Fountain Daily Briefing: Growth, Cleanup and Remembrance

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Fountain Daily Briefing

Here is a quick look at what is shaping life in Fountain today, from redevelopment of a longtime neighborhood landmark to public safety updates.

Lorraine Elementary site moving toward cleanup

The city has accepted a $1.93 million federal cleanup grant to deal with contamination at the former Lorraine Elementary School site on East Iowa Avenue. The funding will pay for removing lead and other hazards so the long-vacant building can finally be demolished or rebuilt.

City leaders have talked about turning the property into a mix of community space and new housing, including more than 100 apartments just north of the old school. Neighbors are watching closely, supporting cleanup and reinvestment while also raising concerns about traffic, lighting, and how fast the community is growing.

King Soopers planned along Mesa Ridge Parkway

A new shopping center anchored by a King Soopers grocery store is planned near Mesa Ridge Parkway and Syracuse Street on the city’s east side. The 21-acre project would add another full-service grocery option in an area that now relies mostly on Safeway and Walmart for major shopping trips.

Economic development staff say the center should help keep more spending in Fountain instead of sending shoppers north to Colorado Springs. Residents are hopeful the project will ease congestion around existing stores and bring more everyday services and pharmacy options closer to fast-growing neighborhoods and Mesa Ridge High School.

Park to be renamed for Officer Julian “JB” Becerra

The city plans to rename Aspen Ranch Community Park in honor of fallen Fountain Police Officer Julian “JB” Becerra. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at the park on Lackawanna Street, and the community is invited to attend.

Family members and local officials are expected to speak about Becerra’s service and sacrifice. The new park name is meant to serve as a permanent reminder of his impact on Fountain and of the risks first responders take on behalf of the community.

Fentanyl exposure underscores safety concerns

Local police are again warning about the potency of fentanyl after an officer collapsed during a recent I-25 crash investigation in the Fountain area. Investigators say the officer was exposed while searching a vehicle connected to a suspected impaired driver and quickly became ill before receiving medical help.

The incident is prompting renewed emphasis on protective gear, training, and public awareness about the synthetic opioid, which can be dangerous even in tiny amounts. Officials continue to urge residents to call 911 if they encounter suspected drugs rather than handling them directly.

Sources

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