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Pueblo allocates $8 million toward St. Charles Industrial Park infrastructure to court industry prospects
Summary
Council established a new project and appropriated $8 million for design and initial construction of wastewater and road improvements at St. Charles Industrial Park, telling economic development partners the move supports potential investment and may influence a pending private-sector site decision.
The council approved a new project account and an $8 million transfer from the unappropriated half-cent sales tax fund to begin planning and construction for public improvements at the St. Charles Industrial Park. Staff said the appropriation covers planning and design and that the total public-improvement estimate could be as high as $40 million; the $8 million represents an initial, high‑end, design-phase appropriation to make the site ready for industrial development.
Councilor Dennis Flores, who serves on the PEDCO board, said the appropriation is critical to attract a prospective company (referred to in staff remarks as "Project Falcon") and urged prompt council action. Staff listed the essential improvements: roughly 6.5 miles of wastewater upsizing or new construction, a new lift station, and reconstruction/realignment of Lime Road in parts. Staff said coordination with Pueblo County and CDOT will be required for sections of roadway outside city jurisdiction.
Councilors approved the appropriation unanimously and noted that the improvements are needed whether or not the current prospect chooses Pueblo; the expenditure is intended to prepare the site to support industrial development and job growth.
