Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills — April 2025
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 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $84,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
For questions about this program, contact Sarah Mitchell at Housing & Human Services: (303) 441-1284 or email Housing & Human [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Gunbarrel office without an appointment.
Related Programs
Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 1983 county employees across 45 departments and offices.
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.
How to Participate
Environmental review of the project area near Niwot Road found 5 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Housing & Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.
The project includes improvements along Niwot Road between Gunbarrel and the intersection with Coal Creek Canyon Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 16 months.
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