Economy & Economic Development  November 27, 2015

Milliken poised, prepared for economic development

Milliken’s vision is founded on the premise that the vitality and future growth of the town and the quality of life of its residents are dependent upon the balancing of multiple contributing factors embodied in eight guiding principles. Those principles build on Milliken’s strengths and traditions and represent specific outcomes that the community wishes to strive for over the next 10 to 20 years. Among these principles are promoting a strong diversified economic base and a vibrant downtown.

Milliken sits strategically within the Interstate 25 and U.S. Highways 34 and 85 corridors at the heart of the fastest-growing region in Colorado. Recognizing this strategic advantage, the Milliken Town Board and staff are maintaining a clear focus on the need to diversify jobs, services and businesses so Milliken can transition from being a bedroom community to one with a more balanced economic base. The town’s focus is on attracting and retaining businesses that are drawn to Milliken’s small-town character, proximity to major freight rail corridors and easy access to Denver International Airport via U.S. 85.

Recognizing economic development as a priority, the town took advantage of Colorado’s decision to re-evaluate its Enterprise Zone Program. The town, in partnership with Upstate Colorado Economic Development, amended its Enterprise Zone boundary. As a result of this effort, beginning in January, almost all of the commercial- and industrial-zoned areas in town will be included in Milliken’s new EZ.

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In addition to taking advantage of the EZ program opportunity, the town decided to update its comprehensive plan and development code to reflect the community’s interest in attracting a balanced economic base. A blueprint is being developed for the town’s development policies and goals for years to come, including simplifying the planning and building permitting processes and providing amenities that appeal to all ages.

The town strives to retain a small-town character by building community connections through trails, activities for all ages, and supporting the Thompson River Parks and Recreation District’s new 20,000-square-foot Milliken Athletic Center opening this summer. It is also partnering with the United Water and Sanitation District in the development of the Milliken Reservoir (also known as Gilcrest Reservoir) in southern Milliken to create a 1,600-acre regional park overflowing with history, nature and recreational opportunities.

In addition to these investments, a few other noteworthy activities have recently occurred to make Milliken even more attractive for residential and economic development:

n More than 350 acres now is zoned for office and industrial uses.

n Milliken is ranked No. 1 among the top 10 cities in Colorado for affordable homes.

n A new 16-inch water main loop, consisting of 9,176 linear feet, is being constructed to serve the major industrial and commercial areas in town.

n More than 24,000 square feet of office space soon will be available to businesses looking for a strategic location to serve Northern Colorado and the Front Range.

n A recently approved first phase of a multi-family townhouse/condominium development will provide additional housing options.

n A redevelopment plan for downtown is being formulated to address the needs of a growing community and craft Milliken’s downtown as a destination.

n A highly experienced staff team exists to assist and coordinate with private developers to germinate and cultivate projects in Milliken, along with providing opportunities for community engagement and feedback.

In summary, Milliken is well positioned to handle its existing and new development opportunities.  I would encourage developers and brokers to consider Milliken for any new projects.  The town staff can be contacted at 970-587-4331.

Martha Perkins is community development director for the town
of Milliken.

Milliken’s vision is founded on the premise that the vitality and future growth of the town and the quality of life of its residents are dependent upon the balancing of multiple contributing factors embodied in eight guiding principles. Those principles build on Milliken’s strengths and traditions and represent specific outcomes that the community wishes to strive for over the next 10 to 20 years. Among these principles are promoting a strong diversified economic base and a vibrant downtown.

Milliken sits strategically within the Interstate 25 and U.S. Highways 34 and 85 corridors at the heart of…

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