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

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

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 7,891 hours to this program last year. The Sheriff’s Office coordinates with 7 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.

Timeline

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

The project includes improvements along 75th Street between Lyons and the intersection with CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026 with completion expected within 8 months.

Related Programs

Environmental review of the project area near 75th Street found 5 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Sheriff’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

According to Michael Kowalski, director of Sheriff’s Office, this program served 94% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lyons and the surrounding area,” Michael Kowalski said.