Salida, CO- After 15 years of planning and community collaboration, the City of Salida will celebrate the start of construction for the South Ark Neighborhood Phase 1 Infrastructure Project with a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, November 13 at 3:00 p.m. The ceremony will take place just west of the green gate entrance off County Road 104.
City Council recently approved Phase 1, which includes the installation of essential water, sewer, and roadway infrastructure, laying the foundation for future neighborhood development in the South Ark area.
“Breaking ground on this project marks an important step toward Salida’s vision for sustainable and well-planned growth,” said David Lady, Public Works Director. “This infrastructure will support future housing opportunities and enhance community connectivity in the South Ark corridor.”
The project is made possible through a combination of state grants, local partnerships, and City funding. The City of Salida has received two $2 million grants from the state’s Strong Communities and More Housing Now initiatives, totaling $4 million, specifically to support the South Ark Neighborhood Infrastructure Phase I project. These grants will help develop the utilities and roadways necessary to enable new housing in the area.
In addition, Chaffee County and Colorado Mountain College have each committed up to $1 million to support the project, demonstrating strong local investment in workforce housing.
Importantly, the City has contributed $1.25 million from its Housing Fund, which is supported by short term rental tax revenues. These funds are specifically set aside to support workforce housing initiatives, helping ensure that new housing remains affordable for the local workforce.
Phase 1 Construction Details
- Start Date: November 2025
- Scope of Work: Installation of sanitary sewer, water lines, and roadway improvements within the Phase 1 boundary (see project exhibit).
- Estimated Completion: Spring 2026
The South Ark Neighborhood Master Plan reflects 15 years of careful planning and six public meetings and workshops. Residents helped shape a vision that balances neighborhoods, workforce housing, passive and active recreation areas, and strong connectivity to greater Salida. Phase 1 is the first tangible step toward realizing that vision.
All community members are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate this milestone in Salida’s long-term vision for sustainable growth and livable, affordable housing.
The City of Salida extends its appreciation to DOLA, Chaffee County, Colorado Mountain College, and all partners involved in making this project possible.
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The City of Salida, CO, is the statutory seat of Chaffee County with a population of approximately 5,700 residents. Salida is a family-friendly community ideally situated in central Colorado - known by many as the “Heart of the Rockies,” both for its geographic location and the abundance of arts, cultural and recreational amenities found here. The city is dedicated to maintaining a safe, fiscally responsible and forward-thinking government where residents, businesses and visitors can thrive. Explore more about Salida at www.cityofsalida.com.