Congressman Crow Delivers Nearly $5 Million in CO-06 Community Project Funding
Crow secured funding to expand hunger-relief efforts, create new community hub for young Coloradans, and improve critical water infrastructure
DENVER & AURORA — Today, Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) delivered funding he secured for three community projects totaling nearly $5,000,000. The community projects included $1,000,000 for Food Bank of the Rockies to expand hunger-relief efforts, $3,000,000 for the City of Aurora to renovate Aurora’s Central Library, and $900,000 for Aurora Water to replace aging pressure regulating valves and improve water service. These are three of the 15 community projects Congressman Crow secured funding for through the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations process to directly benefit residents of Colorado's 6th District.
“Whether it’s knowing where your next meal will come from, having a safe place for our students to go after 3:00 p.m., or improving drinking water infrastructure – these projects help our communities thrive,” said Congressman Crow. “I’m glad to have fought for and secured funding for Food Bank of the Rockies and the City of Aurora. Together, we’re expanding critical services and support where it’s needed most.”
Food Bank of the Rockies’ Equipment Needs
The funding Crow requested and secured will help Food Bank of the Rockies purchase additional equipment, including high reach forklifts and riding electric pallet jacks, that will enhance storage capacity.
In partnership with 92 food pantries and relief organizations in Arapahoe County and 77 in Aurora, funding for Food Bank of the Rockies’ high lift truck project will support ongoing and future efforts to provide families in need with nutritious, familiar food, including meals distributed to individuals through federal safety net food programs like TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) and connecting families to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
At Food Bank of the Rockies Distribution Center in Denver, Crow was joined by executive leadership, staff, and volunteers of Colorado's largest hunger-relief nonprofit, serving 32 counties in our state.
Rep. Crow with Food Bank of the Rockies President and CEO Erin Pulling, executive leadership, staff, and volunteers.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Congressman Jason Crow
“We’re incredibly grateful for this impactful funding secured by Congressman Crow. This comes at a critical time when more families than ever are finding themselves in the difficult position of choosing between putting food on the table and paying other essential bills. This funding will help Food Bank of the Rockies better address the growing need and expand our capacity to distribute nourishing food to our Hunger Relief Partners and neighbors in need,” said Erin Pulling, Food Bank of the Rockies President & CEO.
The Aurora Central Public Library Renovation & Pressure Regulating Valve Improvements
The City of Aurora will use the $3,000,000 in funding Crow requested and secured to remodel the 55,000 sq. ft Aurora Central library to create a community hub for teens and a dedicated space for STEAM pursuits – providing youth with a safe space to learn.
At Aurora’s Central Public Library, Crow was joined by Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, city officials, and community partners.
Rep. Crow with Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman and Aurora Library and Cultural Services Director Ginger White Brunetti.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Congressman Jason Crow
“The safe delivery of water and the access to knowledge afforded by our libraries are among the most important services we provide to the public; on behalf of the city of Aurora and its residents, I want to thank Congressman Crow for his continued support,” said Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman.
“Creating welcoming places for youth to safely gather fuels positive community interactions”, said Ginger White Brunetti, Aurora Library and Cultural Services Director. “This unique space will also foster a learning environment where teens can explore and develop STEM skills.”
Rep. Crow with Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman and Aurora Water General Manager Marshall Brown.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Congressman Jason Crow
The City of Aurora will also use the $900,000 in funding Congressman Crow requested and secured to improve critical water infrastructure by relocating aging Pressure Regulating Valves (PRVs) away from high traffic intersections, upgrade them for worker safety, and improve water delivery services for tens of thousands of residents. Last year, Crow delivered funding to replace Aurora’s waterlines.
“The PRV replacement program ensures system reliability and sustainability. It allows Aurora Water to move these valves to better locations, allowing for easier maintenance and improved worker safety,” said Aurora Water General Manager Marshall Brown. “The funding allows Aurora Water to move up this project in its capital improvement plan priorities by several years.”