Reps. Catlin & Taggart Score Huge Win for Western Slope Higher Education

Denver, Colorado – State Representatives Marc Catlin (R-HD58) and Rick Taggart (R-HD55) deliver big funding wins for two Western Slope Colleges. Both Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado University will receive increased funding for projects set in the state’s budget. Colorado Mesa University will receive $13.6 million for Performing Arts Center Expansion and Renovation. Western Colorado University will receive $4 million for Crawford Hall Renovation. Governor Jared Polis has signed HB24-1430 which is the 2024-25 Long Appropriations Bill.

Catlin, who sits on the Capital Development Committee (CDC) was able to move both CMU and WCU’s projects up the recommended funding list. Taggart, who sits on the Joint Budget Committee (JBC), was able to keep these projects in the appropriations bills. Representative Catlin says, “I am happy to see the funding for these two institutions signed. These universities have served as a good indicator for the vibrancy of the Western Slope. Our kids are our number one export. It is critical that we ensure our youth do not need to leave, but have a place to study and learn here on the Western Slope.”

Representative Taggart says, ”I am pleased we were able to secure the dollars to complete this very important asset for the university, and the region as a whole.”