A much in-demand food bank based in Colorado has announced plans to build a new combined food distribution center and warehouse in Grand Junction.
The Food Bank of the Rockies currently has what it calls its Western Slope operation in the city of Palisade. But officials with the group say that facility, at 28,000 square feet, is too small for current needs.
The Western Slope facility serves residents in some 13 western Colorado counties, and in 2020 stored and ultimately delivered more than 12 million pounds of food.
The proposed new center would go up on Long Acre Drive, near the intersection of G Road and 3rd Road, and will measure around 50,000 square feet.
As planned, the larger facility will allow for more storage space for any number of food items, especially produce. The new center will feature special refrigeration controls, solar energy, LED lighting, and a cardboard recycling system.
The organization has announced a $10.8 million capital campaign to fund construction of the new center, with hopes that work may begin later this year.
By Garry Boulard
