Pueblo officials say DOJ $100 million grant bid advanced; leaders urge diversion, jail repurposing

Commissioners reported that Pueblo advanced to the next stage in a Department of Justice $100 million grant competition after a one-hour presentation with city and county leaders, law enforcement and the district attorney. Officials described the presentation as high-level and said DOJ will determine which cities, likely two to four, receive awards. Commissioners urged planning now to ensure any funds prioritize diversion, harm reduction and reuse of the county’s old jail as a recovery center.

"We had a phone or a Zoom call with DOJ yesterday, and made it to that level of the runnings," Chair McPherson said, describing the one-hour session that included multiple presenters. Commissioners emphasized the need to preserve planning for a recovery center and to ensure prevention and harm-reduction programs are central to any proposal if Pueblo receives funding. No award had been announced; commissioners said DOJ will review applications and may request additional detail.