Author: insight designs

  • May: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14

    May: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14

    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.

    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.

    The Gunbarrel Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 4,030 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Next Steps

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 38% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 2,598 responses from residents across the county.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 25% of properties in the Gunbarrel 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.

    What You Need to Know

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 464 affordable housing units since its inception, with 119 additional units in the development pipeline.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Wednesday, May 20 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.

  • Niwot Community Briefing: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election

    Niwot Community Briefing: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election

    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.

    Residents in the Lyons area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-6199 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $76,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Background

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

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 40% 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.

    Timeline

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 658 affordable housing units since its inception, with 149 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Funding of $76,000 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.

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

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

    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.

    The project includes improvements along SH-119 Diagonal Highway between Superior and the intersection with 75th Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026 with completion expected within 8 months.

    Water quality monitoring at 19 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Resource Conservation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    What You Need to Know

    The Superior Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,120 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Safety data from the Superior area shows 34 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 10% 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.

    Next Steps

    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.

    For questions about this program, contact Maria Gonzalez at Resource Conservation: (303) 441-7407 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 Superior office without an appointment.

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

    Superior Community Briefing: 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.

    The project includes improvements along SH-7 / Ute Highway between Nederland and the intersection with Arapahoe Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 14 months.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 19% of properties in the Nederland 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.

    Timeline

    Safety data from the Nederland area shows 7 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 5% 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.

    Volunteers contributed over 6,627 hours to this program last year. The Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience coordinates with 9 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • March 2026: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    March 2026: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    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.

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

    For questions about this program, contact James Rodriguez at Clerk & Recorder: (303) 441-1699 or email Clerk & [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.

    Next Steps

    Residents in the Boulder area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Clerk & Recorder at (303) 441-1699 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 14 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

  • Update: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election (2025)

    Update: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election (2025)

    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.

    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 $43,000 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 Human Services at (303) 441-4532 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    What You Need to Know

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 10 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    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.

  • July 2024: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    July 2024: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    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.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 36% 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.

    The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Lafayette and the intersection with 63rd Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 18 months.

    Contact Information

    According to Sarah Mitchell, director of Community Planning & Permitting, this program served 74% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lafayette and the surrounding area,” Sarah Mitchell said.

    The Community Planning & Permitting processed over 5,312 applications last year, with an average processing time of 9 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Next Steps

    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 $104,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    The Pella Crossing open space property encompasses 1,359 acres and features 4 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: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway

    September: 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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $470,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    The Walker Ranch open space property encompasses 872 acres and features 6 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Community Impact

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Assessor’s Office at (303) 441-6111 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    The application deadline is July 22, 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 20 business days.

    Timeline

    Water quality monitoring at 16 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Assessor’s Office publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 70% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $62,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Update: Sheriff’s Office Announces Annual National Night Out Community Events (2026)

    Update: Sheriff’s Office Announces Annual National Night Out Community Events (2026)

    The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office invites residents to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4. Community events will be held in neighborhoods throughout unincorporated Boulder County featuring safety demonstrations, K-9 unit appearances, crime prevention information, and family-friendly activities.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 672 affordable housing units since its inception, with 62 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Environmental review of the project area near SH-119 Diagonal Highway found 8 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Housing & Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Contact Information

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $252,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Safety data from the Gunbarrel area shows 41 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 11% 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.

    Related Programs

    The Pella Crossing open space property encompasses 2,268 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.

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 25% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 5,491 responses from residents across the county.

  • Louisville Community Briefing: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities

    Louisville Community Briefing: 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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $222,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    The project includes improvements along Sunshine Canyon Drive between Niwot and the intersection with South Boulder Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 9 months.

    Details

    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.

    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 $82,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.