TOWN OF PAGOSA SPRINGS/ARCHULETA COUNTY RECEIVES ‘SMALL COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR’ FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF COLORADO
Top people, places, and projects in economic development honored at annual awards dinner & ceremony
PUEBLO, COLORADO (Oct. 20, 2022) – The Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC) announced the 2022 EDIE award recipients, recognizing economic development excellence during its annual Drive|Lead|Succeed Conference at Pueblo Convention Center in Pueblo, Colorado last week. Since 1989, EDCC has recognized over 200 members, volunteers, communities, companies, and legislators for their outstanding achievement in economic development in the State of Colorado. This year, EDCC celebrated the achievements of 11 individuals, communities, partners, and legislators.
Town of Pagosa Springs/Archuleta County was selected as this year’s ‘Small Community of the Year’ (community population up to 19,999) for its achievements in the following activities:
- The town and county both recognized the value and importance of putting the necessary infrastructure in place to support an economic development entity. They have dedicated annual funds to support a public private Economic Development Organization as well as serve on the Board of Directors.
- The town and county have dedicated significant funds to build out broadband, creating redundant fiber loops in the downtown core and extending coverage into the more rural areas.
- Recognizing that workforce housing is a major issue for this community, and the high cost of land, makes building affordable housing cost prohibitive, the county has donated 11 tracts of land to Habitat for Humanity, Since that time, both the town and county continue to prioritize housing with land purchases, donations, and additional assistance.
“We celebrate and honor the winners of this year’s EDIE awards, their dedication and hard work towards the progression of our industry across the state and beyond is astounding,” said Stacy Miller, 2022 Board Chair of the Economic Development Council of Colorado and the Director of Economic Development for the Town of Windsor. “These individuals and organizations’ contributions to our communities will help to advance the economy of our state for years to come.”
Pueblo, the Steel City, introduced a new generation of the EDIE award fabricated in steel. The EDIE Award was handcrafted by Johnny’s Boiler Shop & Metal Works which has been a staple of craftsmanship and skill in Pueblo Colorado since 1946. This handcrafted award was made with heart and soul by Pueblo metal workers from American steel. The stainless rod, depicting water, was cut from a legacy drill rig which provided drilling service throughout the Southern Colorado region. The base of the award was handcrafted from a 1940’s Denver and Rio Grande Western Box car floor which carried goods throughout the region.
Each of these winners, gives a glimpse into what our professionals and stakeholders – here in Colorado – are doing, in keeping Colorado’s economy moving forward. More than ever, the value and importance of sustainable economic development, needs to be shined upon as we navigate the ever-changing headwinds our economy is facing. EDCC is honored to represent these winners and their important work and achievements in keeping Colorado economically viable.