Notables call it the true Gate to the Real SouthWest. In So Colorado's Spanish Peaks Country opportunities are popping up. The heart of Southern Colorado Highlands, where coal was king, and Texas cattle arrived in 1870, this community thrived & prospered. Conflict between settler Frank Walson and Ute Chief Kiniache grew significantly. Walsun bought the land for a wagon, team of mules and $100 and established the coal mine. Poised just 1 mile from the super busy I-25, this community carries unbelievable amounts of vehicular traffic on a daily basis. This commercial property sits right smack in the middle. 2 doors under one roof, #511 and #509 have a history all their own. Both sides have been remodeled and are a natural "arresting gear" for passersby. #511 frontage room is huge, high lofty ceiling, decorative spanish lamp sconces on the walls, a 7X11 fireplace with side wood box storage. Walls are stucco and pine with deco ledges. Front window alcoves perfect for a Java Jive space, trendy retail showroom, local marketplace, avant garde offices or dramatic spanish style residential space. Upper level loft easily converts to residential apartment. #509 (parcel #20670, $965 taxes, 3128 sq ft), is drywalled with wood trim, partitioned into 4 spaces. Remodeled in 2009; roof maintained and repaired in 2018, extensive electrical upgrades and current boxes. Both have alley entrances. This district is a diamond in the rough and prime for new ideas. It's the package the up and comers are looking for: quiet/small communities; work from home arrangement; closeby Colorado's epic sports of hunting/fishing; hiking; ski on Wolf Creek Pass; affordable cost of living; cultural arts; fresh air; small town charm. Highway #160 runs right down Main Street; 1 hr to Walmart/metro and airports; 1 hr to state line. Lots to explore at Greenhorn Mtn Wilderness, Lathrop State Park, San Isabel Natl Forest, Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. City officials open & inviting to new ideas