Freebie parks

In light of government cuts, various agencies have taken creative measures to reduce spending nationwide. Despite these reductions, agencies like the National Park Service have waived fees to 11 National Parks in Colorado. Through April 24, parks like Black Canyon (in Gunnison; Montrose), and Mesa Verde (Cortez) will be free to visit. Future waived fee dates will be extended throughout 2011.

Greeley gets cheesy

Greeley family owned Leprino Foods, one of the country’s largest cheese blends and whey products, is scheduled to break ground of phase one of a the “largest, most modern and technologically advanced (dairy) plants in the world.” Details of the projected 883,000 square foot facility estimate construction costs of approximately $250 million. An estimated 500 new jobs will be created once the facility becomes fully operational.

Possible power zap

Colorado Public Utilities Commission set to reconsider Tri-State Generation, Transmission Association and Xcel Energy’s covet to build nearly 140 miles of power lines over La Veta Pass into the San Luis Valley. Costs for the project have been estimated at nearly $180 million dollars. It’s unknown how many jobs the project would bring to the region.

Future highway disputed

A Madrid-based Construction firm is in talks with Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority officials regarding the financing, design and building of a 10-mile stretch of toll road in Jefferson County. The $204 million dollar estimated cost is projected to run from the Jefferson County airport through U.S. 36 in Broomfield to Colorado 93. Officials have come under fire by residents of both Golden and Boulder, and City of Golden officials are prepared to go to court in hopes of blocking negotiations.