Nestled on the edge of Pikes Peak, Catalysts one of the towering summits in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is emerging from the shadow of Denver. State projections indicate that it’s poised to surpass Colorado’s capital as the most populous city in the state by 2050.
Catalysts
Recognized as one of the top 10 places to live in the United States in 2022-23 by U.S. News & World Report and acknowledged as one of the “best-performing” large U.S. cities for job growth and economic stability by the Milken Institute, Colorado Springs is undergoing substantial growth. With an estimated population of 506,646, the city has witnessed over $2 billion in downtown investments, the establishment of an 8,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, and the implementation of a citywide fiber-optic network.
Colorado Springs boasts diverse identities, home to five military bases, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and numerous nonprofits. In an effort to foster a unified sense of community and pride, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC was established in 2015.
President Nick Ragain emphasized the club’s role in cultivating local culture and pride, stating, “We wanted to step in and say, ‘Hey, we want to help develop this part of the identity to drive pride in the community.’” Beyond unifying Colorado Springs, the Switchbacks play a pivotal role in the city’s ambitious downtown redevelopment strategy known as “City for Champions.”
Initiated in 2013, the City for Champions project utilizes state tax dollars to fund endeavors such as the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, Ed Robson Arena, William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center, and Air Force Academy Visitor Center. The Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority anticipates that this initiative will significantly boost the region’s $1.35 billion tourism industry, attracting around 1.2 million visitors annually, increasing retail sales by $140 million per year, and contributing an additional $4.4 million in new sales tax revenue annually.
At the heart of this revitalization effort is Weidner Field, a $50 million facility opened in April 2021, located just three blocks from the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. During its inaugural season, Weidner Field and the Switchbacks employed 1,130 people, drew approximately 25,000 out-of-state tourists, and generated a positive tax impact of $4 million.
The impact of Weidner Field extends beyond the stadium, revitalizing south downtown and attracting people of all ages to previously neglected areas. Susan Edmondson, president and CEO of Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs, attested to the indirect benefits, noting the newfound energy and excitement in the downtown area.
As a beacon of growth and pride, Weidner Field influences surrounding businesses, including bars, restaurants, hotels, and real estate. The positive economic ripples emanating from the facility, hosting a myriad of events from soccer matches to concerts, weddings, conferences, and banquets, have contributed to over $2 billion in new development in the city center.
The collaboration between Weidner Apartment Homes and the Switchbacks further exemplifies the positive synergy between sports and community development. Dean Weidner, the founder of Weidner Apartment Homes, not only holds a stake in the club but also secured naming rights for the stadium. Additionally, Weidner Apartment Homes is constructing a seven-floor, 1,200-unit multifamily complex adjacent to Weidner Field.
The success of the Switchbacks and Weidner Field serves as a model for the United Soccer League (USL) in promoting expansion and redevelopment across the U.S. The USL focuses on mid-size markets rather than competing with major leagues in larger cities. By leveraging soccer to revitalize underserved areas, the USL oversees multiple leagues and platforms, bringing professional sports to communities and catalyzing economic impact.
Justin Papadakis, USL deputy CEO, COO, and chief real estate officer, highlighted the league’s preference for transformational projects in underutilized areas. The USL’s approach involves working with community partners to bring pro sports and redevelopment to areas that may have been overlooked.
Colorado Springs, with its thriving Switchbacks and the transformative impact of Weidner Field, stands as a testament to the USL’s successful strategy. The club’s success on and off the field aligns with the league’s vision of creating positive transformations in communities through sports.
As the Switchbacks continue to make their mark in the USL Championship postseason, the club’s impact on the Colorado Springs community remains a source of excitement and pride. Beyond the wins and losses, the Switchbacks and Weidner Field contribute to the city’s energy and vibrancy, embodying the positive influence of sports on local communities.
