FORT GARLAND — For over two decades, the Fort Market has been a vital part of the Fort Garland community, providing essential goods and a gathering place for residents. Now, it has closed its doors.
A statement in the window states, "With a sad and heavy heart, we announce the closing of Fort Market, our business, which was influenced by factors beyond our control. We will be closing the doors September 10-13.
“We are thankful and grateful for the 23 years you allowed us to serve you and for being an integral part of our story. We have shared laughter, tears, and eventful moments. Your support and loyalty have meant the world to us. It has been an honor and pleasure to have you as the heartbeat of our business. And saying goodbye is bittersweet. So let's say, we look forward to seeing you again soon. Thank you for the wonderful memories, wishing everyone the very best life has to offer. This is the ending of one chapter…and the beginning of a new chapter. Much love and aloha, Gerald and Emerald, Fort Market.”
The town no longer has a functioning supermarket. Several years ago, a Dollar General with a limited food selection opened in the small village.
In 2017, the market received loans from the Colorado Fresh Food Financing Fund, which enabled Fort Market to replace the outdated equipment and provide working capital to stock shelves for the summer tourist season and sustain it during slower winter months. The market also received funding from the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, a federal funding program.
