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Security-Widefield, CO

Security-Widefield is a census-designated place in El Paso County, Colorado, forming a suburban community within the Colorado Springs metropolitan area.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Security-Widefield is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in and governed by El Paso County, Colorado, United States . It is not an incorporated municipality, so its local governance falls under the jurisdiction of El Paso County . The community is a part of the Colorado Springs, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area and lies within the Front Range Urban Corridor . The region is known for its proximity to the front range of the Rocky Mountains and its military installations, including Fort Carson, which borders the community to the west .

Date of Foundation and Age

The Security and Widefield communities began to develop significantly after World War II. The area's population grew rapidly, and the United States Census Bureau first defined the Security CDP in 1960 . It was expanded to the Security-Widefield CDP for the 1970 census . Some of the area's schools, like the historic S.A. Wilson Elementary built in 1959-61, date from this period of expansion .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

The Security-Widefield CDP is located in east-central El Paso County at the coordinates 38°44′55″N 104°42′51″W . It sits on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) south-southeast of downtown Colorado Springs . The area is situated on the high plains at the foot of the mountains. The elevation of the CDP is approximately 1,781 meters (5,843 feet) above sea level . It is bordered to the west by the city of Fort Carson and to the south by the city of Fountain .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Security-Widefield is primarily a residential suburb and bedroom community within the Colorado Springs metropolitan area. Its economy is closely tied to that of Colorado Springs. Key employment sectors for residents include Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services . A significant portion of the population is also employed in Public Administration, likely connected to the nearby military installations like Fort Carson . The community has a large population of military veterans, with the most common service period being the Gulf War (2001-) .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Security-Widefield was 38,639 . By 2023, the population was estimated at 38,659, and projections for 2025 place it at 40,717, indicating continued growth . The median age is 35.1, with a nearly even gender split . The community is diverse, with the largest ethnic groups being White (Non-Hispanic) (57.3%), White (Hispanic) (8.64%), and Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) (8.34%) . The homeownership rate is high at 83.1% .

City's "Business Card"

Security-Widefield is a quiet, family-oriented suburban community that serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the Pikes Peak region, offering a peaceful base with easy access to the attractions of Colorado Springs and the scenic beauty of the Front Range.

Geography

Mountains and Mountain Ranges

While Security-Widefield itself sits on the plains, it is located directly east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The most prominent landmark is Pikes Peak, located approximately 25-30 kilometers to the west-northwest. Other significant nearby features include Cheyenne Mountain, which is home to Cheyenne Mountain State Park and rises prominently to the west .

Water Bodies

The primary waterway in the area is Fountain Creek, which flows through the region and is a key tributary of the Arkansas River. Fountain Creek Regional Park is a protected area located nearby, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing along the creek . There are several man-made reservoirs in the immediate vicinity, including Quail Lake, Prospect Lake, and Gold Camp Reservoir, all popular for fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks .

National and Nature Parks

Security-Widefield is within a short drive of numerous state and municipal parks.

Unique Landscapes

The area is defined by its location where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains. This "front range" setting provides dramatic views of the mountains rising abruptly from the plains. The landscape includes rolling hills, open spaces, and the wooded canyons of the foothills.

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Security-Widefield has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification BSk). It is characterized by four distinct seasons with plentiful sunshine, low humidity, and significant temperature variations between day and night. The area's high elevation (over 5,800 feet) contributes to cooler temperatures than the plains further east .

Average Temperatures

Based on data from nearby Colorado Springs, the climate features mild to warm summers and cold, snowy winters.

Precipitation and Humidity

The region receives most of its precipitation in the form of afternoon thunderstorms during the late summer.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Security-Widefield are during the shoulder seasons for comfortable weather ideal for outdoor activities.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

This 2,701-acre state park is the most significant natural landmark directly adjacent to Security-Widefield . It offers a network of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, winding through diverse habitats at the base of Cheyenne Mountain. It's a prime spot for wildlife viewing, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

Fountain Creek Regional Park

Located nearby, this park protects a significant stretch of Fountain Creek . It's a popular destination for birdwatching, with a mix of wetland, riparian, and grassland habitats. The park features paved and unpaved trails, picnic areas, and offers a peaceful natural escape within the urban corridor.

Quail Lake

This reservoir, situated near the intersection of highways, is a popular local recreation spot . A pleasant gravel trail encircles the lake, making it ideal for walking, jogging, and dog-walking. It's also a favored spot for kayaking and fishing, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area and nearby mountains.

Historic S.A. Wilson School

The former S.A. Wilson Elementary School, built in 1959-61, is a significant local landmark and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017 . It represents the rapid growth and development of the Widefield School District during the post-war era and is an excellent example of mid-20th-century elementary school architecture.

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

While located in downtown Colorado Springs, this museum is a key cultural attraction for residents and visitors of Security-Widefield . Housed in a beautifully restored 1903 county courthouse, it tells the story of the Pikes Peak region's history, art, and culture through engaging exhibits.

Transport

Major Airports

The primary airport serving Security-Widefield is Colorado Springs Airport (COS). It is located approximately 10-15 miles east of the CDP, offering a convenient and less congested alternative to Denver's airport. The airport handles commercial flights to major hubs across the United States.

For international travel and a wider array of flights, residents and visitors can use Denver International Airport (DEN) , located about 75 miles north via Interstate 25. While further away, it is a major international gateway.

Major Highways and Roads

The main north-south thoroughfare serving Security-Widefield is Interstate 25 (I-25) , which runs along the western edge of the CDP and connects it directly to Colorado Springs to the north and Pueblo to the south. Other important local roads include State Highway 85/87, which runs parallel to I-25, and Fontaine Boulevard, which divides the Security and Widefield neighborhoods .

Public Transportation

Public transportation in the area is provided by Mountain Metropolitan Transit, which operates bus routes connecting Security-Widefield and nearby Fountain to various parts of Colorado Springs, including downtown, the medical complex, and shopping centers.

Car Ownership

The community is highly car-dependent. Data from 2023 shows the average car ownership in Security-Widefield was 2 cars per household, and the vast majority of residents drove alone to work . The average commute time is 23.6 minutes .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

While Security-Widefield itself is primarily a residential suburb, its dining scene is influenced by the broader culinary landscape of the Colorado Springs area, with a strong emphasis on American classics and Southwestern flavors .

Green Chile

A staple in the region, green chile is a spicy, tangy sauce that is a defining element of local cuisine. It's made from roasted green chiles, often with pork, tomatoes, and onions, and is a versatile condiment that appears on almost everything . This is a must-try item, reflecting the area's Southwestern and Mexican influences. You'll find it served over breakfast burritos, smothering enchiladas, or even as a base for a hearty bowl of chile relleno. Local diners, such as the long-standing King's Chef Diner in nearby Colorado Springs (in operation since 1956), are famed for their green chile, which patrons order on eggs, cheeseburgers, or simply in a bowl .

Smothered Burrito

A direct descendant of the region's love for green chile, the smothered burrito is a quintessential local dish. It consists of a large burrito—typically filled with beans, meat, and rice—that is completely covered in a generous ladle of sauce (often the ubiquitous green chile) and melted cheese . It's a hearty, comforting meal found in many family-friendly eateries and southwestern-influenced spots throughout the Security-Widefield and Colorado Springs area .

Bison Burger

Reflecting Colorado's frontier and ranching heritage, the bison burger is a popular alternative to traditional beef. Bison meat is leaner and has a slightly sweeter, richer flavor than beef . It's a frequent feature on the menus of casual American restaurants in the region, offering a taste of the local terrain and a nod to the animals that have long roamed the state .

Museums and Cultural Institutions

Security-Widefield is within easy driving distance of Colorado Springs, which hosts the region's primary museums and cultural attractions.

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

For those interested in visual and performing arts, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is a key destination. This institution offers a diverse range of art forms, including visual arts exhibitions and live theater performances . Visitors can immerse themselves in works by local and national artists, and the center also provides workshops and features a tranquil garden, creating a holistic creative atmosphere .

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Housed in the beautifully restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Pikes Peak region . Its collections delve into Indigenous histories, the city's founding era, and the stories that have shaped modern Colorado Springs. Exhibitions feature primary materials, archival records, and artifacts that illustrate the development of the area's institutions . A notable exhibition is "Until Forever Comes: This is Ute Homeland," developed in collaboration with the three Ute tribes, which presents the Pikes Peak Region through the perspective of the Ute people, emphasizing their living history and deep connection to the land .

Local Art and Public Installations

The broader community's artistic spirit can be explored at local venues like the Pikes Peak Library District, which frequently hosts exhibitions and cultural displays featuring works from local artists that reflect the community's unique heritage . Additionally, the area is adorned with public art, such as the "Visit COS Mural" at the Visitor Information Center. This mural, painted by local artist Laura Tiller, encapsulates Colorado Springs' history and heritage through iconic depictions, including Pikes Peak, the Garden of the Gods, and nods to local pioneers and Ute heritage .

Sports and Athletic Legacy

Sports in Security-Widefield are deeply rooted in the community, centered around local high school athletics and easy access to professional and amateur opportunities in nearby Colorado Springs.

Local High School Sports: The Widefield Gladiators

The community's athletic spirit is passionately embodied by Widefield High School, whose teams, the Gladiators, compete in the 4A Pikes Peak Athletic Conference . The school has a rich history of success across multiple sports.

Community and Youth Sports

For younger residents and those looking for recreational leagues, programs like i9 Sports offer a variety of youth sports, including flag football, soccer, basketball, baseball, and volleyball, with locations and programs serving the Security-Widefield area .

Professional and Amateur Sports in Nearby Colorado Springs

Just a short drive away, Colorado Springs provides access to a wider range of sporting activities. The city's Sports Office organizes adult basketball leagues with men's, women's, and coed teams across different skill levels (Recreation Red, White, and Blue) in the spring, summer, fall, and winter . The area is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class rock climbing in places like Garden of the Gods, and hiking and trail running throughout the region's parks and foothills .

Universities and Higher Education

Security-Widefield is situated near several institutions of higher education, most notably the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS).

University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)

As the region's primary public research university, UCCS is a comprehensive institution offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. According to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it is listed among national universities . The university is an integral part of the community, and its students contribute to the local culture, frequently patronizing restaurants and businesses in the Colorado Springs area .

Other Regional Universities

The broader Colorado Springs area is also home to other institutions, such as Colorado Technical University . For students seeking other educational opportunities within the state, the region is within driving distance of several of Colorado's top-ranked universities, including the Colorado School of Mines in Golden and the University of Colorado Boulder .

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Residents of Security-Widefield have access to a comprehensive healthcare network, anchored by nationally recognized hospitals and a wide range of local clinics in the nearby city of Colorado Springs.

Major Hospitals in Colorado Springs

The leading healthcare provider in the area is UCHealth, whose UCHealth Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs is consistently ranked among the best in the state. In the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it was tied for the No. 3 hospital in Colorado . This facility provides a full spectrum of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized treatment. Other major facilities in the area include those operated by Penrose-St. Francis Health Services .

Local and Urgent Care

For routine medical needs and non-emergency situations, numerous urgent care centers and clinics serve the Security-Widefield and Colorado Springs area. These facilities offer accessible care for common illnesses and injuries, as well as laboratory services. Examples include AFC Urgent Care, Anywhere Urgent Care, and multiple UCHealth Urgent Care locations in nearby Colorado Springs and Fountain . These centers provide a convenient option for services like pediatric care, physical exams, and occupational health. Specific services, such as Prostate Screening (PSA) Testing, are also readily available at these local clinics . For specialized or more complex care, the region's major hospitals are equipped with advanced technology and specialist physicians.

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