A “once-in-a-lifetime” deal is done for an open space west of Colorado Springs.

“Once in a lifetime” is how the city of Woodland Park recently described its closing on 120 acres of rolling aspen and pine called Avenger Open Space. The announcement officially completes a vision that came into view over the spring, when a Great Outdoors Colorado grant provided $523,000 for the private property that would become the city’s largest-ever open space.

While Avenger Open Space is officially public land — more than doubling the open space previously in Woodland Park’s portfolio, including the adjacent Paradise Open Space — “the city isn’t actively promoting going to it just yet,” said Chris Gonzales, who championed the acquisition on the city’s parks board.

The city was still “getting some ducks in a row,” he said. “There’s a shocking amount of ducks to be done for a project like this.”

First: finalizing a conservation easement held by Palmer Land Conservancy.

Also representing the upstart Teller Trail Team, advocating for more developed recreation around the county, Gonzales said “we’ve submitted some recommendations to the city for their conversations with Palmer.” He said the hope is a “balance” struck by the conservation easement.

“Yes, we want to protect the property, but we also want to protect people’s ability to recreate there in a reasonable manner,” Gonzales said. “So it’s finding that balance in ensuring access for the future while protecting the environment.”

Another “duck” being sorted: fundraising.

The pitch for the GOCO grant included $80,000 from individuals, businesses and organizations to go with the city’s $150,000 contribution. A recent news release from the city reported pledges amounting to $50,000 and included directions for donating to the city or nonprofit Palmer Land Conservancy.

Donations “will help fulfill the grant’s requirements and aid maintenance and development efforts to improve the space well into the future,” the release said.

A planning effort for Avenger’s future is expected at some point, Gonzales said. He envisioned improved access and trail connections from Paradise Open Space, along with “some loop trails that show off (Avenger) in its entirety.”

He added: “At the same time, I would like to maintain its more backcountry-esque feel.”