Notables call it the true Gate to the Real SouthWest. 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 Buyer to verify all info/measurements.