GREELEY, Colo. — Over 500 community members and city leaders came to Greeley’s 2025 State of the City event Thursday, February 27, at the Aims Community College Welcome Center. Greeley City Manager Raymond Lee opened the event, followed by Mayor John Gates’ keynote address. The event also included entertainment and ways for residents to get involved in their city.
This was Mayor Gates’ last State of the City address as he serves his fourth and final term. Both Lee and Gates reflected on Greeley’s progress in 2024. They explained that innovative planning, new economic opportunities and a more connected community will move the city forward in 2025.
“One priority stands out as foundational to all others: Economic development,” Lee said. He added, “Economic development serves as the engine that drives growth, creates opportunities and fuels prosperity. Greeley is not leaving it to chance. We are leading it!”
Gates also emphasized the impact of economic development on the city’s future.
“As we grow, it's essential for Greeley to step up and meet the needs of our residents while driving this transformation and progress. With this focus, we are on a mission to level-up and create better jobs, higher wages and the best quality of life you can find in Northern Colorado,” he said.
Growth in West Greeley
One major project highlighted was Cascadia, the proposed 300-acre development near U.S. 34 and CO 257. Gates explained that the city is working with The Water Valley Company to bring the project to Greeley.
“This public and private partnership would include a brand-new ice arena, a state-of-the-art hotel, a world-class water park, high-end retail, new restaurants and a transportation hub to connect it all.”
The city sees the potential development of Cascadia as a key player in Greeley’s economy. It could create jobs, businesses, housing opportunities and more revenue. This money would support schools, public safety and city services.
“Strategic development will be a powerhouse for our local economy,” Gates said.
Progress with Purpose: Future Projects
Gates highlighted “progress with purpose” as he shared updates on other major projects moving forward in 2025:
- A Reimagined Downtown: This proposal includes a civic campus that brings together partners like Weld County and Greeley-Evans School District 6. It will redesign Lincoln Park and could add more hotels, stores, and event venues downtown.
- MERGE: The city’s biggest infrastructure project will connect north and south Greeley. The goal is to improve traffic flow and safety. Gates thanked voters for passing Issue 2M. The measure provides low-interest financing for important transportation upgrades: “Our infrastructure must keep pace with growth and everyday life,” Gates said.
- The Real Time Information Center (RTIC): The RTIC launched last fall. It is a state-of-the-art public safety project. The RTIC uses technology like traffic cameras, drones and license plate readers. This helps improve emergency response times.
- The Poudre River Restoration Initiative: This multi-year project will address river migration and erosion. It will also explore how the river could transform to create new spaces for recreation and connection along the banks.
- gBeta: This startup incubator helps new businesses. It offers coaching, mentorship and over $1 million in resources.
“We are at a pivotal moment, where the foundation we’ve built is poised to support incredible growth and transformation, enhancing our community vitality for generations to come,” Gates said.
For more details on the event, read the transcript of the address in the digital media kit. The media kit will continue to be updated with event photos and video throughout the day.
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