Lorine Zukowski thinks it is wrong for Colorado Springs to allow developers leave dirt trails where sidewalks are supposed to go.

She understands that heavy construction equipment can ruin sidewalks. But she’s tired of shuffling through the dirt and mud, getting scratched by weeds and dodging snakes as she walks her neighborhood.

The mess can’t be avoided because a long stretch of sidewalk along Centennial Boulevard is missing near the Chesham Village South Townhomes, being developed by Clancy Building and Design.

Below is a look at the project’s Web page. This architect’s drawing shows six buildings. Only three are built . . . the two along Chesham Circle on the north and the building on the western edge of the project. The three on the south side of Chelsea Village Heights have not been built.

Here’s a look at what actually exists on Chelsea Village Heights:

The street is blocked by a fence. Beyond it, you can see the corner and the missing sidewalks where neighbors deal with a dirt trail.

Here’s a closer look at the dirt trail, facing south along Centennial Boulevard.

Below is a vew to the north, showing how kids must dodge a steel structure to make their way down to the bus stop:

Developer Al Clancy said he’d love to finish the project and install the sidewalks. But he said there’s not much he can do until the economy improves and he can resume construction of his townhomes.

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