Reflecting on 2024
In this issue you’ll find:
INVESTMENTS IN THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND: OUR 2024 WINS
Kim Heckber | Business Development Liaison
Parker Economic Development and Parker Urban Renewal Authority
Weldy Feazell | Director
Parker Economic Development and Parker Urban Renewal Authority
As we come to the end of another year serving Parker and the business community, we at Parker Economic Development and P3 - Parker’s Urban Renewal Authority, want to reflect on the exciting projects and developments that marked 2024. From finishing the O’Brien Park Capital Improvement Project with new sidewalks and pedestrian improvements to working with local businesses to find resources, expand, and even attract new businesses to the area, 2024 has been a busy year.
We’re excited about all that 2025 plans to bring. This year, we’ll be dedicating more time and resources to helping our local businesses, from start-ups to large manufacturers.
“We’re working to reach out to the business community to learn their needs, celebrate their wins, and find them the tools they need to grow.” - Weldy Feazel, Director
We’re also funding large projects like the new parking garage by the Pace Center, supporting Public Art Master Plan implementation, and more. We hope you join us.
If you own a business in Parker, feel free to call us at 303.841.0353 or email us at economicdevelopment@parkerco.gov.
Weldy Feazel | Director
Parker Economic Development and Parker Urban Renewal Authority
20120 E. Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138 | P3Parker.com | ParkerED.com
O'Brien Park
Capital Improvement Projects (CIP)
Sculpture in O'Brien Park
Public Art in Parker
Community Mud
Business Spotlight
URBAN RENEWAL BY THE NUMBERS:
6
Capital Improvement Projects funded in 2024
$10M
Invested in Capital Improvement Projects by P3
$44k
Invested in Facade Improvements by P3
7
Businesses received Facade and Landscape Improvement Program (FLIP) funds
$160K
Invested in Facade Improvements by Businesses
BUSINESS RESOURCES MADE EASY
The Business Resource Guide
Parker Economic Development has a new tool for businesses! The Business Resource Guide provides businesses with a summary and guide for local, regional, and state-wide programs to help them find financial assistance, mentoring, and more.
Businesses who have questions about any of the available resources should feel free to contact Parker Economic Development. The Business Development Liaison can provide insight and help businesses prepare to apply for programs.
FLIP Your Businesses Exterior
The Façade and Landscape Improvement Program (FLIP) from P3 offers Parker businesses matching funds up to $6,250 for exterior improvements in designated urban renewal areas. Applications are accepted Jan 1-31. Learn more about eligibility and apply at P3Parker.com/FLIP.
Keep an eye out for a new program in 2025 that expands funding opportunities to all businesses in Parker for construction improvements!
OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE TOWN OF PARKER COMMUNITY LOAN FUND
The Town of Parker, in partnership with Colorado Enterprise Fund, offers flexible loans to small businesses based in Parker that don’t qualify for traditional financing.
Loans up to $50,000 are available, with terms extending up to 60 months at a fixed rate. Funds can be used for working capital, equipment, inventory, property improvements, and more. Eligible businesses must have a Parker business license, under $2M in revenue, and fewer than 20 employees.
TELLING STORIES: BOOKS ARE AWESOME
Wendy Withers, Owner of Books are Awesome
Books Are Awesome opened in Parker, Colorado, in 2019 with a mission to be more than just a bookstore. Co-owner Wendy Withers says, “We’re very proud to be an indie bookstore. We pay taxes, we live in the community, we know the community.” In return, the community has embraced them, allowing the store to thrive.
“The community has been an overwhelming hug.”
Wendy Withers
Owner of Books are Awesome
Having lived in Parker for over 20 years, Wendy has also seen growth in the community. As the community grows, Books Are Awesome continues to be a welcoming place for all.
11211 Dransfeldt Rd #101, Parker, CO 80134
Tue, Thu-Sat: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Sun: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Mon: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
HOMEGROWN TAP & DOUGH
19320 Cottonwood Drive, Parker, CO 80138
Coming Soon!
Opening a location in Parker, Homegrown Tap & Dough offers a casual, vibrant atmosphere with craft beer, artisan pizzas, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
TO NEW HEIGHTS: SAFRAN DEFENSE & SPACE INC. EXPANDS TO PARKER
Safran Defense & Space, Inc. has announced they will be expanding with a location in Parker! Safran is opening a manufacturing facility in Parker to deliver electric propulsion thrusters and host a workshop for space telemetry ground equipment, offices and meeting rooms. The new Colorado site will also host Safran’s U.S. team for satellite communications as well as space and ground domain awareness.
“Safran not only brings experienced professionals to our region, but it also opens new avenues for collaboration and development in aerospace technology. Their presence will create exciting opportunities for both residents and businesses, and I am confident they will achieve great success here in Parker.”
- Weldy Feazell, Director of Parker Economic Development
PARKER BUSINESS NEEDS SURVEY
Parker Business Owners: We're asking for 10 minutes of your time to take a Needs and Barriers Survey for Parker Businesses. The Town of Parker is committed to improving processes for businesses that work with the Town and understanding the greatest needs and barriers your business could be facing. We appreciate your time in providing us with feedback!
Take the survey today:
www.parkered.com/ped-business-survey