After a yearlong process of engaging the community, Cortez has finalized the South Broadway Area-Wide Plan and Revitalization Strategies, along with a market analysis.
City Council approved the plan as a “guidance document” on May 27, allowing plans created for the area along the South Broadway corridor to start.
The city formally announced the approval of the plan on Tuesday.
In April 2024, the city launched an online survey, gathering over 1,000 responses from community members about their concerns and ideas for the corridor’s future. The city and its consultants also collaborated with business owners, residents and a community group to refine the plan.
The plan outlines a shared community vision and emphasizes eight goals: cleaning up the corridor, enhancing safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, creating an inviting gateway to Cortez, connecting the corridor to the broader community, beautifying the area, supporting local businesses, promoting family-friendly activities and developing public gathering spaces.
While not all recommendations will be implemented, the plan allows flexibility for new initiatives to emerge if other ideas or opportunities arise.
A market analysis also highlighted the corridor’s potential for outdoor recreation and tourism due to its proximity to national parks, growth in education and health care sectors, strategic use of multifamily rental housing to support commercial development and an entrepreneurial community that is ready for expansion. The analysis also incorporated insights from local business owners and real estate professionals.
“The city extends its sincere appreciation to all who participated in the survey or met with staff and consultants,” the city said in a press release. “Your candid feedback was instrumental in shaping the final report.”
The full South Broadway Area-Wide Plan and Revitalization Strategies and market analysis are available online at www.cortezco.gov/912/South-Broadway-Area-Wide-Plan.