Governor Polis Media Event
The media event was a momentous occasion and PPORA is grateful for Governor Jared Polis highlighting our work through the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative and the value of multi-jurisdictional collaboration to support sustainable outdoor recreation. The Ring the Peak Trail is one of the priority projects of this initiative, and the Governor’s support underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing recreation opportunities while preserving the natural resources and wildlife.
Other notable speakers at the media event included Jeff Davis, Director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW); Mayor Yemi Mobolade of Colorado Springs; Dan Williams, Teller County Commissioner; Troy Heithecker, Regional Forester for the U.S. Forest Service (USFS); Travas Deal, CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities; and Becky Leinweber, Executive Director of PPORA. Each speaker underscored the importance of working together to ensure that the region’s natural resources are protected while providing outdoor access for generations to come.
This event was more than just speeches—it was a culmination of years of hard work by PPORA and our partners, who have worked tirelessly to bring stakeholders together to champion and plan for a strong outdoors for the Pikes Peak region.
See our earlier post about Gov. Polis’ original announcement.
Outdoor Champions & Partners Reception
After the media event, PPORA hosted an Outdoor Champions & Partners Reception, where key figures came together to emphasize the importance of collaboration and our shared commitment to the future of outdoor recreation in the Pikes Peak region. At the introduction of the reception, Becky Leinweber, PPORA Executive Director, highlighted the economic, health, and cultural value of our outdoors. She stressed the importance of collaboration in ensuring the success of the Ring the Peak Trail corridor and other regional projects and strategies that were identified through the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative. The reception served as a milestone of the last several years of planning through this regional partnership, with recognition that there is much hard work ahead.
Dan Williams, Teller County Commissioner, spoke on behalf of the land managers who signed the letter of intent and voiced his support for the region’s growth and the need for thoughtful planning that balances outdoor recreation with conservation. Following his remarks, the land managers were asked to come forward to be recognized for their commitment to partnership.
Heather Dugan from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) discussed the agency’s critical role in managing public lands and ensuring sustainable recreation opportunities. David Leinweber, PPORA founder, reflected on the journey that brought us to this moment, celebrating the progress and partnerships that have been built along the way.
The reception closed with a call to action to support PPORA’s work, share the vision, and help turn momentum into lasting impact because “together we can build a future where Pikes Peak thrives – not just as a destination, but as a model for conservation, recreation, and partnership.”
Tribal Representatives Dinner
The evening concluded with a heartfelt dinner with tribal leaders from the Southern Ute and Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. This intimate gathering provided a valuable opportunity for deep, meaningful conversations about the cultural significance of the land and how we can move forward in a way that honors the history and stewardship of these Indigenous communities. These leaders shared their perspectives on the land, its history, and its future, further enriching our understanding of the area we’re focusing on. This dinner underscored the importance of building inclusive, respectful relationships as we continue to develop the Ring the Peak Trail corridor. It’s not just about trails—it’s about respecting and understanding the cultural fabric that makes this region so unique.