Fruita city officials are taking steps to secure a crucial piece of real estate in their downtown area. The city, which has been leasing the lot for the past year, is now looking to purchase it to offer permanent, free parking to its residents and visitors.
A Strategic Move to Support Local Businesses
The parking lot in question, located on Mulberry Street just north of Hot Tomato and east of the Cooper Club Brewery, is currently a key asset for the downtown area. With 28 parking spots, it has proven to be a valuable resource for the bustling district. The city plans to buy this lot for $640,000, with funds already earmarked in the 2025 budget.
“It’s highly utilized right now, so it’s a great addition to the downtown area,” said Ciara Amann, Communications and Engagement Manager for the City of Fruita. “You know, we try to support our businesses as much as we can in different ways, and this is just one of the ways we can continue to do that.”
Financing and Future Plans
The purchase of the parking lot has been incorporated into the city’s 2025 budget, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure. Ensuring that parking remains free is a part of the city’s broader strategy to foster a welcoming and accessible downtown environment.
- The lot includes 28 parking spaces.
- Total cost for the purchase: $640,000.
- Funding allocated in the 2025 budget.
By securing this property, Fruita officials hope to alleviate parking concerns and encourage more foot traffic to local businesses.
Community Reactions and Expectations
Local businesses and residents have expressed positive reactions to the city’s plans. The move is seen as a step toward sustaining the downtown area’s vibrancy and supporting the community’s economic growth.
“This will definitely make things easier for both the business owners and the customers,” commented a local shopkeeper. “Having a permanent, free parking option is going to be a game-changer for us.”
Next Steps for the City of Fruita
The city’s plan involves finalizing the purchase within the upcoming fiscal year. Once acquired, the lot will continue to serve as a public parking space, reinforcing the city’s commitment to accessible and free amenities for its community.
Officials are confident that this investment will yield long-term benefits, making downtown Fruita more attractive to both locals and visitors alike.
