As you cross the bridge in Granby and enter the town proper, you’ll notice a building with a large, brown metal canopy on your immediate left. It’s a multi-use building that serves many purposes and houses three independent businesses including a visitor center, a maker’s market, and a coffee shop. Years prior, the building was originally a full service, drive-in gas station complete with a couple of garage bays. It then became a mini-mart / U-Haul rental location with a few operating gas pumps. The building was then purchased by a private party who is also the current Mayor of Granby, Paul Chavoustie.
Paul and his Christian author, architect and designer wife Paige purchased the building in 2017 and did some serious remodeling including the addition of indoor stairs that lead to the basement that few knew existed. The couple both have a great eye for interior décor and used local, re-purposed barn wood and other local lumber throughout the entire building.
Based on the building’s location and giant lot size, the owners approached the Granby Chamber of Commerce that resided across the street in a small, old house that was in dire need of renovations. The Chamber was looking for a larger, more modern and inviting space to properly greet out of town guests. The Granby Chamber is also a member of the Main Street America program whose mission is to revitalize older districts, build vibrant neighborhoods and help local economies thrive.
The remodeled building looked very promising, prompting the Chamber board of directors to vote in favor of a move and occupancy of the new dwelling. Today tourists and people new to the area stop in at the Visitor Center to pick up maps and learn about things to do, places to visit and get more details on the Chamber of Commerce businesses and other services of the area. Since the move, the Chamber has hosted numerous, onsite events including a regular artisan market, Friday night beer gardens with live music, yoga, Zumba, a 5k color run, a 30’ pallet Christmas tree lighting and other events. Chamber staff already planning for the 2020 summer.
Much of the shared space is occupied by the Westside 40 Maker’s Market created by owner Tracy Navarrete, a Colorado native, and longtime Granby resident. Navarrete a well-known arts activist has worked with many local committees including Grand Creatives which had a big influence on the recent certification of the Grand Lake Art District. At the initial opening Navarrete secured 27 talented and independent local makers, artisans and vendors providing them with the opportunity to sell their creations without the expense and overhead associated with a traditional brick and mortar storefront business. Initially, the shop benefited from the Chamber of Commerce activities. In time they hosted their own events such as artists meet and greets, local book signings, live handmade product tutorials and this year independently sponsored their own farmer’s market with fresh produce and green chili roasting. To date, Westside 40 has over 70 local and Colorado creative vendors with products ranging from pottery, home, and garden decor, hand-sculpted soaps, jewelry, candles, up-cycled clothing, wildlife hides, pelts and more. Westside 40 works closely with the Chamber and often collaborates and co-hosts events.
A third party was added to the shared space this past fall. Long-time Fraser Valley coffee shop Rocky Mountain Roastery whose main facility is in the Murdoch’s Plaza was approached by Navarrete about expanding their operations in Granby. Intrigued by the idea and encouraged by all the activity and foot traffic from the Granby Chamber and Westside 40 market, the Roastery opened a small coffee bar inside the building in September. Local patrons enjoy flavorful and robust coffee from RMRs longtime roaster. The Granby location offers baked goods including gluten-free options as well as breakfast burritos. RMR’s Granby venture has been so successful that they’ve already expanded into the remaining area of the building. Tourists, locals, and shoppers now have a very inviting lounge area where they can work, meet or just enjoy one of the best cups of coffee in Grand County.
The Granby Visitor Center, Westside 40 and Rocky Mountain Roaster are located at 516 E Agate Ave in Granby. Visit their pages for all details and services.
Granby Chamber of Commerce / Visitor Center – https://granbychamber.com/
Westside 40 – https://westside40.business.
Rocky Mountain Roastery – http://www.
