ALAMOSA — A Special Use Permit has been issued to the Alamosa KOA Campground by the Alamosa County Land Use Office.

Owners Leslie Petersen and Debora Hankinson presented a plan to expand their franchise/property to the Board of County Commissioners meeting during its Jan. 22 gathering.

The KOA site has been in existence for 50 years. With the recent uptick in visitors to the Valley over the past several years, the need for more space at the Campground is becoming increasingly necessary to keep up with demand and demographic shifts.

The proposed expansion is mapped out over five to seven years and includes the installation of additional utilities, improved amenities, additional cabins and RV sites, and equine accommodations.

The Land Use Office will require the Campground to have written documentation and approval from the Division of Water Resources. The well on the property is deemed adequate to meet possible future demands.

Hankinson expressed to the board that she sees the expansion as a needed step because the Campground has turned away numerous requests due to limited space, particularly when it comes to special events and holiday travelers.

The biggest challenge for the proposal is access to Juniper Lane from Highway 160. 

Visitors and neighbors alike have expressed concern about the safety of the turnoff to the property due to a high-speed limit and acceleration challenges. Hankinson and Petersen are currently working with the Colorado Department of Transportation to explore the possibility of moving the increase in speed limit further east of the property. Another option under consideration is the installation of a turn lane.

Hankinson and Petersen expressed their commitment to the Campground’s success and the overall success of the Alamosa Community. They are hopeful the plan will move forward, and the property will continue to thrive well into the future.