Delta County would like to see the site developed with a mix of uses that could promote both economic development and community development.
The term “Gateway tradition” has been invoked to describe the system which routes to the most important travel gateways between the Continental Divide and the Colorado River. One of the gateways is located near a Delta County parcel on the Gunnison River.
The site is owned by Delta County who is seeking a developer/investor interested in proposing a project that provides economic development benefits to the county and its residents. With an average traffic count of 18,000 vehicles per day, the site runs adjacent to both sides of US-50 in an area considered the City of Delta’s western gateway to Delta County, the Gunnison River Valley, and the rest of Colorado. The City of Delta is 5 miles to the southeast and Grand Junction is 30 miles to the northwest. The Gunnison River sits south of US-50 with a rail line following its path.
Delta County wishes to maximize the site’s potential to serve both the Grand Junction and regional markets. There are several development objectives, important to the County that future development could satisfy. First, is to expand the county’s industrial land-use inventory. There is an opportunity to develop facilities for value added agriculture product manufacturing, food processing, and/or distribution. All are viewed as opportunities within the region and for the site.
Given the site’s proximity to the Dominquez Escalante National Conservation Area, the Grand Mesa and the Gunnison River it is a natural launchpad for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists. Them County wishes to better leverage the many outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the region and this site along US 50 could serve as a centralized recreational logistics center. There is also an existing Old Spanish Trail trace, which would create a unique experience for visitors to walk along the actual trail that offers layers of history and has river access.
Finally, agriculture is a growth industry in Delta County and the region. Organic crops, non-GMO grains, natural livestock production by a growing number of farmers and small businesses have created a unique and impressive supply chain on the Western Slope. Distribution of the natural produce, quality livestock and meat products as well as continued advancement and improvements through research and development present new business opportunities, both for Delta County and the subject site. County officials and local business leaders wish to take advantage of Delta County’s unique role in Colorado and the nation as an agricultural innovator and natural food producer.
There are no environmental issues on the undeveloped 169-acres. There are mild topographical differences across the site. The site currently lacks water and sewer access. The city and county are working to extend water services to new users in proximity to the site which will create opportunities to connect water and sewer infrastructure.
ROI and Initial Conditions
Delta County will work with an investor/developer to ensure the establishment of financially successful development. The risk associated with any development, including development of the County land will be managed in part through the structuring of a mutually beneficial public-private partnership. The investor/ developer will be encouraged to set an industry accepted “reasonable return on investment” rate. An ROI that allows for a prudent and sound investment by both the public and private sectors.
OPPORTUNITY TYPE
An investor/developer with experience in the development of business parks and/or recruiting and establishing businesses will align well with the county’s objectives for this site. The site’s development will likely rely on the formation of a strong public-private partnership. This partnership may be initiated with the creation of a masterplan for the site and adjacent areas that serves to guide future development and identify how public amenities will support commercial and industrial investment.
Key parties include Delta County, the City of Delta, the Bureau of Land Management, and nearby businesses, ENGAGE, and Region10. A key component of investment in the site is securing funds for the installation of water and sewer infrastructure. Delta County has prioritized the development of this land as a regional business and recreational gateway.
- Delta County – The county owns the site and is committed to turning it into a productive, beneficial part of the community.
- City of Delta – The City of Delta can assist with the entitlement process and may provide financial assistance or public improvements to promote the project.
- Bureau of Land Management – The site backs into land owned by the BLM. Collaboration with the Bureau could lead to deeper investment in the surrounding area.
- Nearby businesses – There is a large local agricultural business located north of this site that is working to secure water access. If successful, this could create an opportunity to extend water to the county-owned 169-acres. This business also offers new business and supply chain opportunities.
- ENGAGE – ENGAGE provides resources to foster innovation and entrepreneurial activity in Delta County and could lead to development tied to ag-innovation.
- Region10 – Region10 is the economic development organization serving Delta County and 5 other counties. Region10 could aid with business attraction efforts for this site.
