Eaton set to start 2nd phase of downtown project

EATON — Town officials in Eaton are embarking on the second phase of a downtown revitalization project, which is designed to result in more affordable-housing options on the site of a former elementary school.

The town will issue a request for qualifications soon to find developers wishing to take on the project to develop the 3.5-acre site into multifamily housing and commercial developments. A key goal is to provide affordable housing for Eaton Re-2 School District employees.

“There is a strong desire to have a range of unit types that meet the needs of families, young professionals and long-time residents,” a news release from the Town of Eaton stated.

Weld County School District RE-2 demolished the former school building in 2023. In September 2025, the Eaton Housing Authority purchased the property from the school district for $525,000, with the intention of collaborating with a private-sector partner to develop it.

This project is part of Eaton’s Downtown Revitalization Plan that the Town Council adopted in 2023. The town received a $1.5 million grant from the Main Street LIVE program under the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and $1.15 million from the Colorado Department of Transportation through its Revitalizing Main Streets program. Town costs included $2.6 million, which came from its town reserves for street funding.

The town finished the first phase of its downtown plaza project last fall after several months of construction. The project included safer pedestrian crossings, wider sidewalks, improved stormwater systems, upgraded landscaping and a new pedestrian plaza.

“Decorative pavers and metal accents celebrate Eaton’s agricultural heritage, while rerouted truck traffic and improved lighting create a better downtown experience for residents and visitors alike,” according to a news release.

The second phase is envisioned to include commercial sites along Collins Avenue directly north of the fire station, and also along First Street, which would extend the downtown plaza one block west.

The town envisions receiving bids in February and interviewing developers in March and April.

Project developments will be noted online at eatonco.org/eaton-plaza.

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