DENVER ~ Denver, CO - In a press release today, Governor Jared Polis, along with the Office of Just Transition (OJT) and the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), announced the awarding of two new Coal Transition Community Assistance grants to support economic diversification efforts in Moffat and Rio Blanco Counties. These grants are part of a larger initiative by the state to aid communities impacted by the decline of coal-powered electricity production in Colorado.

Governor Polis expressed his commitment to helping communities in Western Colorado plan for the future, stating, "Colorado is helping communities succeed in new ways, which will create more jobs for local workers and save people money."

Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of OEDIT, also emphasized the importance of supporting local economic development plans based on strengths and opportunities within each community. "Communities in Northwest Colorado are working hard to diversify their economies, and we are pleased to support those efforts," she said.

The City of Craig has been awarded $1,051,000 from the grant to purchase property for the development of a new business and industrial park in Moffat County. The park will be strategically located with access to both the Union Pacific rail line and 1st Street in Craig, providing opportunities for growth and investment.

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Craig City Manager Peter Brixius highlighted the critical role that OJT plays in promoting stability, recovery, and sustainability for regions like NW Colorado. "In the face of these impacts [from coal mine and power plant closures], we are very pleased that OJT is a partner in our vision for the future growth and development of new and expanding opportunities for our region," he said.

The City of Craig plans to collaborate with a private developer to begin the master planning process for the park. In addition to the Coal Transition Community grant, they have also received $2.5 million in Congressionally Designated Spending to cover horizontal infrastructure costs.

In Rio Blanco County, the Rio Blanco Water Conservancy District has been awarded $100,000 to conduct a comprehensive survey and report on the potential impacts of a new reservoir. The study will evaluate the impact of the proposed reservoir on agricultural production, flatwater recreation, and a countywide water augmentation plan. This award will not bias various state and federal permitting processes required for the project.

Alden Vanden Brink with the Rio Blanco Water Conservancy District emphasized the importance of a reliable water supply in transitioning away from fossil fuel electric generation. "Our economy is transitioning away from fossil fuel electric generation, and a reliable water supply is a key component of this critical economic transition," he said.

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OJT Director Wade Buchanan also stressed the significance of investing in efforts like this to support long-term prosperity in communities. "By investing in such efforts, we continue to support the long-term prosperity of communities in the Yampa Valley," he said.

The Office of Just Transition was created within Colorado's Department of Labor and Employment in 2019 to assist workers and communities affected by job and revenue loss due to coal mine and power plant closures. Its purpose is to help workers transition to new, high-quality jobs, support community growth through business expansion and attraction, and replace lost revenues.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works with partners to create a positive business climate that encourages economic development and job growth. OEDIT offers financial, technical, and advisory assistance to businesses and communities across Colorado.

To learn more about these initiatives and corresponding legislation, visit cdle.colorado.gov/offices/the-office-of-just-transition or oedit.colorado.gov.

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