Should the Feds Accept a Land Swap in Colorado (If It’s Offered)? (H.R. 2223)

What is H.R. 2223?

(Updated July 30, 2017)

This bill would direct the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) to accept a proposed land swap with the Broadmoor Hotel if the Broadmoor offers the exchange.

The swap would involve the Broadmoor providing the USDA with 320 acres of land in the Pike National Forest, in exchange for the Broadmoor receiving 83 acres of land within the forest. The USDA would be required to assess the values of the land to ensure that they are equal.

Additionally, the swap would involve a non-exclusive easement for the Broadmoor permanently, and would pay the Forest Service for a special use permit for the federal land.

Argument in favor

This will lead to more acreage in the national forest, while also allowing the hotel and its patrons to enjoy another part of the forest. It’s a win-win proposition.

Argument opposed

Does this really need to be legislation? Land exchanges involving federal agencies and the private sector should be handled through the public comment process.

Impact

People who would visit relevant portions of the Pike National Forest or the Broadmoor Hotel, the Broadmoor hotel, the Forest Service, and the USDA.

Cost of H.R. 2223

The CBO estimates that this legislation would not cost the federal government any money, and would actually reduce spending by $350,000 over the 2016-2025 period.

Additional Info

In-Depth: This bill was passed unanimously via unanimous consent by the House Committee on Natural Resources.

• House Natural Resources Committee
• Colorado Springs Independent
• CBO Cost Estimate