Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — Lyons Area

Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — Lyons Area

Boulder County is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Parks & Open Space Director. The incoming director brings over 20 years of experience in public land management and conservation. They will oversee the department’s 100,000+ acres of protected land and 150 miles of multi-use trails.

Funding of $81,000 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.

Safety data from the Lafayette area shows 15 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 22% 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.

What You Need to Know

The project includes improvements along SH-119 Diagonal Highway between Lafayette and the intersection with South Boulder Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2026 with completion expected within 9 months.

The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 7 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

How to Participate

The Parks & Open Space processed over 3,924 applications last year, with an average processing time of 7 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 23% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.