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Honoring Our Heritage

The OCC DDA is dedicated to fostering a vibrant economically resilient district by supporting local businesses, enhancing the built environment, and preserving the unique historic character that defines Old Colorado City. Through strategic investment, community partnerships, and thoughtful placemaking, the DDA works to ensure sustainable growth while honoring the spirit and legacy of the district for generations to come.

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Board Members

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

Welcome to the Old Colorado City Downtown Development Board!
Our board is made up of one City Council Representative, local business owners, building owners, and residents who are about enhancing the community of Old Colorado City. Together, we work to promote growth, preserve our unique character, and ensure a vibrant future for all who live and work here. Join us as we collaborate to make Old Colorado City even better place to work and call home!

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Chair

Adam Stepan

Adam Stepan is a dedicated building owner and entrepreneur, founder of several businesses in Old Colorado City, including Dice Guys Game Store, Ice Guys Homemade Ice Cream, and The Fifty-Niner. As the Chair of The Old Colorado City DDA, he is deeply committed to the community. He also serves as the President of the Old Colorado Associates. When he's not busy with work or volunteering Adam loves quality time with his wife and three daughters, preferably traveling the world together.

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Vice Chair

Allison Daniell

Allison Daniell, a proud Tennessee native, has called Colorado Springs home for 20 years. With a BFA and a successful photography business, Stellareller Studio, launched in 2008, she brings a wealth of experience to her endeavors. Throughout her career, Allison has held leadership roles in organizations and nonprofits. Now, as the Vice Chair of newly formed OCC DDA board, she is eager to her passion and skills to the community.

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Treasurer

Jay Gust

With 35 years in the restaurant industry, Chef Jay Gust has built a reputation on fresh interpretations of traditional flavors, sharp operational instincts, and a genuinely upbeat presence. He arrived on the Colorado Springs scene in 1995 as chef at The Ritz Grill and hasn't slowed down since — going on to develop and refine his business acumen through TAPAteria, Pizzeria Rustica, and Homa Cafe + Bar.

 

Jay's approach centers on bringing both traditional and unexpected flavors to Colorado Springs, drawing from local sourcing and imported ingredients alike. Beyond the kitchen, he offers concept development and consulting nationwide through Ascent Restaurant Group.

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Secretary

Michele Garrett

Michele Garrett is a Colorado native, Westside resident, and founder of Gratitude Zero Proof Beverages & Kava, Colorado Springs’ first non-alcoholic bar, established in 2024.

 

She is dedicated to creating safe, clean, and thriving neighborhoods while fostering community connection and inclusive social spaces.

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Board Member

Ryan Loyd

The founder of Echo Architecture, Ryan Lloyd, is an accomplished architect licensed in Colorado with over 25 years of experience in Architecture, Interior Design and Planning.  Ryan grew up in Fort Collins, CO, with stints in Golden, CO, Boulder, CO, and 10 years in Portland, OR.  He landed in Colorado Springs in 2008, and has been a resident of the Westside since then.  Ryan moved his office to OCC in 2022 and can often be found in The Sluice.

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Board Member

Jim Richardson

Jim Richardson is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in sales and manufacturing. He attended Colorado College and has held various leadership roles, including Sales Manager for a large OEM manufacturer and Director of Sales for an international aluminum manufacturer. As the owner of metal service center in Colorado Springs and an independent engineering and sales organization, Jim combines his expertise with a passion for the industry. When he's not working, you can find him hiking or skiing in the stunning Colorado landscape, enjoying time with his two sons and three wonderful grandchildren.

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Board Member

Neil Schroeder

I am a longtime Colorado Springs resident and entrepreneur with extensive experience in executive leadership, sales, and business operations. Throughout my career, I have led sales organizations and owned several local businesses, developing strong leadership, financial, and strategic planning skills.

As the former owner of the Old Colorado City Creamery, I gained a deep appreciation for Old Colorado City’s unique character, history, and small-business community.

Now retired, I am honored to serve on the Old Colorado City Associates Board, where I am committed to supporting local businesses and helping Old Colorado City continue to thrive.

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City Councilwoman District 3

Brandy Williams

Brandy Williams is a lifelong Colorado Springs resident whose family has deep roots in El Paso County dating back to the late 1800s, when her great-grandparents emigrated from Wales. Raised on her family's cattle ranch, she learned the values of hard work, responsibility, and service.

A graduate of Rampart High School, Brandy earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and returned home to build her career as a licensed Professional Engineer.

Brandy was first elected to Colorado Springs City Council in 2011 as an At-Large member, serving on several regional boards and helping lead major initiatives, including the Memorial Health System partnership with UCHealth and the creation of the Colorado Springs Health Foundation. She later served as City Engineer for the City of Fountain, overseeing the completion of millions of dollars in infrastructure projects.

Most recently, Brandy was re-elected to the Colorado Springs City Council, representing District 3.

 

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Our Mission and Vision

The Old Colorado City Downtown Development Authority focuses on creating an economically resilient district by supporting local businesses and preserving our unique historic character. We promote sustainable growth through strategic investments.

Our initiatives highlight the area's rich origins during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush while celebrating its evolution into a vibrant tourist destination filled with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

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Initiatives

Make a Difference

Our projects are designed to strengthen the local economy and preserve the charm of Old Colorado City. We focus on community partnerships and strategic improvements.

Support Local

We encourage residents to support local businesses and foster an environment where they can thrive.

Community Growth

We invest in projects that promote community engagement and collaboration among residents and business owners.

Cultural Events

We organize and support cultural events that enhance community spirit and draw tourists to the area.

Historic Preservation

We focus on maintaining the historic sites that are crucial to our identity and attracting visitors.

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Old Colorado City Downtown Development Authority

Our Meetings are held the last Wednesday of every month from 1:30-3pm in The Sluice at 2572 W Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Our Commitment to Community

P. O. Box 6206
Colorado Springs, CO 80934

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© 2026 by The Old Colorado City Downtown Development Authority. 

 

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