire mitigation: Approximately 1,900 acres treated to reduce wildfire risk, and 3,400 homes engaged in neighborhood chipping.

Infrastructure

• Potholes repaired: Over 94,000 in 2024; 52,000+ repaired so far in 2025, and an additional 12 new pothole crew members hired in the last month.
• 2C Road Program: $820 million in repaving investment, approved by 73% of voters.
• Airport upgrades: New direct flights, modern concourse, and a new international terminal designation.
• Park investments: Completion of three segments of the Legacy Loop; Grey Hawk Park under construction; accessibility and safety improvements at Garden of the Gods.

Housing and Homelessness

• 7,500 single family homes permitted/constructed since Mayor took office.
• 1,700 new affordable units opened or underway in the last year.
• Expanded enforcement and outreach: More than 1,100 encampments cleared; services provided to 3,000 individuals through the Fire Department's Homeless Outreach Program.
• Winter shelter expansion preparations underway.

Economic Vitality

• $4.7 billion in new construction value since June 2023.
• 25.5 million visitors spent $3.1 billion in 2024.
• 16 economic development agreements secured since June 2023, projected to bring 2,700 new jobs and $69 million in new city revenue.
• Small business support: $2.1 million in Thrive loans; 5,000 users of Permit Partner; 450 businesses visited through Small Business Walks.
• Peak Innovation Park: $222 million infrastructure agreement unlocking $1.3 billion in capital investment and 1,000 jobs.

Community Activation

• Cleanup efforts in 2025: 9 million pounds of trash removed; 10,000+ miles of medians and streets cleaned.
• Mental health wins: Pikes Peak Rising collaboration; 18% drop in suicide deaths; 60% decline in youth suicides.
• New initiatives: Keep It Clean COS community campaign, Pikes Peak Rising Business Collective, and expanded 988 mental health access.

Honoring Four Exceptional Individuals

2025 Lifetime Achievement Award

Mayor Yemi presented the 2025 Spirit of Colorado Springs Lifetime Achievement Award to local philanthropist David Lord. Lord, 80, served as Business Manager at Rollins College in Florida and then at Colorado College. During and following his professional career, Lord has been deeply involved with community organizations focused on downtown development, affordable housing and senior advocacy. Lord co-created the Innovations in Aging Collaborative, co-founded the Pikes Peak Housing Network, and serves as a board member and volunteer for Silver Key Senior Services.

City Employees Highlight

Mayor Yemi also spotlighted three standout public servants who embody the city's values:

• Sgt. Olav Chaney (Colorado Springs Police Department): A U.S. Army veteran, Sgt. Chaney has devoted 35 years to protecting Colorado Springs. He leads the Police Department's Homeless Outreach Team, a specialized patrol that balances enforcement with compassion; improving the health, safety, and wellness of our entire city.
• Dwayne Jackson (Public Works): A member of the pothole and snowplow team responsible for maintaining over 6,400 miles of roadway. Known for his joy and dedication, Jackson exemplifies servant leadership and frontline excellence.
• Steve Schreck (Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department): Caretaker of historic parks like America the Beautiful and Monument Valley, he is celebrated for his balanced approach to park maintenance and the care, respect, and dignity he brings to the job.