Rep. Neguse Applauds Opening of New Search and Rescue Facility in Summit County

The Colorado Congressman secured $500,000 in federal funding for the project. 

Lafayette, CO — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse issued the following statement celebrating the ribbon cutting at Summit County Rescue Group’s new Search and Rescue Training Center and Vehicle Storage Facility, marking a major milestone in the region’s search and rescue operations. With Summit County experiencing a growing number of search and rescue calls driven by high tourist traffic and a thriving outdoor recreation economy, the new facility will centralize emergency response training and offer expanded, secure storage for vehicles.

Congressman Neguse secured $500,000 in federal funding for the project through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022. The former facility was a dilapidated structure that lacked proper heating, adequate space for vehicles and equipment, and any suitable training areas. Three years later, that funding has helped construct a modern facility that provides essential training and storage space for the Sheriff’s Special Operations Group and the volunteer-led Summit County Rescue Group.

“The grand opening of Summit County Rescue Group’s new facility is an example of Colorado collaboration at its finest: Local, state and federal partners working together to expand emergency services for Coloradans enjoying our treasured public lands. I am incredibly proud to have been a part of this effort,”

“Coloradans know that when emergencies arise in the mountains, we rely on the skill, dedication and bravery of our volunteer search and rescue teams. Now, Summit County Rescue Group — one of the busiest teams in the nation — will have the resources and space it needs to train and conduct missions, saving lives across the Western Slope,” said Congressman Neguse. 

“This facility represents years of planning, dedication, and community support,” SCRG President Ben Butler said. “It’s more than just a building — it’s a hub for training, coordination and life-saving operations that will benefit Summit County for decades to come,” 

“The Summit County Rescue Group saves more lives in the backcountry than any other public safety agency in our county, if not the nation. I am grateful for their partnership every single day. This long-overdue facility gives them a place to plan, train and maintain vital equipment, enhancing safety for recreationalists for years to come,” Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons said.

In 2021, Congressman Neguse toured the Summit County Rescue Group’s previous facility, alongside the Board of Summit County Commissioners and the Summit County Sheriff. The group spoke of the need to open a new facility sometime in the near future. 

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