The Colorado Department of Transportation has three upcoming projects occurring in La Plata County this coming summer. Projects range from chip seal operations on US Highway 160, safety improvements along Main Avenue including single replacement and traffic flow enhancements, and completing the US Highway 160 and 550 connection project. The connection project at Grand View will improve safety and accessibility and will include wildlife underpasses and a planned extension to a four-lane highway. Julie Constan from the Colorado Department of Transportation provides insights into these crucial infrastructure developments, underlining safety precautions for travelers navigating construction zones. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

Durango's The Women’s Resource Center is celebrating Women's History Month with a series of events emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. The month kicked off with a chocolate and wine tasting on March 7th, followed by a photo exhibit at the Durango Public Library on March 12th. Additional events include a diversity panel on March 18th, a WomenAid fundraiser on March 20th, and the culminating Extraordinary Women Award Dinner on March 27th at the DoubleTree hotel, honoring women who exemplify the theme of diversity, equity, and inclusion. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Serious Texas Bar-B-Q and Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

Soil Outdoor Learning Lab has reached its fundraising goal of $75,000 and plans to begin construction on a new Grow Dome, a geodesic greenhouse for year-round gardening, before the end of the school year. The City of Durango is seeking artists and creative teams to contribute art installations along three stretches of the Animas River Trail, with applications due by March 29th. Durango Hot Springs is reintroducing live music on Tuesdays and Thursdays in March, featuring various artists. Additionally, the Durango La Plata County Airport is recruiting up to 75 volunteers aged 18 and older for an emergency exercise training on April 17th, simulating a mock plane crash scenario. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Sky Ute Casino.

Ignite Reading emerges as a force against declining literacy, delivering personalized virtual tutoring for significant student advancement. With a focus on individual needs, Ignite closes reading proficiency gaps and revolutionizes educational outcomes. Ignite Reading recently held a showcase at Sunnyside Elementary School to offer 9R School District leaders the chance to learn more about the program. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Happy Pappy's Pizza and Wings.

La Plata County Public Health Department plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community's well-being. Beyond behavioral health and communicable disease prevention, the department oversees on-site water testing, waste management, and rigorous restaurant inspections. Megan Graham highlights these vital responsibilities, emphasizing the department's commitment to the overall health and safety of the community. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.