Colorado Governor Polis Addressed Housing Affordability and Strategies to Reduce Costs

Colorado Governor Jared Polis visited Grand Junction on Feb. 16, 2024, to discuss housing affordability, transit, jobs, and economic growth.

Key topics

• Affordable housing near job centers and transit.
• Support for small businesses and well-paying jobs.
• Workforce development and student career preparation.
• Expanded air service for Grand Junction.

Roundtable and chamber remarks

Polis began with a Circular Economy Roundtable Discussion at the Business Incubator Center. He said Colorado has one of the nation’s strongest economies and that Grand Junction and the Western Slope are important to the state’s prosperity.

He later spoke to the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. He said housing and transit are major concerns across Colorado and should remain top priorities as the state approaches its 150th anniversary in two years.

ADU housing visit

Polis visited Låda Cube, a Grand Junction manufacturer of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

• ADUs are described as a popular housing solution supported by 78% of Coloradans.
• 87% of residents are cited as saying there is a lack of affordable housing options.
• Polis said streamlined processes would help facilitate ADU construction.

John Fay, owner of Lada Cube, said the company supports solving housing affordability and closing gaps in housing opportunity across income levels.

Air service announcement

Polis joined Breeze Airways in announcing new direct service from Grand Junction Regional Airport to Orange County–Santa Ana, California. He also mentioned upcoming direct flights to San Francisco.

He said the new service offers affordable travel options and could support Grand Junction’s economy, tourism, and business growth.

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