USPS considers overhaul at Grand Junction facility: Potential job losses and mail delays feared

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) - The United States Postal Service (USPS) is considering substantial changes at its Processing and Distribution Center in Grand Junction, Colorado, potentially leading to job losses and mail delivery delays.

As part of its national strategy, known as Delivering for America, USPS aims to modernize its postal processing, transportation, and delivery networks nationwide. The proposed alterations at the Grand Junction facility involve investing millions of dollars in upgrades and relocating some processing operations to the Denver Processing and Distribution Center.

USPS documents indicate that while the Grand Junction facility may remain operational, it could be reclassified as a Local Processing Center. However, outbound mail processing operations would likely shift to Denver.

The rationale behind these changes lies in the fact that a majority of mail and packages handled in Grand Junction are destined for locations outside the area. USPS argues that consolidating operations with Denver could improve service efficiency and cost-effectiveness by leveraging the broader postal network.

Despite USPS estimating a net decrease of 12 positions with no layoffs for career employees or management, concerns have been raised by local union officials.

To address community concerns, USPS plans to hold a community meeting on Thursday to discuss the proposal and its impact on the region’s postal services. Postal workers intend to rally on Monday at the Processing and Distribution Center to raise awareness of potential impacts.

In response to the proposal, USPS intends to invest between $6 million to $8 million in modernization and equipment upgrades at the Grand Junction facility, including installing a new sorting machine. However, concerns persist regarding the efficiency of mail processing and transportation schedules.

The proposal has sparked debate among local legislators and postal workers, with some highlighting potential delays in mail delivery, particularly during closures of Interstate 70, which links Grand Junction and Denver.

USPS is accepting written comments on the proposal until March 8, encouraging community feedback and engagement in the decision-making process. Postal officials emphasize that essential postal services, including retail operations and delivery services, will continue uninterrupted during the evaluation period.

The outcome of the USPS proposal could significantly impact postal operations in Grand Junction and surrounding areas, prompting stakeholders to monitor developments and engage in dialogue with USPS officials closely.

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