The Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) has announced the distribution of $15 million in grants through its Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund (EIAF). The funding will support 50 projects aimed at upgrading public facilities and infrastructure across rural communities in the state.
Governor Polis highlighted the importance of these investments for Colorado’s smaller towns. “Rural infrastructure helps ensure all Coloradans have access to clean and safe drinking water, housing , and safe facilities. By supporting this work in all corners of Colorado, we can ensure that our communities thrive,” said Governor Polis.
Maria De Cambra, Executive Director of DOLA, emphasized the role these funds play for local governments. “Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance funds support projects across our state that are unlikely to happen without this funding,” said De Cambra. “Over half of the projects awarded during this cycle support drinking water and wastewater systems, critical for the health and safety of Colorado communities.”
Among the funded initiatives:
– The City of Yuma will use $850,000 to replace an old cast-iron water line to improve reliability and accommodate future growth.
– Granby’s Nuche Village workforce housing project will receive $750,000 for Phase 2 infrastructure improvements with a focus on water preservation.
– The Town of Iliff was awarded $112,500 to build a new town hall as their current facility is inaccessible to the public.
– Pagosa Springs Medical Center is set to receive $150,000 for safety upgrades intended to reduce risks for staff and patients while improving healthcare delivery.
– Fort Garland Water & Sanitation District secured $105,000 to develop a master plan for its water system.
– Garfield School District #16 will obtain $66,500 for planning documents related to a new childcare center.
The EIAF program supports counties, municipalities, and special districts affected by mineral extraction activities. Funding comes from state severance taxes on energy production and from royalties paid by companies extracting resources from federal lands within Colorado.
More information about this grant program can be found on the EIAF program webpage: https://cdola.colorado.gov/energy-mineral-impact-assistance-fund-eiaf-grant-program
