Center, CO: Life in the middle of Colorado’s Agriculture Economy

July 2023: On our beautiful summer day tour of the San Luis valley near Hwy 160, we visited the town of Center (population 1,929*). It has a small historic district, many residential homes, and several large park facilities. Hwy 112 runs east-west on the southern edge of town.

Center got its name from its location near the center of the San Luis Valley. It also has the distinction of straddling the border of both Saguache and Rio Grande counties.

Center – A Brief History

Center was incorporated into a town in 1907. From early on, it has provided housing and services to those who work in and support the San Luis valley agricultural economy.

Vibe in the Center of San Luis Valley

We were fortunate enough to visit several small towns the San Luis Valley on a particularly beautiful sunny Sunday in July. Although we often look for local coffee shops, bakeries, etc as a local gathering place to visit. Instead, we decided on a drive around town – turning off of the main Hwy 112 bordering the south end of town to explore.

We saw lovely neighborhoods with families enjoying the day out in their yards and kids playing at the local city park. The historic business district is centrally located in town. Center has K-12 schools located near another park with a variety of sports fields, and a running track.

More to explore!

The website for the town of Center offers all sorts of information for local residents, as does the town Facebook page.

Town Mission Statement: The town of Center, Colorado shall provide strong leadership, inspire community pride, maintain fiscal accountability and through its employees offer a high level of service to the residents, businesses and visitors of the community.