The House Transportation and Local Government Committee passed a bill this week that adds a community-based nonprofit grant program and will provide $35 million to nonprofit organizations disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

Montrose's very own Hispanic Affairs Project helped make the bill happen. One of the aims of the bill is to lessen the financial gap between large and small nonprofits, HAP being in the latter group. (If you haven't checked out our podcast episode from last year about HAP, watch it here.)

The bill language specifies that organizations must use the funds for capacity building and infrastructure, professional development for employees, strategic planning, and program expansion or development. HAP says it'll likely be eligible, but didn't say whether it plans to apply yet. However, HAP also said that other local organizations are also eligible. 

What do you think of the bill? And what local nonprofits do you think need more support?

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, along Peach Valley Road today, between Eagle and Wave parking areas...

The usual detritus from illegal target shooting is one thing, but this is a whole new level of stupid. 

Montrose City Council is going to consider approving a development agreement, which would be at a cost of $291,300, to purchase the rights of way and easements to complete 6700 Road between Sunnyside and Miami roads. 

The city's general fund would cover both the agreement cost and the project's $3.5 million price tag. Money from the water and sewer fund would cover necessary utility work. 

The project is another example of the city's focus to lessen the traffic load on Townsend, and in this case, Hillcrest. Developments east of town are only going to add to the traffic load in the area over time, so getting ahead of the curve, so to speak, is why the city considers these projects ahead of time. 

Have you noticed more traffic on Townsend? Would you take this new arterial instead of 6720 Road?