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  • November 2026: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities

    November 2026: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities

    Boulder County Housing & Human Services announces a new funding opportunity for projects that create or preserve affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities. Up to $500,000 is available for capital improvements, accessibility modifications, and supportive housing development. Applications are due May 1.

    The project includes improvements along Coal Creek Canyon Road between Gunbarrel and the intersection with South Boulder Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026 with completion expected within 18 months.

    Environmental review of the project area near Coal Creek Canyon Road found 8 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Parks & Open Space worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Resources

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Parks & Open Space, 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.

    Volunteers contributed over 10,359 hours to this program last year. The Parks & Open Space coordinates with 16 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Community Impact

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Parks & Open Space at (303) 441-4768 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    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 2479 county employees across 40 departments and offices.

  • January: Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026

    January: Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026

    The Board of County Commissioners has adopted the 2026 Boulder County budget totaling $745 million. Key investments include $42 million for affordable housing initiatives, $28 million for transportation infrastructure, and $15 million for wildfire mitigation and climate resilience programs.

    Residents in the Longmont area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Resource Conservation at (303) 441-6649 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    A community information session will be held at the Longmont library on Monday, May 11 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.

    Resources

    The Caribou Ranch open space property encompasses 2,326 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.

    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.

    How to Participate

    The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Longmont and the intersection with Nelson Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 7 months.

  • Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — April 2025

    Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — April 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 Caribou Ranch open space property encompasses 1,329 acres and features 5 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Safety data from the Longmont area shows 30 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 23% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Coal Creek Canyon Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Contact Information

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $202,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 27% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 3,192 responses from residents across the county.

    Background

    Environmental review of the project area near Coal Creek Canyon Road found 11 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Residents in the Longmont area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Human Services at (303) 441-7958 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons Near Allenspark

    Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons Near Allenspark

    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.

    Volunteers contributed over 9,050 hours to this program last year. The Housing & Human Services coordinates with 12 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    The Housing & Human Services processed over 1,356 applications last year, with an average processing time of 21 business days. Staff are available at the Erie office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Background

    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.

    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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Erie Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,497 seniors participated in center programs last year.

  • Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — August 2026

    Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — August 2026

    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 Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their July 2 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 31% of properties in the Lyons 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.

    Background

    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 2395 county employees across 49 departments and offices.

    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.

    Next Steps

    According to Carlos Rivera, director of Public Works, this program served 54% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lyons and the surrounding area,” Carlos Rivera said.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Public Works, 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.

  • Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — Follow-Up Report

    Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — Follow-Up Report

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed March 2026 as Women’s History Month, recognizing the contributions of women leaders, activists, and community builders throughout Boulder County’s history. Special events and exhibitions will be held at libraries and community centers throughout the month.

    Environmental review of the project area near Coal Creek Canyon Road found 5 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Public Works worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 40% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $70,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    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.

    Volunteers contributed over 14,149 hours to this program last year. The Public Works coordinates with 15 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    What You Need to Know

    Funding of $51,000 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.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 31% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 3,107 responses from residents across the county.

  • Update: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review (2026)

    Update: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review (2026)

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed comprehensive updates to the Land Use Code’s site plan review process. Key changes include new stormwater management requirements, updated landscape standards, enhanced wildfire mitigation provisions, and expanded public notification procedures.

    For questions about this program, contact Carlos Rivera at Transportation: (303) 441-3862 or email [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Gunbarrel 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.

    Related Programs

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $87,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,985 affordable housing units since its inception, with 216 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Eligibility

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 24% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 4,575 responses from residents across the county.

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Transportation at (303) 441-3862 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Update: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal (2024)

    Update: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal (2024)

    Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting has launched an updated online building permit portal with improved search functionality, real-time status tracking, and mobile-friendly document uploads. The new system reduces average permit review times by 15% and allows applicants to schedule inspections online.

    The Bald Mountain open space property encompasses 92 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.

    For questions about this program, contact Brian Nakamura at Public Works: (303) 441-3609 or email Public [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Nederland office without an appointment.

    Timeline

    According to Brian Nakamura, director of Public Works, this program served 40% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Nederland and the surrounding area,” Brian Nakamura said.

    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 1985 county employees across 42 departments and offices.

    What You Need to Know

    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 $70,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • November 2026: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    November 2026: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    Boulder County residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste including paint, solvents, pesticides, batteries, and electronics at a free collection event on Saturday, April 19 at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. No appointment is necessary. Commercial waste is not accepted.

    The Walden Ponds open space property encompasses 389 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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $260,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Contact Information

    For questions about this program, contact Jennifer Walsh at Resource Conservation: (303) 441-5467 or email Resource [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Gunbarrel office without an appointment.

    Funding of $260,000 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.

  • November 2025: Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work

    November 2025: Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space announces a temporary closure of the Boulder Canyon Trail between Elephant Buttresses and the Dome trailhead for rockfall mitigation work. Crews will be scaling loose rock and installing mesh netting along a 400-foot section of cliff face above the trail. The closure is expected to last approximately three weeks, weather permitting.

    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 2026, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Clerk & Recorder, 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.

    Background

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Tuesday, April 28 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 Clerk & Recorder processed over 8,356 applications last year, with an average processing time of 19 business days. Staff are available at the Gunbarrel office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Contact Information

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $77,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.