COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — Eastern Colorado Springs continues to experience growth with new homes and businesses, and local entrepreneurs are stepping in to fill community needs in the Springs Ranch area.
David and Andrea Kruth opened the first Beans & Brews Coffee House in Colorado Springs in January. The couple saw an opportunity in the eastern part of the city due to its combination of traffic, proximity to schools, and retail options.
"We really wanted to create a sense of community here," said David and Andrea Kruth.
"I have stressed to the baristas, we're doing more than pouring their cup of coffee when they come in," said David and Andrea Kruth. "Having that ability to be in that big a traffic corridor, but also where a lot of people live, is really important. We know there's a love and need for it, so we thought it was a no-brainer."
A few doors down from the coffee shop, Jason and Kaylee Derra celebrated one year of business at Fit Body Boot Camp. They wanted to provide a smaller, local gym environment that caters to people of all ages.
"We saw a need in the fitness space," said Jason Derra.
"We do hold you accountable," said Kaylee Derra.
"All groups of all fitness levels can really work on their health in here," said Jason Derra. "We just started workouts for 60+ folks. It's really hard for that community to have an outlet to work out in."
Both couples acknowledged how much the area has grown, noting that as the eastern side of the city expands, the demand for neighborhood services will continue to rise.
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