As Grand Junction continues to grow as the economic and cultural heart of Colorado’s Western Slope, the community is reimagining how it builds for the future.

Once known primarily for its agriculture and energy sectors, Grand Junction is now drawing new residents, entrepreneurs and developers with its high quality of life, affordability and proximity to unmatched outdoor recreation.

This growth has come with a shift in development trends and an increased emphasis on sustainability, resilience and smarter land use.

Growth with Purpose

The City of Grand Junction has added nearly 10,000 residents over the past decade, and projections show population growth is expected to continue steadily. Newcomers are attracted by the area’s scenic beauty, access to biking and hiking trails, vibrant downtown and overall lower cost of living compared to Front Range cities such as Denver and Boulder.

However, this growth brings challenges, particularly around housing affordability, resource management and urban sprawl. To address these concerns, the City of Grand Junction implemented several zoning and development code updates to encourage infill housing, mixed-use projects and walkable neighborhoods.

The recent adoption of the city’s new comprehensive plan emphasizes compact growth, improved transportation connectivity and environmental stewardship. Neighborhoods such as Dos Rios and developments near Las Colonias Park are examples of how the city is blending recreation, residential and commercial development in thoughtful ways.

Current projects by local developers further demonstrate this shift toward purpose-driven growth. The Thunder Valley project introduces thoughtfully designed housing in a scenic Redlands location, combining access to open space with a variety of home options.

In Fruita, the Dinosaur Residential Community is in progress as a master-planned development that embraces smart design and accessibility. Meanwhile, Summer Hill, an established community, continues to attract residents with its low-maintenance, energy-conscious homes and stunning views of Colorado National Monument.

Green Building in Practice

Developers and builders in the Grand Valley are increasingly adopting sustainable construction practices, not only to meet code requirements, but to respond to consumer demand for more efficient, eco-conscious homes and workplaces. Residential projects in neighborhoods like Redlands Mesa and The Ridges often feature solar-ready roofs, energy-efficient windows and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Commercial developers are also taking note. Medical and office buildings near Community Hospital and along Patterson Road are being built with sustainability in mind by incorporating features such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, low-emission materials and electric-vehicle-charging stations. The city’s permitting department continues to support projects that aim for LEED or Energy Star certification, and utility providers such as Xcel Energy and Grand Valley Power offer rebates and incentives to encourage energy-saving upgrades.

In 2022, the City of Grand Junction adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), one of the most advanced sets of energy-efficiency standards in the country. These changes support the city’s climate goals while helping residents and businesses reduce long-term operating costs.

Looking Ahead

Grand Junction is at a pivotal point in its development. With its natural beauty, strong sense of community and commitment to sustainability, the city is poised to become a model for thoughtful growth in mid-sized Western municipalities.

Projects like the Riverfront at Las Colonias, Horizon Drive improvements and expansion of the downtown business district all signal a future where development is guided by principles of environmental responsibility, economic vitality and quality of life.

As residents, business leaders and developers, we all have a role to play in shaping the future of Grand Junction.

Kevin Bray is director of development for Bray & Co. Real Estate Development.