Eaton Downtown Construction Project

News Release Date
02-20-2024
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downtown rendering

Project Background: 

The Town, through the Hometown Revitalization Committee, has been working on downtown revitalization and economic development since 2018. In 2023, the Town adopted and amended the Downtown Revitalization Plan, guiding us toward a pedestrian-friendly downtown attractive to residents and new businesses. With the help of grants from the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), the Town can start construction this year. 

The Downtown Construction Project refers to a building face to building face reimagining of downtown along two blocks of 1st Street, from US-85 to Maple Street. 

 

Project Goals: 

  • Create a more pedestrian-centric downtown area
  • Attract new businesses and residents to expand property and sales tax base
  • Encourage private investment in existing downtown buildings 

 

Project Timeline (Key Dates): 

Project Bid Published – 6/20/2024

Project Award - 7/18/2024 Board of Trustees Meeting

Construction 8/1/2024 – 12/1/2024

 

Public Meetings and Events: 

  • February 26 at 6 p.m. – Community Meeting for business owners to review project scope and timeline and mitigate business disruption. 

 

Additional Links and Resources: 

What will this project cost, and how is it funded?

The total cost is estimated at $3.5 million. The Town received $1.5 million from the Main Street LIVE Initiative from DOLA and $1.15 million from the Colorado Department of Transportation for this project, meaning there will be minimal contribution from local taxpayers. The remaining amount will come from the Town’s reserve funding for street improvement projects.  

When is construction happening?

Construction is anticipated to begin at the end of July/beginning of August and should finish by December 2024.

Can I still access the businesses on 1st Street?

Yes. Businesses along 1st Street will remain open, and we encourage you to patronize them throughout the project. There are a few days that access may be prevented due to direct sidewalk construction outside the entrance of businesses. The Town and businesses will continue to update residents as the construction project progresses. 

How was the community involved in this project?

The Hometown Revitalization Committee hosted community meetings in 2020 and 2021 to develop a vision, goals, and priorities for downtown revitalization. The committee also surveyed the community and local businesses.  The Planning Commission and Board of Trustees approved the downtown revitalization plan at public hearings.

What does the project include?

  • Replacing the road
  • Reconstruction and widening of sidewalks 
  • Curb, gutter, and drainage replacement/improvements 
  • Underground utility improvements, including water lines, stormwater pipes, manholes, and rain garden
  • 15 streetlights
  • 22 trees and landscaping
  • Parklet paving
  • Entrance monument on 1st and 85
  • 12,000-square-foot parking lot extension between the 200 block of 1st and Town Square 
  • 5,000-square-foot outdoor seating plaza

How can I find updates about construction?

We encourage you to subscribe to our email newsletter and check the box to receive specific updates about downtown construction. The Town will also continue to post information on our Facebook page. 

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