Bellvue group wins grant for survey

The Bellvue Historic Foundation is making big strides to preserve the past for the future.

In November, the group was awarded a grant of $23,950 from the Colorado Historical Society to complete a survey of properties in the area that may have historic significance. Neal Spencer, chair of the group, said there are 85 to 90 buildings and other historic resources that will be researched, with owners' permission.

Spencer said that Ron Sladek of Tatanka Historical Associates will conduct the survey. Work is slated to begin by the first part of February. The survey must then be sent to the state historic society for review.

The goal, Spencer said, is to complete the survey process by next fall so the group can request historic designation for Bellvue by Oct. 1. If approved, Bellvue would become the state's first rural historic district.

Spencer said the local group is still a little short of its necessary $2,500 in matching funds for the state grant. Anyone wishing to contribute may send checks to the Bellvue Historic Foundation, P.O. Box 231, Bellvue, CO 80512.