Press Release - $2M Grant to Pueblo for New Energy Economy
 |
| Find Gov. Ritter on: |
  |
OFFICE OF GOVERNOR BILL RITTER, JR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2009
CONTACTS:
Linda Rice, 303.866.6249, linda.rice@state.co.us
Evan Dreyer, 720.350.8370, evan.dreyer@state.co.us
GOV. RITTER ANNOUNCES $2M GRANT TO PUEBLO TO BOOST NEW ENERGY ECONOMY
Gov. Bill Ritter today announced the Colorado Department of Local Affairs is partnering with the city of Pueblo on a $2 million grant for infrastructure improvements associated with this year's planned opening of the Vestas wind tower manufacturing plant.
"This grant represents the successful New Energy Economy partnership we're creating among state government, local governments and the private sector to lead Colorado forward," Gov. Ritter said. "The grant will provide a much-needed boost to Pueblo's efforts to attract and create New Energy Economy jobs."
The state grant will allow Pueblo to help Vestas build and improve crucial infrastructure for the new St. Charles Industrial Park, where Vestas is constructing the world's largest tower manufacturing facility and will employ approximately 500 people. The new industrial park is anticipated to include other companies that will make Pueblo one of the leading new energy communities in Colorado.
The grant also will help improve public safety in Pueblo by reducing General Funds needed for the construction and furnishing of the Pueblo Municipal Justice Center, which will house the Pueblo police headquarters and the Municipal Court. This project is central to the city's efforts to enhance the downtown area.
"This public investment will improve the quality of life for citizens of Pueblo in both the short term and long term, through job creation and public improvements," said Susan Kirkpatrick, executive director of the Department of Local Affairs.
In addition to DOLA, other partners involved with the grant were the Governor's Office of Economic Development and International Trade and the Pueblo Economic Development Corporation.
"Economic development in these challenging times requires a collaborative effort," said Don Elliman, director of the Governor's Office of Economic Development and International Trade. "The infrastructure funded by this innovative partnership will facilitate job creation by Vestas, while laying the groundwork for a new industrial park that will attract untold additional investment and jobs."