Photo: Illustrative photograph included in the Town’s ‘Vision 2050’ document.
The Town of Pagosa Springs recently announced the adoption of a planning document called “Vision 2050” — an initial step towards a strategic plan that will, in the words of a recent press release, guide the Town government to “a Stronger, Brighter Future” over the next 25 years.
You can download the summary document here.
In early April, the Town officially adopted its new Vision 2050 strategic plan, laying the foundation for the Town Council’s vision of how the community will grow and thrive over the next 25 years. This plan is designed to help Town Council members, Town staff, and the community align their goals, make smart decisions, and ensure that Pagosa Springs remains a great place to live, work, and visit.
A Clear Roadmap for the Future
Over the course of two days, Pagosa Springs’ Town Council and staff came together to discuss where the Town is today and where it wants to go. With help from an experienced facilitator, they created a shared Vision Statement and Priority Goals to steer the Town’s direction well into the future.
The process was based on listening, reflecting, and collaborating—Town Council members and staff shared their ideas and concerns in one-on-one meetings, then worked together to define common goals. The result is a thoughtful, realistic plan that reflects both the town’s strengths and its biggest challenges.
The Vision 2050 plan reflects a Town that is proud of its natural beauty, rich culture, and sense of community. Some of the most important priorities in the plan include:
- Cultural infrastructure with inviting spaces
- A downtown that is the center of gravity
- Residents who are involved in the Town’s activities and direction
- The necessary infrastructure for people, recreation, technology and utilities
- Growth that is planned, sustainable, and beneficial to our residents
A new Vision Statement was also created: We are an engaged community with access to natural spaces, opportunities for sustainable growth and respect for our heritage.
These goals and the Town’s new vision statement will help guide everything from how the Town grows and develops to how it supports local businesses and families.
Vision 2050 will help Town staff and elected officials set yearly goals and make decisions that stay true to the big-picture vision. From building new infrastructure to creating more community events or protecting the environment, this plan helps make sure that every project supports the future residents want.
It also helps the Town use its limited resources wisely. Instead of reacting to change or working on too many different things, the plan gives clear direction. That makes it easier for staff and the Council to prioritize what matters most and measure progress over time.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The plan also realistically examines the challenges facing Pagosa Springs. These include affordable housing shortages, limited childcare, financial pressures, and workforce challenges. It also points to the need for better infrastructure, more job training, and stronger communication across government agencies.
At the same time, Pagosa Springs is full of potential. The Town is home to skilled, caring people who are passionate about their community. There are exciting opportunities in hospitality, wellness, technology, and cultural preservation.
Vision 2050 is not a one-time project; it’s a living document. The Town Council and staff will revisit it every year to adjust priorities and celebrate progress. This flexibility helps the plan stay relevant as Pagosa Springs changes and grows.
With this new vision in place, Pagosa Springs is taking a big step toward becoming an even more connected, sustainable, and vibrant Town. It’s a vision built by the community, for the community—and one that aims to make life better for everyone.
The next steps for the Town Council and staff include updating the annual Work Plan goals to prepare for developing the proposed 2026 annual budget and Capital Improvement Plan.