Lying in the delta where the Gunnison River and Uncompahgre River intersect, Delta is the county seat of Delta County and is the historic center of the area where the Ute Indians would gather at the landmarked Ute Council Tree. While traditional trades like farming and ranching are important components of the local economy, Delta is also home to the shelter giant Weatherport, and other manufacturing companies with regional importance.
With a population of almost 10,000 in the greater Delta area, it is the largest municipality between Grand Junction and Montrose. Public facilities include a 382 acre park system comprised of 10 parks, 10 miles of urban trails, flower and landscaping programs. The Bill Heddles Recreation Center is a wonderful public resource, featuring three pools, weight room and fitness classes, racquetball and tennis courts and gymnasium. Devil’s Thumb Golf Course, described as a “prairie style” course, features five sets of tees, over 60 sand bunkers, three lakes, and incomparable scenery.
Businesses
Delta has a full range of businesses and services located in town, including a post office, banks, restaurants, professional services, retail shops and service providers. It is home to a variety of churches, organizations, and Delta County Memorial Hospital. The Delta County Independent newspaper is published weekly.
Delta County Airport supports private and corporate aircraft. Grand Junction Regional Airport, 39 miles north, and Montrose Regional Airport, 21 miles south, provide commercial air service. Bus services and Amtrak are available in Grand Junction.
Education
Delta is the Home of the Panthers, including a high school, middle school, two elementary schools (K-5), and Delta Opportunity School – an alternative education campus with individualized learning programs for students at risk for not graduating. Delta High School offers a full academic and athletic education, plus activities including team and individual sports for boys and girls, JROTC, NHS, art, music, and student council. Delta Middle School provides academic and athletics, special education, and activities such as chess, drama, and student council. Garnet Mesa Elementary and Lincoln Elementary provide K – 5 education.
The Delta branch of Delta County Libraries maintains a varied collection of books, audio and visual materials, periodicals and downloadable materials. The library provides public access to computers and I-Pads, printers and copiers. ESL and GED classes are available through the library, as well as a schedule of engaging programming for children, teens and adults.
Events and Attractions
Fort Uncompahgre, established in 1828, allows visitors to step back in time. Tour guides in period attire demonstrate buckskin production, arrowhead knapping, and work a real forge.
Deltarado Days is three day community celebration in July that includes a street dance and beer garden, 5K run, pancake breakfast, parade, food and craft booths, music, activities, and rodeo. It concludes with a community non-denominational church service on Sunday.
The first Friday of December, Delta’s Parade of Lights kicks off the Christmas season with a glittering parade down the town’s main street.
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