Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills Near Allenspark

Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills Near Allenspark

Boulder County Public Health has issued an air quality advisory for communities in the western foothills due to elevated particulate matter levels from prescribed burns in the Roosevelt National Forest. Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activity and keep windows closed until conditions improve.

Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $108,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 88% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Environmental review of the project area near South Boulder Road found 9 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 19 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

How to Participate

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.

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.