Greeley voted for the future of New Hockey Stadium and Entertainment District, suggesting it is a “local hub” in northern Colorado

The city of Greeley is looking to develop what’s known as the “local hub” in northern Colorado, and on Tuesday night the project will bring it a step closer to reality. Greeley City Council will vote Tuesday night whether to approve a pre-development agreement that will advance proposals to build an arena in West Greeley.

The proposal is being driven primarily by the Water Valley Company, which owns the Colorado Eagles, a minor league hockey team. The team is currently playing at Loveland’s Blue Arena.

Greeley Mayor Raymond Lee told CBS News Colorado that it is important for many voters to bring the entertainment district to Greeley.

“I think the citizens of Greeley are very loud and clear that they want more amenities, more attractions,” Lee said.

The population of northern Colorado is projected to double over the next 20 years, and Greeley is just one of several communities trying to absorb as much tax as possible through entertainment and development.

“We don’t want to see those sales taxes leave our community and go to the surrounding communities. We want to make sure that we provide amenities and attractions to the people in our community,” Lee said.

The Water Valley Company hopes to build an arena just north of us, near Windsor. The project is located west of Highway 257. Lee said the first 1,800 acre development would likely feature arenas, conference centres, hotels and water parks, if approved by the council.

The surrounding undeveloped property is estimated at around 8,000 acres, and could ultimately follow suit to development. City officials want to build homes, restaurants, parks and more for future residents of many economic backgrounds.

“In a big look back, Western Greeley is Greeley’s future,” Lee said. “We grew west as this community grew in size and scope.”

Lee said the city knows that growth in the area has already begun, and by taking on projects like this, citizens today can speak directly at Greeley tomorrow.

“It’s a much bigger picture we’re looking at overall, and this is a small element of that,” Lee said. “We don’t want to forget the past, and we don’t want to forget why this community has become what it is today. But the future is bright for Greeley. This is a step in that direction if the council votes to pass this.”