Parks and Recreation

Come check out the new John McConnell Math & Science Center Teen MakerSpace at the Fruita Civic Center!  Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-7 and Saturdays from 1-4.

For a hip, cool, quirky, funky, home-grown, genuine experience come to Cavalcade's Monthly Variety Show. Listen to the witty and often poignant ongoing tale about a fictitious town called Melon, hear phenomenal music performed by guest musicians and our own in-house band, and go home with a smile on your face, a skip in your step, and thoughts to ponder.

$10-adults, $5-students. Tickets available at the door or reserved in advance by calling 970-260-5413.

The city is looking for your input on the overall design of the Interstate Gateway and surrounding area which includes the on/off ramps, bridges, roundabouts, and vehicle & pedestrian pathways. We want your input on landscaping, color, and theme, signage, monuments and anything else that’s missing. We’re all ears!

Join us every Saturday afternoon at 4pm to read and discuss the work of a different poet.

This month's poets are:

10/3      Walt Whitman
10/10    Emily Dickinson
10/17    Edna St. Vincent Millay
10/24    Alexander Pope
10/31    Edgar Allan Poe

Appearing at Cavalcade on Friday, November 13th at 7:30 pm is songwriter and storyteller Gabrielle Louise, accompanied by David Kaye of Sandy Hook, CT. $12 tickets.

Gabrielle has honed her craft and stage presence from the inspiration of feminine forces like Joni Mitchell and Eva Cassidy, and has had the honor of sharing the stage with many great troubadours including Richie Havens, Patty Larkin, Eliza Gilkyson and Guy Clark. For this special performance, long time friend and musical collaborator David Kaye will compliment Gabrielle's songs with tasteful additions on guitar, mandolin, and dobro.

Fruita Community Center Art Exhibit Artist Call

Fruita, CO – Artists Call - Artists are asked to submit proposals to the City of Fruita Parks and Recreation Department 324 N Coulson, Fruita no later than 4:00 pm on Monday January 12, 2016.  Artwork may be submitted as images on a CD, thumb drive, or a portfolio (physical binder or folder with photographs of artwork) or web site.  Proposals will be evaluated by the Fruita Arts and Culture Board. Selections will be made at the Wednesday January 13, Arts and Culture Board Meeting. Artist must be able to hang art work on February 1 and leave exhibit until the end of April 2016.

The exhibit is to be placed in the Fruita Community Center in three (3) month increments.  The artist must consider the space desired in drafting the proposal.

The goal of exhibits and art displays in the Community Center facility is to provide an entertaining and informative place to gather, interact and be an active and healthy community.

For further information and artist release documents, please visit fruita.org/parksrec.

Held at the Fruita United Methodist Church at 405 E. Aspen in Fruita.  Annual Corn beef and cabbage dinner includes Irish Stew, dessert and beverage.   Dinner is served from 4 to 6 p.m.   Adults $9 each, children under 12 $5.

Monument View Montessori is a proposed Montessori charter school that will be located in Fruita, opening in the fall of 2017.  To learn more about Montessori style education and the development of the school, please join us for dinner at Judy's Restaurant on March 24th from 5-7pm.  Tickets can be purchased in advance by contacting Melanie Harmon, 602-614-5216 or Ellen Robinson, 970-712-7051.  Tickets are $10.00/adult and $4.00/child (under 12).  There will be a silent auction with donations from the local area to raise money for the proposed school.

FMHS Bands, Orchestra and Choir Departments would like to invite you to attend our annual Chili Supper featuring live music, silent auction, dinner, dessert and lets not forget the cake walk. Merely $5 per person at the Fruita Monument High School March 17th, 6-8 PM in the North Gym. Thank you to our sponsors, (sneak peak of just a few silent auction items include travel packages, professional massage/spa treatments, truck load of gravel and so much more!) We look forward to seeing you there!!

Purpose: The goal of exhibits and art displays in the Fruita Community Center is to have an active, healthy interaction with the community as they enjoy the facility and gather there for events and programs. In providing or denying space for exhibit, the City does not imply that the materials not meet critical standards for display nor does the City endorse or support the artist’s point of view.

Scope: Fruita Community Center will display four artists per year for a period of 90 days each. Art will be displayed in areas determined by the Parks and Recreation Director and the FCC Manager. Exhibits are ultimately approved by the consideration of the Fruita Arts and Culture Board.

Security and Liability: The City of Fruita does not carry any insurance for exhibits or artwork displayed in its facility and cannot be held responsible for the safety of any item on display in the building. There are public areas that cannot be consistently monitored against damage, theft or vandalism. Exhibitors are encouraged to contact an independent insurance agent for liability coverage.

Requests for Displays: Fruita Community Center will display the art of four artists per year. The Fruita Arts and Culture Board will screen all artist applications. Please submit application and portfolio to The City of Fruita Parks and Recreation Department 324 N Coulson Fruita CO 81521 recreation@fruita.org Call 970-858-0360 for more information. Artwork maybe submitted as images on a CD, thumb drive, or a portfolio (physical binder or folder with photographs of artwork) or web site. You may pick up your media once the Arts and Culture Board makes a selection.

Hanging and Removing Exhibits: All artwork must be of a size and weight able to be supported by the hanging mechanism in place. The FCC Manager will be responsible for how pieces are to be displayed and will oversee the hanging and removal of all pieces.

Sale of Artwork: If a piece sells during the 90-day display period, the artist may submit another piece approved by FCC Superintendant to replace the sold piece for the remainder of the 90-day exhibit. Any sales or transaction between the artist and an interested buyer are the artist’s responsibility and should be handled directly between the artist and buyer. Artists are responsible for collecting and reporting sales tax on sold items.  A Fruita Business License may be obtained at the Fruita Civic Center, City Clerk’s Office.

Fund raising yard sale at Fruita United Methodist Church.

Join us for the Alpine Bank Fruita Fall Festival presented by Family Health West. 

• Live Music
• Carnival Rides
• 125+ Vendor Booths
• Beer Gardens
• and Much More!!!

Join CCA and the Fruita Parks & Recreation Department for a rich and interesting evening presentation about the many historical cabins and structures found in the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.  

For questions or more information please contact CCA's NCA Stewardship Coordinator Bry Kuhlman at bryanna@canyonsassociation.org.  

Ride your bike and/or run - pick your treads at Little Salt Wash Park!  All levels of bicycle racing and running available for the entire family.

Hours are 8:00-1:00    $8 12 and older, $5 under 12

All proceeds go toward renovations of the schoolhouse.

Door Prizes and a Bump & Jump for the kids!

· Join us for the second annual “Fruita 0.038 Marathon,” a one-mile race starting and ending at Circle Park in downtown Fruita. 
· Attendees can enjoy music, vendors and entertainment while awaiting and cheering on the runners of the US Bank Rim Rock Marathon as they also cross the finish line at Circle Park. 
· All participants receive a complimentary day pass to the Fruita Community Center and a 0.038 Marathon bumper sticker.

10:00:  Men’s Open

10:20:  Women’s Open

10:40 Family Fun Run

Join us for the unofficial start to mountain biking in Colorado at the world renowned 22nd Annual US Bank Fruita Fat Tire Festival. Guided rides, bands, parties, and bike industry EXPO await attendees. 

Join the Trek Dirt Series on Sept. 16-17 for a two-day women-specific mountain bike instructional camp in Fruita.
The camp, led by professional instructors, caters to cross-country and all-mountain riders, and is open to those with beginner, intermediate and advanced skills.  It includes skill development sessions in the mornings, small group instructional rides in the afternoons, as well as bike maintenance clinics, food, and drinks in the evening.  The program is inspirational and transformative, and often considered the best and most established of its kind.  For more information or to register visit www.dirtseries.com.  
 

Annual Maggie and Jiggs corned beef and cabbage dinner with Irish stew, pie and beverage.  Saturday March 11th from 4 to 6 PM.  At the Fruita United Methodist Church, 405 East Aspen Street, Fruita.  858-3490.  Adults $9.00.  Children under 12 $5.00.

The Girls on the Run 5k is one of largest running events in western Colorado with an anticipated 2,800+ participants. It will be held on Saturday, May 6th, 2016 at 10:00 am at Shelledy Elementary School in Fruita, CO. 

It is a special event for an anticipated 1,800 girls throughout western Colorado who have participated in the Girls on the Run program and trained for a 5k.  The run is the culminating event of their season and for many girls it is their first 5k.  For all the girls, it is yet another step in their path towards confident, healthy living.

For a hip, cool, quirky, funky, home-grown, genuine experience come to Cavalcade's Monthly Variety Show.

Monument View Montessori Charter School, Fruita's first and only Charter school is having information nights for the community. Come out and see what we are all about, get your questions answered, see the property and enroll your children.

We are currently enrolling for 18 mos through 3rd grade.

Monument View Montessori Charter School, Fruita's first and only Charter school is having information nights for the community. Come out and see what we are all about, get your questions answered, see the property and enroll your children.

We are currently enrolling for 18 mos through 3rd grade.

Monument View Montessori Charter School, Fruita's first and only Charter school is having information nights for the community. Come out and see what we are all about, get your questions answered, see the property and enroll your children.

We are currently enrolling for 18 mos through 3rd grade.

On August 26th, join the Tamarisk Coalition and local river experts for "Raft the River," a fun, educational float trip and dinner along the Colorado River in Fruita, Colorado from 1pm~6:30 pm.

This one-day float trip will provide attendees with a “behind the scenes” look at the work being done to rejuvenate the treasured riparian (riverside) area in the Grand Valley and beyond.

Guided by Rimrock Adventures, attendees will talk with local river experts during the float and explore the past, current, and future riverside restoration sites and reclaimed wildlife areas at a few stops along the river. Discussions will also include the tamarisk beetle, fish, and other wildlife.

After the float, participants will be greeted with live music, delicious food, drinks (including beer from Copper Club Brewing Company), and prizes.

Cost is $68 for Tamarisk Coalition members; $80 for non-members, and includes the float, shuttle, raft guides, dinner, beer, and music.

What: Colorado’s annual celebration of bicycle commuting
Where: Across Colorado

Why you should ride: Celebrate your daily bicycle commute or begin a new bike commuting habit by stopping at the Fruita Community Center for a FREE breakfast sponsored by Colorado Canyons Hospital & Medical Center from 6:30-9:00 am. 

Enter the Commuter Challenge
Register your business as part of the Mesa County Business Biking Challenge
To register, or for information on other Colorado Bike Month event details, visit:​http://www.healthymesacounty.org/bike-month-btwd
​Fruita’s June 28 flashride—more information to come! 

Did you know that the City of Fruita owns land, water rights, and a water supply system on Pinon Mesa, south of Glade Park?  These assets are an important part of Fruita’s history, but the future of maintaining Mountain Water is unclear.  Before any decisions can be made, the City would like to make sure that residents understand the background of what the City owns and get feedback on this important issue.  

The City of Fruita is uncertain about the sustainability of continuing to maintain the mountain water and land assets and would like your input as a long term plan is developed.  On average, the City expends approximately $90,000 per year for maintenance of the mountain water system. In addition to this annual cost, over the past 10 years, the City has expended over $1 million on major repairs to dams.  The City currently faces another $1 million project to repair another dam at one of the reservoirs.  Considering the City only owns 240 shares of water rights on Piñon Mesa, inaccessible within the City limits, compared to the 2,400 unused city-owned shares that are accessible and usable within the City, this is a very important decision to make moving forward. 

The City exists to provide necessary core services to residents and businesses in the community. As an organization, the City is focused on aligning resources and time to provide high quality services while impacting and increasing the level of quality of place, economic health and lifestyle of the Fruita community. 

The City will be hosting an open house on Friday, June 2, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm in the old DMV room of the Civic Center (first room on right when entering the south entrance) just prior to the night activities of the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival that evening. We invite you to join us to learn more about our mountain water rights and properties and so we may gather input from Fruita residents on the assets owned by the City of Fruita on Pinon Mesa.  Please consider attending, listening and sharing your thoughts on this important matter. 

Pass the Glade Park Store on DS Road and continue West until you arrive at the school house.

Lower Valley Pumpkin Patch offers a large four acre pumpkin patch with 12 different varieties of pumpkins, flint corn, corn stalk and straw bales for all of your fall decorating needs.  We offer affordable pricing for the individual as well as bulk pricing for your special event.  Please call us today at 970-270-7060 or come visit us at the patch located at 19 & O Road in Fruita.

23rd Annual US BANK Fruita Fat Tire Festival presented by the City of Fruita

May 4  - 6, 2018

EXPO INFORMATION

Festival & Demo Pass Packet Pickup Times/locations

May 4th 8 am - 4 pm at Trailside Demo Venue at 18 Rd

May 5th 8 am - 4 pm at Trailside Demo Venue at 18 Rd

May 6th 8 am - 2 pm at Trailside Demo Venue at 18 Rd

Demo/Expo Times 

This year’s EXPO will feature industry leaders who will provide demo bikes right at the 18 Road Trailhead for your use. You must purchase either a Fest or Demo Pass to check out a bike and they are first come, first served (PLEASE NOTE: event cannot guarantee or schedule access to the demo bikes). 

May 4th 8 am - 4 pm

May 5th 8 am - 4 pm

May 6th 8 am - 2 pm

Group Rides

Group Rides location is the “new” Demo bike Venue at the 18 Rd Trailhead-There will be 3 Guided Rides again for 2018, but Ride trail locations and meeting times are TBD.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Festival Pass Includes

Access to demo bikes and group rides all weekend (PLEASE NOTE: event cannot guarantee or schedule access to the demo bikes. This will be first come, first served at the demo venue).

• Commemorative Silipint silicone Pint glass
• Commemorative T-shirt
• 1 Beer coupon to be used at Downtown Fruita Street Parties on Friday/Saturday evenings

$75 early bird registration/$85 registration/$95 late registration

Demo Pass Includes

Access to demo bikes only

$20 for event time frame

FESTIVAL PARTY INFORMATION

Downtown Fruita “Fest” Street Parties

Friday May 4th 5:30 - 9: 30 pm

Bands 5:30 - 7 pm, 7:30 - 9:30 pm

Beer Garden Sponsored by the Fruita Rotary 5:30 - last call at 9:15 pm

Saturday May 5th 5:30 - 9:30 pm

Bands 5:30 -7 pm, 7:30  -9:30 pm

Beer Garden Sponsored by the Fruita Rotary 5:30 - last call at 9:15 pm

Downtown Fruita “Fest” Street Parties Location

Mulberry Ave behind Over the Edge Fruita on the south to the front of the Hot Tomato on the north. This includes the Beer Garden. 

The Fruita Historic Preservation Board presents the 2018 Fruita History Fair, featuring displays about the importance of agriculture, ranches, schools, railroads, water, and Colorado National Monument to Fruita and the Grand Valley; then-and-now photo displays; a slide show; free Fruita History Coloring and Activity Books for kids; and more.

On Saturday, April 21, 2018 the 9Health Fair is returning to the Grand Valley.  After a five year absence, Family Health West and the City of Fruita are partnering with 9Health to bring back this community event.  The Health Fair provides low cost and no cost health screenings to anyone interested in participating.  We will also be offering compression-only CPR classes. 

To register or volunteer visit 9HealthFair.org

For more information  call (303) 698-4455 or  1(800) 332-3078
 

Hope of the Grand Valley is excited to bring you one of a kind road running race (10k & 5k), sanctioned under USATF! Which means you'll get to earn credits for your future USATF races... Entire course is safe away from cars as this will take place on the brand new concrete path between Fruita and Loma. Start and finish in the cul-de-sac across the street from Fruita Rec Center.

In partnership with Mesa County's Great Old Broads for Wilderness and the Western Colorado Alliance for Community Action, we're happy to announce our third hike & happy hour of the summer!
 
Our chosen hike is called Wildcat Trail on the Uncompahgre National Forest and our happy hour location is Edgewater Brewery.
 
The plan is to meet at Edgewater Brewery at 10 AM and carpool to the trailhead, about 30 minutes away on the Uncompahgre. The trail is only about 3 miles, so we'll hike to our hearts' content and then head back for drinks.

Feel free to email ccgrandjunctionintern@gmail.com with any questions and please RSVP if interested here: https://www.downtomeet.com/Cheers-to-our-Public-Lands/home

The Desert's Edge Tri Festival brings you two days of racing, a weekend of camping with other triathletes and their fans, and a fun end to the Colorado Tri Season. Desert's Edge weekend includes your choice of XTERRA Sprint (not eligible for points) or XTERRA Tri on Saturday, your choice of Sprint or Olympic distance road tri's on Sunday!

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers invites you to join us on Wednesday, September 26th to celebrate our public lands. We're going to be raising a glass to our public lands, one of the best ideas America has ever had and its legacy that has shaped each of us. We will be discussing what we can do locally to shape the future of our public lands heritage, to strengthen our community, and get our boots on the ground.

You can sign up to become a member, renew your membership, and pick up some BHA gear. Colorado Chapter Coordinator Brien Webster is going to be providing updates on issues, programs, and highlighting ways you can get involved locally. The Colorado Chapter is growing fast and we need chapter leaders here in the Grand Valley. Join us and learn what you can do to help BHA be the sportsmen's voice for our public lands, waters, and wildlife here at home. Please RSVP today.

Talbott’s Orchard Crit Cross - Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018 - Talbott Farms - 3782 F 1/4 Rd, Palisade, CO

Come test out a new concept; Crit on the dirt roads / double tracks around the orchard trees. Think crit on dirt! Plenty of opportunities to draft and PUSH THE EDGE!

Race day registration opens at 7:30 a.m. & closes 40 min prior to race start!!!

Races start at 10:00 a.m.

Talbott’s Orchard Cross - Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 - Talbott Farms - 3782 F 1/4 Rd, Palisade, CO

New location for course and venue expansion! Ride and/or run through peach tree orchards, a unique race environment found nowhere else in Colorado.

Race day registration opens at 7:30 a.m. & closes 40 min prior to race start!!!

Races start at 9:00 a.m.

A weekend of fun and running on the beautiful trails near Fruita, Colorado. The weekend includes a Trail Marathon & 50K races along with an Awards Party on Saturday, and 10K & Half Marathon races on Sunday.
 

Tuesday’s Planning Commission Training—Council Welcomed to Attend 

We have a special training for the Planning Commission at 5:30 pm prior to their regular meeting Tuesday at 7 pm. City Council members are also invited as the training is regarding procedural and legal issues surrounding the governing of annexations, zoning, subdivisions and process for public hearings. City Attorney Ed Sands will be training.

The agenda can be found here.

1st Annual Winter Sports Festival

When: February 22 – 24, 2019

Location: Powderhorn bottom parking lot (Mesa, CO)

What: Winter Sports Festival provides the opportunity to demo the latest winter endurance sport gear and push yourselves with the races throughout the weekend, including cross country ski races, MADhorn Fat Bike Race, snowshoe 5k run race, and a winter-athlon event!

Hosts: Powderhorn, Odin Sports Center, and MAD Racing Colorado

Online Registration: http://www.wintersportsfestival.com

Feb. 22, 2018 (Friday) - Winter Sport Demos

Feb. 23, 2018 (Saturday) - Winter Sport Demos, XC Ski Race, MADhorn Fat Bike Race, and Snowshoe Race

Feb. 24, 2018 (Sunday) – MAD Odin Winter-athlon

Registration: $20-$70

Venue Info: Powderhorn Mountain Resort & Odin Sports Center

Address: 48338 Powderhorn Rd, Mesa, CO 81643

Powderhorn Phone: 970-268-5700

Odin Sports Phone: 970-208-0550

http://www.powderhorn.com/

https://odinrecreation.com/

Host Info:

MAD Racing Colorado

PO Box 602, Grand Junction, CO 81502

Primary Contact: John Klish

Phone: (970) 744-4450

Email: madness@madracingcolorado.com

Website: www.madracingcolorado.com

Game & Card Party at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1210 17-1/2 Road, Fruita on Saturday 23, from 11:00 am to 3 pm.  Ticket cost is $10 and includes light lunch and desert.  There will also be a silent auction.  Bring smiles and have fun!

Contact Treva Teskey 639-2209 or Carol Hollis 858-1863 with any questions or if you need additional information.

The annual Maggie and Jiggs Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner will be held at Fruita United Methodist Church on Saturday March 16th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.  This dinner includes Irish stew, pie and beverage.  Adults $9 Children (under 12) $5.  Take out available 858-3490

CITY OF FRUITA IRRIGATION: Grand Valley Irrigation will start filling the canals around April 1st.  Water will arrive in Fruita later that week.  It will take a few days for the canal to clear up.  The City will start irrigation water north of Aspen Street on Monday, April 8th, and south of Aspen Street on Tuesday, April 9th.  If anyone has any questions, please call the Public Works Department at 858-9558.

The Western Colorado Astronomy Club is hosting a public stargazing at Highline Lake State Park. Come and see the amazing wonders of the night sky. Jupiter will be visible, with Satun rising after 11:00. We look forward to see all of you there. Park charges an entrance fee, but viewing the telescopes is free. Donations are accepted and appreciated if you choose. 

Gates Open at 5:30pm for each show
All Ages Welcome
No Beverage Containers Allowed - No Exceptions

Now three-decades on from the release of his debut album - with nineteen records to his name, thousands of shows under his belt and still no end in sight to the road ahead – Robert Earl Keen remains as committed to and inspired by his muse as ever. And as for accruing recognition, well, he's done alright on that front, too; from his humble beginnings on the Texas folk scene, he's blazed a peer, critic, and fan-lauded trail that's earned him living-legend (not to mention pioneer) status in the Americana music world. And though the Houston native has never worn his Texas heart on his sleeve, he's long been regarded as one of the Lone Star State's finest (not to mention top-drawing) true singer-songwriters. He was still a relative unknown in 1989 when his third studio album, West Textures, was released - especially on the triple bill he shared at the time touring with legends Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark - but once fellow Texas icon Joe Ely recorded both "The Road Goes on Forever" and "Whenever Kindness Fails" on his 1993 album, Love and Danger, the secret was out on Keen's credentials as a songwriter's songwriter. By the end of the decade, Keen was a veritable household name in Texas, headlining a millennial New Year's Eve celebration in Austin that drew an estimated 200,000 people. A dozen years later, he was inducted into the Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame along with the late, great Van Zandt and his longtime friend from Texas A & M, Lyle Lovett.

The Western Colorado Astronomy Club wants to welcome you to see the splendor of the night sky! We will have several telescopes available for you to view the moon, planets, galaxies, etc.  All of our public viewings are scheduled to begin approximately 30 minutes after sunset. If the event is cancelled due to weather on the scheduled date, we will attempt the following night when possible. It is free to attend, but donations to the WCAC are welcome.

Wienerschnitzel, the world’s largest hot dog chain and home of America’s favorite chili dog, is celebrating its 58th anniversary with 58-cent hot dogs! All day long on Tuesday, July 9 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., hot dog-lovers can enjoy Wienerschnitzel’s famous original Chili Dog or Mustard Dog, at a price they can really get behind!

Salty Cross Day 1 - Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019 - Little Salt Wash Park, Fruita, CO

Local favorite at Little Salt Wash Park with new course layouts every year... nearby playground for family fun. This event promises great racing fun in the whoops, grass, and trees! The 5k Cross Country Running Race will kick off the day of racing at 9:00.

Race day registration opens at 7:30 a.m. & closes 40 minutes prior to race start!!!

Races start at 9:00 a.m.

Salty Cross Day 2 - Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 - Little Salt Wash Park, Fruita, CO

Warm up with the 5k Cross Country Running Race if you choose then, jump on to your bike for the cyclocross races. We’ll mix it up by changing the course slightly. Race day registration opens at 7:30 a.m. & closes 40 minutes prior to race start!!!

Races start at 9:00 a.m.

25th Anniversary US Bank Fruita Fat Tire Festival

COME RIDE MILES OF PRISTINE MTB TRAILS  

Join us on May 1st - 3rd, 2020 for the biggest Colorado Mountain Bike tradition, the 25th Anniversary US Bank Fruita Fat Tire Festival presented by the City of Fruita.

Meet MTB friends from around the world and support those who support the passion, the lifestyle and the sport we all enjoy. Celebrate hundreds of miles of World Class MTB Trails and join in the fun! Test out the latest bikes at the Bike Demo at the 18 Rd Trail Head, try out new equipment at the Product Expo in downtown Fruita and listen to live bands Friday and Saturday evenings under the summer stars. Enjoy a great weekend in Fruita!!!

THE FRUITA COMMUNITY CENTER WILL BE CLOSED FOR OUR ANNUAL MAINTENANCE WEEK.  THE LIBRARY AND FRONT DESK WILL REMAIN OPEN.

On Saturday, May 9, Fruita’s citizens and businesses will celebrate Fruita’s unique yet intertwined history in the Grand Valley, its innovative spirit, and its resilience with the second annual festival we call Pabor Day! In addition to the eighth Annual Fruita History Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Cavalcade, 201 E. Aspen Ave., and upstairs in the Lower Valley Heritage Room inside the Fruita Civic Center, 325 E. Aspen Ave., expect tours, games, period clothing, music, movies, displays, demonstrations, prizes, food, and fun! Admission is free! Presented by the Fruita Historic Preservation Board and the Fruita Downtown Advisory Board.

Come show you are a kid at heart at our wacky little fun run for a BIG cause! All ages and abilities are welcome to play.
Join us for a 1-2 mile walk, run, trot, or skip with some crazy twists!

Sunday, April 26th at Little Salt Wash Park in Fruita.
$15/person to participate
Pick up registration packets from 8:00 am - 9:45 am on Race Day
The fun begins at 10:00 am!

All proceeds raised will go towards a new lift for our recently expanded Pediatric Rehabilitation Department. This lift will help train families how to safely use equipment in their own homes.

Winding over the Colorado National Monument from Grand Junction to Fruita, Colorado, the U.S. Bank Rim Rock Run boasts scenery unlike any other marathon. The peaceful course features views of towering monoliths, vast plateaus and canyon panoramas. Sheer-walled, red rock canyons surround the twists and turns of the course.

Half Marathon | 12K

In addition to a marathon and marathon relay, the U.S. Bank Rim Rock Run also includes a Half Marathon or 12K featuring gravity-defying boulders, tunnels carved of stone and red-rock canyons! 

From the start at Saddlehorn, the net downhill Half Marathon course will first wind up to Monument Canyon View pull-out, and then back down into the heart of Fruita.

If you’re not feeling the 5K run uphill at the start of the Half Marathon, you can opt to do a 12K instead! The 12K racers will start from the same location as the half marathoners, but instead of running uphill for the first 3 miles, runners will enjoy an all down-hill course from Saddlehorn rest area to the post-run celebration in Frutia. 

All races finish in downtown Fruita’s Circle Park, at a celebration that includes live entertainment, local food, and a beer garden.

Proceeds from the U.S. Bank Rim Rock Run benefit scholarships for Colorado Mesa University Track and Cross Country student-athletes and the Greater Grand Junction Sports Commission. 

Annual Navajo Taco Dinner (and lunch) at Fruita United Methodist Church 405 E. Aspen, Fruita.  Lunch from 11 to 2 PM.  Dinner from 4 to 6.  Meal includes beverage and dessert.  Adults $10, children 10 and under $5.  Take out available call 858-3490.  Christmas bazaar runs from 10 to 6 PM.  COVID-19 protocols will be observed.

The Tour of the Moon was made famous in the 1980’s Coors Classic and later in the cycling movie American Flyers. Its legacy continues as one of the premier road cycling events in the western United States.

The National Forest Service caps our participation at 2,200, and we sell out every year, so sign up now to get your spot! A portion of your registration fee goes to support One Riverfront and Bicycle Colorado.

One of the summer’s most anticipated family events, the Kids Adventure Games (Kids AG), is heading to Fruita, CO June 4-6th. Considered to be the nation’s premier adventure race for kids ages six to fourteen, the race will feature teams of two athletes tackling a course with mountain biking, trekking, rope swings, mud pits, cargo nets, zip lines, water obstacles, a giant Slip ‘N Slide and more. A family event not to be missed, the Kids AG will offer hundreds of kids the thrill of adventure racing where they’ll challenge themselves physically, emotionally and end the race feeling a huge sense of accomplishment.

About the Kids Adventure Games:

Whereas most races allow parents to help and coach their kids, Kids AG mandates the course as a parent-free zone, keeping them on the sidelines as cheerleaders. According to Kids AG Co-Founder, international adventure racer and Race Director Billy Mattison, parents remain astounded at what their kids can accomplish. "Adventure racing is a thrilling sport," said Mattison. "It combines physical and mental challenges, teamwork and good-natured competition - and just as importantly, it's a lot of fun. We're excited for our inaugural Desert Edition race where we’ll watch the kids grow by challenging themselves throughout the weekend."

The Kids Adventure Games™ originated in Vail, Colo. seven years ago and now features eight races across the nation. The games in each city are tailored to the natural terrain of the area to maintain the authenticity and personality distinct to that location. It is the only race of its kind in the nation. It offers kids the thrill of adventure racing while enhancing teamwork skills, sportsmanship, and a healthy, active lifestyle

Alice’s Wonderland Ballet, presented by Absolute Dance & Performing Arts of Grand Junction, will be the family performance to attend. Take an incredible, magical journey with Alice when you tumble down the Rabbit Hole to discover Alice’s Wonderland to meet memorable characters such as the Cheshire Cat, Tweedle Dee and Dum, the Mad Hatter, and more. Performances will be held at The Historic Avalon Theater of Grand Junction, CO.  Friday, October 22nd, 7:00 pm, Saturday, October 23rd, 2:00 pm, and 7:00 pm, and our final showing on Sunday, October 24th at 2:00 pm. 

This full-length ballet is a charming interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, with additional influences from Through the Looking Glass. Absolute Dance Company in collaboration with Infinity Media Productions for animated digital background effects will give you and your family the sense of truly being a part of Alice's magical journey in this two-act ballet. A must see for all of Western Colorado. 

Tickets are on sale at ticketmaster.com, absolutedancegj.com, and at The Avalon Theatre

Adult tickets: $25             Student/Child Under 17: $15

The entire course is safe away from cars as this will take place on the concrete path between Fruita and Loma. Start and finish in the cul-de-sac across the street from Fruita Rec Center. You are welcome to run or walk this family friendly course!

When you walk in the Oral Cancer Foundation Walks, you join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the Oral Cancer Foundation (OCF) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support oral cancer survivors.

Thanks to Walkers and Donors like you, OCF has been able to fund multiple published research that aids in the fight against oral cancer.

HELP SPREAD THE WORD!

Please help promote the event through your social media outlets!
Hashtag: #OralCancerWalk
Web address: https://oralcancerfoundation.donordrive.com/event/west-colorado

Description:      

Join The "Coolest Kids Adventure Race On The Planet!" Now in its 12th Season and more kids than ever will be joining in the fun.

ages 6 - 14
race in teams of 2
2.5 - 4-mile course
12 - 15 obstacles
biking, hiking, and water sections
compete for prizes

Imagine Nirvana and the Beatles had a kid together who became an acoustic rock singer/songwriter: that's Bryan Bielanski! Although he is inspired by some of the rock greats like Tom Petty and REM, he has a distinct musical style and songs with lyrics that make you think deep thoughts and feel like you're really alive! This critically acclaimed globetrotting singer/songwriter has been touring the US and the world for the last 10 years. During that time, Bryan Bielanski has performed in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Austria, Belgium, California, Canada, China, Colorado, Connecticut, Costa Rica, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Italy, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Luxembourg, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mexico, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Netherlands, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Poland, Rhode Island, Russia, South Carolina, South Dakota, Switzerland, Tennessee, Texas, Thailand, United Kingdom, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Bryan Bielanski is full of fun energy and catchy songs and he is ready to entertain you!

All Ages, Free Show.

Fruita United Methodist Church Navajo Taco lunch and dinner

November 5, 2022, 11AM to 2PM and 4PM to 6PM.

$12 for dinner, drink and dessert.

405 E. Aspen St., Fruita, CO

Cookie walk and Bazaar 10AM to 6:30PM

• Every Tuesday night from June 6 - August 22nd
• Finale is on September 16th
• 11 years of age and under - Tickets are Free
• 12 years and older - Tickets are  $12

The annual Navajo Taco Lunch and Dinner will be held at Fruita United Methodist Church at 405 E. Aspen, Fruita.  Lunch will be from 11 to 2 PM.  Dinner will be from 4 to 6 PM.  Navajo taco, dessert and a beverage for $15.  Take out is available.  Bazaar and Cookie walk will be from 11 AM to 6 PM.   Entrance on the west side of the church.

Pickin’ in The Rockies is bringing high-energy, world-class entertainment to the Western Slope of Colorado. This family-friendly Bluegrass festival is guaranteed to provide a whoopin’ and hollerin’, toe tappin’, hand clappin’ good time! This fun filled one day event is packed with a variety of vendors, workshops, music, and more. It all takes place at Absolute Prestige Ranch in Loma CO on May 26, 2024!

Where you'll be:

Join VOC on a trip to Horsethief Canyon State Wildlife Area, nestled along the Colorado River in Mesa County. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this location draws people from far and wide with its rambling hiking trails, prime birding spots, and abundant wildlife sightings along the river.

What you'll do:

Become a steward of the land as you participate in the vital task of transplanting willows along the Colorado River. Over time, this region has experienced significant bank loss, with up to 50 feet or more eroded away. Using loppers, volunteers will propagate and transplant willows to mitigate further erosion, contributing to the restoration of the riverbank.

Enjoy breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, along with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own lunch (BYOL). Free campsites are available on Friday night and Saturday night, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday.

Why it's important:

The stabilization of the riverbank is important for the ecosystem's well-being because it ensures consistent irrigation for wildlife food plots, alfalfa fields, and cottonwood galleries. The designated foot-traffic-only area at this end of the property is home to eagle nests, deer, turkey, and various other wildlife species that depend on natural resources. The loss of the riverbank has already led to the disappearance of essential irrigation ditches (both dirt and concrete) and has increased the need for new access roads. The building of new roads every few years also detrimentally impacts the surrounding habitat.

Your involvement in this project will play a pivotal role in sustaining and nurturing the delicate balance of this wildlife-rich landscape. Join us in this conservation effort and make a lasting impact on the habitat of Horsethief Canyon State Wildlife Area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+

Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older on overnight projects.

Project Difficulty:

There are tasks on this project that range from easy and moderate to difficult. 

Accessibility Factors:  

Vehicle accessibility: 2WD Accessible 

Other notes: Hiking to the work site is required, and you will be working on the river bank, which can be steep and uneven.

Float, Discover, and Contribute to Riverside Restoration!

Explore the beauty of our rivers while supporting a great cause. Join RiversEdge West and Rimrock Adventures for a relaxing day on the water during our "Raft the River" fundraiser on August 24th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Launching from Rimrock Adventures in Fruita, CO, and taking out at the Loma Boat Ramp, this river float trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Colorado River while contributing to its restoration. Our expert guides will accompany you and offer insights into the vital work of riverside restoration in the Grand Valley.

Following the float, indulge in a brunch catered by Cafe Sol and enjoy bloody marys and mimosas while mingling with fellow river enthusiasts. We'll raise a glass to the success of our mission and have a chance to win prizes at Rimrock Adventure's charming riverside venue.  We provide everything; just bring yourself!  

Space is limited to the first 40 people and typically sells out - buy your tickets soon!

Register here: https://riversedgewest.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/riversedgewest/eventRe...

Tickets—$130—include the guided float, transportation, brunch, spirits, and prizes. All proceeds benefit our river restoration and youth education in the Grand Valley.

All ages and all humans are welcome.

Have questions? Contact Nicole at Ncook@riversedgewest.org or Cara at Ckukuraitis@riversedgewest.org.

325 E. Aspen
Fruita, CO  81521
(970) 858-3663

The Administration Department includes the City Clerk's Office and Financial Administration. The Department includes a staff of four full-time employees and one part-time employee. Margaret Sell serves as both the City Clerk and Finance Director.  The City Clerk's office maintains official records of the City, conducts elections, administers licenses and serves as Clerk to the City Council. The Finance program provides the accounting, budgeting, utility billing, payroll and investing for the City.

Michael Bennett began work as the Fruita City Manager on October 27, 2014. Mike received his Master of Public Administration degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism, emphasis in Public Relations and Marketing, from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. As the son of a military officer, Mike grew up in Georgia, Texas, Kansas, Alaska and Wyoming. Mike comes to Fruita from North Carolina, where he worked for the city of Hickory for over eight years. While in Hickory, Mike held various positions overseeing multiple departments, projects and regional efforts.

Mike is a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and  graduate of Leadership ICMA and the Senior Executive Institute (SEI) at the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia.

Mike and his wife Tara have three young children and love community events, hiking, biking, fly-fishing, camping, skiing, spending time with family and friends and eating great food. So, Fruita is the perfect place for the Bennetts, who could not be more thrilled and grateful to make Fruita their home.

The City Manager is the chief executive officer of the City. This responsibility includes implementation of Council goals, policies and directives. The Manager is also responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and support for City operations. The Manager has oversight responsibilities for City departments, including Administration, Planning & Development, Public Safety, Public Works, Human Resources, Engineering, and Parks & Recreation. You may contact the City Manager at 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita, CO 81521; (970) 858-3663 or via mbennett@fruita.org.

The Parks and Recreation Department is located at the Fruita Community Center, 324 N. Coulson St., Fruita, CO 81521, and is open for program registrations and general information during facility hours Monday through Sunday.

The Community Development Department is comprised of three inter-related divisions that coordinate services for development activities in the City of Fruita. The three divisions are Planning and Zoning, Neighborhood Services (previously known as Code Compliance), and the Building Division. 

The Community Development Department assists in all planning services including subdivision and conditional use permit applications, planning clearances, sign permits, fence permits, zoning inquiries, annexations, long range planning, as well as building permits and building inspections in the City of Fruita.  The Community Development Department is located at 325 E Aspen Ave., Fruita, CO 81521; (970) 858-0786; Fax: (970) 858-0210

“The City of Fruita values quality of place. It’s an inclusive city, with a small-town feel and vibrant downtown, surrounded by public lands. People love to live, work, and play in Fruita because the City facilitates community, safe neighborhoods, family-friendly events, and walking and biking. The City governs in a way that’s responsive to its citizens and prioritizes high-impact services and projects. Fruita fosters a fun and funky ambiance around the arts, agriculture, and recreation.” 
(Plan Vision, Fruita In Motion: Plan Like a Local Comprehensive Plan)

The Community Development Department is proud to introduce an all electronic permit software program that will allow homeowners, small businesses, contractors, and DIY'ers to submit building permits online. The online software will also allow for the ability to request inspections. 

First time? Visit Cloudpermit to sign up for an account. Cloudpermit is the software solution the City uses to manage permit-related information.

Cloudpermit allows the City to streamline the review process for building permits. You must create an account in Cloudpermit in order to submit a building permit. 

The Public Works Department is dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life in Fruita by providing infrastructure that is safe and maximizes the use of available resources.

The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions that focus on the diverse public infrastructure needs of the community:

Public Works Department Organizational Chart

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• City Resources
  Business Development in Fruita
  Land Use Code
  Transportation and Parking
  Planning Commission
  Monthly Development Reports

• External Resources
  Grand Junction Economic Partnership
  The Business Incubator Center
  F-Works Co-working space
  Mesa County Enterprise Zone
  Fruita Chamber of Commerce
  Mesa County Workforce Center
• Bids and RFPs
  Code of Ordinances
  Forms and Permits

• CityHall
  • • City Council Council Goals Council Meeting Information Council Members Public Hearings Strategic Plan Boards & Commissions Fruita Housing Authority Housing Authority Meetings
    • City Manager Organizational Chart Weekly Information Updates Welcome to Fruita City Staff Directory Stay Informed Community Engagement Fruita in the News Weekly Information Updates
    • Departments Administration City Manager Engineering Human Resources Municipal Court Parks & Recreation Community Development Police Public Works Utility Billing
    • Quick Links FAQs Agendas & Minutes Emergency Alert Sign Up Fruita Municipal Code Job Opportunities Maps and GIS Meeting Calendar Ordinances and Resolutions Community Resources
• Business &Development
  • • City Resources Business Development in Fruita Land Use Code Transportation and Parking Planning Commission Monthly Development Reports
    • External Resources Grand Junction Economic Partnership The Business Incubator Center F-Works Co-working space Mesa County Enterprise Zone Fruita Chamber of Commerce Mesa County Workforce Center
    • Bids and RFPs Code of Ordinances Forms and Permits
• Recreation& Events
  • • Parks & Rec. Home Athletics Recreation ProgramsParks and Trails Directory
    • Fruita Community Center Fitness Community Center Hours and Fees Current Activity Guide Online Registration
    • Stay in Touch Senior Programs and Activities Special EventsAquaticsPool Schedule
• WhyFruita?
  • • Why Fruita? About Community Overview Welcome to Fruita History Community Surveys Events and Activities City Calendar Stay Informed
    • Fruita Tourism Colorado National Monument J.M. Robb CO River State Park Highline Lake State Park Colorado Canyons Association Dinosaur Journey Museum Rim Rock Adventures Colorado Welcome Center Over The Edge Sports Colorado Backcountry Biker
    • Gemini Adventures Mike the Headless Chicken Weather Education School District 51 Colorado Mesa University CMU Tech

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Regular Meeting Times: Second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m., City Shops (900 E. Kiefer)

Terms: Beginning in 2008, terms shall be 3 years, with the terms staggered so that one-third of the members shall be appointed each year. No member shall be appointed for more than two (2) consecutive full terms.

Council Liaison:  Andrea Stolarczyk

Established By:  Resolution 2008-66 (adopted 9/16/08)

Number of Members: 9 Members

Composition Guidelines: At least 5 members of acknowledged accomplishment as either amateurs or professionals in one or more of the following:  architecture, art criticism, art education, art history, choreography, dance, crafts, folk & ethnic arts, literature, media arts, music, painting, photography, sculpture, theater and urban design, If requested by City Council, a nominating committee shall be appointed from among the Board members to recommend and/or review candidates for Board membership.

Powers & Duties: To create and enhance art and culture in the City of Fruita.

Regular Meeting Times: First Monday of the Month at 11:00 AM, Fruita Civic Center

Terms: 3 Years

Council Liaison:  Amy Miller

Established By:  Fruita Municipal code Chapter 17.37

Number of Members: Minimum of 5 and not more than 9

Composition Guidelines: There shall be 1 member of the downtown merchants, Appointment based on Application

Powers & Duties:  Protects and preserves the City's architectural, historic and cultural heritage and provides educational opportunities to increase public appreciation of Fruita's unique heritage. Makes recommendations for the rehabilitation, modification or addition to historic properties and finds properties eligible for placement on the Local Register of Historic Structures, Sites, and Districts.

Established By:  Fruita City Charter 6.03.04

Number of Members: 5 Members

Composition Guidelines: One Council member, Residency required, Interview required

Terms: 3 Years

Council Liaison:  James Williams

Regular Meeting Times: Quarterly on the third Wednesday of the month beginning 10/16/19 at 6:00 PM, Police Services Building

Powers & Duties: Recommends policies, standards, procedures and limitation for the Police Department to the Council

The City of Fruita Charter outlines that the City Manager shall be the Chief Administrative Officer of the City and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization. He/she is charged with implementing the policies set by the City Council and ensuring that the goals of the City Council are being addressed by the City Staff. The City Manager is politically neutral and is committed to serving whoever is elected. The goal of the Manager is to be a useful resource to the City Council and to provide objective information to the matters at hand, such that the Council can make informed decisions.

As a way of keeping the City Council updated on the activities of the City government, the Manager provides a weekly update, typically on Fridays. The update briefly reviews upcoming events, Fruita in the news and updates from the week that would be of interest to the Council and general public. The Information is written such that it expresses the thoughts of the City Manager only, not necessarily the organization, nor the City Council. These updates are not position papers, simply weekly observations of the City Manager designed to provide a broad overview of the happenings of the City government.

A link to the most recent Weekly information Update can be found below.

The City of Fruita strives to align all resources, time and efforts to positively impact the Quality of Place, Economic Health, and Lifestyle of the community built upon providing high-quality core services. Click on the link below to learn more about the current City Goals.

Below you'll find help resources in Fruita and throughout the Grand Valley. These links will take you outside of the City of Fruita's website, and will open in a new window. The City of Fruita cannot vouch for the content on these external websites, but if you notice something that doesn't belong here, or if you find a broken link, please let us know, and we'll try to address the problem as soon as possible. You can contact us to notify us if you notice anything that needs to be addressed. 

• Local Food Pantry - Five Loaves & Two Fishes Food Pantry, Monument View Bible Church (1173 17 1/2 Road), contact 5loaves2fishes@mvbcfruita.org. The pantry is open the 3rd Saturday of each month from 9 am -11 am and is open to everyone.
• Western Colorado 211 - 211 is the National abbreviated dialing code for FREE access to health and human services information and referral. Connect to an Information & Referral Specialist by pressing three simple digits 211 on your phone. 211 connects you to the services available in Mesa County such as food, financial assistance, home health services, transportation, medical and dental services.
• Grand Valley Connects - Grand Valley Connects offers a centralized system to access and navigate potential services and resources, including mental health. Meet one on one with a specialist who can walk you through the entire process.
• Mesa County Community Resources List - Mesa County Libraries has an extensive list of community services available online.
• Volunteer Opportunities - Find volunteer opportunities in Mesa County. Volunteer United is a centralized location for volunteers opportunities in Mesa County.

• Lower Vally Fire District - Both volunteer and paid positions make up the district and provide fire protection and emergency medical services to Fruita and surrounding areas. Their main fire station is located in Fruita at 168 North Mesa Street. 
• Family Health West Hospital - Family Health West is located right here in Fruita, CO. They have a hospital located at 300 West Ottley Avenue and primary care located at 401 Kokopellie Drive Unit 1. Family Health West ia a non-profit healthcare organization.
• Fruita Branch of Motor Vehicles - Mesa County operates a satellite DMV in the Fruita Civic Center. They are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
• New Elmwood Cemetery - Located at 1175 17 1/4 Road, the New Elmwood Cemetery has been serving the Fruita community for over 50 years.
• Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce - The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses and the Fruita community through providing educational and network opportunities for member, community events, and more.
• Mesa County - Fruita, CO resides in the county of Mesa. Learn about the variety of resources and services Mesa County offers. 
• City of Grand Junction - The City of Grand Junction is located just east of Fruita, CO.

• City of Fruita Utilities - The City of Fruita provides sewer, trash, and recycling services to most city residents. Irrigation services are provided by the City of Fruita in certain areas of the city. 
• Xcel Energy - Find information about your electricity, pay bills, and more.
• Ute Water - Ute Water provides water to many households in Fruita and throughout the Grand Valley. 
• Charter Spectrum - Set up and manage internet and cable services. 
• Clearnetworx/Deeply Digital Fiber Internet - Their crews have been laying fiber internet cables throughout Fruita. Residents can learn more about their services at clearnetworx.com/fruita. 

• Colorado Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
• Connect with an existing energy efficiency service provider network in your area via: Energy Outreach Colorado
• Energy Smart Colorado
• Federal Tax Credits are currently available

• Mesa County Valley School District 51
• Monument Ridge Elementary School 
• Shelledy Elementary School 
• Fruita Middle School 
• Fruita 8/9 School 
• Fruita Monument High School 

• Learn about transportation and parking in Fruita, CO.
• Safety Information and Resources for Bicyclists.
• State Bicycling Manual - A Guide to Safe Bicycling.

• Housing Resources Downpayment Assistance Program. A State-funded Purchase Assistance Loan program. This program is available throughout Mesa County including Fruita, and can provide up to $24,000 in Down Payment Assistance loan to households at or below 120% AMI (Area Medium Income).

• Drought Response Information Project - DRIP 
• One Riverfront 
• Grand Junction Economic Partnership 
• Grand Junction Business Incubator
• Grand Valley Drainage District 
• Grand River Mosquito Control 
• Fire Mitigation Resources
• Emergency Alert Sign Up

Located approximately 10 miles northwest of Grand Junction, the City of Fruita features some of the most varied outdoor recreation opportunities in the state of Colorado. With quick access to the Colorado National Monument, the Book Cliffs, and the Colorado River, you're sure to find something fun to do outside during your stay. If you're a resident, you probably know that in addition to all the tourism and recreational opportunities here, Fruita is a great place to live and raise a family. The small-town feel, combined with larger-town amenities, make Fruita unique. For more area demographics, visit the link at the bottom of the page.

• County: Mesa
• School District: School District 51
• Population: 13,508
• Area: 6.98 sq. miles
• Elevation: 4,498 feet
• Fire District: Lower Valley Fire Protection District
• Latitude: 39.14
• Longitude: 108.74
• Number of City Employees: 84 full time, 99 part-time (year-round): 183 Total

The City of Fruita defines a junk vehicle as “Any motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer that is not operable in its existing condition because of damage or because parts necessary for operation are removed, damaged or deteriorated; or, is not capable of being lawfully driven on a public highway or street pursuant to the minimum standards set forth in Title 42 of the Colorado Revised Statues. Any such motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer shall be presumed to be a junk vehicle if no current Colorado license plates are displayed thereon, or if Colorado license plates have been invalid for more than sixty (60) days.”
Abandoning a vehicle any where within the Fruita city limits is prohibited, as is keeping any partially disassembled, dismantled, wrecked, junked, abandoned or discarded vehicle on your property for longer than fifteen (15) days. Exceptions to this provision can be found in Chapter 10.12 Abandoned Vehicles.

• Outdoor Storage
• Public Nuisances

Code Compliance expends more time and money on weed violations than any other code requirement within the City of Fruita. Many citizens do not know they are required to maintain the weeds within roadways or alleys adjacent to their property or that they are to cut all weeds on their property, even if screened from the street. The city not only requires weeds to be cut, but the cuttings are also to be removed. Code Enforcement will work with citizens requiring additional time to cut their weeds, but routine maintenance is required throughout the weed growing season. The applicable codes can be viewed by clicking on 8.04 Weeds, Brush and Rubbish.

To report weed violations contact Code Compliance at (970) 858-0763.

Because certain undesirable plants, primarily aggressive non-native invaders, constitute a threat to the “continuous economic and environmental value of the lands of the state”, these species must be managed on private and public lands, using integrated management techniques which are least damaging to the environment and which are practical and economically reasonable.

As mandated by the Colorado Noxious Weed Act, all persons must control noxious weed on their property if such plants are a threat to neighboring landowners or natural ecosystems. Weed control programs should be integrated in their approach, using all available technologies for effective weed control.

• Mesa County Noxious Weed Management Plan
• Colorado Weed Management Association
• Colorado Department of Agriculture: Noxious Weed Program

Unused machinery, implements, furniture, appliances, tires and other personal or household property, etc. – pursuant to 9.11.030 Public Nuisances – Defined; keeping, depositing or scattering unused or discarded items of any kind may be deemed a public nuisance and bring abatement action pursuant to the following policy.

It is the policy of the City pursuant to Section 31-15- 401(c), C.R.S., that every public nuisance shall be restrained, prevented, abated, and perpetually enjoined. It is the duty of the City Attorney or his designee to bring and maintain an action, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 9.11, to restrain, prevent, abate, and perpetually enjoin any such public nuisance.

Accumulation of Garbage is not allowed pursuant to 8.08.040 Accumulations Unlawful.
The occupant and the owner of any premises wherein any waste, as those terms are defined in Section 8.08.010, is produced or accumulated shall be jointly and severally responsible to provide for removal of waste to the degree necessary to maintain the premises in a clean and orderly condition. Allowing the accumulation of waste within or upon any private alley, yard, or area, except when it is temporarily deposited for immediate removal, is declared a public nuisance and subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.11 of this Code.

Vehicles: Pursuant to 17.07.070(K.3) permanently storing [outdoors] on a single parcel of land more than one (1) non-farm vehicle, not displaying a current Colorado license plate, is prohibited.

3. It shall be unlawful to store or otherwise have, maintain or allow on a single parcel of land in the City of Fruita (or on contiguous parcels under the same, or substantially the same, ownership) more than one (1) non-farm vehicle not having current Colorado license plates or registration unless the vehicle is in an approved junkyard or other similar use where such vehicle storage is permitted. There shall be no limit on the number of active or serviceable agricultural vehicles on a parcel of land, regardless of whether such vehicles have current registration or license plates; however, the restrictions of one (1) vehicle per parcel of land shall apply to agricultural vehicles which are clearly abandoned or which are not in their present condition suitable for active agricultural use.

• Abandoned/Junk Vehicles
• Trailer Parking/Occupation
• Public Nuisances
• Home Occupations

Pursuant to the code trailers or recreational vehicles are not to be parked on city streets or alleys for longer than twelve (12) hours and at no time are they to be occupied on a city street or alley. Overnight guests may occupy a trailer or recreational vehicle on private property (by invitation) for no more than seventy-two (72) hours, so long as the trailer or vehicle does not violate any other codes. Temporary parking or occupancy is allowed for no more than twelve (12) hours in designated rest areas. Contact the POLICE for issues in Public areas such as streets. Code Compliance should be contacted at (970) 858-0763 for other areas.

17.27.010 Definitions. A. As used in this Chapter, the following words and terms shall have the meaning ascribed to them in this Section: 1. Recreational Vehicle. The term “recreational vehicle” shall include recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and truck campers as defined in Chapter 17.03, and motorized homes, motor homes, recreational buses, and recreation vans

8.15.010 Compliance With Location Requirements. It is unlawful within the city for any person to park any trailer on any street, alley or highway, or other public place, or on any tract of land owned by any person, occupied or unoccupied, within the city, except as provided in this chapter. (Ord. 503 S3, 1981).

8.15.020 Emergency, Temporary Parking on Streets. Emergency or temporary stopping or parking of trailers is permitted on any street, alley or highway for not longer than twelve hours subject to any other and further prohibitions, regulations and limitations imposed by traffic and parking regulations or ordinances for the street, alley or highway. Any person who violates this Section commits a noncriminal municipal offense. (Ord. 503, S4, 1981; Ord. 2000-9, S21)

8.15.030 Recreational Vehicle and Trailer Parking. No person shall park or occupy any trailer or recreational vehicle, outside of an approved recreational vehicle park, trailer park or other specifically permitted location in accordance with the provisions of the Zoning Code, except that invited overnight guests may occupy a trailer or recreational vehicle located on any tract of land owned by the person extending the invitation for a period of time not to exceed seventy-two (72) hours, and provided such use and occupancy does not violate any other ordinance. Temporary parking or occupancy shall be permitted in designated rest areas only for a period of twelve (12) hours. The parking of one unoccupied trailer or recreational vehicle in a private garage building, or in a rear yard, or in a driveway at least twenty feet from the street curb is permitted providing no living quarters shall be maintained or any business practiced in such trailer or recreational vehicle while such trailer or recreational vehicle is so parked or stored. A permit must be obtained from the Planning Department for a trailer or recreational vehicle to be used as a temporary construction office on the site of and during construction, however, sleeping or cooking shall be prohibited. Any person who violates this Section commits a noncriminal municipal offense. (Ord. 503, S5, 1981; Ord. 1989-5, S4; Ord. 1993-09, S1, Ord. 2000-9, S22)

17.23.030 Recreational Vehicles Restricted. Recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and truck campers as defined in Chapter 17.03; and other camping vehicles are not considered manufactured homes or mobile homes and are not allowed in mobile home parks, manufactured home parks, or as permanent year round dwelling units. Recreational vehicles, travel trailers, truck campers and other camping vehicles are allowed in approved recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds for a limited time period. Recreational vehicles may be stored on residential, commercial or industrially zoned parcels of land in approved parking or recreational vehicle storage areas in conformance with the provisions of this Title. (Ord. 2009-02)

The City of Fruita provides snow removal on most city streets and some city owned trails. Pursuant to the following codes citizens are responsible to remove snow from the sidewalks adjacent to their property.

9.01.029 Duty to Clean Sidewalks. The owner, or his agent, or the occupant of any premises or property in the city shall maintain those sidewalks adjoining such premises or property in a condition free from snow, ice, mud, dirt, rubbish and filth. Any accumulation of snow and ice shall be removed from such sidewalk into the street within twenty-four (24) hours after every snowfall. Any person who violates this Section commits a noncriminal municipal offense. (Ord. 2010-09, S1)

12.16.010 Required Where - Time Limits. Any and all persons owning or occupying any store or other business property in the city contiguous to any sidewalk, shall within two hours after the cessation of any snow or sleet storm, cause the snow, ice or sleet to be removed from the sidewalk lying contiguous to the premises so owned or occupied; provided, that when said snow or sleet shall fall in the nighttime the same shall be removed by ten a.m. of the succeeding day. Any person who violates this Section commits a noncriminal municipal offense. (Ord. 44 Art. 2 S10,1907; Ord. 2000-9, S97)

Citizens should also be aware that the City Manager can declare a “snow emergency” pursuant to the following section of the code.

12.16.020 Snow Emergency.

A. During times of heavy snow fall the City Manager, upon his own authority and after consultation with the director of public works, may declare a snow emergency. The declaration of such an emergency will be made by and through all available media. Within two hours of such declaration, it shall be the duty of each and every resident of the City of Fruita to remove their parked vehicles from those city streets designated in the declaration. The declaration of the City Manager may provide that all streets within the City be cleared of parked vehicles. The purpose of such declaration is to allow for a more thorough plowing of the city streets during a heavy snowfall and thereby to allow safer transit upon the streets of the city.
B. After consultation with the director of public works, the City Manager will, as soon as possible after the declaration, declare an end to the snow emergency. The declaration of termination of the snow removal shall be made in the same way as is noted in paragraph A above. The City Manager shall make every effort to limit the hours of snow emergency to the shortest possible time consistent with public safety. After the declaration of termination, city residents may park their vehicles on city streets in accordance with the motor vehicle ordinances of the city.
C. Any person who parks his vehicle upon a City street during the time of a declared snow.

The City of Fruita maintains a web-based GIS system in an effort to inform the public and help keep city staff up-to-date with changes in infrastructure, amenities and land use issues. We also have several .pdf maps that we update periodically.  Please keep in mind that these maps are not intended to replace legal surveys, nor does the city warrant the accuracy of the maps. We make every effort to keep information up-to-date, but we rely greatly on information supplied by others. If you have questions, or need further assistance with a mapping issue, please call our Engineering Department at (970) 858-8377 or send us an email at cdehmel@fruita.org.

Mission:
The Mission of the Finance Department is to provide financial information and support services to City staff and the City Council in support of their decision making processes and provide transparency in the City's finances to residents of the community and other interested parties.

Description:
The Finance Department is charged with a variety of tasks including coordination of the City's annual budget, preparation of financial statements, oversight of the audit process, cash management and grant administration. In addition, finance provides the functions of payroll, accounts receivable and payable and cash receipts. The Finance Department prepares a wide range of internal and external financial reports for use by other organizations such as the City Council and its boards and commissions, City staff and the general citizenship.

The Annual Financial Statements are produced to provide the Mayor, City Council, City staff, residents,  and the general public with useful information about the City’s operations and financial position. These reports are prepared by the City’s Finance Department in accordance with standards prescribed by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), the Government Financial Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).  Listed below are links to the financial statements for the current and preceding years. View the summary presentation of the 2022 financial statements. 

A sentence to probation is ordered by the court after a defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty of a offense. This also includes offenders who receive a deferred judgment & sentence.

The Fruita Municipal Court is the judicial branch of the City of Fruita. If you are charged with a City ordinance violation, Fruita's Municipal Court is where you may be heard.

The Municipal Court provides you with an opportunity to defend yourself against an accusation that you have violated a City ordinance.

In every case, there is a presumption of law that you are innocent of the charge until competent evidence proves otherwise or you enter a plea of "guilty," admitting the charge.

The Records Department provides direct services to the public as well as support to the entire staff of the Fruita Police Department.  All support services and work processes of the Records Department impact the day-to-day operations of the agency. The front counter is often a citizen’s first point of contact with our agency, whether on the phone or in person. The degree of knowledge, courtesy and efficiency extended to each person or situation leaves a lasting impression and may affect the outcome of a difficult situation.  The Records Department is also responsible for statutory obligations, such as release and storage of records, and discovery to the District and City Attorney.

• Reporting a crime – At this time we do not have an online reporting system.  However, if you need to report a crime, it is important we communicate with you directly!  If you have an emergency, call 911.  For non-emergencies call 970-242-6707.
• Request for Records - Call or visit the Fruita Police Department at: 970-858-3008, 157 S. Mesa Street, Fruita, CO, 81521.
• Background Checks (specific to Fruita Police Department contacts only).
• State Background Checks, please visit Colorado Bureau of Investigations.
• Sex Offender Information: for information on registered sex offenders, please visit Colorado Bureau of Investigations.
• VIN Inspections - the Fruita Police Department will do VIN inspections during regular business hours for Fruita residents in the process of registering a vehicle in Colorado.  There are two ways to get a VIN inspection completed:
  • 1) At the Fruita Police Department.
  • 2) At your residence.

• Monday thru Friday
• 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• 970-858-3008
• fruitapolice@fruita.org

As Chief of Police, I can assure you this department is staffed with a great group of people who work hard to keep our city safe.  We are all committed to treating people with respect, integrity, fairness and professionalism, every day with every person.  

I believe police officers are often the most tangible aspect of government and as representatives; we must continually work to earn and maintain the public trust.  While our first priority is to protect life and property, working with our citizens to improve the quality of life is where police officers can have the greatest impact.  I encourage all of our officers to find ways to interact with the community to improve our city.  At the same time, I encourage the public to find ways to interact with their government.  This is where communication is crucial and I look forward to your suggestions and input. 

The police department is open during business hours, Monday through Friday, if you would like to come in person, or you can call 970-858-3008 during business hours.  I can also be contacted directly at dkrouse@fruita.org.

Sincerely,

Dave Krouse, Chief of Police

The City of Fruita offers special events for all ages.  To register for a special event please visit our Special Event Registration Page.

A list of special events held within Fruita can be found in PDF format at the bottom of this page.  This document has events from external entities that will be hosted within our city as well as events hosted by City of Fruita.  We will update regularly as dates become available to us.  

The City of Fruita's Engineering Department is responsible for utility, traffic and transportation design and planning, stormwater quality, GIS services and utility inspection. Other responsibilities include planning, design and construction oversight of major Capital Improvement Projects for the City, including Road and Bridge projects, sewer projects and storm drainage projects. The Engineering Department also provides engineering design criteria and development review services to builders and developers, maintains and creates maps and as-built information for subdivisions and city infrastructure, provides inspection oversight and approvals for developments and helps with web-based information services.

Watch the video to learn more about the City Engineering Team

The City of Fruita owns and maintains an extensive wastewater system that serves over 4,700 customers every day.  This system consists of two main divisions that are responsible for collecting and treating wastewater that is safely returned to the environment.

Below, you can read about the history of the Fruita Mountain Water Properties, including information on the sale of Enoch's Lake. Read the resolution on Fruita Mountain Water Properties from the Fruita City Council. 

• After the Fruita City Council approved to move the offer forward through the ordinance process that was reviewed on November 13, 2023, two public meetings on the ordinance were scheduled. The first reading took place on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, during the regular City Council meeting. The second reading took place on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. During the second public hearing Fruita City Council accepted the offer and approved the sale of Enoch's Lake. 
• During the regular City Council meeting on September 19, 2023, the Fruita City Council decided on a process for moving forward with putting Enoch's Lake up for sale. Enoch's Lake was listed on the real estate market in early October 2023 and was listed for 40 days until November 8, 2023. After the listing ended, Fruita City Council reviewed the one offer submitted during the City Council meeting on Monday, November 13, 2023. The offer was made by Stan Muhr, Rodney C. Power and Ronald E. Tipping for a purchase price of $500,000 and forgiveness of $145,393.35 of non-monetary obligation to Mr. Tipping per the 2013 Agreement between the City of Fruita and Mr. Tipping. After reviewing the offer, the Fruita City Council decided to move the offer forward to the next steps, which include Ute Water's first right of refusal and the City's ordinance process with two public hearings. 
• During the regular City Council meeting on September 19, 2023, the Fruita City Council decided on a process for moving forward with putting Enoch's Lake up for sale. Enoch's Lake will be listed on the real estate market in early October 2023 and will be listed for 40 days until November 8, 2023. After the listing ends, Fruita City Council will meet during a City Council meeting on November 13, 2023, to review the offers received. After reviewing the offers, the Fruita City Council can decide to move an offer forward to the next steps, which include Ute Water's first right of refusal and the City's ordinance process with two public hearings.
• Also, during the regular City Council meeting on September 19, 2023, the Fruita City Council decided on a process for the city's other mountain properties - Reservoir #1, Reservoir #2, and a 125-acre parcel of land. Fruita City Council decided they will offer these properties as a donation, after Ute Water's first right of refusal, to public entities in the area including Mesa County, the U.S. Forest Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. 
• During the special City Council meeting on August 29, 2023, the Fruita City Council denied Ordinance 2023-07 regarding the sale of Enoch Lake. The City Council then approved Ordinance 2023-08, selling a two-acre parcel of land located on Pinion Mesa. 
• During the regular City Council meeting on July 18, 2023, the agenda consisted of the second reading for Ordinance 2023-07, Ordinance 2023-08, and Ordinance 2023-09. Each ordinance went through the public hearing process, and Fruita City Council listened to all public comments received about each ordinance. After public comment and discussion, the Fruita City Council decided to continue the public hearing for Ordinance 2023-07 and Ordinance 2023-08 until the scheduled Special Meeting on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Continuing the hearing allows more time to receive community feedback. The Fruita City Council did approve Ordinance 2023-09, an Ordinance authorizing the conveyance of real property of the City referred to as 4.05-Acre Parcel located on Pinon Mesa. The approval of Ordinance 2023-09 moved forward the sale of the 4.05-acre parcel, which has no water rights and is completely surrounded by private property. 
• During the regular City Council meeting on June 20, 2023, Fruita City Council approved the Ordinance authorizing the conveyance of water rights and real property of the City referred to as Enoch’s Lake located on Pinon Mesa for publication of a public hearing on July 18, 2023.
• The City contracted with Arnie Butler & Associates, who specialize in ranch, farmland, and commercial appraisals throughout the State of Colorado. This property and water rights were appraised at $425,000. The offer received by the city is higher than the appraised value. Find more details on the appraised value. 
• The unsolicited offer the City received from Mr. Ronald Tipping, Mr. Rod Powers, and Stan Muhr was for $500,000, plus the satisfaction of $140,000 of non-monetary performance obligation arising out of the dam repairs the City currently owes to Mr. Tipping for labor and materials in connection with repair work Mr. Tipping completed in 2007 on Mirror Lake Reservoir No. 1, also known as Enoch’s Lake and repairs made in 2009 to Reservoir #1. The total cost of these repairs was $484,764.04 ($124,232.13 for Reservoir No. 1 and $360,531.91 for Enoch’s Lake). These potential buyers already own the land surrounding Enoch’s Lake. 

• All City Council meetings are recorded and can be watched online at fruita.org/meetings.
• Enoch's Lake Informational Handout from the July 18, 2023, City Council meeting.
• Presentation on Enoch's Lake from the July 18, 2023, City Council meeting.

The City of Fruita owns four reservoirs on Pinon Mesa and maintains the over 600 acre-feet of water rights associated with them. These water rights were historically (prior to 1980) used to supply domestic water to the City of Fruita. However, as Fruita grew, these water rights could not adequately serve their historic use. The City now maintains these water rights on Pinion Mesa for recreational uses and delivers water to the Glade Park area for irrigation. 

The City’s four reservoirs are Enoch's Lake, Fruita Reservoir #1, Fruita Reservoir #2, and Fruita Reservoir #3. Fruita Reservoirs #1- #3 are surrounded by or adjacent to U.S. Forest Service property and are open to the public for recreational uses and fishing. Although the land around Enoch's Lake is owned by the City of Fruita and the lake is open to recreational use, the land adjacent to Enoch's Lake is privately owned, so users are asked not to cross the fences that surround the lake.  The City maintains the day-use only area at Enoch's Lake that includes vault toilets and picnic tables available on a first come basis. The three Fruita Reservoirs do allow for primitive camping and have nearby Forest Service camping areas. All reservoirs can be accessed by heading south from Glade Park on 16 ½ Road and are shown on the map below.

These reservoirs are located an hour's drive from Fruita near Glade Park, CO. This area is called the Fruita Division of the Grand Mesa National Forest. 

Historically, (prior to 1980), these reservoirs supplied domestic water to Fruita. As Fruita grew, the water from the reservoirs was not sufficient for Fruita. In 1983 (when Fruita’s population was only 3,668), Fruita entered into an agreement with Ute Water to become the domestic water provider in Fruita. Knowing that water resources in the western United States were limited, the City of Fruita decided to retain these water rights. Today, it is not possible to bring the water into Fruita City limits and there is not a pipeline from the reservoirs to the City (Fun Fact! The original pipeline was 23 miles and made of wood. The pipeline was built by hand and laid by hand in the late 1800s from Pinon Mesa and over the Colorado National Monument’s terrain to supply Fruita’s original drinking water starting in 1907). Even if there was a way to feasibly get the water to Fruita, it is not enough to supply the nearly 14,000 residents who live here, as it was not enough when there were less than 4,000 residents.

• 1884 – Town of Fruita was established.
• 1894 – Mayor Betts filed first water decrees on Pinon Mesa.
• 1902 – Addison McCune was hired to survey pipeline alignment.
• 1906-1909 – Construction took place of the wooden pipeline.
• 1932 – Fruita Reservoir #3 was constructed.
• 1935 – Fruita Reservoir #2 was constructed.
• 1949 – Fruita Reservoir #1 was constructed.
• 1957 – Enochs Lake was constructed.
• 1959 – Fruita Reservoir #2 was enlarged.
• 1977 - Fruita acquires water rights on the Colorado River.
• 1981 – Fruita becomes a city.
• 1983 -  Fruita contracts with Ute Water to provide water instead of supplying water from the Fruita Mountain Properties.
• 1990 – Fruita Reservoirs opened to the public for recreation.
• 2005 – Enoch Lake was reconstructed.
• 2009 - Reconstruction of Reservoir #1 Dam.
• 2013 – Reconstruction of  Reservoir #3 Spillway.
• 2016 – Fruita Reservoir #2 Storage Restrictions.
• 2016 - Enoch’s Lake changed to Day Use Only.

The City of Fruita faces multiple challenges for managing these four reservoirs.

• Most of the reservoirs are not actually located on property owned by the City of Fruita.
• Managing land so far from the City Keeping the reservoirs accessible to the public.
• Challenges related to recreation, including illegal camping, damage to private property, fires outside fire pits, discharging firearms, safety - limited resources, and no cell service.

• Managing land that is not within the city limits and roughly 36 miles, north of the Colorado National Monument, from the city.
• The lake is surrounded by private property.
• Challenges related to recreation – illegal camping, trespassing, theft, vandalism and other damages to private property, fire outside fire pits and left unattended, illegal fireworks, discharging firearms, discarding trash on private property, using private property to discard human fecal waste, numerous calls to law enforcement over the years, which led to the closing of overnight camping following consultation with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and surrounding private property owners in 2016.
• There are limited resources (I.e. limited to no cell service) on Pinon Mesa and long response times to get to the site. o During the final years the site was open for overnight camping, the city could not keep up with the necessary trash clean-up while sending a crew to the property 3 times per week.
• Water from Enoch's Lake cannot be delivered to or used within the city’s limits as there is no pipeline to Fruita, nor would it be feasible to construct through the Colorado National Monument.
• Even if water could reach the Fruita city limits, the water from Enoch Lake was once part of a system, which included 3 other reservoirs, which could not adequately serve the Fruita population of 3,668 residents in 1980. This is why the city in the early 1980’s began contracting with Ute Water Conservancy District to provide the Fruita community with drinking water.
• Utilizing city resources over an hour drive away to manage this property, pulling those resources out of the demands of core services within city limits is not an efficient use of resources considering there is no value received in the city for the property/water rights.

• Reservoir #1 and #2 are classified as significant hazard dams which is defined as a dam for which significant damage is expected to occur, but no loss of life is expected from failure of the dam. Significant damage is defined as damage to structures where people generally live, work, or recreate, or public or private facilities.
• No-Fill Order on Reservoir #2. Repairing the dam at Reservoir #2. Fruita Reservoir #2 is currently on a “No Fill Order” by the State of Colorado Division of Water Resources. This means the City is losing 168 acre feet of water storage volume. The City of Fruita’s goal is to repair Fruita Reservoir #2, removing the “No Fill” order by the State of Colorado Division of Water Resources to allow water storage in the reservoir. By repairing the reservoir, water storage volume and water quality would increase. The repair would provide improved delivery of water for agriculture water management, water quality management, and public recreation. To help fix Reservoir #2, the City of Fruita is working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Watershed Program for planning assistance. Through the NRCS, the City of Fruita will determine how feasible it will be to fix Reservoir #2.

The total project expenses reflected in this table do not include expenses related to salaries of City Staff for project management, nor do they include expenses incurred by the Army National Guard on Reservoir #1.

Pipeline Measurement Improvements

Enochs Dam Repair

Reservoir #2 Repairs

Reservoir #1 Design & Permitting

Reservoir #1 Dam Reconstruction

Reservoir #3 Spillway Design

Reservoir #3 Spillway Construction

Reservoir #2 Safety Evaluation

$1,339,181

The City of Fruita’s number one goal is to provide necessary core services to residents and businesses in the community. As an organization, the City is focused on aligning resources, time, and talent to provide high-quality services while impacting and increasing the quality of place, economic health, and lifestyle of the Fruita community.

• What type of water rights does Enoch's Lake have? - Enoch's Lake (Mirror Lake Reservoir No. 1) is decreed for irrigation, stock watering, and domestic purposes.

• What is the city’s process for selling property? - The City of Fruita is a home-rule municipality meaning that its process for the sale or conveyance of real property owned by the city is governed by the City Charter. The City Charter requires that the Council adopt an ordinance to authorize the sale or conveyance of real property. This is a legislative act and is published as a public process resulting in two hearings before the City Council. (Article 2.11 D of the Fruita City Charter). 

The Engineering Division works with the Community Development Department to provide technical review of all development proposals, as well as providing assistance in developing and implementing Master Plans for the City. The Engineering Division also works with other utility providers to ensure quality development.

LAP SWIM (4-5 lanes)

Monday-Friday: 5:30-8:15 AM. Saturday: 7:00-8:45 AM

LIMITED LAP SWIM (1 lane)

Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM-8:30 PM. Friday: 8:30 AM-6:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM-5:30 PM. Sunday: 12:00-5:30 PM

OPEN SWIM 

Monday, Wednesday: 12:00-8:30 PM

Tuesday, Thursday: 12:00-4:45 PM, 7:00-8:30 PM

Friday: 12:00-6:30 PM

Saturday: 7:00-8:45 AM, 12:00-5:30 PM. Sunday: 12:00-5:30 PM

LAP SWIM (4-5 lanes)

Monday-Thursday: 6:00-7:00 AM. Friday: 6:00-9:30 AM

Saturday: 7:00-8:45 AM

LIMITED LAP SWIM (1 lane)

Monday-Thursday: 9:30-11:30 AM, 12:30-8:00 PM. Friday: 9:30-11:30 AM, 12:30-6:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00-11:30 AM, 12:30-5:00 PM. Sunday: 12:30-5:00 PM

OPEN SWIM 

Monday, Wednesday: 12:30-8:00 PM

Tuesday, Thursday: 12:30-4:45 PM, 7:00-8:00 PM

Friday: 12:30-6:00 PM

Saturday: 12:30-5:00 PM. Sunday: 12:30-5:00 PM

Features such as the water slide and diving board are at the discretion of the aquatics staff. If crowds warrant, features may be closed to maintain a safe pool environment. Lap lanes will be taken out according to the schedule, but times may vary by a few minutes based on lifeguard availability and crowds. 

The pools will continue to be closed for open swim during swim lesson times.

The Copyright Release Form for Logo Design is available for download at the link below.

The City of Fruita requires that every person engaged in business obtain a Business License from the City of Fruita.   The fee for a Business License is $30 for the calendar year.  The Business License fee for businesses beginning operations after August 1st is $15 for the remainder of the calendar year. The following supplemental information may be required to be submitted along with your Business License Application.

• Home Occupation Permit Application (required if operating a business from your home in Fruita)
• Child Care Business License Attachment
• Solicitor's License (for door to door sales)

Links to the various Business License Application forms are provided below.  Please complete the Business License Application and any required supplemental forms and return to the City with appropriate payment. Should you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office at (970) 639-4210 or dwoods@fruita.org.

Vendors participating in special events in Fruita are required to obtain a Special Event Vendor Business License.  The fee for this license is $15 for the calendar year. A link to the Special Event Vendor Business License Application form is provided below.  Please complete the application and return to the City with appropriate payment. Should you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office at (970) 639-4210 or dwoods@fruita.org.

The City also requires special licenses for pawn brokers, liquor establishments, salvage yards, kennel licenses, sidewalk restaurants, dance halls and coin operated amusement devices. Please contact the City Clerk's Office at (970) 639-4210 or dwoods@fruita.org for information and application forms required for these licenses.

The Fruita Municipal Code is a codification of all the ordinances in effect in the City of Fruita through September 6, 2023.  Amendments to the Fruita Municipal Code can be found in ordinances adopted by the Fruita City Council after this date. 

The City of Fruita is a Home Rule City and is governed by the Fruita City Charter as well as local ordinances and state laws.  Article XX of the Colorado Constitution grants general and specific powers to home rule municipalities which provide them with greater flexibility when seeking solutions to local issues. The City Charter sets forth the basic structure and organization of the City,  basic procedures to be followed in the conduct of business, and basic powers of municipal officials and agencies, including any limitations.  State law applies in the absence of a charter or ordinance provision.

Welcome to Fruita Parks and Recreation!  We understand how fortunate we are as a community to have abundant park and recreation resources available to us.  Fruita is uniquely positioned within the Grand Valley and sits at the base of the Colorado National Monument and McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.  With the Colorado River running through our boundaries, as well as many other landscapes that beg to be hiked, biked, and rafted; Fruita is an active and vibrant community.

With the bar set high, the Parks and Recreation Department continually strives to exceed expectations and engage our community in physical, social and mental activities by providing a variety of facilities, programs and community events.  As a department we:

• Operate the Fruita Community Center – a 55,000 sq. ft. facility complete with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gymnasium, fitness area, senior center, meeting rooms and the Fruita Branch of Mesa County Public Library
• ​Coordinate a multitude of youth to senior programs to actively engage our participants
• Host and permit over 40 community events and festivals, including Mike the Headless Chicken Festival, Thursday Night Concerts, Sweetheart Run and Health Expo, and many more
• And, maintain 11 neighborhood and community parks, 273 acres of open space, and approximately 10 miles of hard surface trails.

While we have a good variety of facilities and program offerings, we continue to improve what we do and what we can offer our community.  Recently, Parks and Recreation has actively worked to develop the trail systems in and around the Fruita area.  In 2014 and with Mesa County’s partnership, the 8.5 mile Monument View section of the Riverfront Trail was complete.  Fall of 2015, the Lower Little Salt Wash Trail will be under construction and will connect south and north Fruita via a hard surface trail that goes under I-70, the railroad and Highway 6 and 50.  And, we are working hard to develop the 4.5 mile Kokopelli section of the Riverfront Trail that will extend west to some of the best mountain biking terrain in the world, located at the Kokopelli Trail system.

We encourage you to look through our program offerings and make use of our facilities.  Mostly, we encourage each and every one of you to stay active!

The Fruita Community Center offers a wide variety of amenities within the indoor and outdoor aquatic center.  To learn more about programs and register for our offerings, please visit our Aquatics Registration Page.

To see our current water aerobics class schedule, please visit our Current Water Aerobics Schedule. 

Indoor Pool
Lap Pool with 5 lanes
1 Meter Diving Board
Aqua Climb climbing wall
Drop Slide
Lazy River and Vortex
Hot Tub
Tot Area

Outdoor Pool
Lap Pool with 5 lanes
Diving Board
Tot Area

Updates to our Swim Test Policy Effective July 3

Due to safety concerns and Red Cross requirements, we are going to change the swim test requirement for kids 6 and under. The current policy for kids 6 and under is they need a red wristband and to be within arm's reach of a parent unless they can swim across the entire pool without assistance. If they are able to accomplish that task, lifeguards remove the wristband and document the kid's name and relay it to the front desk. The child is then allow to swim alone but with a parent or guardian present in the pool. 

It has come to our attention that there have been safety concerns regarding the above test. Although a child may be able to swim the length of the pool, they are not comfortable enough to float/tread water in the deep end when the current of the slide is on. Therefore, we are going to align closely with the Red Cross and use the water competency sequence to evaluate whether the child can be in the water on their own.

The new swim test will be:

•  Jumping in submerging fully
• Returning to the surface, and floating / treading water for 1 minute
• Turn around in a full circle and find the exit point
• Swim 25 yards to the exit point, and exit the pool without a ladder or assistance. 

If the child passes, we will remove the red wristband and document with the front desk. 

Fruita Community Center Pool Health and Safety Policies

General

• Children 6 & under and non-swimmers MUST be accompanied in the pool with an adult (16 years of age or older) and stay within arms length reach.
• All children 3 & under AND children over 3 that are not toilet trained MUST wear a swim diaper.
• Do not use the pool if you show any signs of illness or diarrhea or have had diarrhea in the last two weeks.
• All patrons must shower thoroughly before using the pool or hot tub.
• Parents are directly responsible for the safety and well-being of their children.
• No prolonged breath holding.
• Lifeguards and Pool Managers are the final authority on rules and regulations in the pool area.
• Only dive in designated areas. Diving in shallow areas is prohibited.
• All patrons must shower thoroughly before using the pool or hot tub.
• Children 6 years of age or younger are not allowed in the hot tub.
• Children ages 7-13 yrs must be accompanied by an adult in the hot tub at all times.
• Please limit your use of the hot tub to 15 minutes.
• If you are pregnant or have a heart condition, please speak with your physician before using the hot tub.
   

Mission Statement
To provide a comprehensive system of quality open space, parks, recreation facilities and trails while efficiently and responsively offering programs, activities and events that enhance the quality of life of citizens and visitors on social, mental and physical levels.

Vision
To be the Best in the West by offering safe facilities, Fruita Community-like programs and engaging activities that the Fruita Community wants through our trained and trusted staff.

Culture/Value Statements
Build Relationships
Share the Positive
Accept the Challenge
Act with Integrity
Lead with Humility
Inspire Success

Strengthen your athletic abilities! This camp will teach your child the fundamentals of basketball. Camp taught by Scott Vanlandingham.  All skill levels welcome. Learn the fundamentals of shooting, passing, and dribbling or sharpen your skills to prepare for future league play! Scott is a local basketball coach and instructor at Fruita Middle School. Class sizes are limited. 

Location: Fruita Community Center

Camp Dates: Winter Break Camp- January 3, 4 & 5 2023       

Times:
8:00-9:00 am ages 11-13
9:15-10:15 am ages 9-10
10:30-11:30 am ages 6-8

Ages: 6-13 yrs

Cost: $45.00

Season: Summer

Location: FMHS Tennis Courts

Dates: June Camp -  7th-30th

            July Camp -5th-28th

Days: Tuesdays & Thursdays

Times: 8:30 - 9:30 am

Ages: 5-8 yrs

Cost: $35.00 per camp

Tennis is a lifetime sport and it's never too early to learn the fundamentals! Skills will be taught through fun games and activities as well as drills and personal instruction. Participants should bring their own racket and water. Fruita Parks and Recreation will provide rackets for participants that may be in need.

Season: Summer

Location: Fruita 8/9 School Track

Dates: June 6th- July 22nd

Days: M/W/F

Times: 8:00-9:30 am

Ages: 5-14 yrs

Cost: $60.00

The Fruita Track and Field Camp will give runners a 7 week course over the fundamentals of running. Runners will learn and improve in the technical realm of running, such as proper running form, techniques to throwing events, and racing strategies. In addition, runners will improve both their physical conditioning and psychological conditioning. They will obtain tools to help them both on and off the track, as they develop a sense of perseverance and overcoming anxiety combined with helpful lifestyle choices like staying hydrated and maintaining proper nutrition. Participants will improve in these areas all the while doing so in a fun-filled, stress-free environment. 

FACILITY CLOSURE
The Fruita Community Center or areas within the center are subject to closure(s) for maintenance, modifications, cleaning, and in extreme cases, inclement weather.

The public will be informed at least two weeks in advance for any planned maintenance closure. If portions of the building must be closed with little or no advance notice, every effort will be made to notify patrons. Extensions on passes will not be granted during facility closure for annual maintenance. If class sessions are scheduled and the Community Center is closed, the Recreation Supervisor responsible for the class will make every effort to contact the registered participants and instructors. Drop-in classes are subject to change or cancelation without prior notification. The facility will be closed one week per year for maintenance as well as determined holidays.

OBSERVED HOLIDAYS
New Years Day – Closed
Easter – Closed
4th of July – Closed
Thanksgiving—Closed
Christmas Day—Closed

REGISTRATION
Registrations for all City of Fruita classes and programs and events are taken during business hours by mail, telephone, fax, or in person, and are taken on a first-come first-served basis. Internet registration is also available 24 hours/day at https://recreation.fruita.org. Payment is required at time of registration.

PASSES
12-month and 3-month passes are to be paid in-full. Monthly auto-debited passes, 20-punch passes, and daily pass options are also available. If a monthly payment is declined, the balance must be paid and credit card information must be updated before entry is permitted. The pass will be canceled if payment is not received by the 1st of the following month. Three auto-debited declines in one year will result in not having installment billing as a payment option.

RESIDENT DISCOUNTS
While all individuals who shop locally in Fruita will equally pay the 1% sales tax that supports the Center, those who live inside Fruita City Limits are also assessed a 1% use tax on vehicle purchases and building materials for new home construction and remodels. In addition, Fruita residents pay higher sales tax on their utility bills. The resident discount is intended to offset the additional taxes that Fruita residents pay. Please remember sales and use taxes are not assessed on gas, groceries, or prescription medicine purchases. Resident rates apply to those who reside within the City of Fruita. Proof of residency includes one of the following: current lease agreement or trash/sewer bill.

PUNCH CARDS
Punch cards expire 2 years from date of purchase. Punch cards may be shared, but only with people of the same age group or younger, i.e. an adult punch card can be shared with a child, but a child punch card cannot be shared with an adult. Senior punch cards can be shared with anyone 17 and younger. Each punch is valid for one full business day.   

ID CARDS / LOST ID CARDS
Pass and punch card holders must present FCC Pass at time of entry. Lost pass card can be replaced for $3.00 with a key fob. 

CHECK / CREDIT ACCEPTANCE
In-state checks accepted with ID.
Please NO temporary checks.
Credit cards accepted: VISA, MASTERCARD, DISCOVER, and AMERICAN EXPRESS.
We can not give cash back on checks, debit cards or credit cards, sorry for any inconvenience.

PARKS AND RECREATION REFUND POLICIES
All patrons requesting an admission/pass refund must complete a Refund Request form. This form will be reviewed by the Guest Services Supervisor. Request for activity refunds will be reviewed by the program supervisor. Check refunds will take 2-4 weeks to process. All activities purchased with a credit card will be refunded back to the original credit card.

Programs / Activities:
There is a $5 administration surcharge on all refunds. (Except if the program/activity is canceled due to low enrollment or lack of instructor/coach). If the patron chooses to keep the refund as a credit to their household – there will not be a surcharge.
Refunds will not be issued after the second class in each session. All other requests will be decided by the program supervisor on a case-by-case basis.

Swim lessons – due to the progressive nature of lessons, no drop-in or pro-rating fees is permitted.

Annual Pass Refunds: 
Refunds on annual passes that have been paid in full will be at the discretion of the Guest Services Supervisor.  

Annual passes will only be put “on hold” if the pass holder is leaving the area for more than one week or for medical reasons. “Holds” will be reviewed by the Guest Services Supervisor.
There are no refunds on punch cards. Punch card balance may be transferred into a pass at any time.
Monthly debited passes must have a 21 day prior written notice to cancel.

Insufficient Funds:
If a check is returned due to insufficient funds, the patron will be charged a $20 administrative fee, and is required to pay for the program/activity with cash or credit card.

Auto debit on passes: If a monthly pass charge is denied during the auto debit process, the patron will be charged the administrative fee of $20 to re-activate the pass and the pass will be held until fees are paid. It is the patron’s responsibility to keep FCC updated on all account numbers, expiration dates, name changes, etc.

AGE REQUIREMENTS
Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult (16 years +) in the Fruita Community Center.  Supervised childcare is available for a fee for children (6 months to 10 years of age) as a service to our patrons while they use the Fruita Community Center.

LOCKER ROOMS / CAMERA USE
Lockers may be used on a daily basis only. Patrons must bring their own locks or they have the opportunity to purchase locks at the guest services desk while supplies are available.  Locks left on lockers will be removed at the end of each day and items will be moved to lost and found. The use of cameras, videotaping and/or the use of cellular phone cameras are prohibited past the front desk, unless permitted by the Recreation Superintendent.

INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION
No personal distribution of leaflets, pamphlets, books, magazines, literature, brochures, or similar printed materials, petitions or unsolicited speech of any sort or nature may be conducted anywhere on the premises of the Fruita Community Center. Written materials of a non-commercial nature may be placed only in the front desk/lobby area of the community center with approval from the Recreation Superintendent.

ACTIVITY WITHIN DESIGNATED AREAS
Within the designated areas, activity which is permissible under this policy must take place in an orderly manner which is not otherwise disruptive to the operation of the Community Center, or to employees and patrons.

ENFORCEMENT
FCC supervisors, in addition to any other action authorized by law or by this policy, may request any person acting in violation of this Policy to cease his or her activity and, in the event such person does not, the individual will be asked to leave the Community Center, including the revocation of any day permit, pass or any other privilege such person may have to remain within the Community Center. 

FAMILY CHANGING ROOM
Adults with children of the opposite sex who are 4 years or older must use the family changing area.

CELL PHONES
Cell phone use is prohibited in the locker rooms, restrooms and family changing room.

FIRST AID SUPPLIES
First aid kits are located in key places throughout the building. Large kits are located behind the guest services desk, in the group exercise room, and in the pool office. There are smaller kits available in the child sitting area, gym storage, and staff office area. We do not dispense any medication or antiseptic. Please ask FCC employee if you are in need of First Aid assistance.

LOST AND FOUND
The Fruita Community Center is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Participants are encouraged to leave any valuables at home. Please turn in recovered lost items to the Front Desk.  Items found in the pool area or throughout the facility will be put in the lost and found at the front desk at the end of the day. Items of perceived value such as jewelry, eyeglasses, wallets, and ID’s will be taken to Fruita Police Department every Monday. Unclaimed items will be donated every two weeks on Mondays. For health reasons socks, undergarments and toiletry items are discarded. Persons attempting to claim a valuable item must accurately describe the item to a staff member.

SMOKING, ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
It is the law and the City of Fruita’s responsibility to provide a healthy environment for all of its guests and employees. Therefore, all facilities and their surrounding grounds are smoke and drug free. Those guests wishing to smoke must do so off City property. Guests will be asked to leave if drugs or alcohol is brought onto the Fruita Community Center premises. Patrons who appear to be under the influence of alcohol will be asked to leave the facility and the police will be called for patrons who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

FOOD AND DRINK
No food or drink, other than water in plastic containers with lids, is allowed in the pool area, gymnasium or upstairs. Vending machines are located in the guest services area. Drinks in plastic bottles with lids or controlled spouts may be taken into fitness areas, and must contain only water. Water fountains are located throughout the facility.

BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, SKIS, SNOWBOARDS, IN-LINE SKATES, HEELY SHOES
No bicycles, skateboards, skis, snowboards, any kind of skates, or shoes with wheels are to be used inside the Center. Bicycle and skateboard racks are located in front of the Community Center. Locks may be purchased from the guest services desk for use while in the facility. The City of Fruita is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

ATTIRE
Please dress appropriately as FCC is a family oriented facility. Thongs or G –string swimwear is not allowed. Shirts and shoes must be worn throughout the facility, except when in locker rooms and pool areas.

PETS
No pets except those assisting special needs persons, or participating in special events, will be admitted into the Community Center. For the safety of our patrons as well as the pets, we will not allow pets to be tied up on the Community Center property.

FACILITY AND PARK RENTALS
The Fruita Community Center multi-purpose rooms, pool party room, outdoor pool shelters, aquatics area, and the facility as a whole (before or after regular business hours) are available to rent for special events and functions. Parks and room rental rates are available at guest services.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES / ALL ROOM RENTALS
Reservations are required at least one week in advance. FULL payment is required when reservation is made. Cancelations must be made at least one week prior to schedule date, or fees will be forfeited. For the pool party rentals, a list of guests shall be provided from the pool party host and we will mark off guests as they arrive and give them a wristband. Parties are given time blocks in the party room – it is very important that parties begin and end on time. Helium balloons can only be used in the pool party room and in the multi-use rooms, they will not be allowed in other areas of the facility. Decorations are NOT allowed in the pool areas or the gymnasium.