What the World Knows about Pueblo that You May Not
In 1921, a devastating flood destroyed the heart of Pueblo's business district along the Arkansas River. The community diverted the river and worked to revitalize its economy, and nearly 100 years later, the river has been returned to its historic location and a downtown riverwalk is blossoming.
Since 1995, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo Foundation has worked to support the 32-acre urban waterfront riverwalk and make it the centerpiece of the city with economic, cultural and educational opportunities.
This riverwalk is just one example of the bold vision and community collaboration that is alive and well in Pueblo. You can witness it yourself at Colorado Experience, April 24-25.
"The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo, which has spurred the development of a convention center and restoration of historic downtown buildings, including the Union Avenue Historic District, is a prime example of the community leadership, vision and collaboration that is revitalizing Pueblo," said HARP Foundation Executive Director Jim Munch, who will lead participants on a boat tour along the riverwalk.
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A view along the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo. Image courtesy of the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. |
Much of what we do on our city-to-city trips like Colorado Experience is myth-busting—challenging perceptions of a place and finding solutions to similar issues we face in our own communities. It's eye-opening and creates a community ripe for collaboration.
In addition to hearing the story of this reinvigorated downtown waterfront, our guests will learn about Pueblo's manufacturing prowess, its Creative Corridor of artists and its connections to major international companies who have opened their doors there.
This is a great opportunity for emerging and executive leaders alike to get to know the issues facing our state with the insight of our local hosts.
"I have gained a better (and more inspired) understanding of issues facing Colorado through this program than I ever could have on my own. Colorado Experience connected me to a group of engaged people from around the state whom I may not have met otherwise. These connections have offered me new ways to deepen my civic engagement in my community," says Vi Living Community Relations Manager Sarah Harman.
Join us and go behind the scenes with manufacturers like Evraz and Vestas Wind Systems; tour the Center for American Values; and enjoy the tastes of Pueblo with a gastro-tour of this multicultural community.
A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Boettcher Foundation, our Visionary Sponsor Xcel Energy and our Honorary Chair Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia.
I hope you'll register today and join us in April to experience Pueblo and Colorado!
Mary Ricketson
Executive Director
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