Pot money going to repair roads

Money from marijuana is helping the roads in Pueblo West thanks to a resolution passed by Pueblo County commissioners.

“We hear a lot, we want to know how marijuana funds are being spent, this is something specific we can point to,” said Sal Pace, a Pueblo County commissioner.

Some $200,000 from marijuana sales tax money will go toward roadwork in Pueblo West.

“It takes some of our roads that are in need of maintenance and gives it a new surface to drive on. it extends the life cycle of that pavement,” said Shawn Winters, the assistant engineer for Pueblo West.

The roads in line for repair include Laramie Avenue, Avenita Del Oro and a main Pueblo West thoroughfare: Purcell Boulevard.

Work has already begun on parts of Purcell and crews hope to begin sealing those other gravel roads in the coming weeks.

“But because of the traffic that they receive, the volume, they’re going to get chip sealed as well.”

Pace says it’s also important for the image of the city.

“Everyone drives on the roads in Pueblo West, not just the citizens of Pueblo West. So this will impact the lives of everyone in the community,” Pace said.