Cañon City, Colorado Development News

Canyon City Council Advances Pool, Incline, and Gateway Projects After Public Presentations

The Canyon City Council heard multiple proposals for the use of collected sales tax funds, primarily focusing on recreational facilities. Dan Francis presented a concept for the 'Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience' with amenities like an indoor six-lane swimming pool, food events, and family recreation on 37 acres, estimating a $19 million project cost and modeling it after the Royal Gorge Bridge lease. James Santilly proposed the 'Skyline Incline,' a strenuous staircase attraction inspired by the Manitou Incline, estimating a construction cost of $1.5 to $2.5 million and an annual economic impact of $1.5 million, suggesting the 0.3% tax be sunsetted. Benjamin Googans advocated for a seasonal community pool, proposing a budget of $248.8 million for construction and an annual operating budget of $250,000-$300,000, with contributions from ticket sales, the rec district, the city, and the Royal Gorge train. Rob Gilkerson presented the 'Western Gateway' project, focusing on a swim beach and venture hub along the river, with a projected cost of $2.4 million for the swim beach and $1.1 million for the venture hub, aiming to use matching grants to potentially reach $7.5 million. Heather Darrow, representing citizen support for a pool, proposed using 0.25% of the sales tax for construction (estimated $18 million) and 0.05% for operations and maintenance, with a sunset in 2050, and suggested reversing the June 1st decision to sever ties with the rec district. Mike Sturka proposed stopping the sales tax at the end of the year, holding funds for five years (ending Dec 31, 2031) for the rec district to approve a pool plan, and using the funds for construction cost reduction. The council ultimately voted to advance the 'Community Pool' concept (combining Heather Darrow and Benjamin Googans' proposals), the 'Western Gateway' project, and the 'Skyline Incline.' A motion was passed to direct the city administrator to rescind the June 1st letter to the rec district and collaboratively explore pool solutions, emphasizing a partnership between the city and the rec district by August 3rd.