Urban Renewal was started in 1966 as a separate entity from the City.

In the early years Urban Renewal received federal and state funds to complete many projects such as the King Arroyo Project and College Overlook Project which involved acquisition of dilapidated structures, relocation of residents from those structures to standard housing, and demolition of those structures. Once the demolition was completed there were improvements made on the infrastructure including streets, curb and gutter. There were also parks developed on the vacant land such as King Arroyo Mini- Park at 2nd Street and Lewis Avenue, Red Crane Park at 12th Street and Bradish Avenue, College Overlook Playground and Tippy Martinez ballfield at 18th Street and San Juan Avenue, and Veterans Ballfield at 5th Street and Adams Avenue. Some of the land was redeveloped into single family homes, public housing, apartment complexes and parking lots. An old hospital structure was demolished and a bank was constructed in its place.

Urban Renewal is also responsible for the red brick look in downtown La Junta and along Highway 50. In the downtown area Urban Renewal also did improvements such as planting trees, putting in planters with plants, benches, and banners.

La Junta Urban Renewal Authority has funds available for storefront improvement projects and for assistance to businesses within the Tax Increment District. Since its inception in 1987, through our
Storefront Improvements Program Urban Renewal has assisted with 109 business storefront renovations. Some businesses have participated two and three times to upgrade their original improvements. A total of $257,144 has been used for the program coming from grants, loans and business owner match. This program has been a great asset to the improvement of downtown.

Along with it Storefront Improvement Program Urban Renewal has assisted the Fox Theater, Thyme Square and Boss Hogg with renovations to their business. The reopening of the theater and restaurant downtown are great assets to the livelihood of the downtown.

Tri-County Housing & Community Development in Fowler handles our low-income housing rehabs and self- help housing programs. Urban Renewal pays up to $700 for each individual rehab. More information on doing a rehab project can be obtained from Tri-County Housing at (719)263-5168.

Urban Renewal also has some vacant land available for residential development. Please contact the Urban Renewal office at (719)384-5991 for more information.