March 2026: Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road

March 2026: 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.

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,847 affordable housing units since its inception, with 260 additional units in the development pipeline.

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

Timeline

The Community Justice Services processed over 8,058 applications last year, with an average processing time of 17 business days. Staff are available at the Gunbarrel office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

The project includes improvements along 75th Street between Gunbarrel and the intersection with Coal Creek Canyon Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 6 months.

What You Need to Know

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.