The primary implementation strategy of the CSURA is to provide selected developers with the financial assistance necessary to allow the redevelopment project to compete successfully in the market place (Gap financing).

When CSURA partners with a private developer and provides assistance to help finance redevelopment of a blighted property in Colorado Springs, the main tool it uses is called tax increment financing or TIF. TIF is a mechanism to capture the net new or incremental property taxes that are created when a vacant or underutilized property is redeveloped and use those revenues to help finance the project. Projects that generate sales tax revenue may also include the tax increment with the approval of the Colorado Springs City Council.

A redevelopment agreement between CSURA and the developer is negotiated that lays out the specifics for which developer incurred qualified expenses will be eligible for reimbursement as well as the the total amount of increment that will be paid. A 25-year clock is set for each urban renewal project and that period begins with the approval of an urban renewal plan and the recording of the approved plan with El Paso County Clerk and Recorder. TIF can be collected and disbursed as reimbursement for allowable expenses for a maximum of 25 years.