By Olivia Chavez
The City of Cortez is pushing forward several major city-level efforts that aim to address long-standing community needs around housing, parks, and building standards. These projects represent steps toward more affordable housing, improved recreation access, and environmentally conscious infrastructure.
Park Village on 7th: A New Housing + Park Community
The Park Village on 7th project is slated to transform the former Montezuma-Cortez High School site into a mixed community combining affordable workforce housing with neighborhood green space. The plan includes around 70 units in a mix of one- to four-bedroom homes, aimed primarily at residents earning between roughly $21,000 and $81,000 annually. About half of the 14-acre site will be dedicated to a park. Currently, plans are still in the development and funding phase. A listening session originally scheduled was delayed but will be rescheduled. The effort reflects the city’s aim to make housing more accessible while retaining open space and amenities for families.
New Building Code Requirements for Sustainability
A recent ordinance adopted by the Cortez City Council requires new residential and commercial buildings to be “solar-ready” and “electric-ready,” meaning that future installation of solar panels, high-efficiency electric appliances, and electric vehicle infrastructure is accommodated in the initial design. This move, in line with state model codes, has sparked debate over costs, especially for housing developers. Supporters say it will reduce long-term energy expenses and promote cleaner growth.
Parks & Recreation Master Plan Approved
The city has approved funding—nearly $193,000—for a consultant (Kimley-Horn) to develop an updated Parks & Recreation master plan. The goal is to assess unmet community needs, prioritize infrastructure upgrades, and define sustainable projects over the next decade. Many parks in the south side of Cortez lag behind in facilities and maintenance, and this plan aims to address community concerns such as lighting, utilities, and equitable geographic access.
Housing Needs Assessment and City Code Updates
Cortez completed a Housing Needs Assessment projecting that, to keep up with job growth over the next five years, the city will need between 140 and 240 new housing units. In addition, the Code of Land Use was revised in 2025 to make development easier, especially for workforce and affordable housing. Additional edits are expected in response to new state legislation and as local needs evolve.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Community Participation
While resources and planning are moving forward, funding remains a major challenge. Upgrading aging infrastructure, procuring funds for parks, and supporting low-cost housing requires continued financial commitment from both local government and grant sources. Community feedback is being actively solicited—through workshops, surveys, and public meetings—as these proposals are refined. For example, the parks plan will include input from residents in both the city and nearby areas, including tribal communities.
These initiatives show that Cortez is laying groundwork for sustainable growth that balances affordability, environmental responsibility, and enhanced quality of life.