Pueblo, Colorado, is actively pursuing environmental sustainability through various initiatives, including brownfield redevelopment, renewable energy projects, and community-driven programs.
Brownfield Redevelopment
The City of Pueblo has been awarded significant funding to address and revitalize brownfield sites—properties where redevelopment is complicated by potential environmental contamination. In 2020, the city received a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assess and revitalize downtown and riverfront properties. This funding supports environmental assessments and redevelopment opportunities at several locations, aiming to transform underutilized areas into vibrant community spaces.
Building on this momentum, in 2024, Pueblo was awarded an additional $1 million in Brownfields grant funding. This grant focuses on the Y-Zone, encompassing the Eastside, Bessemer, and Downtown neighborhoods. The funding is earmarked for substantial asbestos cleanup at El Centro Del Quinto Sol Community Center, the Eastside neighborhood’s only community center, and the Steel Works History Museum, a National Historic Landmark site. These efforts aim to restore significant historic spaces and assist the private sector in redeveloping numerous vacant properties, turning vacancy into vibrancy.
Renewable Energy Projects
Pueblo is also making strides in renewable energy. The EVRAZ Urban Renewal Area, established in 2019, facilitates the development of new long-rail technology. Notably, EVRAZ will be the first solar-powered plant in North America. This project retains 1,000 full-time jobs with competitive wages and includes significant capital spending on long-term physical assets. The initiative underscores Pueblo’s commitment to sustainable industrial practices and economic development.
Community-Driven Programs
Community organizations are playing a pivotal role in Pueblo’s environmental efforts. Sustainable Pueblo 2050 is spearheading initiatives like Clean Air Pueblo, which collects data on air pollution, makes existing data accessible, and educates residents to take action for clean air. Additionally, the Climate Resilience program collaborates with local officials to prepare for climate challenges, providing residents with tools to assess risks and engage in mutual aid support networks.
Furthermore, the Colorado Smelter Revitalization Project focuses on neighborhoods impacted by the historic Colorado Smelter. The project aims to revitalize the Bessemer, Eiler’s Heights/Bojon Town, and Grove neighborhoods through community meetings and the development of a revitalization plan. Efforts include building raised bed demonstration gardens and providing education and materials to support urban agriculture, improving food access and long-term resiliency in these communities.
Stormwater Management
Effective stormwater management is crucial for environmental health. Colorado State University-Pueblo is committed to complying with regulations to protect against illicit discharges of pollutants to storm and surface water conveyances. The campus’s location influences stormwater runoff, which eventually empties into the Arkansas River. The university’s Environmental Health & Safety department oversees measures to prevent contamination and protect water quality downstream.
These initiatives reflect Pueblo’s comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, combining government funding, private sector innovation, and community engagement to foster a healthier and more resilient city.