Estes Park Advances Plan to Expand Childcare Capacity

Originally published by the Estes Park Trail Gazette. Read the full article here.

Earlier this month, the Estes Park Board of Trustees expressed support for the town’s Childcare Facility Master Plan following a presentation by EPIC outlining strategies to expand childcare access throughout the Estes Valley.

Supported by a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), the master plan was developed through a partnership between Estes Park and EPIC to identify sustainable childcare solutions for the community. The plan highlights opportunities to strengthen existing childcare providers, redevelop existing facilities and build partnerships that increase childcare capacity.

EPIC’s recommendations prioritize solutions that can address the community’s most immediate needs, including expanding access to licensed infant and toddler care.

Then plan will help guide future investment in childcare infrastructure supported through the town’s 6E funds, which were approved by voters in 2022 to support essential community needs, including workforce housing and childcare initiatives.