COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Board of Directors approved a non-binding memorandum of understanding to "seriously consider" relocating the organization's headquarters from Colorado Springs to Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Last year, a development group in Cheyenne approached PRCA with a relocation proposal.
In addition to having no state income tax, PRCA says Cheyenne also offered to build a Hall of Fame and an administrative building to host the headquarters. The building would include upgraded office space and conference rooms.
PRCA says the process was thorough and included conversations from several locations. They say it also included a proposal from Colorado Springs leadership.
The transition is anticipated to happen in 2029.
Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade released the following statement regarding this decision:
"I am proud of the coalition we formed and the work we did collaboratively to try to retain the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Despite a generous package of incentives, the PRCA board voted to relocate to Cheyenne, Wyoming.
We, as a community, with organizations such as Colorado Springs Sports Corp, El Pomar Foundation, Visit Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, Bryan Construction, Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation, the National Western Stock Show and several others banded together to present a strong case to PRCA, which included a privately-funded capital fundraising campaign to refurbish the Hall of Fame.
We express and offer support for the affected employees and their families.
We will continue to work with the PRCA, and we continue to embrace our nearly-century long, tradition and partnership with the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, to include hosting the NFR Open through at least 2031.
Rodeo is alive and well in Colorado Springs, and our Western Heritage will continue to be a central part of our city’s identity.
We are thankful for the years PRCA and its people spent here in Colorado Springs and we are confident for what the future holds."
The Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC is also reacting to the decision. You can read their statement below:
"We are disappointed by PRCA's decision and would love for them to maintain Colorado as their home. We did all we could to make the case to stay in Colorado Springs."
This is a developing story. News5 will continue to update this web story as we learn more.
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