The Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) held a work session on May 15, 2025, focusing on the development of a new urban renewal project aimed at enhancing the local university experience and community engagement. The meeting highlighted several key agenda items, primarily centered around financing and infrastructure improvements associated with the project.

The session began with discussions on the increasing demand for online classes at Pueblo Community College (PCC) and the need for improved amenities to attract students to campus. Commissioners emphasized the importance of creating a vibrant on-campus experience, noting that many students lack transportation to access essential services like grocery shopping. To address this, a partnership with the Senior Resource Development Agency (SRDA) was established to provide regular shuttle services to students.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the financial aspects of the project. The commissioners discussed the issuance of bonds through three metro districts to fund approximately $9 million in public improvements. The financing structure aims to separate the debt from the Colorado State University (CSU) system's credit, with options for both municipal bonds and private placements being considered. The commissioners expressed confidence in securing the necessary approvals from local taxing entities.

The conversation also touched on the potential for capturing county sales tax revenue generated within the urban renewal area. While the specifics of this arrangement remain to be defined, it was noted that the county's 1% sales tax could be allocated to support the project's debt. The commissioners acknowledged the importance of establishing a clear legal framework for this revenue capture.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to transform CSU Pueblo into a community hub that attracts both students and residents. They recognized the risks associated with development but emphasized the expertise of the team involved in the project, which includes experienced professionals in urban renewal and financing.

In conclusion, the work session underscored the collaborative efforts between the county, the university, and local stakeholders to create a thriving educational environment in Pueblo. The next steps involve finalizing agreements with a master developer and continuing discussions on the financial and legal structures necessary to move the project forward. The commissioners remain optimistic about the project's potential to enhance the local economy and community engagement.