to live here,” Dennis adds. “Between the modular housing project, new commercial developments like AutoZone and Dollar General, and the restaurants opening downtown, we’re seeing renewed confidence in Monte Vista.” INVESTING IN THE SYSTEMS THAT SUSTAIN GROWTH Supporting all this growth requires a strong infrastructure foundation. Dennis notes that the city is investing heavily in critical systems. “We have to build a new wastewater treatment facility,” she says. “It’s a $42 million project, which is a huge undertaking for a community of 4,000. We’ve secured $30 million in funding so far through USDA Rural Development, and we’re exploring every option to cover the rest.” Connectivity and accessibility are also improving. Monte Vista enjoys reliable high-speed internet, and a major grant from the Colorado Department of Transportation is helping enhance sidewalk systems and pedestrian routes.“We’re improving sidewalks to connect our Ski HI Event Center to downtown and linking the high school and the commercial district as well,” Dennis says.“We’re always looking for grants to make the city more walkable and connected.” If funding is secured, future plans even include converting an old irrigation ditch into a walking and biking trail, in partnership with the University of Colorado.“It would give residents a safe, scenic path through town,” Dennis adds.“That project embodies our long-term vision for community health and outdoor access.” HONORING THE LAND, NURTURING THE FUTURE For Dennis, Monte Vista’s vision is deeply personal. “I grew up here,” she says.“After working elsewhere, I came back because I believe in this community. Monte Vista has inner beauty, our cultural diversity, our churches, and our parks. We want to enhance those features and make Monte Vista a hub for outdoor recreation, from the golf course we own to the nearby wildlife refuge and mountains just minutes away.” 139 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11 MONTE VISTA, CO
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx