July 8, 2012

Waldo Canyon fire singes Colorado Springs economy

The Waldo Canyon fire is nearing full containment, but the devastating fire continues to rage through the Pikes Peak-area economy. Motels that are normally full have only a few guests, tourist shops have had to lay off workers, and restaurants are seeing little foot traffic.

The fire, which was first reported June 23, destroyed 347 homes, making it the most destructive wildfire in state history. It burned more than 18,000 acres and killed two residents.

Early estimates place the property damage well in excess of $110 million, but experts say the economic impact will be harder to quantify and will likely reverberate for months to come.

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