The Box Butte County Commissioners agreed to support a grant application for Box Butte Development Corporation that would allow for a road to be constructed at a development site located East of Alliance.
BBDC Executive Director Chelsie Herian spoke to the commissioners at their meeting on Jan. 19, providing a history of the project.
“BBDC, in 2013, applied for the state site and building development fund, which was put out to communities to create shovel-ready sites for future development,” said Herian. “We applied. We had an option on the ground that surrounded Perrin Manufacturing. We were awarded the grant on three different parcels.”
Herian explained that new interest in the location in 2020 sparked discussion about the road located at the site, called Chelsie Way.
“We’ve been sitting on this for quite some time,” Herian said. “In 2020, we actually have got under contract to sell what was Lot 2, but then quickly now to Lot 1, which is the frontage on the highway for a new company we are projected to close next month. We had constructed, as part of that grant that we got, we acquired the property, we built the road, just to the first property line. We kept marketing. We’ve had some interest, nibbles, nothing serious until now. Well, once one thing starts to happen, other things, we start to get more inquiries, so the ripple effect kicks in, which is exciting.
“We need to finish the road,” said Herian. “That’s our biggest hiccup. We were going to sell Lot 2, but because the road wasn’t constructed, we were going into the winter months and it was unlikely that it would be constructed in time, so we flip flopped. We’ve got to keep the momentum going.”
Herian said BBDC is seeking a grant to complete construction on Chelsie Way, with the road ending in a cul-de-sac for safety purposes. She said BBDC is not seeking money from the county for the project, just their support for the grant application.
“I’ve been pre-approved,” Herian said. “The caveat is that I either have to have Box Butte County, or the city of Alliance sponsor my application. I’m not asking for money from you; I just need you guys to authorize me, at BBDC, to apply for these funds. BBDC has funds set aside for construction of this road, which will be a one-to-one match with the state.”
Herian also asked the county to maintain the road once it is constructed as long as it meets the county’s specifications. Commissioner Susan Lore asked Herian about her request, emphasizing that BBDC would not request funds from the county for the project. Herian confirmed there would be no cost to the county for the construction of Chelsie Way.
“I’m not here asking for money for the grant,” said Herian. “I’ve already been pre-approved. BBDC has the funds. If we get the grant, it’s one-to-one. If we don’t get the grant, we’re not building the road.”
County Attorney Terry Curtiss told the commissioners they are not at risk if they support the grant application because the project would not move forward without the grant.
“All you’re signing on for right now with the dedication is the existing road,” said Curtiss.
The commissioners voted unanimously to approve supporting BBDC’s grant application. After a discussion with Highway Superintendent Barb Keegan, the commissioners agreed to maintain Chelsie Way once it is constructed.