Business Roundup: New Restaurant & Housing Recognition
Former Olde Tymer’s Cafe to be Transformed into New Restaurant
The iconic Olde Tymer’s Cafe building at 1000 Main Ave. in Durango is undergoing significant renovations in anticipation of a new restaurant. Owner Sean Dugan, who acquired the property in 2024, initially intended to make minor updates but soon realized that extensive renovations were necessary due to structural issues.
Dugan shared, “It became abundantly clear that it really needed a full face-lift.” He hopes to complete the renovations by the end of the year and is exploring concepts that might pay homage to the old café, though he dismissed rumors of reopening it under the same name. Dugan is also considering a partial ownership role in the new establishment.
Past owners struggled with the building’s infrastructure, citing problems like rotting floors and inadequate cooling systems. Dugan, who founded Dugan Production Corp. in Farmington, is passionate about this project, reflecting on his fond memories of the old café.
Higher Purpose Homes Awarded Company of the Year
Durango’s Higher Purpose Homes has been honored as the Economic Development Council of Colorado’s Company of the Year for its innovative work in creating affordable housing in the Four Corners region. Founded in 2022, the company constructs panelized homes and recently expanded operations to a new facility in Bayfield, projected to produce around 40 housing units annually.
The company employs an off-site construction model, enabling quicker building times and reducing waste. Kim Woodworth, EDCC Executive Director, emphasized the importance of Higher Purpose Homes in tackling the local housing shortage and contributing to the economic landscape.
Higher Purpose Homes is also part of the Innovative Housing Incentive Program, with potential performance-based reimbursements available as it aims to build 95 housing units over the next three years.
Co-founder Nick Lemmer expressed surprise at the recognition, reflecting on the significant challenges the local housing market faces and the excitement of their plans for future developments.
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