Colorado Springs helps FedEx make big addition

FedEx is expected to make a big addition to Colorado Springs: a $20 million distribution center.

While nothing is final just yet, many hope the new building will bring new jobs.

“What is planned is a very large distribution facility. It’s about a quarter of a million square feet, which is a large building,” said Bob Cope, a business climate specialist with the city of Colorado Springs.

Just southwest of Powers Boulevard and Platte Avenue there’s 27 acres of vacant land- a perfect spot for the new building.

“Any time you have something that significant occur in the community you know it’s going to be good for the economy,” said Cope.

But just how good? That’s something we’ll have to wait to find out.

Until the deal is approved, FedEx can’t comment on the specifics of the project, including the amount of jobs it could create.

“Assuming this project goes forward and breaks ground, it will inevitably grow our economy,” said Cope.

Cope says the city is doing everything it can to make that happen.

“The city is putting this project through its rapid response process,” said Cope.

That means it helps speed up paperwork with land-use approvals and building permits.

“It usually reduces that time by 50 percent,” Cope said. “If it goes forward this will be a win.”

The project is expected to be approved by the city at the end of December.