Center, CO

Center Economic Development

Community + Economic Development

The Town of Center is committed to building a strong, resilient community and a vibrant local economy. Through thoughtful planning, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, the Town supports residents, businesses, and organizations while preserving Center’s small-town character.

Three Pillars of the Center Community

Building Community focuses on strengthening the social, physical, and economic foundations that make Center a welcoming and connected place to live. The Town supports responsible development, infrastructure improvements, and initiatives that enhance quality of life while preserving community character. Community engagement is central to this pillar. Through the Community Heart & Soul Program, Center actively listens to residents, identifies shared values, and incorporates community input into planning and decision-making to ensure growth reflects what matters most to the people who live here. Investing in Individuals recognizes that a strong community is built by informed, skilled, and empowered residents. Center supports economic opportunity, workforce readiness, and access to resources that help individuals and families succeed. To strengthen local capacity, the Town is developing a Center Civic Leadership Program to support leadership development, increase understanding of local government, and expand opportunities for residents to engage in boards, committees, and community initiatives. Growing Our Youth reflects Center’s commitment to the next generation. The Town supports initiatives that promote education, skill-building, leadership development, and career exploration. By engaging youth in community conversations, workforce opportunities, and civic activities, Center seeks to empower young residents and encourage long-term community investment and leadership.

Business Development + Economic Opportunity

Center welcomes new and expanding businesses that align with community values and long-term goals. The Town works to create a supportive environment for entrepreneurship, investment, and job creation. Business support may include assistance with local regulations, connections to regional and state resources, information on incentives and financing, and guidance on site selection and community data. Local businesses are recognized as essential partners in a resilient local economy.

Housing + Community Development

Quality housing and thoughtful development are essential to sustainable growth. Center supports a range of housing options that meet current and future needs while maintaining affordability, safety, and community character. The Town is a proud recipient of a More Housing Now Grant and a Proposition 123 Local Planning Capacity Grant to help expand housing and homeownership opportunities. Community development efforts prioritize neighborhood vitality, infrastructure coordination, and long-term planning that supports overall well-being.

Town of Center Projects Over the Years

Center Online Presence Workshops - 2018

Center Challenge Program Participation - 2019

Lights on Center Event - 2019

American Planning Association Action Team - 2021

Solstice Event Organization - 2021

San Luis Valley Housing Assessment - 2021

HUD Grant + Mass Design workshops - 2022

Outlining the Opportunity - 2023

Engaging Private Sector - 2023

Urban Renewal Authority Formation - 2024

More Housing Now Grant + Developer Engagement - 2025

Local Planning Capacity Grant - 2025



Our Partners

DOWNTOWN COLORADO INC: To lead and organize efforts for community and economic development including coordinating consultants, grants, and community engagement

COLORADO HOUSING AND FINANCE AUTHORITY: To support local place-making and entrepreneurship efforts, including activation and beautification

PIONEER DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, PAUL BENEDETTI, AND NORTHLAND PUBLIC FINANCE: To support the formation of the Urban Renewal Authority which will help the town shape development to match the community’s vision

SAN LUIS VALLEY HOUSING COALITION: To conduct a valley-wide and local study to determine housing needs

ACTIONLAB 360: To support the development of youth entrepreneurship and civic engagement

DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL AFFAIRS: Providing grant programs like More Housing Now and Local Planning Capacity that really make these projects possible

Invest in Center

The Town of Center offers opportunity, connection, and a supportive environment for growth. Business owners, developers, residents, and partners are invited to explore how they can contribute to Center’s future. For more information about community engagement initiatives, leadership opportunities, or business and economic development programs, please contact Town Hall.

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