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  • January: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway

    January: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway

    Boulder County Public Works announces a temporary median closure on Niwot Road near the CO-119 Diagonal Highway intersection for utility infrastructure improvements. The closure will affect left turns from Niwot Road onto the Diagonal Highway for approximately six weeks. A signed detour route will be in place.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 17% of properties in the Boulder area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2478 county employees across 43 departments and offices.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    For questions about this program, contact Lisa Patel at Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience: (303) 441-1579 or email Sustainability, Climate Action & [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Boulder office without an appointment.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    What You Need to Know

    The Anne U. White open space property encompasses 1,329 acres and features 13 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

  • September: Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026

    September: Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026

    Boulder County’s Wildfire Partners program is accepting registrations for the 2026 community chipping season. Residents in the wildland-urban interface can have tree limbs, brush, and other woody debris chipped at no cost. Last year the program processed over 2,400 loads of material from 1,100 properties across the county.

    Funding of $73,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2024 budget session.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    What You Need to Know

    The application deadline is July 30, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 21 business days.

    Safety data from the Superior area shows 11 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 16% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along SH-119 Diagonal Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Contact Information

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $95,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Eldora Community Briefing: Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons

    Eldora Community Briefing: Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space has acquired a 340-acre conservation easement on a working ranch near the town of Lyons. The easement permanently protects critical wildlife habitat along the St. Vrain Creek corridor and preserves agricultural land from future development while keeping the property in private ownership.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Community Justice Services, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Residents in the Superior area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Community Justice Services at (303) 441-1323 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    How to Participate

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 39% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Contact Information

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 39% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,620 responses from residents across the county.

  • Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard Shows 87% of Destroyed Homes Now Rebuilt — Hygiene Area

    Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard Shows 87% of Destroyed Homes Now Rebuilt — Hygiene Area

    The Boulder County Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard reports that 87% of the 1,084 homes destroyed in the December 2021 Marshall Fire have been rebuilt or are under active construction. The county continues to provide expedited permit review, fee waivers, and rebuilding support services for affected homeowners.

    Water quality monitoring at 14 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Community Justice Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Funding of $395,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2026 budget session.

    Contact Information

    The Community Justice Services processed over 3,346 applications last year, with an average processing time of 14 business days. Staff are available at the Superior office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2483 county employees across 45 departments and offices.

    Background

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their July 4 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

  • Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Longmont Area

    Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Longmont Area

    The February edition of the Boulder County Resource Conservation newsletter features updates on the 2026 composting grant program, tips for reducing food waste at home, upcoming zero waste events, and a spotlight on local businesses achieving zero waste certification.

    A community information session will be held at the Niwot library on Monday, May 18 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    The application deadline is April 30, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 19 business days.

    What You Need to Know

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 15% of properties in the Niwot area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    Environmental review of the project area near Sunshine Canyon Drive found 4 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Public Works worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Residents in the Niwot area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Public Works at (303) 441-2650 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

  • Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    The Board of County Commissioners has approved amendments to the Boulder County Land Use Code to streamline the process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties in unincorporated areas. Changes include reduced setback requirements, simplified design standards, and by-right approval for units under 800 square feet.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 1889 county employees across 49 departments and offices.

    Environmental review of the project area near Flagstaff Road found 6 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Community Impact

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $75,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    The application deadline is July 30, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 18 business days.

    Background

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    The Community Planning & Permitting processed over 7,114 applications last year, with an average processing time of 18 business days. Staff are available at the Boulder office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Update: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14 (2024)

    Update: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14 (2024)

    The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the 2026 Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Program. Grants fund equipment, training, and trail safety improvements for volunteer search and rescue teams and trail patrol organizations operating in Boulder County.

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Louisville and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2024, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Timeline

    Residents in the Louisville area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Resource Conservation at (303) 441-5591 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Resource Conservation, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

  • Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election Near Eldora

    Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election Near Eldora

    The registration deadline for the June 2026 Colorado Primary Election is May 25. Boulder County residents can register online at GoVoteColorado.gov, by mail, or in person at any Voter Service and Polling Center. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day with valid ID.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Human Services, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    For questions about this program, contact Emily Chen at Human Services: (303) 441-1431 or email Human [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Lyons office without an appointment.

    Next Steps

    Water quality monitoring at 12 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Human Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 22% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Human Services processed over 2,036 applications last year, with an average processing time of 12 business days. Staff are available at the Lyons office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2363 county employees across 45 departments and offices.

  • Update: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment (2025)

    Update: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment (2025)

    The City of Boulder and Boulder County have released the draft 2026 Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan update for public review and comment. The plan addresses land use, housing, transportation, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. Public comments will be accepted through May 15.

    The project includes improvements along Flagstaff Road between Nederland and the intersection with Sunshine Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 14 months.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their June 8 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Background

    The Nederland Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,318 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    The Legion Park open space property encompasses 2,110 acres and features 12 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Contact Information

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

  • Update: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14 (2025)

    Update: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14 (2025)

    The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the 2026 Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Program. Grants fund equipment, training, and trail safety improvements for volunteer search and rescue teams and trail patrol organizations operating in Boulder County.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2466 county employees across 40 departments and offices.

    Water quality monitoring at 15 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Community Planning & Permitting publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Eligibility

    The application deadline is June 9, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 30 business days.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Tuesday, May 19 at 6:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    Related Programs

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,461 affordable housing units since its inception, with 234 additional units in the development pipeline.

    The Bald Mountain open space property encompasses 215 acres and features 3 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.