Logan Simpson partnered with the City of Manitou Springs to create a modern, unified Land Use and Development Code tailored to one of Colorado’s most distinctive historic and tourism-centered communities. Recognizing that the city is largely built out and that remaining greenfield land is constrained by floodplain and steep slopes, the update focused on infill, redevelopment, and context-sensitive growth. Over a two-year process, our team worked closely with City staff and a highly engaged community advisory group, which contributed more than 500 volunteer hours, to consolidate and modernize zoning, subdivision, and sign regulations into a single, highly usable code document adopted in January 2023.

The updated code preserves Manitou Springs’ historic character while integrating forward-thinking sustainability and mobility standards. Key updates included new tree preservation and landscape standards, limits on impervious area, multimodal parking regulations, updated use standards for emerging industries and vacation rentals, and a new mixed-use commercial district. The code also introduced targeted residential density increases, expanded design and site development standards, and sustainability-focused provisions such as alternative energy and green infrastructure incentives. Supported by tables, graphics, and improved organization, the final code provides a clear, predictable, and graphically rich framework for long-term community stewardship and resilient growth.