DEL NORTE – The past year in Del Norte has brought about several changes to the community, many of which have focused on health and revitalization, including the completion of several projects that have been in the works for years.  

Though there was a slow start to the year due to inclement weather which brought several inches of late-season snow, once the weather cleared, spring brought with it the beginning of what was a successful year in Del Norte.  

The Rio Grande County Museum, with the help of Creek Water Construction and several volunteers, started the year with an exciting project that brought the Barlow and Sanderson Stagecoach Office to its new home at the museum. Crews worked for three days to dismantle the 149-year-old office and bring it to the museum with the help of the Town of Del Norte and the road and bridge departments from both the town and Rio Grande County. By the end of 2024, soft glowing candlelight could be glimpsed through the windows of the stage office and work continues to complete the building by spring of 2025. 

Rio Grande Hospital had a pivotal year as it completed its wellness center and cottages that house families receiving long-term care and visiting physicians. The Rio Grande Hospital Wellness Center opened its doors to the public, offering meeting spaces, wellness classes and forums. The hospital also received several awards for their continued work to achieve wellness in all forms and for their forward thinking in preventative care.  

Shortly after the Wellness Center was completed, the community gathered to celebrate the completion of an exercise pad that was constructed thanks to the efforts of the Town of Del Norte, Rio Grande County Public Health Department, and Rio Grande County. The outdoor exercise area was a welcome addition to the Del Norte Town Park at the north end of town. 

In August, the Town of Del Norte began the downtown revitalization project that included several months of construction until late fall. The project consisted of new ADA compliant sidewalks, new streetlights, benches, trash receptacles and more. Though this was one of two phases for the project, the completion of the first phase was just in time for the holiday celebrations in town.