City of Florence Master Plan Update

The City of Florence is updating its Master Plan, a key document that helps guide the City’s growth, development, and priorities for the years ahead.

The Master Plan is an advisory tool that allows us to take a proactive approach in shaping the kind of community we want for the future.

This update process emphasizes public engagement every step of the way — from social media outreach to public open houses — all leading up to the final adoption of the plan.

The City of Florence’s Master Plan was last updated in 2017. This new update will provide a general vision for the future of the community and serve as a roadmap for the years ahead.  It will outline what the community wants to look like moving forward and how to turn that collective vision into reality.

What topics are covered in a Master Plan?

·        Agriculture

·        Economic Development

·        Land Use

·        Natural Resources

·        Recreation and Tourism

·        Transportation

·        Utilities and Services

What is the Timeline for Updating the Master Plan?

 The City of Florence Master Plan Update is a six-month project, anticipated to conclude in December 2025. The timeline outlines key phases and milestones that will guide the planning process, including community engagement, data analysis, and draft and final plan development. While this schedule provides a general framework, it is subject to change as needed to accommodate new information, community input, or other unforeseen factors that may arise throughout the project.

What is the Master Plan?

 A Master Plan is a broad, long-range guide that helps a community plan for future growth and development. It provides general directions for land use, housing, transportation, economic development, and other key issues that shape the physical, social, and economic fabric of a city. A strong Master Plan evolves over time to reflect changing community needs and priorities.

In Colorado, the State Legislature determined that every City Planning Commission has a duty to “make and adopt a master plan for the physical development of the city,” reinforcing the importance of having a clear and thoughtful roadmap for the future.

Why Update the Master Plan Now?

Florence’s Master Plan serves as a guiding document for how the City manages decisions related to land use, zoning, subdivisions, annexations, and other development. It provides a framework for achieving the community’s long-term goals and aspirations.

The City of Florence is updating its Master Plan to create a clearer, stronger vision for the future. While the current plan has helped guide the community so far, city leaders see this update as a chance to build something even better—one that reflects the hopes, ideas, and goals of the people who live here. By planning ahead, the City can make thoughtful decisions that support a vibrant, connected, and resilient Florence for years to come.

This process is also a chance to engage residents in shaping Florence’s future. Community feedback will play a central role in identifying priorities, assessing emerging trends, and building a shared vision that reflects the values of those who live and work here. Additionally, state law requires that master plans be reviewed and updated periodically to remain in compliance with current statutes and regulations.

Why is the Master Plan important to me?

 The master plan is important to you because it shapes the future of your community in ways that directly affect your daily life. It helps ensure that new homes, schools, parks, and roads are thoughtfully designed and meet the needs of you and your neighbors. By guiding how the community grows and changes, the master plan protects the character and quality of the places you care about. It also creates opportunities for you to share your ideas and priorities, making sure your voice is part of the decisions that impact your neighborhood today and for years to come.

How do I get involved?

 We welcome your input on the Master Plan Update. If you have any comments or questions, please contact Ashley Fox, Building and Planning Director, at ashley.fox@florencecolorado.org or by phone at 719-784-4848.

Upcoming Events:

Join us at the Florence Farmers Market on July 17!

Come say hello and learn more about the Master Plan Update while enjoying the local market.

Corner of Pikes Peak and 3rd Street, Florence, CO 81226

We’d love to hear your ideas about the future of Florence!

Master Plan Resources:

·        Work Plan

·        Community Engagement Plan, coming soon!

·        Community Survey, coming soon!