New Industry Comes To Town
From outlaws and marshals, to succeeding in the coal mining industry, Trinidad, Colorado has always been a city of legends. At its peak, the population was at an impressive 30,000. As the mines closed and people began moving away, the infrastructure and population began to decline, leaving many empty storefronts, crumbling buildings, and the population at a little over 8,000.
However, after struggling for years, this quaint town is starting to come back to life, thanks to the legalization of medical and recreational marijuana. The industry has brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars in tax revenue, has intrigued tourists from all over the country, and has created many new jobs as dispensaries continue to open. CNN recently spoke to city manager Gabe Engeland reporting,“ They had anticipated collecting $ 200,000 in tax revenue from legal pot sales, but the city collected $ 800,000 in taxes in just one year.” After this unpredicted success, it appears the city has little interest in turning back.
... anticipated collecting $ 200,000 in tax revenue... but the city collected $ 800,000..
There are currently eight shops in Trinidad, and more to come with the city recently setting the limit to 20 stores. Although there are mixed feelings about the marijuana industry throughout the community, many are optimistic about the changes the industry is making to this potential tourist haven. Life-long local and member of the marijuana industry, Brandon Pingel, is one of many citizens excited about Trinidad’ s recovery.“ This is why I work in this industry. I love this town, I grew up here, and I want to see it be successful,” Pingel answered earnestly when asked about the impact the industry is having in Trinidad.
It seems Brandon’ s wish might be coming true. Roads are being repaired, old water pipes are being replaced, virtually all real estate in the historic district has been purchased, several new restaurants have opened, and there are many more projects underway throughout town. It’ s becoming increasingly clear that legalized marijuana may be just the thing Trinidad needs to get back on its feet and reclaim its status as a booming tourist destination, more legendary than ever.
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Daily Specials and Friendly Staff
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