Garfield County Profile -2016

GARFIELD COUNTY 1

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GARFIELD COUNTY TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction................................................................................................... 5 2. Physical Characteristics................................................................................. 6 3. Climate.......................................................................................................... 8 4. History of Garfield County............................................................................. 8 5. Population................................................................................................... 10 6. Communities............................................................................................... 15 7. Transportation............................................................................................. 28 8. Housing and Real Estate.............................................................................. 34 9. Education..................................................................................................... 36 10. Telecommunications.................................................................................... 39 11. Economic Activity........................................................................................ 40 12. Labor Force, Jobs and Income..................................................................... 46 13. Healthcare................................................................................................... 58 14. Senior Living................................................................................................ 60 15. Recreation and Leisure................................................................................ 62 16. Cultural Events............................................................................................. 80Figure 1: Map of Garfield County www.garfield-county.com 3

WELCOMEGARFIELD COUNNEW ENERGY IN THE WILD WEST 4 COLORADO

Garfield County is one of the largest counties in Colorado, incorporating nearly 3,000 square miles on the westernboundary of the state. The County has more than doubled in population since 1985 and is projected to double insize again by 2040. With this continual population increase and growth pressure comes many transitions withineach of the six incorporated communities, as well as changes seen at a countywide level.With a county that is rapidly changing, it is important to track its physical, social and economic factors, in orderto give a general indication of where the county has been, as well as where it will likely go. Information of thisnature can be helpful, not only for county and municipal governments, but also for those thinking of starting abusiness, relocating to the area, or for residents curious about the baseline information about where they live.Incorporated on February 10, 1883, Garfield County, Colorado, is named after the 20th President of the UnitedStates, James A. Garfield. Born in Ohio on November 19, 1831, James Garfield is a very appropriate namesakefor a county as diverse as this. Diverse in his background, interests and profession, some part of his life is likelyto inspire everyone.“ the last of the logcabin presidents” — Candice MillardJAMESPRESIDENT Garfield According to author Candice Millard (Destiny of the Garfield was an abolitionist and fought on the side Republic, New York, Doubleday, 2011), James Garfield of the Union in the Civil War, including the battles of is the last of the “log cabin” presidents. He lost his Middle Creek, Shiloh, and Chickamauga, among others. father at the age of two and was raised by his mother, He served with the 42nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry and Eliza, and his older brother, Thomas. Both of them very ultimately attained the rank of Brigadier General. early recognized James as gifted, and encouraged his As a public servant and politician, Garfield served one education. term as a state senator in Ohio, nine terms in Congress After some adventures working on the Erie and Ohio as a U.S. Representative, and was elected to the U.S. Canal, Garfield enrolled in Ohio at Western Reserve Senate at the time he was elected President of the Eclectic Institute (a.k.a. Hiram College), where he United States in 1880. worked his way through school as a janitor, carpenter, Garfield served as president from March 4, 1881 to and then an assistant professor. He graduated from September 19, 1881, about 200 days. He was shot by Williams College. He ultimately returned to Western Charles Guiteau on July 1, 1881 and died 81 days later from medical complications.NTYReserve to serve as president of the college. As husband and father, farmer and carpenter, minister Garfield was a family man and a and lawyer, abolitionist and soldier, and public servant, farmer, married to his wife, Lucretia, educator, and president, James Garfield certainly offers with whom he had seven children. He something for everyone in his namesake: Garfield also was a lay preacher and a lawyer, County, Colorado. who argued successfully before the United States Supreme Court. 5

Garfield County is situated approximately 150 mileswest of Denver, and 330 miles southeast of Salt LakeCity, Utah. The county is bisected by a 70-mile stretchof Interstate 70, which parallels the Colorado River. Thewestern portion of the county is a sparsely populated,high desert plateau, while the eastern portion includesthe western foothills of the Rocky Mountains andmost of the county’s 56,000 residents. Garfield Countycovers 2,958 square miles, or 1,893,120 acres.Approximately sixty percent of all Garfield CountyPHYSICALlands are federally managed by either the Bureau ofLand Management (615,973 acres), the U.S. ForestService (515,865 acres) or the Bureau of ReclamationCHARACTERISTICS(2,335 acres). Garfield County and its neighbors; Rio Blanco County As a result, many residents who work in Pitkin County to the north; Mesa County to the south; and Pitkin reside within Garfield County. County to the southeast, form an integrated economic Across the County’s diverse mountain and desert region. Mesa, Rio Blanco and Garfield counties share topography, the climate is generally determined by a common reliance on natural resource extraction, elevation and aspect. Like any mountain climate, tourism and ranching. Mesa County’s Grand Junction, occasional seasonal extremes occur, but they are the largest community in the region, is a shopping, moderated by a majority of consistently pleasant health care and services destination for many residents weather. In the western and lower reaches of the of western Colorado, as well as for multiple Utah County, where summer highs can hit 100 degrees, mild communities to the west. winters are often conducive to longer golf seasons than Pitkin County, and the resort towns of Aspen and surrounding areas. In the high country at Ski Sunlight, Snowmass Village, adjoin Garfield County on its or on the lofty plateaus of the Flat Tops, subzero southeastern boundary. During the winter, the only temperatures and deep winter snowpacks yield in automobile access to these resorts is through the summer to cool breezes, lush wildflower meadows communities of Glenwood Springs and Carbondale and perennial streams. The sun in the County delivers along Highway 82 and through the Roaring Fork Valley. intense rays year-round, through clean, clear mountain air.6

CLIMATE During the day, the temperature can change quickly, which makes it advisable to be prepared for sudden100° F weather changes. This is true particularly at higher elevations, where storms may arrive quickly. It is not80° F unheard of to have measurable snowfalls above 11,000 2inch feet during any summer month. Conversely, January60° F thaws can make mid-winter feel like spring. A sunshine index for Glenwood Springs shows the city40° F 1inch is sunny 71 percent of the time. Average temperatures in January are in the low-to-mid 20s; while July20° F temperatures are in the low-to-mid 70s. Annual 0inch average precipitation is about 18 inches, keeping things0° F Jan green in spring and summer, and covering areas of the Feb county in snow during the winter months. Mar Apr www.garfield-county.com 7 May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecFSioguurrcee°°2: :UG.SAl.evCenrlwaimgoeoaLotdweSDparitnags Average High PrecipitaƟon Climate Chart

Garfield County was founded on February 10, 1883, first election was held November 6, 1883.eight years after Colorado statehood, and named in Glenwood Springs, originally called Defiance, is locatedhonor of President James A. Garfield. at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers. In 1887, the Denver and Rio Grande RailroadHISTORY The oldest known extended tracks through Glenwood Canyon and into human habitation in Glenwood Springs, serving Aspen and surrounding Garfield County was mining towns, and connecting Garfield County with on Battlement Mesa, Denver and other eastern cities. Railroad servicewhere an Indian pit house was discovered that dates remains important economically to the local economy.back approximately 3,000 years. Along the Colorado The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool was constructed inRiver and especially along the Roaring Fork River, was 1887, and remains a nationally recognized spa andthe land of the Tabegauche Utes who enjoyed 7,000 recreation center. The hot springs and pool have beensquare miles of prime hunting ground and the healing a major visitor attraction for over 120 years. Glenwoodwaters of the Glenwood Hot Springs. The first white men Springs and surrounding areas have entertained thewho visited Garfield County were two Spanish Franciscan likes of President Roosevelt, who dubbed the HotelFriars, Silvestre Escalante and Francisco Dominguez, who Colorado as the “White House of the West.” Thecame to Colorado in 1776. The predominate nationalities White River National Forest, the most visited nationalthat settled in Garfield County were German, Irish and forest in the nation, is headquartered in GlenwoodEnglish. Springs. This forest, which is home to seven of theProspectors from Leadville reported carbonate nation’s largest and mostdeposits in the area as early as 1870. Several parties recognized ski resorts,entered the territory and built Fort Defiance, 3 ½ miles was formally instituted ineast of today’s Yampah Spa and vapor caves. Another 1905, and continues to becamp was made on the Flat Tops and named Carbonate a major force influencingCity, which later became the first county seat of the local economy andGarfield County, and which was re-incorporated again defining urbanizationin 2015. Carbonate City is now an abandoned mining patterns.camp, and has no permanent residents. In Augustof 1883, by resolution of the county commissioners,Glenwood Springs was named as the county seat. The G8

GARFIELD COUNTYCOLORADO 9

POPULATION U.S. Census project that the population of Garfield County will numbers resume more rapid growth in 2015, and will continue indicate that at a pace in excess of two percent over the next 2057,302 people resided in Garfield County in 2013. The years, reaching a projected doubling of population byCounty is the 12th most populated county of Colorado’s 2040.64 counties. Garfield County has experienced a steady Garfield County has five municipalities that stretchincrease in population over the past few decades, along the Colorado River and the Interstate 70 corridor,but with more rapid growth of 2.7 percent, occurring and one municipality, Carbondale, that is situated alongbetween 2004 and 2009. The growth was largely the State Highway 133 and the Roaring Fork River. In 2015,result of a burgeoning natural gas extraction industry, Garfield County also recognized the Town of Carbonatebut also due to an ongoing expansion of tourism, as an incorporated town located in the heart of thesecond home development, health care, and regional Flat Tops Wilderness Area; this town, however, has noservices. During this period, there was a significant in- permanent residents. Glenwood Springs remains themigration of new workers and families, which fueled largest community in the County. In the period fromhousing development, retail expansion, and rapid 1990 to 2010, the Town of Rifle, which is about 25 mileswage growth. At times during this period, Garfield west of Glenwood Springs, absorbed the majority shareCounty experienced shortages of labor and a rapidly of the County’s new growth, largely because of Rifle’sappreciating housing market. proximity to the most active natural gas developmentIn 2008, an abundance of new natural gas reserves areas. Population in unincorporated areas, as a percentwere uncovered elsewhere around the country and of total county residents, shrank from 57 percent of allthe value of natural gas began a national decline. The county residents in 1990 to 40 percent in 2013. Eachnational recession also cut spending on travel, tourism, municipality has experienced different rates of growth,and second home development, with predictable with New Castle and Silt having the largest percentagedeclines in all measures of local economic activity. of growth in population over the past 10 years.Due to the recession, population declined slightly The County is one of the fastest growing counties inbetween 2009 and 2011, and has been increasing the state, with an average annual percent change ofmodestly since 2012 at rate of 0.7 percent. Forecasts 2.4 percent between 2000 and 2010.Figure 3: Population growth and ethnicitySou1r2ce0:0S0ta0te Demography Office100000 Ethnicity or Race Percent of Population 80000 CAUCASIAN OR WHITE 68.8% 60000 HISPANIC 28.3% OTHER 2.9% TOTAL 100%4000020000 0 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 204010

Area Population Population 10 Year 2004 2014 % Change CARBONDALE GLENWOOD SPRINGS 5542 6558 15.49% NEW CASTLE SILT 8651 9862 12.28% RIFLE PARACHUTE 3176 4577 30.61% UNINCORPORATED AREAS 2190 3013 27.31% TOTAL 7604 9289 18.14% 1010 1096 7.85% 19983 23153 13.69% 50160 57548 12.84%FSoiguurrcee4: :CPooloprualdaotioDnivGisrioonwtohf LCoocloarlaGdoove(2r0n1m0e-2n0t 40) MIGRATIONETHNICDIVERSITY The County historically has seen a large out migration of high school graduates or similarly aged youth,Like much of western Colorado, Garfield County has followed by a large influx of adults between the ages ofa largely Caucasian population, with a significant 30 and 35. The immigration is presumed to be strongHispanic minority population, which grew rapidly due to the high quality of life and amenities that existduring the mid-2000s energy boom. The County’s within the County for young families and early careerproportion of Hispanic and Anglo populations mirrors opportunities. The County also experiences a steadythat of the state as a whole, with almost 30 percent of out-migration trend relative to age, with the mostthe population of Hispanic ethnicity. The state’s ethnic significant out-migration happening after retirementdiversity is projected to continue to increase over the age. During the recent recession, the County also hadnext 25 years, with the majority of that growth being a significant out-migration of some of the workforce,in the Hispanic population, especially in the population but out-migration has slowed and is projected to haveunder 25 years. a net increase of migration in 2015. 11

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Figure 6: County Migration by Age: 2000 to 2010Source: Colorado State Demography Office and U.S. Census Bureau FSoiguurrcee7: :DCeoplaorrtamdeonPtoopfuLloatciaolnAbffyaiRrsa,cSet/aEttehnDiecmityography Office. www.garfield-county.com 13

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COMMUNITIES IN GARFIELD COUNTYColorado is the 4th happiest state in the United States, accordingly to wallethub.com. This fact is usually ofno surprise to people that live, work, and play within Garfield County, as each community has a diversity ofamenities, jobs and other lifestyle choices that attract and retain different people to each community. Thereare seven municipalities within Garfield County. In order of incorporation, the jurisdictions include GlenwoodSprings, Carbondale, New Castle, Rifle, Parachute, Silt, and Carbonate. In addition, Battlement Mesa, a largeunincorporated community, sits adjacent to the Town of Parachute, while Carbonate has no permanent residents. 15

CARBONDALECOLORADO Founded in 1888, the Town of Carbondale sits at the base of Mount Sopris, near the confluence of the Crystal and Roaring Fork rivers. Touted as one of the “Top 12 Towns” in the “50 Next Great Places to Live and Play” by National Geographic Adventure magazine, and as one of the 50 Best Places to Live/Most Active Towns by Men’s Journal magazine, Carbondale is a great base camp for recreation enthusiasts. Living at the foot of the magnificent 12,953-foot Mt. Sopris, there is plenty to do, including biking, hiking, gold medal fly-fishing, kayaking, and world class skateboarding. In winter, excellent snow for cross-country skiing can be found at Spring Gulch, and beautiful snowmobiling and snowshoeing trails are accessible in all directions. World famous downhill skiing and snowboarding is 30 miles away in Aspen and Snowmass, or 15 miles away at Sunlight Mountain Resort near Glenwood Springs. At an altitude of 6,181 feet, the Carbondale area is characterized by an average of 295 days of sunshine, low humidity, cold but mild winters, and comfortable summers. The Carbondale area often avoids storms that inundate surrounding mountains, creating its reputation as the “banana belt” of the Roaring Fork and Crystal River valleys. Through all the economic cycles of booms and busts, Carbondale has developed, and continues to promote, a sense of community that is unmatched when compared to other communities experiencing heightened rates of change. This sense of community has manifested itself in the promotion of an artist’s enclave, public radio, community gatherings and events, and a tolerance for accepting a wide range of economic, social, and philosophical viewpoints into the community fabric. The Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities, KDNK Community Access Radio, Mountain Fair, Mount Sopris Nordic Council, Potato Day Celebration, and the Festival Las Americas are all examples of its vibrant community connection. town of carbondale carbondalegov.org chamber of commerce carbondale.com economic development carbondaleedp.org16

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GLENWOOD SPRINGSCOLORADO The county seat, Glenwood Springs, is located 160 miles west of Denver, on a beautiful route over mountain passes and through Glenwood Canyon. Glenwood Springs is situated at the intersection of Interstate 70 and State Highway 82. Glenwood Springs is 90 miles east of Grand Junction and 50 miles west of Vail, along I-70. Glenwood Springs is located 40 miles north of Aspen on State Highway 82. With a temperate climate, healthy lifestyle, vibrant arts scene, good schools, a local college, world class medical facilities, excellent shopping, and attractions as big as the great outdoors, Glenwood Springs is an ideal place to live, work, play, and raise a family. Glenwood Springs has small town charm and big city amenities. It has been heralded by the likes of Sunset Magazine, the Travel Channel and USA Today as one of America’s best small towns, one of the best places to retire or to start a business, and as the “most fun town in America.” Originally inhabited by nomadic Ute Indian tribes, early settlers 125 years ago saw the potential for the natural bubbling hot springs to make Glenwood Springs a world class resort. The arrival of the railroads in 1887 brought the first trainloads of tourists. The addition of the Vapor Caves, Hotel Colorado, and Fairy Caves provided a total package for the well-heeled traveler. The local economy is not only fueled by tourism, but also by coal mining, farming and ranching, education, health care, commerce, and outdoor recreation. Because of its location, Glenwood Springs is the county seat, home of the administrative offices of Colorado Mountain College and the prestigious Valley View Hospital, and the retail trade center for the northern portion of the Western Slope of Colorado. Glenwood Springs provides activity options for the entire family, such as hiking, biking, rafting, camping, sky diving, paragliding, hunting, and fishing. Glenwood Springs has an extensive trail system alongside its beautiful rivers. There are also trails in Glenwood Canyon, just east of Glenwood Springs, including the very popular and scenic trail to Hanging Lake, or along Grizzly or No Name creeks. The confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers is adjacent to downtown Glenwood Springs. One of the most popular activities in Glenwood Springs is fly- fishing. Anglers can choose from designated Gold Medal Waters on the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan rivers, or to18

fish the productive waters of theColorado and Crystal rivers, as well asmany lakes and ponds in the region.city of glenwood springsci.glenwood-springs.co.uschamber resort associationglenwoodchamber.com 19

New Castle, Colorado, named after the English coal mining town Newcastle upon Tyne, was incorporated in 1888. The mountains surrounding the town, rich with coal, were the impetus for New Castle’s development into a bustling mining community. After disastrous methane explosions in 1896, 1913, and 1918, the population diminished to just a few hundred people. Coal-fed fires still burn inside the Grand Hogback range bordering the town today. Shortlyaftercelebratingitscentennial,NewCastlestarted growing rapidly, and was identified in the 2000 census as Colorado’s seventh fastest growing community. Along with strong residential population growth, the town has experienced NEW CASTLEs i g n i f i c a n t commercial development, including a grocery store, bank, health club, and excellent restaurants. In 2004, an 18-hole golf course designed by award-winning golf course architect James Engh, opened for public play. Located on the Western Slope of the Rocky Mountains, 173 miles west of Denver, this town of now 4,500 residents sits at 5,550 feet elevation. The town is bordered on the north by 7,000 acres of Bureau of Land Management lands and 20,000 acres of White River National Forest lands. South of town are 11,000 acres of protected State of Wildlife area properties. A large deer and elk population, as well as black bears and mountain lions, inhabit these20

town of new castle newcastlecolorado.org chamber of commerce newcastlechamber.org economic development rifleedc.commountainous terrains.The Colorado River flows through town, presentingwonderful opportunities for trout fishing, whitewater rafting and kayaking, and wildlife viewing.World-class alpine and cross-country skiingand snowboarding, big game hunting, boating,snowmobiling, wilderness hiking and camping,mountain biking — all are in New Castle’s backyard.New Castle offers one of the best public schoolopportunities in the state. Constructed in 1997for grades K through 4, the Kathryn Senor school has received highCOLORADO performance marks from the Colorado Department ofEducation. Riverside Middle School provides anexcellent learning environment for students in grades5 through 8. Coal Ridge High School, located betweenNew Castle and its neighboring community of Silt tothe west, opened in 2005. In 2006, voters approved abond issue for the Garfield Re-2 School District, fundingthe construction of a new middle school (grades 5 - 8),and the conversion of Riverside to Elk Creek ElementarySchool, which was named a National Blue Ribbon Schoolin 2014.Schools, parks, outdoor recreation, safe neighborhoods,and a busy library make New Castle a great place toraise a family. 21

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The Town of Silt is a close-knit community located on Interstate 70, approximately 67 miles east of Grand Junction,Colorado, and 21 miles to the west of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. For the last forty years, the town has beena bedroom community to the towns of Vail, Snowmass Village, and Aspen, Colorado, all within an easy hourdrive from Silt. Historically, the town has been an agricultural and mining area, with hard-working families thatSILTCOLORADO support their community in the fields of construction, recreation, ranching, tourism, and oil and gas development. The climate is mild and comfortable through all seasons, and the heavy snowfall that occurs in in nearby mountain communities traditionallydoes not fall in Silt. The surrounding area boasts hunting, fishing, hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling,rafting, biking, boating, and horseback riding throughout the year. For these recreational opportunities, Silt isfrequented by some of the travelers who are also visiting neighboring communities.It is with great pride that the town offers an opportunity for business establishments to locate in this diversecommunity. Not only does Silt have a robust potential workforce, but the citizens and community value theconcept of living, shopping, and working locally.town of silttownofsilt.orgeconomic developmentrifleedc.com 23

Rifle is where the Old West meets the New West. Rich with western heritage and history, many downtown businesses are located in historic buildings dating back to the 1900′s. Situated on Interstate 70, Rifle is conveniently located an hour to Aspen, three hours to Denver, and just over two hours to Moab, Utah. Because of its distance from heavily populated areas, Rifle is unspoiled, offering a retreat from crowds, noise, and pollution. Located at the edge of the Colorado River and at the foot of the majestic Roan Plateau, Rifle, Colorado is a sportsmen’s paradise. Outdoor Life Magazine ranked Rifle as number 17 of 200 towns as the best place for an outdoor sportsman. With close proximity to the White River National Forest, world-class rock climbing, and other activities, such as whitewater rafting, fishing, hunting, golfing, hiking, biking, and snowmobiling, outdoor activities are endless, with mountains and mesas in every direction. Rifle is an affordable outdoors lifestyle town with a vibrant community feel, and has access to everything that is great about Colorado. At an elevation of 5,345 feet, the climate in Rifle is mild andRIFLECOLORADOmoderate in both winter and summer, allowing for year round recreation. Though Rifle has a small town feel, it has modern and urban-quality amenities, such as the Ute Theater and Events Center, Brenden Theatres, city parks, amphitheaters, restaurants, excellent hospital facilities, and a historic downtown.24

city of riflerifleco.orgchamber of commerceriflechamber.comeconomic developmentrifleedc.com 25

PARACHUTE/BATTLEMENT MESA COLORADOThe Town of Parachute is a small community of approximately Battlement Mesa is governed by Battlement1,100 people, located on Interstate 70 halfway between Mesa Service Association (BMSA), aGrand Junction and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The town Colorado non-profit corporation which is ais adjoined to the unincorporated community of Battlement self-governing homeowner’s association.Mesa just across the river. Although legally separated, bothcommunities act as one and support each other in a varietyof endeavors.After enjoying the booms and surviving the busts, Parachute/Battlement Mesa has grown into a thriving community ofquiet residential neighborhoods with supporting businessesand services. It has ample commercial property available tosupport new businesses and welcomes any inquiries. Thecommunities consist of an abundance of professionallytrained people.Parachute/Battlement Mesa is located at the confluence ofthe Colorado River and Parachute Creek, both of which arepopular waterways for fishing. Hunting and other outdoorrecreational opportunities abound.The area boasts three parks that are maintained by the Townof Parachute: Beasley Park, a pocket park in downtown witha gazebo; Parachute Rest Area Park, with playgrounds and alarge lawn space to play; and Cottonwood Park, an eight acrepark in which special events are held and the communitygathers to enjoy outdoor amenities. The ParachuteBattlement Mesa Recreation District maintains a recreationcenter and is developing a large park in Battlement Mesa.Parachute staff provides police protection, maintenance ofroadways, its water treatment system, and administrativeservice support for citizens. Fire services are providedthrough Grand Valley Fire Protection District, parks andrecreation services bythe Battlement Mesa/Parachute Parks andRecreation District.26

All owners of property within the BMSA service pay town of parachutean annual assessment to maintain the common colorado.gov/parachutecoloradoareas for the benefit of community members. battlement mesaThough BMSA provides numerous services to its battlementmesacolorado.commembers, the BMSA does not have any employees as chamber of commerceit contracts for its services. The BMSA is comprised of afourteen member board of directors, whom manage the battlementmesacolorado.com/affairs of the community. chamber-commerce economic development rifleedc.com 27

TRANSPORTATIONINTERSTATES AND ROADSGarfield County is situated with convenient state Route 24 that support I-70 and connect towns tohighway and interstate access. Three major highways Interstate 70 in western Colorado. U.S. Route 6run through or alongside communities in the Colorado also runs from western Utah to eastern Nebraska.River Valley, including Interstate 70, and State Highway 13 is another highway option for localHighways 13, 6, and 24. State Highway 82 provides communities, providing a main north/south arterialefficient access through the Roaring Fork Valley to for Rifle. Highway 13 has a central interchange souththe neighboring communities to the south and State of Rifle, which connects with Interstate 70. The routeHighway 133 provides access south and west to Mesa, crosses the Colorado River and intersects with U.S.Gunnison, and Delta counties. Route 6 and U.S. 24. Running north to south, HighwayIn addition to having one of the nations’ main 13 connects to and provides easy access to the Unitedinterstate corridors bisect the region, western States’ second longest interstate, Interstate-80.Garfield County also has U.S. Route 6 and U.S.I-70COMMERCIAL Grand Junction (GJT) Eagle/Vail (EGE) Aspen-Pitkin AIRLINES County (ASE) AMERICAN AMERICAN AMERICAN28 AIRLINES AIRLINES AIRLINES DELTA DELTA DELTA UNITED UNITED UNITED ALLEGIANT AIR AIR CANADA

AIRPORTS Rifle-Garfield County Airport is highly suitable for private aircraft, designated in Colorado as a preferredMultiple commercial airports within close proximity General Aviation Mountain Business Jet Airport. Opento Garfield County offer service for business and 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and has no noisetourism travelers, although Garfield County does not restrictions. As a General Aviation airport, commercialhave a commercial airport. These airports include the airport security regulations do not apply. Rifle is alsoGrand Junction airport (GJT), Eagle/Vail airport (EGE) Special Traffic Management Procedures friendly.and Aspen-Pitkin Airport (ASE). Denver International In 2010, Rifle Garfield County Airport underwentAirport (DEN) is also accessible with a three hour drive. infrastructure improvements of $47 million. RecentRifle-Garfield County Airport upgrades included nine developed hangar parcels, anGarfield County is home to a general aviation airport, asphalt overlay for the ramp, a new aircraft parkingRifle Garfield County Airport (RIL). The airport is ramp and more. Design standards include a 7,000-located in Rifle, Colorado. Because of its location in a foot long, 100-foot wide seamless runway, paved inmild climate zone, winter flights are rarely a problem. continuous uniformity to avoid jolts for landing aircraft.This makes the airport a preferred choice to nearby The runway and full parallel taxiway are designedmountain and resort airports where winter storm for heavy aircraft traffic, up to 134,500 pounds grossclosures often inhibit air travel. Rifle-Garfield County landing weight, making the Rifle Garfield CountyAirport is only 27 miles from Glenwood Springs, 46 Airport suitable for a wide range of aircraft.miles from Eagle, 61 miles from Aspen, 65 miles from Glenwood Springs AirportGrand Junction, and 88 miles from Vail. Glenwood Springs also has a small municipal airport (GWS) accessible to private aircraft. www.garfield-county.com 29

TRANSPORTATIONTRAINSAmtrak has year-round daily arrival and departures into and manufactured goods. In the last two years, UnionGlenwood Springs from more than 500 destinations Pacific’s capital investment in Colorado was more thanthroughout the West and Midwest. The California $120 million.Zephyr travels from Chicago to San Francisco forpassengers wanting to utilize a safe and historic means Figure 8:SoAumrctrea:khCttapli:f/o/rwnwiawZ.eapmhtyrrakR.ocuotmeof transportation.The historic Union Pacific Railroad dates back to 1867in Colorado. Union Pacific operates a major networkof east-west and north-south lines that carry freightto all parts of Union Pacific’s 23 state-system, a largeportion of such running directly through the GarfieldCounty communities in the Colorado River Valley.Major commodities handled by Union Pacific inColorado are grain, coal, automobiles, and consumer30

There are a variety of bus services available in and around augmenting RFTA’s services, the City of GlenwoodGarfield County. The predominate service is provided by Springs provides affordable and frequent bus servicethe Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) that and the Town of Carbondale provides a circulatorprovides frequent commuter bus service between Rifle bus system , Garfield County provides bus serviceand Aspen, Colorado. called The Traveler throughout the county for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities that preventBUSES Named the “Best Mass them from using their own transportation or accessing Transit System in North transportation available to the general public. America” by Mass Transit Other bus services includes Colorodo Department Magazine, and awarded of Transportation’s (CDOT) Bustang, Greyhoud Linesother top state and national transportation honors, and the private operator Colorado Mountain Express.including “Large Transit Agency of the Year” by the Greyhound Lines, the largest intercity bus serviceColorado Association of Transit Agencies, RFTA allows across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, alsofor both ease and availability for much of western provides bus service to and from Glenwood Springs.Garfield County’s workforce as well as tourists to be In 2015 CDOT began operating daily bus service, calledmobile. Traversing the Roaring Fork and Colorado River the Bustang, between Glenwood Springs and Denver’svalleys, RFTA carried 4.9 million passengers in 2014. Union Station making additional stops in Eagle, Vail, andAlso in 2015, RFTA open its new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Frisco. Colorado Mountain Express (CME) is a privateservice between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Named shuttle company in the Roaring Fork Valley that has beenVelociRFTA, it is the first rural bus rapid transit system providing transportation services for over 30 years. CMEin the country. RFTA reflects the region’s commitment provides airport transportation to multiple Coloradoto sustainability in the use of Biodiesel, Compressed ski resorts as well as to Eagle/Vail airport and DenverNatural Gas, and ethanol fuels. In 2014, International Airport.Figure 9: Bustang routes Figure 10: Average commute durationSource: https://www.codot.gov/travel/bustang Source: Source: 2015 RFTA Travel Patterns StudyThe commute time for employees within GarfieldCounty is an important measure of the quality of life inthe County. Since 2004, the average commute distanceand time have decreased. In Rifle, for example, theaverage commute decreased dramatically from 24miles to 14 miles; a reflection of the fact that moreresidents are working in Rifle.Also of note, is the trend for trips within the Countyand surrounding region to be alternative modes oftransportation. The region, on a yearly average in 2014,drives fourteen percent less frequently for trips whilehealthy transportation choices including walking and Figure 11: Form of transportation by season Source: Source: 2015 RFTA Travel Patterns StudyCOMMUTINGbiking exceed national averages. www.garfield-county.com 31

Dirt and paved trails abound in Garfield County. There are nearly endless miles of single track for biking and running, and plentiful hiking, horseback riding, and motorized trails. Two renowned trails in the area include the Glenwood Canyon Trail and Rio Grande Trail. The Glenwood Canyon bike and pedestrian trail sits adjacent to the interstate, but feels like a world away. This stretch of canyon has been described by many as one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the world, and it is best observed from the trail. The trail follows the curves of the Colorado River on a 16.2 mile route that is an unparalleled experience. The Roaring Fork Valley’s Rio Grande Trail is a 42-mile continuous paved surface multi-use trail protected from vehicular traffic, except at intersections. This trail serves as a bicycle commuter corridor and major recreation route between Glenwood TRAILSSprings and Aspen.32

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HOUSING Based on the 2010 U.S. Housing prices vary throughout the county, however Census, there were 23,301 all but one community, (Parachute) has median housing units in the county housing prices higher than the state median housing and 23,361 households. price. The average median housing price for theThe county has very low vacancy rates for housing, with county was $308,211 in 2013, (www.city-data.com)a rate of 3.65 percent. Of the total county population, These prices are estimated by Zillow to have increased33.9 percent are renters, and 65.4 percent of the county in 2016 to approximately $327,500. However, housingown their homes. prices are increasing rapidly at an estimated rate of 6.4 percent between 2015 and 2016, (www.zillow.com). 520000 The assessed valuations have increased approximately 470000 40 percent for single family homes between 2012 and 420000 2014, according to the Garfield County Assessor. Median 370000 rent price in 2014 is estimated at $950 according to 320000 Zillow.com. 270000 The county’s housing stock is comprised largely of 220000 single family homes, which in part explains the high 170000 property values, compared with statewide figures. 120000 In addition, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs are significantly influenced by second home ownership, 70000 which explains their far higher median home values. 20000 Median Housing Price Median Household IncomeSFioguurrcee1: 2w:wMwe.cdiitayndaHtoau.csoinmg Price per Area1800 510000 REAL ESTATE1600 4600001400 410000 Housing values grew rapidly during the energy1200 360000 expansion from 2002 to 2008, concurrent with national1000 310000 trends. Both activity and prices have declined from 260000 their 2008 high, but have shown improvement since 800 210000 late 2011. 2014 saw a drop in overall number of units 600 160000 sold, but is likely due to a lack of housing stock. 400 110000 200 60000 10000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Series2 Average SF PriceFigure 13: Home SalesSource: Land Title Colorado Mountain Resorts Market Analysis Single Family Residential Average Price Comparison by Area800000700000600000500000400000300000200000100000 0 Parachute Battlement Rifle Silt New Castle Glenwood Carbondale Mesa Springs SFCioogumurrcpeea1:ri4Lsa:onSndinbTgyilteAleFreaGamuailyraRnetesiedeCnotmiapl aAnvye,rMagaerkPerticAenalysis 2012 2013 2014 201534

According to the monthly transactions report for 800Garfield County prepared by Land Title Guarantee 700Company of Glenwood Springs, gross sales volume was 600up 6.8 percent between 2014 and 2015. Total dollars 500from countywide sales for 2015 was 529 million, which 400was a 28 percent increase over 2013, however, total 300transactions increased during this same period by 18.4 200percent. 100According to the 2010 U.S. Census, Garfield Countyas a whole did not experience the dramatic decline in 0values witnessed in many areas around the country 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015during the Great Recession. County housing valuesgrew about 30 percent between 2000 and 2010 and Figure 16: Foreclosure Filingsremain notably above the current statewide median Source: Garfield County Public Trustee 2015home value.In 2010, the Town of Parachute had the greatest some large employers such as RFTA and Valley Viewdisparity between the growth rates of local income Hospital have chosen to provide employee housingand growth in household value. However, in 2014, programs. In addition several communities includingboth Carbondale’s and Glenwood Springs’ home prices Rifle, Glenwood Springs, and Carbondale, as well asincreased dramatically in comparison to the median Garfield County, have inclusionary zoning policies that,income. Household income and valuation data are through development, creates a stock of affordablereported in 2012 based on the prior year’s information housing available to qualified participants.and thus do not capture the most recent wage trends.Housing values in all areas of the county, particularly in Similar to national markets, a spike in homethe Roaring Fork Valley, continue to appreciate foreclosures was one consequence of the Greatrapidly and at a far greater pace then incomes, which Recession. As the housing market recovers, the nationcontinues to negatively impact the affordability of and Colorado are experiencing a drop in the numberhomes. As such, the county has over 45 percent of of foreclosures. In 2012, the number of foreclosuresits homeowners paying more than 30 percent of their dropped in the county for the first time since 2007,income on housing. To assist with affordability issues, with a significant decrease of 23 percent from a high of 701. Foreclosures have continued to drop in recent years, with 2015 only recording 87 foreclosures, thus bringing the foreclosure rate on par with pre-recession filings. SCFpoiaogyuluoirnrrceaged:m1oA5oSm:rteaePtrteehicraDacnenenm3Ct0oo%ogmrfoamfpHuthohnyueitOsiyrefifhSniocucelrodvm2se0ye1w, o4mitnhahpomucorseirnatggteadgebeys www.garfield-county.com 35

EDUCATION Educational opportunities abound in Garfield County, with a variety of public, charter and private schools serving students from kindergarten through four-year college and graduate degree programs. Schools within the county have over time generated a disproportionatenumber of Boettcher and Daniels Scholars, both prestigious scholarship foundations recognizing unique scholasticand civic aptitude.Though slightly behind the state average, for a rural area Garfield County has a high educational attainment inpopulation over 25 years of age. Over 61.1 percent of the county’s over 25 years of age population has some post-secondary schooling with 37 percent having an advanced degree. In total, the number of pupils attending publicschools in Garfield County grew by 20 percent between 2000 and 2010, faster than state population growth (11percent) but slower than overall county population growth. Garfield Re-2 and Garfield 16 school districts, whichcover the areas including Parachute, Rifle, New Castle, and Silt, added the largest number of pupils and grewmost rapidly during this period. Since 2009, enrollment has declined, with a slight recovery in 2012. Educational Attainment Population 25 years and over Figure 1h7tt:pE:/dP/ufocapacuttifloianntdiaoelnrA.c2tet5an+isn(um2s0.eg1no4tv): 30.00%Source: 25.00% 20.00%K-12 15.00% 10.00% 5.00%EDUCATION 0.00% High school Some college Associate's degree Bachelor's degree Graduate degree Less than 9th grade 9th to 12th grade graduate Garfield County Colorado Three public school districts serve school-age children were built over the past several years, thanks to a $74.9 in Garfield County. These districts are funded by local million bond issue approved by Re-2 voters in 2006. and state taxes. The Roaring Fork School District In addition, district voters approved a $1.6 million mill RE-1 includes public schools in Glenwood Springs, levy override intended for increased pay to help retain Carbondale and Basalt. The district educates close teachers and staff. to 5,000 students and includes four elementary Garfield County School District No. 16 was founded in schools, three middle schools, and three traditional the early 1900s to govern all of the small rural schools high schools, as well as three smaller schools: the in and around Parachute. Grand Valley High School alternative Bridges High School, the K-8 Carbondale was named a Gold School of Opportunity in 2015, Community School, and the K-8 Two Rivers Community making it one of five schools nationally to receive the School in Glenwood Springs. The RE-1 District designation for schools that actively and equitably oversaw a series of school construction projects and promote the success of all students. In 2006, District building renovations after district voters approved 16 voters approved a $35 million bond issue for new an $86 million bond issue in 2004. The voters again school facilities. approved a $122 million bond issue in 2015 for Founded in 1953, the Colorado Rocky Mountain significant capital improvements to 13 schools, School in Carbondale began as a summer session-only facilities and $10 million for teacher and staff housing. college prep school, today the school (grades 9-12) Garfield County School District Re-2 serves families offers scholastic programming, with an emphasis on in New Castle, Silt and Rifle. The district oversees community service work and wilderness experiences, six elementary schools, including the Graham Mesa as well as on campus housing. Students work on the Elementary in Rifle, which opened for the 2009-10 campus ranch, which produces an annual hay crop school year, plus two middle schools and two high and gardens. Opening enrollment is limited to 165, 10 schools. Several new and expanded school facilities percent of which are international students.36

POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONColorado Mountain College (CMC) is one of Garfield (Interdisciplinary Studies) (BAIS). While the collegeCounty’s greatest educational assets. CMC has been continues to build its four-year programs, CMC’sranked number 17 of 800 community colleges for strengths are its over 50 associate’s degree programs,graduation and transfer rates and named the third including programs such as nursing, photographymost affordable public four-year degree program in and veterinary technology, as well as occupationalthe country (U.S. Department of Education). Originally certificates in emergency medical technology, culinaryorganized as a two-year special community college arts, and real estate. Community enrichment classesdistrict, today CMC serves a six-county region and has run the gamut, from kayaking to Chinese language,begun offering four-year degrees. Community sites are ballroom dancing to book writing. Science and liberallocated in Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, and Rifle. arts associate degrees are often used as stepping-stonesSpring Valley Campus, one of CMC’s three residential for transfer to other four-year colleges and universities.campuses, is just seven miles south of Glenwood In addition to CMC, Garfield County’s Department ofSprings. Human Services has been instrumental in partneringIn 2011, CMC started offering four-year degrees, and with the University of Denver to bring a master’stoday offers five bachelor degree programs, including degree program in social work to Garfield County, inSustainable Studies (BASS), Business Administration order to fill a shortage of mental health therapists in(BSBA), Nursing (BSN), Applied Science in Leadership the area. This program began offering graduate-leveland Management (BAS), and Elementary Education courses and master’s degrees in 2014. School District Enrollment 2SFoi0gu0ur4rce-e21:08C1:o2PloPurKba-ld1ico2SMDcehepomaorblteDmrissehtnriitpcotbfEyEnDdroiuslctlmraitcietonnt,6000500040003000200010000 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 ROARING FORK RE-1 GARFIELD RE-2 GARFIELD 16 37

LIBRARIES The Garfield County Public Library District marked its offer study rooms that double as office space, tutoring 75th anniversary in 2013 with the continued tradition classrooms, or just a quiet place to contemplate or of providing high quality customer service, passionate meet friends. promotion of books, technology and literacy, and Library programming is designed to meet the needs broad community engagement through partnerships, of users of all ages. For young children, the libraries initiatives, and events. The district is comprised of six offered more than 600 story times, which saw over new state-of-the-art library buildings, has 37 full and 10,000 attendees in 2013. The early literacy skills 26 part-time staff members, and is funded through a that children learn in storytime help them translate quarter cent sales tax and 1 mill of property tax. words to images, develop their brains, and nurture the cognitive, emotional and social skills they need Consistent with a strategic plan that was established in to develop the habits of life-long learners. School- 2007, the district completed new libraries in Parachute age children and teens have many opportunities at and Rifle in 2010, celebrated grand openings of new the libraries to participate and advance their skills libraries in New Castle and Silt in 2012, and in 2013 in a safe environment. Adult programs and classes completed the last two new libraries in the Carbondale include technology training, skills development, and and Glenwood Springs branches. In 2013, the district computer literacy, and in 2013 also included discussion lent more than 675,000 items and hosted almost 1,400 events. Gopportunities for books and films, a Civil War series, Garfield County’s libraries serve as key community and the America’s Music series. Additionally, the gathering places. Their public computers and wireless libraries offer a summer reading program, which access offer a comfortable environment in which consists of activities for children, teens, and adults to work, study, stay up with current events, or keep and set a new record in 2013 for the number of in touch with friends. Their meeting rooms are a participants. popular destination for civic groups, non-profits, and organizations of all kinds. All of the county libraries38

The fiber optic telecommunications infrastructure and Garfield County and its member municipalities aredemand for broadband services in Garfield County are participants in a joint, mini-region Broadband Studyconcentrated along the I-70 and Highway 82 corridors. with Mesa County, to assess the existing broadbandBroadband services are primarily located in community infrastructure and to work with private and publicanchor institutions located in the municipalities. stakeholders, to provide abundant, reliable, redundant,Private internet providers exist throughout Garfield and affordable broadband services to communityCounty, including cable, fiber, and wireless service anchor institutions, citizens, businesses and visitors.providers. The most reliable internet connection for This plan is expected to address the design andbusiness use in the City of Glenwood Springs is the implementation of middle-mile broadband throughoutCommunity Broadband Network. This fiber optic Garfield and Mesa counties. The study is expectedservice is a highly dependable, affordable, business- to be completed in 2015 and to launch public/class internet solution. Enterprise services available private partnerships, such as Open Access Networkinclude speeds up to one gigabyte per second, private approaches, and help to leverage resources of bothnetwork connections and priority bandwidth. The private providers and local governments to improveTown of Carbondale and the City of Rifle offer fiber optic broadband access.connections throughout their communities. CommunityAnchor Institutions, as well as local providers of SFioguurrcee1: 9C:oGloarrafdieoldOCffoicuenotyf aInrfeoarmBraotaiodnbaTnecdhMnoalpopgiyngbroadband, can be found by using the State’s websitehttp://maps.co.gov/coloradobroadband/.Wireline Speed Tiers TELECOMMUNICATIONS >= 768 Kbps < 1.5 Mbps >= 1.5 Mbps < 3 Mbps >= 3 Mbps < 6 Mbps >= 6 Mbps < 10 Mbps >= 10 Mbps < 25 Mbps >= 25 Mbps < 50 Mbps >= 50 Mbps < 100 Mbps >= 100 Mbps < 1 Gbps >= 1 GbpsGARFIELD COUNTYCOLORADO 39

ECONOMIC ACTIVITYToday, the foundations of Garfield County’s economy economy, including the hot springs attractions inremain very similar to the economic foundations that Glenwood Springs, outdoor recreation, and overnightshaped this area well over 100 years ago: natural accommodations associated with I-70, and a strongresource development, agriculture, regional services, hunting and fishing services industry. In recent years,and tourism. The county is notable for its concentration the tourism/second home industry in nearby Pitkinof population and development in the area’s two and Eagle counties stimulated significant construction,major river valleys, and the counter-balancing of large services employment, and residential housingexpanses of public lands, and lightly populated arid development in Garfield County, particularly in theplateaus in the remainder of the county. Carbondale and Glenwood Springs area. Over the pastGarfield County, particularly the area between Rifle decade, increasing numbers of retirees have relocatedand Parachute, has many producing natural gas wells to the area for its relatively mild climate, quality of life,and large shale gas deposits. Emerging natural gas world-class health care, recreation opportunities, andproduction technologies, coupled with rising gas prices, expansive open space.produced a notable energy boom between 2002 and Though there are similarities between municipalities2009, and natural gas production continues to be a when it comes to economic activity and a community’smajor contributor of the Garfield County economy. economic development approach, each municipalityTourism has long been a staple of the Garfield County also has its differences. Figure 20: Property taxes by State: Median Property tax in Dollars (2009) Source: Tax-rates.org Gar eld County LEGEND Lowest tax40 Highest tax

TAXATIONAccording to taxfoundation.org, Colorado ranks 18th Colorado has a Senior Property Tax Exemption.in the overall index for its business tax climate. This Colorado voters passed this exemption for seniorindex evaluates the state’s corporate tax, individual citizens in the November 2000 election (also knownincome tax, sales tax, unemployment insurance tax as Referendum A). The law provides that 50 percentand property tax, as part of the Tax Climate Index. of the first $200,000 of actual value for a qualifyingCoincidentally, the state also ranks 35th in the state senior citizen’s primary residence shall be exempt fromand local tax collection per capita at a collection rate property taxation. In order to qualify for the exemptionper capita of $4,304. Colorado currently ranks ninth the senior must 1) have reached age 65 as of January 1,lowest of all states that have Corporate Income Tax at 2015; 2) have occupied the property for 10 years priora rate of 4.63 percent, as of January 1, 2014. Per capita to January 1, 2015; and, 3) have filed an application forthis equates to $124 that sets Colorado at 31st of 50 the exemption.states for its corporate tax burden. Colorado has a state sales tax of 2.9 percent. InThe property tax rate is set and collected by the county. addition to this sales tax, each county and localBy state law, commercial and industrial property is government also have its own sales tax. Accordingassessed at 29 percent of market value. The median to the state’s constitution, any increase in sales taxesproperty tax in Garfield County, Colorado, is $1,276 per must be approved by the voters. For Garfield County,year for a home worth the median value of $341,600. the residents have adopted a one percent sales tax andGarfield County collects, on average, 0.37 percent of a some areas of the county also have a transportation taxproperty’s assessed fair market value as property tax. which partially funds the Roaring Fork TransportationGarfield County is ranked in the top one third (1,052nd Authority. This tax is set at one percent, and is in additionof the 3,143) of counties in the United States, in order to the local sales tax rates. Sales tax collection is anof the median amount of property taxes collected. The important indicator of a municipality’s fiscal health,average yearly property tax paid by Garfield County as it is often upwards of 50 percent of a municipality’sresidents’ amounts to about 1.71 percent of their annual budget.yearly incomes. Garfield County is ranked 1,758th ofthe 3,143 counties for property taxes as a percentageof median income (tax-rate.org). Local Sales Transportation County State Sales Total Sales Percentage of Tax Tax Sales Tax Tax Tax general fund budget (est.)CARBONDALE 3.5% 1% 1% 2.9% 8.4% 55%GLENWOOD SPRINGS 3.7% 1% 1% 2.9% 8.6% 41.8%NEW CASTLE 3.5% 1% 1% 2.9% 8.4% 37.5%SILT 3% - 1% 2.9% 6.9% 36.9%RIFLE 4.25% - 1% 2.9% 8.15% 51.9%PARACHUTE 3.75% - 1% 2.9% 7.65% 49.9% www.garfield-county.com 41

SALES TAXGARFIELD COUNTY CARBONDALE 18000000 If one is interested in starting a business or relocating 16000000 a business to Carbondale, the Carbondale Chamber 14000000 of Commerce is an excellent resource. The chamber 12000000 conducts visioning sessions with the Business 10000000 Development Committee to explore options, opportunities, and have access to business mentors 8000000 and resources. 6000000 4000000 CARBONDALE 2000000 4500000 3688730 3900162 0 4000000 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 3500000 3245000 3437444 3000000Figure 21: Countywide Sales Tax Collections 2500000 2000000Sales tax collection on a countywide basis has been 1500000recovering since the low in 2011, caused by the Great 1000000Recession. The overall sales tax numbers for the yearsbetween 2011 and 2014 are skewed (and are low) due 500000to state required refunds for over-collection of certain 0taxes by the state. Even with the county providingannual refunds, sales tax revenues have largely 2013 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budgetrecovered and exceed collections in 2005. Another taxthe state collects is the gasoline excise tax. This tax isset at 22 cents per gallon as of January 1, 2014, whichplaces it as the 33rd lowest gas tax in the country.42

GLENWOOD The town offers mountain living, with a wide range ofSPRINGS housing options and year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is especially proud of itsThe economic outlook is good in Glenwood Springs. twelve popular restaurants. Sales tax receipts fromThe 2013 – 2014 comparison shows unemployment its restaurants increased nearly six percent in 2014.is low and holding steady at 3.8 percent. Sales tax Lakota Canyon Ranch and Golf Club is home to ancollections continue to increase and were up over award-winning golf course. Easy access to Interstateseven percent in 2014 over 2013. Of particular interest 70 and the Rifle Garfield County Airport, as well asis the sales tax collection by area of the city, which a diverse job force, make New Castle attractive toshows increases in most areas, and especially in west light industry and retail investors. The town has aGlenwood Springs, where a number of automobile record of proactive support for business, includingdealerships are located. SIC code sales tax collections downtown improvements (streetscaping, public art,also note an increase in automotive sales, as well as outdoor dining) and a new pedestrian bridge and trailsdining. A number of new restaurants have opened which provide access to I-70 interchange businesses.downtown and the Downtown Development Authority The town staff and councilors are ready to discusshas helped build two parking structures, complete opportunities with developers and entrepreneurs.new alley and street improvements, and has other A range of incentives are available for qualifyingdowntown improvement projects in the design phase. businesses. NEW CASTLEGlenwood Springs is a resort community of over 9,000 620000 598500 610000people, that entertains over 1.5 million tourists per 600000year. There is a sales tax rebate program for retailers 580000 570038who make building improvements. Accommodations 560000tax was up a healthy 15 percent in 2013 over 2014, and 540000 544233the city has exceeded pre-recession accommodation 520000 2013tax collections (2008). 500000 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budget GLENWOOD SPRINGS6300000 626560162000006100000 6194500 PARACHUTE/6000000 BATTLEMENT MESA5900000 5839461 58490955800000 Five thousand friendly folks call Parachute/Battlement5700000 Mesa community their home. They live in quiet,5600000 established neighborhoods, lively retirement communities, and well-planned multi-family 2013 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budget developments. With a combination of rich history, modern amenities, and room to grow, the area offersNEW CASTLE the best of Western Colorado. The Town of Parachute and the adjoining unincorporated community ofNew Castle has three commercial zones: Historic Main Battlement Mesa act as one, and are prime for businessStreet, the I-70 interchange, and the industrial zone development – featuring interstate and railwaysouth of the Colorado River. There are also mixed use accessibility, a skilled workforce, ample available land,zones in Castle Valley Ranch and Lakota Canyon Ranch. and a healthy pro-growth sentiment.There are construction sites available in each of these (continued)zones. www.garfield-county.com 43

PARACHUTE/ RIFLEBATTLEMENT MESA Rifle’s unique character has been shaped by a ranching(continued) and mining past. Rifle straddles the Colorado River, and lies at the foot of the dramatic Roan Plateau; aThis community is one of the fastest-growing on geographic formation containing some of the world’sColorado’s Western Slope, and has ample available sites largest deposits of natural gas and oil shale. This uniqueready for residential and commercial developments in regional economic center is building on its diversea variety of sizes. There are several commercial centers place-based assets. Downtown Rifle offers typicalthat offer storefront and office units. With multiple western small town atmosphere, with antique shops,motels, an RV park, modular homes, and apartments, dining, and historic museums. Residents appreciatethe community also has room for its workforce and, that Rifle is much more than quaint; it is a completein regard to median home price is the most affordable living and working town that offers a unique way ofarea within Garfield County. life. Rifle is a regional economic center, and an idealThe community serves as the gateway to the natural gas environment to draw ideas, intellectual capital, andrich fields of the Piceance Basin. Oil shale abounds in investments to the region.the cliffs north of town where research and exploration Rifle proudly embraces stewardship of it’s part of theon its production potential continues today. After river and watershed. As a gateway to Rifle’s historicenjoying the booms and surviving the busts, Parachute downtown, the Colorado River also adds greatly to thehas grown into a thriving community of quiet quality of life for those who call this place home.residential neighborhoods with supporting businesses The City of Rifle offers several forms of assistanceand services. It is serviced by two railroads. Access to and incentives to businesses and industries thatthe railroads and the Interstate make this community meet the city’s economic development goals. The citya prime place to conduct business. Both Parachute and council may approve incentives such as fee waivers,Battlement Mesa have ample commercial property infrastructure assistance, sales tax rebates, or otheravailable to support new business opportunities and forms of financial assistance. City staff is dedicated toprofessionally trained workforce. In a forthcoming finding creative methods to make projects pencil outcomprehensive plan update, the town will identify for developers and staff works closely with the Rifleannexation opportunities that will provide even more Regional Economic Development Corporation (RREDC)space to expand and do business. to collaborate with the business community.The town is open for business and as their motto The city has many private lots available for commercialstates, it is “A Safe Place to Land.” Many economic and industrial development. The city owns severaldevelopment incentives are available and can be downtown opportunity sites to partner with developerstailored to individual needs. to bring retail, restaurant, office, and housing near downtown amenities such as the seven-plex Brenden PARACHUTE Theater. In addition, the City of Rifle has developed the “Energy Innovation Center” with approximately1200000 1026870 1038860 1067000 35 acres of industrial pad sites available for long-term1000000 lease with infrastructure already installed, and an 750000 additional 100 acres that the city intends to extend 800000 services to in the future. The City of Rifle seeks to 600000 attract energy-related employers to the site, including 400000 businesses related to natural gas, oil, solar, or biofuels. 200000 As a western river town and a healthy energy village, Rifle, Colorado is primed for energy independence and 0 2013 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budget44

economic stability. Rifle is a unique western community ground in numerous commercial areas, with all thethat is embracing the energy of its place – including necessary utilities, and can be easily subdividedtremendous opportunities to grow, add jobs, and and/or zoned to suit any business needs. The towndeclare energy independence with off-grid technology. has partnered with the Colorado Department ofThis community aims to sustain not only its balanced Transportation to do major improvements to thelocal economy, but its historic downtown, its classic state highways, in order to accommodate any and allmining and ranching history, its river, recreational commercial uses proposed. Silt has at its disposal twoand tourism assets, and its idyllic quality of life. feasibility studies regarding retail development that may provide commercial developers the demographicToday, Rifleisinvestinginalternativestrategiestoensure information that they would need to open and conducta long-term, balanced and diverse economy that can business in Silt.supply reliable energy, innovation, and employment tothe region and for a healthy cross-section of businesses. Not only does the town have a robust potentialBy actively committing to a forward-thinking strategy workforce, but the citizens’ community values greatlyof renewable sources and distributed energy, Rifle is support the concept of living, shopping and workingbecoming a tech and energy showcase community. locally. The Town of Silt is prepared to offer sales tax incentives or tax increment financing in order to enticeRifle has embraced the idea of providing for robust commercial growth within town limits. The Silt Urbanand diverse energy alternatives. Its Energy Innovation Renewal Authority is poised to present infrastructureCenter area offers 35 acres of industrial pad sites for cost reductions to potential commercial developers.long-term lease with infrastructure in place, with Commercial landowners have indicated that they willanother 100 acres that the city intends to extend be very competitive in offering their properties for saleservices to in the future. or lease, and the town’s pro-business staff and Board of Trustees will ensure that the development process RIFLE goes as smoothly as it possible.3800000 3691097 3728008 3700000 The town has completed $1.4 million worth of Main3700000 Street improvements, including a wide sidewalk,3600000 3402980 landscaping, street furniture and street lighting. These3500000 2013 improvements highlight the existing businesses in the3400000 downtown core, and attract new businesses to invest,3300000 by reducing the initial costs of development. In 2015,3200000 the Camp Colorado River Recreational Vehicle Park opened, with 67 spaces and a beautiful lodge on the 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budget edge of the Colorado River. The town will embark on a whitewater park feasibility study in the next fewSILT months to capitalize on the immense potential the river has to offer. The town is also extremely committed toThe Town of Silt offers an opportunity for business walkability, boasting over four miles of trails in town.establishments to locate in this diverse community.The town has many properties in the newly improved S I LTdowntown core, adjacent to Interstate 70, along StateHighway 6 and 24, or in one of the many commercial 430000 423042 423100 423100developments along the Colorado River that have 420000 2013stunning views. It is not uncommon to see bald eagles, 410000 390638Great Blue Herons, deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, and hawks 400000in the breathtaking landscape that is western Garfield 390000County. Each entrance to the town has been planned 380000commercially and the entire town offers great visibility 370000for passing motorists. The town has sites between5,000 square feet to over 85 acres of usable commercial 2014 2015 Estimated 2016 Budget www.garfield-county.com 45

Labor Force LABOR FORCEJobs AND EMPLOYMENTIncomeGarfield County has seen strong job growth and historically low unemployment rates over the last decade.However, with gas drilling reductions, in combination with the reduced area tourism and second homedevelopment, the county’s employment outlook began to change drastically in 2008. There was a significantreduction in both jobs and the available labor force (approximately 14 percent over a two year period) and theunemployment rate spiked, reaching a peak of 11.7 percent in March 2010. Since then, there has been a steadydrop in unemployment, and as of September 2015, Garfield County’s unemployment rate was 3.3 percent, bothof which are significantly below the national rate at 5.1 percent. Today, there is an estimated civilian labor forceof 32,600 people in the county. (Source: naco.org).40000 1235000 1030000 82500020000 6 Labor Force15000 Employment10000 4 Unemployment Rate 5000 200 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 (1st Quar)SFioguurrcee2: 2C:oLloarbaodro, EDmepplaorytmmeenntt aonf dLaUbnoermanpdloEymmpelnotyRmaetent (CDLE) WAGES ANDAt the end of 2014, the estimated average annual INCOMEwage in Garfield County was $44,408, up from$43,628 in 2013, and remains consistent at 89 Per Capita Personal Incomepercent of the Colorado average, according to theColorado Department of Labor and Employment www. 60000colmigateway.com. Garfield County wage ranks as the 5000010th highest in the state. Wage growth between 2012 40000and 2013 was 1.9 percent. (source: Naco.gov) 30000 Steady growth in per capita personal incomes took 20000 place until 2008, peaking at $41,890. In 2009, per capita personal income for the County declined by 10000 11.5 percent, followed by another drop of 3 percent in 2010. Moderate but steady growth as returned to per 0 capita income since 2011. 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 201446 Garfield Colorado SFoiguurrcee2: 3U:.SG.aBrufireeldauCoofuEnctyonPoemr CicaApintaalPyseirssonal Income

Median Household Income During the period 2000-2010, median household income grew significantly. In 2000, county median70000 household income was slightly below the statewide65000 average. By 2010, every community in Garfield County,60000 with the exception of Parachute and Glenwood Springs,55000 reported median household income in excess of the50000 statewide average. The median household income of45000 Garfield County is $64,902 in 2010 (U.S. Census Bureau),40000 higher than the state median of $54,411 and the35000 national median of $50,046. Subsequently the median30000 household income of Garfield County has dropped since then to $57,022 in 2013, but rose in 2014 to $57,214. 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Garfield Colorado MAJOR EMPLOYERSFigure 24: Median Household Income Colorado andGarfield CountySource: American Community Survey, U.S. Census Bureau JOBS AND 38,000 SFBoilgauucrkrce:e22:0620:04W1,5BhReluFreeT:At2hT0er1ar4veeglioPantstewronrskSfoturcdey works 36,000 34,000 32,000 30,000 28,000 26,000 24,000 22,000 20,000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Figure 25: Total Jobs in Garfield County from 2001-2013Source: Colorado Department of Local AffairsBetween 2003 and 2008, Garfield County employment in other employment categories, such as constructionexperienced strong growth, increasing by 10,500 jobs, and transportation. The downturn in resort-relatedor about five percent per year. Since the recession real estate construction, beginning in about 2009, hadended in 2011, the county has been steadily adding a major impact on Garfield County, which was home tojobs by approximately 1.5 percent per year. a large share of contractors, fabricators and suppliersDuring this same period, there was a significant shift that support the second home industry in both Eaglein employment patterns. The largest increase in and Pitkin Counties. Since 2010, Garfield County hasemployment share by category occurred in the mining seen a rise again in the construction industry. Atand natural resources industry, which includes oil and the end of 2014, the construction industry and retailgas production activities. It should also be noted that trade were the second and third leading employersmany natural resource extraction-related jobs occur respectively.NEW ENERGY IN THE WILD WEST www.garfield-county.com 47

An emerging trend over the last ten years has been the in Carbondale or Snowmass Village. While Aspen hasconcentration of jobs in three primary employment been a significant employment center within the regioncenters within the region. About 75 percent of the for a number of years, Glenwood Springs and Rifle areregion’s 2014 workforce indicated they work in Aspen, also emerging as major regional nodes, a trend that isGlenwood Springs, or Rifle, an increase from 60 percent expected to continue (RFTA Regional Travel Patternsin 2004. An additional 14 percent indicated they work Study 2014). Top 10 Employers by Industry Employer Rank Type of Business Number of Percentage Employees of Total Valley View Hospital 4.03%6000 5508 Roaring Fork School District RE-1 1 Healthcare 1176 3.64%5000 Garfield County School District RE-2 2.72%4000 Colorado Mountain College 2 Schools 1061 1.92%3000 Grand River Health 1.75%2000 4043 Garfield County 3 Schools 793 1.70%1000 Wal-Mart 1.31% 3338 Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge & Pool 4 College 559 0.91% 0 WPX Energy 0.73% 2915 2707 Garfield County Sheriff’s Office 5 Medical 512 0.57% 2163 1941 1838 1575 1566 6 Government 496 7 Retail 383 8 Lodge & Pool 265 9 Oil & Gas 212 10 Protection 165 Total employed by principal employers 5,622 19.27% Employed by other employers 20,283 80.73% Total employed in Garfield County 25,905 100%Figure 27: Top 10 Employers by Industry Type (NAICS) 2013 Figure 28: Principal Employers In Garfield County, 2015Source: Colorado Department of Local Affairs Source: Garfield County Finance Department OIL AND NATURAL GAS INDUSTRYNatural resource development, specifically natural low, as of October 2015 were at $2.66 per million Btu.gas, has had the most dramatic economic influence on Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs), which are often a byproductGarfield County over the last decade. Garfield County of gas well production, are used to produce loweris the leading producer of natural gas in the state, with grade liquid fuels and NGL values typically follow crudeover 11,000 producing wells. As of 2008, nearly one- oil prices. As the price of natural gas has declined, thethird of all mining industry employment for the state of value of NGL products have become a more importantColorado was located in Garfield and the neighboring element of the overall economics of well drilling andMesa and Rio Blanco counties. Between 2004 and production. The price of NGLs mirrors the price of crude2005, Garfield County experienced a rapid increase in oil which, although experiences price fluctuations,its share of statewide mining employees, which then currently remains at high levels, and boosting the valueleveled off and modestly declined between 2006 and of gas production within Garfield County.2009. The industry slowed dramatically in 2009 as gas Prospects for future growth in northwest Coloradoprices fell and operators began pulling drilling rigs to gas drilling have been bolstered by the completion ofpursue emerging gas prospects elsewhere in the U.S. the $6.7 billion Rockies Express pipeline, which hasThe natural gas boom, which spurred Garfield County’s alleviated some well to market shipping constraintseconomy in the 2000s, was driven in part by a rapid that had previously restricted local natural gasescalation in gas prices. Since 2012, gas prices have been distributions. Although the growth in productiondeclining, which has had a direct impact on the total natural has been notable, the decline in drilling activitygas and oil production in the county. Garfield County, has become even more pronounced with declininghowever, continues to dominate regional gas production. drill rig numbers. In 2014, 25 percent of Colorado’sIn 2014, Garfield County produced 1.57 million barrels drilling permits were for projects located in Garfieldof oil and 512 billion cubic feet of natural gas. Garfield County. Eighty-seven percent of Colorado’s 53,026County’s energy production represents a significant share wells are located in six counties (Source: COGCC).of the statewide totals. Prices however, continue to be48

As of October 2015, there are three active natural gas Top tax payers in oil and gas industry Assessed Valuedrilling rigs in Garfield County. The number in Garfield WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 182,602,750County has continued to decrease over the past several ENCANA OIL & GAS (USA) INC. 175,409,980years and is at the fewest number of drill rigs in over VANGUARD OPERATING LLC 164,624,98020 years. ENCANA OIL & GAS (USA) INC 158,484,810In addition to the local economy, the natural resourcesindustry also has a significant impact on Garfield WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 155,487,140County taxes and revenues. In 2014, 72.9 percent of WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 114,593,460total property tax assessed values were accounted for URSA RESOURCES GROUP II LLC 109,423,850by the oil and gas industry. After a substantial drop ENCANA OIL & GAS (USA) INC.in value between 2010 and 2011, assessed values WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 92,701,090increased in 2011 and 2012, and then dropped again in OXY USA WTP LP 92,113,2702013. In 2014, a modest increase occurred in assessed ENCANA OIL & GAS (USA) INC. 91,971,000valuations. WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 90,867,690 CAERUS PICEANCE LLC 72,159,630 ENTERPRISE GAS PROCESSING LLC 67,142,180 ENCANA OIL & GAS (USA) INC. 59,799,260 BARGATH, INC. 56,315,600 CHEVRON NORTH AMERICA EXPLO & PROD CO 43,267,680 HUNTER RIDGE ENERGY SERVICES, LLC 36,655,150 WPX ENERGY ROCKY MOUNTAIN, LLC 30,229,010 PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY OF COLORADO 29,882,230 29,757,300NEW ENERGY IN THE WILD WEST 49

10 1997 9 1998 8 1999 7 2000 6 2001 5 2002 4 2003 3 2004 2 2005 1 2006 0 2007 2008 SPFiorgiucurerc:eeD2:o9Ul:l.aSAr.nsEnpnueearrlgMAyviIlnelirfooangrmeBtaHuteionnryAHdumbinNisattruartaiol nGas Spot2009 201050 2011 2012 Drill Rigs Running in Garfield County (by week) 2013 2014 80 2015 70 60 1/2/04 50 3/5/04 40 5/11/04 30 7/16/04 20 9/15/04 10 11/16/04 1/19/05 0 3/30/05 6/7/05SFioguurrcee3: 0C:oDlorrialldRoigOCiloaunndt bGyasWCeoenkservation Commission (COGCC) 8/9/05 10/11/05 12/13/05 2/21/06 4/26/06 6/28/06 8/30/06 10/31/06 1/10/07 3/13/07 5/16/07 7/17/07 9/19/07 11/21/07 2/27/08 4/29/08 7/1/08 9/2/08 11/4/08 2/17/09 4/22/09 6/23/09 9/9/09 11/13/09 2/23/10 5/11/10 7/13/10 9/14/10 11/17/10 1/25/11 3/29/11 6/1/11 8/2/11 10/4/11 1/18/12 3/27/12 5/30/12 8/1/12 1/30/13 4/3/13 6/4/13 8/6/13 2/4/14 4/8/14 6/10/14 8/12/14 10/14/14 1/20/15 3/24/15 5/27/15 7/28/15 9/29/15 11/24/15 1/26/16 3/29/16