North College Area in Fort Collins embarks on a extensive restoration plan with significant land purchases.
The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority (FCURA) has taken a significant step towards revitalizing the North College neighborhood by purchasing a long-vacant property at 1636 North College Avenue. The former grocery store building, which has been empty since 2014, was bought on July 15, 2025.
The 50,097-square-foot building, situated on 4.68 acres near the intersection of Willox Lane and North College Avenue, marks the beginning of a promising new era for the community. While specific redevelopment plans have yet to be finalized, FCURA has expressed a commitment to blight remediation and transformational investment in the North College neighbourhood.
Jeni Arndt, FCURA Chairperson and Mayor of Fort Collins, stated, "We remain committed to making transformational investments in the North College neighbourhood, addressing concerns about blight and criminal activity, and reimagining this property as a vibrant focal point for North College Avenue."
The FCURA plans to engage in proactive community outreach soon, focusing on discussions about housing and a long-anticipated community center as important elements in any future redevelopment program. The acquisition is seen as a pivotal step in the city's efforts to transform this underutilized site into a vibrant, community-centered space.
The city views this property purchase as a foundation for larger revitalization efforts along the North College corridor. The redevelopment aims to create opportunities for economic development in the area and improve the quality of life for residents.
Discussions with the property owner began in 2022 and culminated in the signing of a purchase contract in December 2024. The following months included inspections and preliminary outreach. For updates on FCURA's redevelopment plans and public engagement opportunities, visit fcura.org.
The redevelopment efforts are expected to address previous community concerns about blight and criminal activity, and rejuvenate the area. The community is eagerly awaiting the start of this promising new era, with hopes of seeing the property transformed into a vibrant and active part of the North College community.
- The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority (FCURA) aims to rejuvenate the North College neighborhood by transforming a vacant property in Fort Collins, with specific plans still in development.
- The acquisition of the 50,097-square-foot building at 1636 North College Avenue is a pivotal step towards creating a community-centered space that encourages economic development and improved quality of life.
- Aside from housing and a community center, the FCURA plans to focus on real-estate investments and blight remediation as part of their redevelopment strategy for the North College neighborhood.
- As the redevelopment efforts progress, the FCURA plans to engage the community in discussions and invest in educational programs that will ultimately benefit businesses and finance opportunities in the area.
