Pueblo residents are grateful to have Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet on their side. Our Senators played a pivotal role in securing inclusion of the Enhancing Use and Economic Benefits from Improved Lands (Pueblo) Act in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation, focused on shaping the future of the Pueblo Chemical Warehouse site, holds great significance for the economic development of our community.
The Pueblo Code, carefully crafted to guide the Army in the responsible reuse of the Pueblo chemical repository after the completion of the critical chemical disarmament mission, represents a beacon of hope for the people of Pueblo. Our Senators' unwavering commitment to the well-being of Pueblo is evident in their tireless advocacy for this bill, ensuring the smooth transition of Department of Defense (DoD) lands to the PuebloPlex, a designated local redevelopment authority.
This strategic and forward-looking approach not only recognizes the dedicated service provided by the Pueblo Chemical Depot and its employees, but also opens the doors to a new chapter in our economic development and promises a future of opportunity for Pueblo. This process enables us to meaningfully redevelop this land, opening vast opportunities to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and revitalize the community.
The City of Pueblo boasts a rich history, and with the transformation of the Pueblo Chemical Warehouse site, we have a unique opportunity to actively shape our own destiny.
As we look to the future, cooperation between federal and local authorities becomes even more important. The transfer of Department of Defense land to the PuebloPlex not only aligns with our shared vision of an economically thriving Pueblo, but also underscores the importance of preserving the unique spirit of our community during this transformative process.
When considering the possibilities that lie ahead, it is clear that the Pueblo Act is not just about closing a military facility but a strategic investment in our local economy – it is about driving growth in our community and creating opportunities for our residents.
In Senators Hickenlooper and Bennett, we find staunch defenders of Pueblo interests. Pueblo law is not just a legal mandate; It represents a wise step toward a future in which our community thrives economically and culturally. We express our deep gratitude to Senator Hickenlooper and Senator Bennet for their dedication to Pueblo's future, as the Pueblo Act represents a significant milestone on the path toward ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for our community.
Russell A. DeSalvo III is President and CEO of PuebloPlex
