In Kit Carson, Colorado, a small town with a population of just 250, a revitalization effort is underway, led by local resident Amy Howlett Johnson. Over the last several decades, Johnson has been instrumental in transforming the community through initiatives focused on affordable housing, infrastructure renewal, and fostering local pride.
Kit Carson, which once faced challenges such as vacant homes and a struggling school district, has begun to see a resurgence thanks to the efforts of the Kit Carson Rural Development (KCRD) organization. Johnson, who became involved with KCRD in 2005, has worked tirelessly to address the acute housing shortage that threatened the town’s future. This initiative was not only about building homes but also about ensuring that families could remain in the community, thus supporting the local school and economy.
The nonprofit has successfully acquired and renovated blighted properties, resulting in 19 newly constructed affordable homes and four renovated units. These homes have been made available to families at prices significantly lower than typical market rates, ensuring accessibility for residents. By addressing housing needs, KCRD has played a critical role in stabilizing the local population, with over 20% of Kit Carson School’s students having lived in homes developed by the organization.
Beyond housing, KCRD has also focused on improving the town’s infrastructure and economy. Under Johnson’s leadership, the organization has transformed vacant spaces into commercial areas, including a grocery store and a community center known as The Hub, which features coworking spaces and even a Tesla Supercharging station. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract visitors and potential new residents to Kit Carson.
Since its inception, KCRD has leveraged over $5 million in grants and contributions to support its projects, reflecting a growing belief in the potential of this rural community. Johnson emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of belonging and commitment among residents, which has become essential for the town’s transformation.
As Kit Carson continues to evolve, Johnson’s vision remains focused on building a thriving community. Her work exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated local leadership can have on revitalizing rural areas, transforming blight into promise and fostering a sense of community identity.
Check out the original article here: Source link
