What is the Powerhouse Project?
CSU Powerhouse located just north of downtown Fort Collins, is expanding. Powerhouse 2 is currently in the design and permitting process and will be built at the NE corner of Vine and N College Ave. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2023 and is expected to be completed in summer of 2025.
Why is there a community engagement effort?
The CSU Powerhouse leadership is interested in working with the community to provide access to the outdoor space, and possibly some indoor space, for community use on evening and weekend hours. This community engagement effort is to determine what ideas the community might have for use of the space, and specifically, if a potential mercado is needed and/or desired by the local community. It is anticipated that use of the outdoor space will be at a low or no cost for community benefit, and use of the indoor space will include fees.
Who is leading this project? Exploring the use of the Powerhouse 2 space is a partnership effort that includes:
How will our feedback be used?
The partners are gathering feedback via engagement meetings (another one is scheduled for 3/7 at the Poudre Library) as well as community surveys. Feedback will be compiled and evaluated. If appropriate, grants will be written to help fund any infrastructure improvements that can help bring the ideas to fruition. The sooner this can happen, the more opportunity there will be to include them in the planning process and construction of the building.
Why a mercado?
Initial conversations about the future of Powerhouse 2 have included creation of a mercado for use of the outdoor space. This idea has emerged from informal conversations and data collection as a need for the N College communities. Community members have proposed a cooperative business model to run the mercado. Members of Fuerza Latina have voiced an interest in leading this effort.
How can I participate?
Join us on March 7 from 5:30-7:00pm at the Old Town Library to get more information and provide more in-depth feedback at 5 different stations.
