The Zebulon Project: A Game-Changer for Sterling Ranch and Douglas County Nestled in the heart of Sterling Ranch, Colorado, the Zebulon Regional Sports Complex is poised to transform the landscape of Douglas County. This ambitious project, named after the famed Western explorer Zebulon Pike, represents a significant investment in community infrastructure, economic development, and recreational opportunities for residents across the region. The Zebulon complex is envisioned as a 500-acre multi-use facility located near the intersection of Moore Road and Waterton Road, approximately four miles south of C-470 . The first phase, estimated at $70 million, will encompass: · A 239,000-square-foot indoor sports complex featuring three ice rinks and basketball courts · Baseball and soccer complexes designed to meet CHSAA and NFHS standards · Preservation of over 400 acres of open space, including a 104-acre wildlife corridor adjacent to Sterling Ranch and Louviers. Future phases aim to expand the facility to include additional sports venues and community amenities, fostering a vibrant hub for recreation and social engagement. Economic Impact on Douglas County The Zebulon project is set to be a catalyst for economic growth in Douglas County. By attracting regional and national sports events, the complex is expected to generate substantial revenue through tourism, hospitality, and local business patronage. The development will also create numerous job opportunities, both during construction and in ongoing operations. Furthermore, the project aligns with the county's strategic goals to enhance quality of life and preserve open spaces, as outlined in the Parks, Trails, Open Space, and Historic Resources Fund. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners has expressed strong support for the Zebulon project. Commissioner Abe Laydon emphasized the project's alignment with community desires. “This is such an exciting time. We are in the golden era of Douglas County where we can start moving on what our citizens want – a best-in-class regional sports facility paired with ongoing efforts to preserve open space.” Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle highlighted the importance of fulfilling voter expectations saying “Our voters and taxpayers have been waiting for us to take action and invest this voter-approved funding. It’s time we start putting meat on the bones and working with our partners to bring our community’s vision to life.” Commissioner George Teal noted the transformative potential of the project saying “Zebulon will be the catalyst that transforms an area of our county that was primarily industrial – even home to a former dynamite factory – into a regional draw for families and businesses.” Collaboration with Sterling Ranch and KT Development Sterling Ranch Development Company is playing a pivotal role in the project's realization. President Brock Smethills expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing the regional benefits saying, “This project will attract new shopping, dining, recreation, and community gathering spaces that Sterling Ranch would not be able to support on its own at this time.” KT Development, known for their work on the Sport Stable in Superior, Colorado, is also involved, bringing expertise in developing sports and recreational facilities. Preserving Open Space A cornerstone of the Zebulon project is its commitment to environmental stewardship. The development will preserve over 400 acres of open space, including a 104-acre wildlife corridor, ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological health of the area are maintained for future generations. Community Engagement Douglas County is dedicated to transparency and community involvement throughout the project's development. Public meetings and town halls have been held to gather input and keep residents informed. The county encourages ongoing dialogue to ensure that the Zebulon complex meets the needs and expectations of the community. Looking Ahead The Zebulon Regional Sports Complex stands as a testament to Douglas County's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. By providing state-of-the-art facilities, preserving natural spaces, and fostering economic growth, the project is set to become a cornerstone of the community for years to come.
Introduction The 40th Space Symposium, held from April 7–10, 2025, at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, marked a significant milestone in the global space community. This premier event brought together over 11,000 professionals from more than 60 countries to discuss advancements in space policy, technology, and collaboration. The symposium featured a diverse array of participants, including government officials, industry leaders, military personnel, and emerging startups, all converging to shape the future of space exploration and commercial endeavors. DCEDC's Involvement with Canopy Aerospace, Castle Rock EDC & Impact Commercial Real Estate The Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) played a pivotal role in supporting Canopy Aerospace, a Colorado-based startup specializing in innovative aerospace solutions. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, DCEDC facilitated Canopy Aerospace's participation in the Space Symposium, providing the company with a platform to showcase its cutting-edge technologies and connect with potential investors and collaborators. This involvement underscores DCEDC's commitment to fostering innovation and growth within Colorado's aerospace sector. Growth and Vision Colorado's aerospace industry has experienced remarkable growth, solidifying the state's position as the second-largest aerospace economy in the United States. With over 350 aerospace and defense companies employing approximately 37,000 individuals, the sector has seen a 32.5% increase in workforce from 2017 to 2022. The industry's economic output reached $12.7 billion in 2022, highlighting its significant contribution to the state's economy. Looking ahead, Colorado aims to continue its trajectory of innovation and leadership in the aerospace domain. The state's strategic initiatives focus on enhancing collaboration between government agencies, private enterprises, and educational institutions to drive advancements in space technology and exploration. By fostering a conducive environment for research and development, Colorado is poised to remain at the forefront of the global space industry. Conclusion The 40th Space Symposium served as a testament to Colorado's integral role in the evolving landscape of space exploration. Through initiatives like DCEDC's support of Canopy Aerospace, the state continues to nurture innovation and collaboration, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic future for its aerospace sector.
Introduction Colorado's Aerospace Day at the Capitol is an annual celebration of the state's thriving aerospace industry — a moment to recognize innovation, collaboration, and the immense economic and strategic value this sector brings to Colorado. On this special day, industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and entrepreneurs gathered under the Capitol dome to highlight achievements, share ideas, and reinforce Colorado’s position as a national aerospace powerhouse. From major defense contractors and space tech startups to research institutions and academic partners, the event showcases how Colorado remains at the forefront of aerospace advancements. This year’s event featured high-impact panels, interactive exhibits, and key discussions about the future of aerospace in Colorado and beyond. Looking Forward: The Vision for Aerospace in Colorado Colorado is already the second-largest aerospace economy in the United States, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. With companies like Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, Sierra Space, and a growing number of innovative startups, the state is building a diverse and resilient aerospace ecosystem. The vision moving forward is bold: to become the number one state for aerospace in the country. That means expanding public-private partnerships, investing in next-gen technologies like AI-powered satellite systems, sustainable space exploration, and commercial spaceflight, as well as preparing a highly skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the industry. Policymakers at the event underscored the importance of strategic infrastructure, regulatory support, and education pathways to support this vision. Universities and K-12 programs are increasingly aligned with the aerospace workforce pipeline, ensuring Colorado is not just building rockets but launching careers. Douglas County EDC’s Role in Shaping the Future A key driver of Colorado’s aerospace growth is the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Strategically located in one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, Douglas County has become a prime location for aerospace companies seeking access to skilled talent, innovative infrastructure, and a pro-business climate. Douglas County EDC supports business attraction, expansion, and retention efforts tailored specifically to high-tech and aerospace firms. Through strategic planning, workforce development programs, and public-private collaborations, the EDC is helping create an environment where aerospace companies can thrive. A Featured Moment: Panel Sponsorship by Douglas County EDC This year’s Aerospace Day included a thought-provoking panel sponsored by Douglas County EDC, further highlighting the county’s leadership in the aerospace conversation. Moderated by key industry voices and public officials, the panel addressed "The Future of Aerospace Innovation and Regional Growth," diving into topics like space commercialization, workforce readiness, and the importance of regional cooperation. A standout voice on the panel was Ellie Reynolds, CEO of Douglas County EDC, who shared insights on how local leadership and regional economic strategy are fueling aerospace expansion. “We’re not just supporting the aerospace economy — we’re helping build it from the ground up,” Reynolds said. “Douglas County is ready to lead Colorado into its next great chapter in aerospace.” Her remarks resonated with attendees and served as a rallying call for continued investment, vision, and collaboration across sectors. Conclusion Colorado’s Aerospace Day at the Capitol was more than a celebration — it was a statement of purpose. With the support of visionary partners like the Douglas County EDC and leadership from across public and private sectors, Colorado is positioning itself not just as a hub for aerospace, but as the national leader in space innovation, talent, and economic growth. As the stars align for the future of aerospace, Colorado is ready for liftoff.
Introduction Douglas County, Colorado, has taken a proactive stance in addressing homelessness through its Homeless Engagement Assistance and Resource Team (HEART) initiative. Launched in 2022, HEART represents a collaborative effort between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community partners to provide compassionate, effective support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Leadership and Community Partnerships The HEART initiative is spearheaded by the Douglas County Homeless Initiative (DCHI), under the leadership of Commissioner Abe Laydon, who serves as the chairman. Sheriff Darren Weekly plays a pivotal role in integrating law enforcement into the program's compassionate outreach efforts. The program's success is attributed to the strong partnerships between the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, local police departments—including Castle Rock, Lone Tree, and Parker—and various community organizations. HEART teams consist of trained "navigators" with backgrounds in behavioral and mental health or case management, paired with law enforcement officers. These teams engage directly with individuals experiencing homelessness to assess their needs, provide case management, and connect them to appropriate community services. The initiative emphasizes the "Four C’s": compassion, code enforcement, community services, and communication, aiming to help individuals gain independence and reintegrate into society. Vision and Community Involvement HEART's vision is to make homelessness in Douglas County rare, brief, and non-recurring. The initiative has already made significant strides, achieving a point-in-time count of zero for unhoused individuals in the county as of summer 2024. Community members can support HEART's mission in several ways: • Report Concerns: If you encounter someone who may be experiencing homelessness, contact the HEART team at 303-660-7301 or complete an online referral form. • Donate: Contribute to the Douglas County Community Foundation’s Homeless Relief Fund (HRF), where 100% of donations are granted to trusted nonprofits providing services to the unhoused. • Avoid Direct Handouts: Participate in the "Handouts Don’t Help" campaign by refraining from giving money directly to individuals on the street. Instead, direct your generosity to organizations equipped to provide long-term assistance. Through these collective efforts, Douglas County aims to sustain and build upon the successes of the HEART initiative, ensuring that all residents have access to the support and resources they need.
Introduction At the 2024 Metro Denver EDC Site Selectors Conference, Douglas County took center stage as an emerging hub for business and innovation. As a proud sponsor of the event, the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) showcased the county’s unique advantages, cementing its reputation as a premier location for site selection and business growth. Douglas County's Competitive Edge Throughout the conference, Douglas County demonstrated why it stands out as a top choice for site selectors. With its strategic location in the south Denver metro area, the county offers unparalleled access to major transportation networks, a thriving economy, and an educated workforce. These factors combine to create an ideal environment for businesses looking to expand or relocate. Innovative Incentive Packages Central to Douglas County’s appeal is its comprehensive incentive package designed to attract top-tier companies. During the conference, representatives detailed the county's efforts to reduce red tape, streamline permitting processes, and provide competitive tax incentives. These initiatives are crafted to support businesses from diverse industries, fostering a welcoming climate for long-term growth and success. Showcasing Business-Friendly Infrastructure Site selectors toured Douglas County’s state-of-the-art business parks and infrastructure projects, including significant investments in transportation and utilities. A highlight was the county’s $100 million commitment to enhancing U.S. 85 and advancing water and wastewater systems — critical developments that underline the region's readiness to support significant business operations. Collaboration and Community Support Media reports emphasized the collaborative efforts between the Douglas County EDC and local governments in creating a business-friendly ecosystem. This partnership extends to offering support programs for workforce development and creating a high quality of life for residents, making Douglas County an attractive place to live and work. Focused Industry Engagement Douglas County’s strategic focus on industries like aerospace, healthcare, finance, transportation, and clean technology was a topic of interest at the conference. These sectors are among the county’s top employers and are supported with tailored incentives and resources to ensure sustained growth and innovation. Looking Forward: A Vision for Growth The Douglas County EDC laid out a vision for future economic development at the conference, highlighting plans for continued infrastructure enhancements and community investments. The county’s forward-thinking approach aims to maintain its competitive edge and appeal as a site selection favorite. Conclusion The 2024 Metro Denver EDC Site Selectors Conference highlighted Douglas County as a dynamic and attractive destination for business relocation and expansion. With its robust incentive package, strategic investments, and dedicated support structures, Douglas County makes a compelling case as the ideal location for savvy site selectors and businesses aiming for success.
Introduction The recent debate for Colorado's 4th Congressional District (CD4) between U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert and challenger Trisha Calvarese attracted widespread media coverage, spotlighting their competing visions on pressing issues such as housing, inflation, and government spending. Hosted in Roxborough Park by the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation, Colorado Politics, and the Denver Gazette, this debate offered voters a firsthand look at the candidates’ priorities and potential impact on the district. Diverging Views on Economic Policy Across various media reports, a clear divide emerged between the candidates' approaches to economic challenges. Boebert and Calvarese debated fiercely over how best to manage federal involvement in housing and tackle inflation. Boebert argued for reducing federal oversight to empower local communities, while Calvarese supported initiatives like the American Rescue Plan to bolster the economy and maintain housing stability. Points of Agreement and Major Differences Despite their differences, Boebert and Calvarese found common ground on certain issues, a detail highlighted in several articles. Both candidates agreed on the importance of preventing foreign ownership of U.S. farmland, especially near military bases, and supported making tips tax-exempt to aid workers. However, their consensus on these points contrasted sharply with their divergent strategies for other economic policies, including tax cuts and managing the national debt. Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis Affordable housing was a focal point, with media noting Boebert’s emphasis on reducing federal intervention as a solution. In contrast, Calvarese pointed to innovative local housing models like Sterling Ranch in Douglas County as a blueprint for success. She argued for sustainable development, tying issues of water management closely to housing affordability – a nuanced approach reported by multiple outlets. Fiscal Responsibility and Reform The debate also zeroed in on fiscal responsibility. Calvarese advocated for streamlining government processes and embracing technological advancements to cut costs and support the middle class. Boebert, meanwhile, called for defunding specific programs she deemed unnecessary, pushing back against federal spending on renewable energy initiatives. This discussion on fiscal approaches underscored their contrasting priorities, as documented in numerous media stories. Tax Reforms and Business Support With upcoming expirations of tax cuts implemented in 2017, the candidates’ stances attracted attention from political analysts. Boebert advocated for further tax reductions, maintaining a consistent campaign message. Calvarese proposed revisions aimed at supporting businesses, including a child tax credit, reflecting a commitment to tailored fiscal policies. Reports noted these positions as central to the candidates’ economic platforms. Conclusion As reported by multiple media outlets, the CD4 debate saw Boebert and Calvarese laying out distinct visions for the district and its future. While the candidates did find agreement on some issues, their overall approaches to economic policy and governance diverge significantly. This debate provided voters with crucial insights into how each candidate intends to address local and national challenges, setting the stage for a critical decision in the upcoming election.
Introduction The recent merger that brought the Northwest Douglas County Chamber and Economic Development Corporation together with the Douglas County Economic Development Collaborative to form the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has captured attention across multiple media outlets. The consolidation is seen as a strategic move to enhance business and job growth in the south Denver metro area, with comprehensive coverage highlighting its potential impact. A Unified Vision for Economic Development Various publications have underscored the merger's aim to streamline efforts and foster economic growth across Douglas County. By uniting their strengths, the organizations plan to attract and retain primary employers in target industries such as aerospace, healthcare, finance, transportation, and clean technology. Ellie Reynolds, the organization's President and CEO, highlighted plans to collaborate with site selectors to build on the county's job growth legacy. Media Spotlight on Growth and Infrastructure In-depth coverage has noted Douglas County's position as the second-fastest-growing county for job growth in the metro area since 2008. This merger aims to capitalize on that momentum by strengthening local applications for federal funding and leveraging U.S. Department of Commerce programs to enhance regional development. The media has also pointed to significant infrastructure investments, including a $100 million commitment to upgrade U.S. 85 and a new water and wastewater program, as pivotal to supporting the business environment. A Collaborative and Regional Approach Reports detail how the merger builds on existing relationships, merging communities like Highlands Ranch and Sterling Ranch with the collaborative efforts of areas including Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Larkspur, and Parker. This regional approach is expected to boost economic growth by integrating planning and reducing bureaucratic red tape, making Douglas County an even more attractive site for businesses. Future Initiatives and Community Engagement Among the exciting initiatives is the "Dream in Douglas" marketing campaign, which aims to enhance the county’s living and working appeal, akin to Visit Denver’s impact on Colorado’s capital city. A variety of articles have discussed the county commissioners' strategies to lure new businesses through growth incentives and comprehensive programs to address homelessness, thereby improving the overall community landscape. Looking Forward While the full details of the new job growth incentives are still evolving, media reports suggest that the Douglas County EDC is focused on expanding its reach and capabilities, including increasing support staff to manage geographic expansion. This merger, as highlighted in several reports, represents a commitment to regionalism and collaborative development, promising a dynamic and prosperous economic future for Douglas County. Conclusion The formation of the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation stands as a pivotal development garnering widespread media attention, signaling a transformative period for the region. As this new entity begins to chart its path forward, stakeholders and community members alike can look forward to a vibrant and robust economic outlook for the county.
