MEEKER | Meeker was “adopted” into the Main Street America program in 2016. The national organization is a grassroots network “committed to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.”
Initially called “Meeker: Project 45” because Meeker was the 45th municipality to be incorporated in the State of Colorado, the local group has recently leveled up to graduate status under the direction of Meeker Chamber of Commerce Director Stephanie Hanson and been rebranded as Uplift Meeker.
Projects utilizing the Main Street grants and Town of Meeker matching funds completed by the local group in the last seven years include the blue and white wayfinding signs around town, lightpole banners highlighting student art, two murals, metal planter covers with the Meeker logo, and the “parklets” currently situated outside Chipper’s and the Meeker Sweet Shop that provide outdoor dining and seating areas. The group coordinated with the Town of Meeker and CDOT to develop the bike lanes and crosswalks on Market Street.
Organizational work involved branding, visioning and strategic planning, partnerships, market assessments and property inventory.
The rebranding to Uplift Meeker brings new ideas and opportunities for community engagement and participation, including the “Pawsome Pack.” Pet bandanas are available at Home.Made (590 Main St.) for a donation. Pick one up, take a picture of your pet wearing the bandana, and share it to Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #upliftmeeker or #meekerpack. Twelve of the “Pawsome Pack” local pet photos will be selected for publication in a calendar.
Also on the horizon are plans for across-the-highway event banners across Market Street, exploring ways to direct people to visit the historic downtown area, and organizing a community-wide holiday program this season for businesses and residents alike.
Anyone interested in downtown revitalization is welcome to participate in the Uplift Meeker meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month at 12 p.m. in the Business Center at Town Hall (upstairs), or virtually. For more information, contact Hanson at 970-878-5510.
