Salida CO
Population 5,666 (2020 Census)
Month Year visit: April 2023
Small Town Vibe blog link: Salida, CO: beautiful mountain town is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast (smalltownvibe.org)
Observations: beautifully restored (and relatively large) historic downtown, approximately 4 blocks x 3 blocks. Lots of businesses (i.e. very few empty storefronts). The city park is nestled against the Arkansas River. Bridge over the river to foothills with many biking/hiking paths and a view of the city. The paved trail through town, to a Walmart on the outside of town. Large hospital complex on the outside of town. Several breweries, coffee shops, a distillery and many restaurants.
Online Research
Google Search: 'Salida Revitalization' and ' Salida historic downtown'
City Budget 2022 - impressive budget transparency
City Projects - overview of current city development projects and links to supplemental information
Salida City Council considers major impact review; planned development on West First Street (article from Ark Valley Voice)
Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (COEDIT)
Colorado Creative Districts Program
The Colorado Creative Districts program certifies communities that contribute to our state’s economy through creativity, culture, and the arts. The program’s goal is to help communities increase jobs, incomes, and investments in creative places
Spaces to Create Program: In 2015, Trinidad was selected as the community for the first demonstration project. Salida has been selected for a pilot program - applications open at a future unspecified date as of 5/31/2023
Space to Create Colorado utilizes Artspace as the lead consultant for feasibility and market studies. Space to Create Colorado projects are eligible for funding from the Boettcher Foundation.
Community Revitalization Program
includes grant application and guidelines link
Grant Awarded: SW Corner of 3rd Street & Hwy 291 Salida, CO 81201
Oct.15, 2021: Salida award article from Ark Valley Voice
$1.3M for Chaffee Housing Autority: Jane's Place Project (mixed use development)
$450K for Salida Circus Outreach Foundation: Chaffee County Creativity Center (home for 6 local businesses)
includes grant application link, due May 31 annually
Salida awarded $2M for project called Oak Street Corridor, Gateway to Downtown Salida
2021 Award granted to 16 cities: Salida, Aurora, Avon, Berthoud, C.Springs, CSU, Craig, Delta, Edgewater, Fort Collins, Greeley, Lyons, Montrose, Pueblo, Glenwood Springs/Roaring Fork Transportation Authority, Salida, Wheat Ridge,
