Newcomers Assistance - Relocation Readiness

Colorado Springs elevation is 6,035 feet. Acclimation to our area varies for every individual. If you are not a fan of drinking water, it is highly recommended you become one. The air is drier and your body will dehydrate much faster. Because of the elevation, newcomers may experience slight fatigue at first. New personnel are allowed 30 days to adjust to the altitude and to reach Fort Carson fitness standards.

Candlewood Suites, Bldg. 7301 is located on post at 7222 Sheridan Ave, Fort Carson, CO 80913. Its highly encouraged reservations are made in advance by calling +1(719)526-4832 or going online. Non-availability statements can be requested; other installation hotel options include the Air Force Inn on Peterson SFB (20 to 30 minute drive) and Rampart Lodge on United States Air Force Academy (30 to 40 minute drive).

Depending on how you are coming from I-25, either take:

• Exit 135 to South Acad­emy Blvd. to enter through the main gate or
• Exit 132B onto Magrath Ave. to enter through Gate 20. 

Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 miles North of Colorado Springs; visit their USO to get refreshed. Locally, fly into the Colorado Springs Airport, about 10 miles from Fort Carson. Greyhound access is located in the downtown area at 120 S. Weber St. in Colorado Springs, +1(719)635-1505.

Soldiers are authorized to use local transportation, such as ride shares or taxis, & will be reimbursed; receipts are not required for expenses under $75.

Co-located at the main gate, you'll find the Visitor's Center, Bldg. 6012.  It's off to the right as you go towards the gate. Address is 6012 Nelson Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80902.  Refer questions to +1(719)526-2325. 

Our Replacement Center, in Bldg. 1456 is located at 1456 Iron Fighter Dr, Fort Carson, CO 80913. For help, call +1(719)526-6961.

All Soldiers, Colonel & below, sign in at the Replacement Center CQ with a copy of DA Form 31 (leave) & orders. If reporting during duty hours, uniform is required; if after 1500 or on weekends, civilian clothes are authorized. Must be clean shaven IAW AR 670-1. 

Getting to replacement is reimbursable. Soldiers arriving to the Colorado Springs Airport can use local transportation (e.g., ride shares, taxis) or call the above number to see if the TMP is available for pickup. Soldiers are reimbursed for local transportation costs on Day Zero once they meet with finance personnel. Receipts are not required for expenses under $75. Soldiers arriving to the Denver International Airport needing directions or assistance en route should also call the above number.

Lodging varies. Unaccompanied, SGT & below, are provided barracks (Bldg. 1367). All other, SSG & above, make their own lodging arrangements; scroll up & click on the Hotel Reservations dropdown.

Unaccompanied (SGT and below) - Lodging will be provided at barracks building 1367.

Accompanied Soldiers, SSG and above - Please make your own lodging arrangements.

In-processing is five days; includes finance (as part of reception) & scheduled SRP & CIF dates, as well as orientation to Family and Soldier resources on the Mountain Post.

Bring to in-processing all CIF to include 5 copies of all assignment orders and amendments;  5 copies of DA Form 31;  copies of profiles (P3 and above only);  medical record (if provided by losing command);  and dental record (if provided by losing command). Please attempt to bring all copies on your own. We can assist with making copies if needed, by exception.

For compassionate reassignment requests, report to MPD CAPS in the Mountain Post Soldier Center, Bldg. 1525, Rm 210.

Permissive TDY; if taking in conjunction with PCS leave & it is annotated on DA Form 31 & approved by an O5 or higher, sign in at Replacement. The CQ NCO will modify the DA form 31 to reflect the 10 days PTDY; no longer completed at housing. When PTDY is complete, return to Replacement to start in-processing. Save the DA Form 31, Finance will need it to complete travel requirements.

Leave extension requests should be directed to Replacement (check your orders).

DA Civilians reassigned to Fort Carson should contact the Civilian Personnel Assistance Center (CPAC), Bldg. 1118, prior to arrival for guidance, +1(719)526-8341. 

Free service for military, Department of Defense personnel and Family members. Shuttles operate daily with five (Banana, Cantonment, Soldier Support, Butts, and Butts Express) designated routes that circulate Fort Carson. Services are subject to change due to personnel, weather, equipment and/or mission requirements; note, services do not operate on federal holidays.

• Hours of operation are weekdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• The Butts Express Route does not run on weekends.
• Operate similar to a city bus, please stand at the designated shuttle stops for pick up.
• If you need to transfer to a different route, please tell your driver.
• If you need assistance or have been waiting for more than 15 minutes for a shuttle, contact the shuttle dispatch at (719) 524-RIDE or +1(719)524-7433.

For current routes and times, click here. For questions or concerns, call Shuttle Dispatch at +1(719)524-7433 or +1(719)526-1124.

Although Colorado is known for its ski resorts, the Colorado Springs area where Fort Carson is located has a mild year-round climate. In January, the coldest month, temperatures average a high of 43 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 23 with a mean of 33 degrees. The area averages 37 inches of snow annually. August, the warmest month, has an average high of 84 degrees and a low of 61 degrees with a mean of 73 degrees.

During winter and spring, winter storms can suddenly occur. In our local area, we can get snow anywhere from mid October to late May. And depending on what part of Colorado you are in, road conditions can vary drastically. Mountain passes can easily close due to snow and ice or mudslides. South Colorado Springs may be sunny while North Colorado Springs may have snow and ice. Preparation is the key. Keep an emergency kit in your car. Download the CDOT mobile app (iOS & Android) for up-to-date road conditions. Many of the major roadways have live feed video cameras. Checking the roads before you travel can make all the difference.  

WEATHER TIP: Download COtrip Planner app. You'll find that many of the major roadways have live feed video cameras.  Depending on when you are traveling, Colorado Road Conditions can vary drastically. Before you travel, check the roads.  

Banana Belt:  If you hear someone refer to this term, it is the area around Barkeley Avenue and McGrath Avenue.  If you look at the streets on a map, they form a banana.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo:  Welcome to the highest zoo in America.  It sits at an elevation of 6,800 feet above sea level and has more than half a million visitors every year.    

Community:  Did you know, our local community has the 2^nd largest DoD retiree population in the nation. We want you to know, you are coming to community who is ready to welcome you and help to make this your new home.

DEERS & ID Card:  Walk-in's and appointments available.

DMV:  Walk-in's and appointments available at the Mountain Post Soldier Center, Bldg. 1525. For details, call +1(719)520-6240.

Drink Water:  Colorado Springs elevation is 6,035 feet.  Acclimation to our area varies for every individual.  If you are not a fan of drinking water, it is highly recommended you become one.  The air is drier and your body will dehydrate much more quickly.

Emergency En Route: Be prepared, save the American Red Cross number to your contacts, +1(877)272-7337.

Soldier & Family Readiness Group (SFRG):  Get up-to-date SFRG contact information.

• Food Handlers Training - Nutrition Care Division, Evans Army Community Hospital, Bldg 7500, Room 1945.  For details, call +1(719)524-0730.

Firearms on Fort Carson:  All weapons brought on post must be registered with FC Form 66-E.  It takes 2 to 3 weeks and can be started before you arrive.

Getting Around Without a Car:  Four free on post shuttle buses run daily. Call 524-RIDE or +1(719)524-7433.

Golfers:  Great news, because of our altitude, a golf ball flies on an average 10% farther in Colorado than other states.  Tee-up at the Cheyenne Shadows Gold Course.

Home Based Businesses (HBBs):  If you have an in home business, you will require approval from the Garrison Commander or senior commander. Click here for details on the process and to fill out an application.

Per Diem Rates: Up-to-date details for Fort Carson.

Pets: Boarding kennels are unavailable on Fort Carson. For help, contact the Fort Carson Veterinary Center, +1(719)526-3803.  The Better Business Burea is a great resource in locating a kennel. If you live on Fort Carson and your pet gets loose, you can contact Tumbleweed Country Kennels, 12599 Jordan Road, Fountain, CO 80817.  Photos are taken of collected animals on Fort Carson and posted online.  Owners have 5 days to recover their pet before it is abandoned and placed for adoption.  For details, call +1(719)382-1126.

Household Goods:  Visit Move.mil. For assistance, call +1(719)554-9298 or email jppso-nc.movementsupport@us.af.mil. Fort Carson does not have a Loan Closet.

Hunting:  The post Conservation Law Enforcement Program offers a Colorado Hunters’ Education Course.   

Incline:  It's just 2,744 steps up the Manitou Incline.  Gaining 2000 feet in elevation from start to finish, it's a bit under 1 mile in length.  Take the challenge when it reopens.  

Leisure, Tour and Travel:  Get help with upcoming family vacations, getaway cruises, or tickets to local/state/national/international attractions. They'll help you put together a perfect trip. For details, call +1(719)526-5366.

Lost and Found:  If you lose a valuable, the Fort Carson Police/Provost Marshal Division is available. To check if your item may have been found, call +1(719)526-0616.

Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLC):  Available to Service Members and their Families to provide non-medical short term, situational problem-solving counseling.  Services can be provided on or off the installation and can be for individuals, couples, families and groups.  

Military Installations

• North American Aerospace Command Defense (NORAD) - Colorado Springs
• Peterson Air Force Base - Colorado Springs
• Schriever Air Force Base - Colorado Springs
• United States Air Force Base - Colorado Springs
• Buckley Air Force Base - Denver

Mountains are to the West:  If you get lost in Colorado Springs, remember that, it's a helpful trick to finding your way around.

MWR:  Visit our main page.  Download our DFMWR Program Directory.

Post Guide and Telephone Directory

Shopping Locations

• Chapel Hills Mall (Local)
• Citadel Mall (Local)
• First & Main Town Center (Local)
• Outlets at Castle Rock (About 31 miles North from Fort Carson)
• Promenade Shops at Briargate (Local)
• University Village Colorado (Local)

Shooting Complex:  Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex located outside of Gate 20.  We also have a Trap/Skeet range.  For details, call +1(719)896-6196.

Ski Resorts:  USA Today named Winter Park as the number one spot.  Copper Mountain took fifth place and Telluride tenth place.  So whether you are an avid skier or new to bunny slopes, stop by the Outdoor Recreation Complex to get information.

Sponsorship: Whether your a Soldier or Family Member, a sponsor can help with getting to know the local area.  For details, call +1(719)526-0457.

Staff Duty Numbers:  24/7 Unit Staff Duty phone numbers.

Welcome Packet: Request a packet. Include your name, address, contact number, arrival date, and any other information you may need. Packets available in-person at the ACS Center, Bldg. 1201.

Numerous opportunities are available at our Education Center, located in Bldg. 1117 on 1675 Long Street. Onsite campuses include:

• Colorado State University - Pueblo
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Pikes Peak Community College
• University of Colorado - Colorado Spring.

For information, call +1(719)526-2124.

We encourage you stop by the Education Center. Many of the local colleges have information on site.

• Colorado Christian University
• Colorado College
• Colorado State University - Pueblo
• Colorado Technical University (CTU)
• IntelliTec College
• Pikes Peak Community College
• Pueblo Community College
• University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

Be proactive. For local job market information, visit ACS Employment Readiness or call +1(719)526-0452. Military Spouses who have an active occupational license in good standing are able to receive a temporary occupational license with a validity period of three years, at no cost as part of Create Occupational Credential Portability Program (HB20-1326). 

Don't forget to ask about Spouse State Re-Licensing & Certification Reimbursement. Ask about the ACS Volunteer Program, it's a great way to add to your resume and network while you are on the search.

Get the credentials you need to achieve your career goal. This workforce development program provides up to $4,000 of financial assistance for licenses, certifications, or associate degrees to pursue an occupation or career field. 

Click here for eligibility information. For assistance, call +1(800)342-9647 or visit MyCAA (Military OneSource).

Free course offered by the American Red Cross and Dental Health Activity on Fort Carson. Course dates are 6 January to 25 June, 6:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. All classes must be attended; no partial credit will be given.

Applications: Available from 1 to 30 August 2024. Due back to Evans Army Community Hospital Red Cross office no later than 4 p.m. on the last day. No late applications will be accepted.

Requirements: Military ID card holder, at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED and be a U.S. citizen. IDs will be checked at time of application pickup.

For more info, call the hospital Red Cross office, +1(719)526-7144.

Fort Carson MEDDAC is the Army Medicine command that operates Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH) and manages its 2,300 military and civilian personnel. Newly arrived Soldiers & Family Members will be assigned a provider & clinic. Questions can be referred to the patient advocates. Remember, if you have a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) in TRICARE, such as marriage or birth of a child, it opens a 90-day period for you to make eligible enrollment changes. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling +1(719)526-2273. The hospital is located in Bldg. 7500 at 1650 Cochrane Circle, Fort Carson, CO 80913. For assistance, contact the hospital operator at +1(719)526-7000.

Exceptional Family Member's: Visit the ACS Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) page for details on local services or call +1(719)526-0400. To contact EFMP at the hospital, call +1(719)526-7605.

Attend from your current location or when you arrive. Workshop is taught online via Zoom. Registration information will be provided as part of your confirmation. Provided by your Relocation Readiness Program in Partnership with the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors (PPAR). Register for an upcoming class by clicking below:

• Wed, 27 November 2024, 1pm-4pm

Fort Carson Family Homes has single-family, duplex, & townhome floor plans from 2 to 5 bedrooms. For information on how to apply, click here. To visit, go to Bldg. 6800 at 6800 Prussman Avenue, Fort Carson, CO 80913 or call +1(719)579-1606.

For help with the first month's rent & deposit, apply for Army Emergency Relief (AER) or call +1(719)526-4783.

We also encourage you to connect with the Housing Services Office (HSO), Bldg. 1225. They are a great resource and can advocate on your behalf. For help, call +1(719)526-2323.

More than 60% of the active-duty military population lives in the local communities. Numerous housing options are available, to include Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and U.S. Air Force Academy.

It's important to note, the cost of homes in the local areas continue to increase. We encourage you to take the time to research. Stop by the Housing Services Office (HSO) and sit down with a volunteer realtor from the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors (PPAR), available onsite. HSO is located in Bldg. 1225 at 1225 Evans Street, Fort Carson, CO 80913. For help, call +1(719)526-2323.

In addition, our ACS Relocation Program offers a monthly Homebuyers Workshop, 4th Wednesday, 1-4 p.m., ACS Center, Bldg. 1526. Interested in virtual attendance, let us know. Scroll to the top of this page to register for Newcomers & Homebuyers. Understanding the VA homebuying process is important. 

Rentals can be found by visiting the DoD off post housing website, Homes.mil.

Need assistance with first month's rent & deposit or initial furniture setup, visit Army Emergency Relief (AER) to see what type of assistance is available.

Available to provide a broad range of support to military children and youth, and to the Family members and other adults who support them. MFLC's are available at no cost for a group session, educational presentation and individual meeting. After-hours and weekend appointments are available. For specifics, click here.

Childcare:  It is highly encouraged you contact CYS Parent Central Services as soon as possible for information on local daycare options, to include military-operated and military-subsidized child care options. For details, call +(719)526-1101. 

• Financial assistance for childcare costs after a PCS move are available via Army Emergency Relief (AER). Approval is based on a financial need.

Child & Youth Services (CYS):  If you have kids, take advantage of available programs ranging from daycare to youth sports to online tutoring.

Walk-in services are available on Tuesday afternoons from 12:30p.m. to 3:30p.m. at the ACS Center, Bldg. 1526. Soldiers and Spouses can meet with a representative from El Paso County Child Support. 

We encourage you to connect with the Army Community Service (ACS) Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).  They will provide guidance for you and your family. 

We receive many inquiries on adoption and foster care in Colorado. 

• Adoption Reimbursement for Retirees
  • DoDI 1341.09 - DoD Adoption Reimbursement Policy
  • Reimbrusement of Qualifying Adoption Expenses for Certain Veterans
  • VA Form 10-10152
• Adopt US Kids - Military Resources
• Colorado Heart Gallery - Meet Colorados Kids
• El Paso County DHS Adoption
• Military Adoption Benefits for Active Duty
  • DFAS Adoption Reimbursement
  • DoDI 1341.09 - DoD Adoption Reimbursement Policy
• Military OneSource Adoption Essentials for Active Duty 

Foster Care

• CO4Kids
• El Paso County DHS Foster Care

Local Agencies to assist with the process

• El Paso County DHS Adoption

Headstart: Fort Carson has an onsite program. For details, call +1(719)635-1536.

Schools (On & Off Post):  Colorado has open enrollment. For assistance with school options, contact the School Liaison Office (SLO), Bldg. 5939, +1(719)526-1101.

WIC is available at the ACS Center, Bldg. 1526 on Mondays from 1-3:30 p.m. on a walk-in basis. Appointments at the ACS Center can be requested through the WIC online request form or by notifying your WIC representative. The closest location off Fort Carson is on 97 Widefield Blvd, Widefield, CO 80911. For help, call WIC at +1(719)578-3199 or ACS at +(719)526-4590.

To request a youth sponsor, click here. Depending on their age and school district, a student ambassador will be assigned to help with the transition process.

Fort Carson Trails: Come out and experience our trails throughout the installation.

Campgrounds and Facilities (Joint Services)

If you and your family are looking for adventure in the great outdoors of Colorado, then the Morale, Welfare and Recreation joint services campgrounds and facilities are available.

Buckley Air Force Base FamCamp

• Located in Aurora
• Tel: +1(720)847-6853
• Accomodations:  38 RV spaces with tent areas
• Amenities:  Laundry, Showers, Picinic Area, Golf, Gas, Commissary, Exchange, Fitness Center, Shoppete, Snack Bar, Class VI, Car Wash, Dump / Sewer, Water, Electric

Farish Recreation Area (USAFA)

• Located in Woodland Park
• Tel: +1(719)687-9098
• Accommodations: 15 tent sites (primitive), four log camper cabins, six duplex units,  lodge with four rooms
• Amenities: Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, snowshoeing

Peregrine Pines FamCamp

• Located in Colorado Springs, Colo.
• Tel: +1(719)333-4980
• Accommodations: 105 gravel sites, eight tent sites
• Amenities: Playground, picnic area, hiking, commissary, exchange, package store

Hunter Education Course - Information on local courses and events. Search Fort Carson Conservation Law Enforcement Program.

Get all your up-to-date information by visiting https://fortcarson.isportsman.net/. Create an account, check open areas, find permit info and much more.

Check out all Colorado has to offer, visit our Colorado Tourism website and don't forget to order a Colorado Travel Guide.

Check out all our BOSS program has to offer. Located in Bldg. 1532 on 6371 Specker Avenue. For info, call +1(719)524-2677.

Your Relocation team is ready to support you with sponsorship. Did you know, 2 trainings are required for Sponsor's...and we can assist. There is the standardized online sponsorship training and then there is an installation specific sponsorship training which ensures you know all the local resources and services. It's important because every installation varies with what is available and we want sponsors as well as new arrivals to be successful here on Fort Carson.

• Click here: Request sponsorship training at ACS or in your unit footprint 

Below you'll find great resources to help you meet your sponsorship requirements.

• Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) Army Regulation 600-8-8
• 4ID Sponsorship Handbook
• DoDI 1342.22 Military Family Readiness
• eSAT:  How to register for online training
• Mountain Post Integration SOP
• Mountain Post Policy Letter
• TASP Request DA5434 Form
• Sample Welcome Letter

Sponsors are mandatory for:

• Tier 1 (AIT/OSUT/BOLC) and
• E1 to E6, W01 to CW2, and O1 to O3

Optional for (must opt in):

• Senior NCOs and Field Grade Officers 

Click here to order. Packets are mailed through regular mail. 

Bulk requests are available for in person pickup at the ACS Center, Bldg. 1526. To request, call +1(719)526-0457 or click here (please allow 2 business days).

ACS Center, Bldg. 1526

6303 Wetzel Ave, Fort Carson, CO 80913

+1(719)526-04590

Regardless of what stage of life you and your family are in, Army Community Service has services and programs to make your Army life more successful.  If you are new to the Fort Carson Colorado area, make sure to stop in and pick up a welcome packet, get maps and directions about the local area and meet our professional staff.  ACS offers monthly classes on parenting, finances, relationships, volunteerism, exceptional family members, and much, much more.

ACS offers many different classes on a variety of subjects, all designed to improve the quality of your life. Request an appointment.

• Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLC)
• Military OneSource

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• Relocation Assistance (ETS, PCS, Retirement) 
• Multicultural Support