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  • May: Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road

    May: Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road

    The Boulder County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request to allow construction of a 48-unit affordable housing development on Arapahoe Road near the intersection with 63rd Street. The project will provide permanently affordable rental units for households earning 30-60% of area median income.

    A community information session will be held at the Erie library on Monday, May 11 at 5:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    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

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Erie 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 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

  • Fourmile Canyon Community Briefing: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway

    Fourmile Canyon Community Briefing: 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.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 85% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

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

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Water quality monitoring at 8 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Public Works publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    The Mud Lake open space property encompasses 218 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.

  • Update: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment (2026)

    Update: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment (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 Public Health processed over 10,032 applications last year, with an average processing time of 3 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 29% of properties in the Lafayette 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.

    Related Programs

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

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 92% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Background

    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 $49,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Lafayette and the intersection with SH-7 / Ute Highway. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 15 months.

  • Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — Erie Area

    Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — Erie Area

    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.

    Volunteers contributed over 10,274 hours to this program last year. The Sheriff’s Office coordinates with 5 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Sheriff’s Office, 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.

    What You Need to Know

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $219,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    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 1862 county employees across 43 departments and offices.

    Contact Information

    A community information session will be held at the Boulder library on Monday, May 4 at 5:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    According to Lisa Patel, director of Sheriff’s Office, this program served 80% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Boulder and the surrounding area,” Lisa Patel said.

  • Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons — Follow-Up Report

    Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    Safety data from the Nederland area shows 31 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 15% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Niwot Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $224,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Eligibility

    The application deadline is May 13, 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 11 business days.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 18 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Next Steps

    The Human Services processed over 11,138 applications last year, with an average processing time of 7 business days. Staff are available at the Nederland office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    A community information session will be held at the Nederland library on Sunday, May 17 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.

  • Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway Near Longmont

    Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway Near Longmont

    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.

    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 $79,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    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 2486 county employees across 37 departments and offices.

    Next Steps

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

    The application deadline is June 5, 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 11 business days.

    Timeline

    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.

    The Transportation processed over 5,025 applications last year, with an average processing time of 19 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — August 2025

    Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — August 2025

    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.

    According to Rachel Stein, director of Parks & Open Space, this program served 45% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Gunbarrel and the surrounding area,” Rachel Stein said.

    The project includes improvements along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway between Gunbarrel and the intersection with Foothills Highway. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 7 months.

    What You Need to Know

    Volunteers contributed over 2,098 hours to this program last year. The Parks & Open Space coordinates with 7 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Water quality monitoring at 8 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Parks & Open Space publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Eligibility

    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.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 45% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

  • Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — August 2025

    Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — August 2025

    The Boulder County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request to allow construction of a 48-unit affordable housing development on Arapahoe Road near the intersection with 63rd Street. The project will provide permanently affordable rental units for households earning 30-60% of area median income.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 31% 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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $52,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    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 $49,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    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 1925 county employees across 43 departments and offices.

    What You Need to Know

    Safety data from the Boulder area shows 17 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 13% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along SH-7 / Ute Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

  • Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Follow-Up Report

    Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    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 $83,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Residents in the Lafayette area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-1208 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    For questions about this program, contact Rachel Stein at Housing & Human Services: (303) 441-1208 or email Housing & Human [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Lafayette office without an appointment.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,642 affordable housing units since its inception, with 105 additional units in the development pipeline.

  • Boulder County Receives Grant for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure — Eldora Area

    Boulder County Receives Grant for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure — Eldora Area

    Boulder County has been awarded a $1.2 million federal grant to install electric vehicle charging stations at county facilities and public trailheads. The project will add 40 Level 2 chargers and 8 DC fast chargers at 12 locations across the county, with priority given to underserved communities.

    The Bald Mountain open space property encompasses 779 acres and features 10 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Funding of $388,000 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 2025 budget session.

    What You Need to Know

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 66% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Water quality monitoring at 9 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Community Planning & Permitting publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Community Impact

    The Longmont Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,852 seniors participated in center programs last year.