All posts by Jesse Lennox

Boulder News: Arapahoe Ridge ‘Rock’ Park Renovation

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A renovation effort put forth by the Parks and Recreation Department began on May 1st of this year ‘Rock’ Park in Arapahoe Ridge.  The aim of this renovation is to improve the park as a whole by installing new infrastructure and upgrading playground equipment to meet current standards.  The project has just begun, but is scheduled to be completed by the fall of this year.

The first step in this renovation project is the removal and pruning of trees in the park and by public streets.  By removing any potential obstructions beforehand, the installation of new infrastructure is expected to go much smoother.  This also keeps the park from being closed at a later date, and is most cost effective.

Along with pruning for tree health, one notable tree in Arapahoe Ridge will be removed.  An Ash tree has become infested with Emerald Ash Borer, and will be removed to keep the infestation from spreading.

The park itself is not going to be closed off to the public during the renovation period, however.  The city has stated that they will make an effort to keep their impact low, although the public should be aware that some amenities may not be available during certain periods of the renovation.

The local community was integral in the planning phase of this renovation, with feedback on the rock structure itself being very strong.  With that in mind, the Parks Department moved forward with a plan that would have the least impact on the structure as possible.  The plan states that they will install a support to ensure the main cave area remain structurally sound over time, install a rubber surface to replace the pea gravel, and secure the boulders on the main structure through re-grouting.

Once complete, ‘Rock’ Park will be home to a brand new playground meant to highlight the rock structure the park is known for.  The Parks Department is also planning on hosting a celebration event for the completion of the project when that time arrives.  Further updates on the project can be found on the Arapahoe Ridge Park page on the city’s website.

Denver News: Clear Creek Crossing Development

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Ever since 2011, there has been an 80-acre site in Wheat Ridge that has gone unused.  It was originally to be the home of a 185,000 square foot Cabela’s store and showroom, but the retailer backed out of their decision to go forward building on that space.  For five years the land went unused until it was picked up by a Phoenix based real estate group called Evergreen Devco who are very excited about contributing to the area.

“It’s very well-located real estate being at the intersection of the two highways, and we love the visibility and access.  It’s an important piece of property for the city, and we want it to be sustainable for the community long-term,” said Evergreen’s Tyler Carlson.

Evergreen held a community meeting at the end of 2016 where they announced their tentative plans for the space, which was to be used for residential units, an office complex, and a Super Walmart.  Since then, Evergreen and the city have shared that Walmart may no longer be part of the plan.

Wheatridge’s city manager Goff said that “the biggest (change) is that Walmart is uncertain about whether they will be apart of the development now.  It’s just part of the current retail market.  The internet is taking over. Amazon is taking over.”  With that in mind, the city is looking for alternatives in case Walmart doesn’t come through.

Another change is in the amount of space intended for office and housing space.  Originally, 10 acres were to be used for housing and 30 for offices.  However, the revised plan now has 15 acres for housing and 25 for an office complex owned by a Denver area employer.

Construction is set to begin in the fall of this year, starting with “hook ramps” being built onto I-70, with buildings going up in 2018.  All that’s left is for the new plan to be approved by City Council and the city’s planning commission.

“It’s really not changing all that much from what we thought it was going to look like,” Goff said. “We’re excited it’s getting much closer to the finish line than it has been in a long time.”

Upcoming Events in June

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As this year’s kickoff to the 60th annual Colorado Shakespeare Festival, CU Boulder is putting on a performance of “The Taming of the Shrew”.  Opening on the 11th, this classic comedy takes place in New York during the 1940’s, following Kate, a world war 2 pilot just returned home.  She’s paired up with Petrucio, but the two end up in a hilarious battle of wits and night time dancing that eventually leads to a deeper understanding of each other.  Tickets for these events are on sale for $20, and patrons are also able to pre-order dinner to enjoy during the show from Boulder’s Savory Cuisines.

All month long, the Tebo Train is running down Pearl Street Mall.  Monday through Thursday, kids 10 and under, along with their parents, can enjoy a comfortable ride through the outdoor mall in a miniature train right out of a picture book.  The train is already making rounds, and is scheduled to go all the way through August, so there’s plenty of time to make it down and catch a ride.  The train departs and arrives right in front of Wells Fargo Bank.  Make sure to get there on time, as the last train of each day departs at 11:15AM.

The 14th of this month will be the second week of the annual Band on the Bricks in downtown Boulder.  This 10 week long outdoor concert event is a special tradition that few places besides Boulder can claim to have.  The variety of music is wide, and gives the public a great taste of what the local musicians have to offer.  Plus, local breweries also come out to contribute to the beer, wine, and margarita garden that opens at 5:30.  This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event, with the final day landing on the 40th anniversary of the Pearl Street Mall, so the lineup is poised to be one of the best.  Everyone’s free to attend and enjoy the music, but of course drinks and food will be charged.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Mapleton Hill

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Just north of downtown Boulder, Mapleton Hill is a haven for all types of families.  The architecture of the homes in this neighborhood alone can range from ones built in the early 1900’s, to the most modern designs, but are all tied together by the gorgeous tree lined streets.  The incredible views that made this neighborhood desirable 100 years ago remain, but with so much more added during that time.

Getting Around

Transportation

Mapleton Hills is ideal for the family who enjoys getting out.  With Pearl Street mall well within a comfortable walking distance, there’s hardly a need to drive to enjoy a day out.  Plus the bus line on Broadway couldn’t be more convenient.  Located so close to the bus station itself, just about every major bus line can be accessed right from the nearby road.  Of course Broadway is a great asset to drivers as well.  Whether the destination is close by or far off, being able to get onto a road like Broadway is invaluable to saving time.

Biking

The roads and sidewalks on Mapleton Hill almost seem to have been designed as much for bikers as automobiles.  The wide roads are quiet, flat, and made to be as safe as possible for everyone using the road.  It would take no time at all to ride out to the Boulder Creek Trail, or head up Boulder Canyon for a full day of riding in the beautiful mountains.  That’s not even mentioning all the trails and paths to explore up Sunshine Canyon.  There’s truly no shortage of variety for an active biker to enjoy.

 

Neighborhood Amenities

The largest, as well as most varied, amenity Mapleton Hills has at its fingertips is the Pearl Street mall.  This outdoor shopping utopia is brimming with shops, restaurants, and entertainment both local and regional.  It can be the perfect place to take the kids out for the day and have some ice cream, or go out for a more upscale dinner for a special occasion.  Most summer afternoons and evenings even have local street performers that put on fun and exciting shows for people of all ages to enjoy.  Walking a little further south is the main branch of the public library right beside Boulder creek as a picturesque area for reading to the quiet sounds of the water.  And, just a few blocks North, is the community shopping plaza to turn a day of errands into one easy trip.

 

Mapleton Hill in a Nutshel

The feel of Mapleton Hills is that of a secluded neighborhood in a small town, while at the same time being just a few blocks away from the heart of Boulder.  The homes have stood the test of time, as has the desirability of the location.  The views alone made it a much sought after neighborhood 100 years ago, but now it can offer so much more than that.  Between Pearl Street mall, and all the amenities in contains, and all the adventures waiting for be taken in the mountains, Mapleton Hills is a perfect fit for any family who loves what Boulder is.

Boulder News: Boulder Plot Approved for Development

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During the last 20 years there have been four separate proposals for development at the 20 acre space at McKenzie Junction.  This plot, surrounded by highway, first had an office and hotel project in 1998, a five building office park in 2000, and two separate multi-use plans in 2006 and 2015.  None were approved due to concerns about noise and the dangers of people settling in a space cut off by highways on all sides.

In April, a plan was approved by the Boulder Planning Board.  The same team who made the most recent proposal in 2015 came back with a new multi-use plan.

Called Diagonal Crossing, this plan will consist of 357 housing units, a quarter of which will be affordable housing, with 20 units given to faculty of Naropa University.  Additionally, three local nonprofits, Meals on Wheels, Studio Arts Boulder and Bridge House’s Ready to Work, have dedicated space allocated to them.

While the Planning Board has given its blessing, the city council must now approve to proceed.  During the next few weeks the council will have the opportunity to examine the proposal, ask questions, and possibly reject the project because previous concerns including, traffic, noise, are still factors.

The Planning Board raised these concerns when reviewing the project as well, but eagerness to develop the site seems to have increased over the last two decades.  “While this is not a perfect site, it’s not the worst site either,” Chairman John Putnam said.  He added that the access to trails, open space, and access to east Boulder and the Diagonal Highway could be very enticing.

Approximately 10 neighboring areas of the site came to the board with concerns and complaints about the development including Allison Management, Trammell Crow Residential, and Coburn Partners.  “It just doesn’t seem like a nice entrance into our Boulder town,” Gary Carmichael stated. “There’s just too much density on this, and it needs to be lightened up.”

One board member, David Ensign, also shared concerns about the project being the first thing people see coming into Boulder.  “We can talk a lot about the positive aspects of this, but I also know that as you’re driving in on the Diagonal, you’re going to see this very isolated pool of housing surrounded by these highways.  It doesn’t seem like something that is a gateway to me.”

“We have horses, cattle, dogs, kids,” Erin Harding said. “To hear that it’s going to be an active area 24/7 is very disconcerting to us, because that’s not our lifestyle out there. … The density is everyone’s huge concern.”  Many also noted that McKenzie Junction already suffers from traffic problems that this development would only exacerbate.

When the plan was proposed in 2015, many of the council members made it clear that the location rather than the plan was what made them believe the project wouldn’t work.  What might give this plan more of a chance than it had two years ago, according to board members, is the decrease in available housing.

Events to Look Forward to in May

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While the majority of people probably know him as an actor, Kiefer Sutherland has taken on many other careers in his life.  In 1992 he started working as a cattle rancher as well as a competitive cowboy.  In 2002 he started his own record label called Ironworks.  It wasn’t until 2015 that Sutherland recorded two songs of his own, initially meant as demos for other artists. Those songs were eventually expanded into his own 11 song album ‘Down in a Hole’.  To hear what Sutherland describes as “the closest thing I’ve ever had to a journal or diary”, his performance at the Fox Theater on May 10th is the one to see.

The 13th of May is a lucky day for any mountain bikers out there.  The 10th annual MTB demo day is back at Valmont bike park once again.  Starting with just a few small manufacturers in a small space in North Boulder, MTB now hosts top of the line vendors at the 62 acre Valmont bike park where anyone can come and try out these brand new bikes.  Attendees will be able to test ride bikes from Yeti, Pivot, Santa Cruz, Rocky Mountain, and many more.  Plus, the event is free for the first 400 people to register.  This is an all ages event, but those who want to test out a bike for themselves should bring an ID to checkout with the vendors.

Why not treat the kids to a fun event of their own on May 18th with the weekly storytime hosted by Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys.  This children’s store is locally owned by two sisters who opened up shop from Fort Collins.  Aside from having everything a child could need from newborn to tween, they also have bring in a local retired teacher to read stories to children every week.  It is intended for kids aged 2-6, and parents are encouraged to sit in as well.

The 19th of this month brings another annual event, this time the 3rd 15th street design district, or 15SDD, block party.  All along 15th street, between grove and canyon, will be blocked off to traffic for this pedestrian event.  Admission is free for everyone, and will host many food and dessert trucks to peruse while learning about Design Studio.  This event is completely family friendly, zero waste, and will have plenty of live music, performances, and giveaways.

Rounding out the events for this month is James Kakalios and his book signing at the Boulder Book store on the 23rd.  His book ‘The Physics of Everyday Things’ examines the amazing things we encounter on a daily basis, yet almost always overlook.  Kakalios gets into the fine details of things like how refrigerators keep food cool, planes stay in the air, and our wrist pedometers count our steps.  Each example is accompanied by a narrative explaining all the forces at work that are invisible to the human eye in a captivating way.  As always, vouchers for the event cost $5, but are good for that same dollar amount off either his book or any other product purchased that day.

Boulder News: Boulder Country Awards $126k in Local Grants

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Boulder County has given a sum total of $126k for the cities and towns  for new projects.  Specifically, projects and services aimed toward environmental sustainability.  There are a great number of sustainability projects that can be pursued thanks to these grants.  For example, Longmont intends to develop new ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  And, Nederland plans to build a greenhouse to increase food production.

The sustainability coordinator for Boulder, Susie Strife, commented on the grants.  “We are grateful for the leadership of municipalities to advance sustainability in our region.  We value the partnerships we have built to meet our shared vision of more sustainable communities.”

In addition to the grant money, municipalities will also match at least 25% of the funds awarded.  However, Jamestown, Nederland, and Ward will provide local services equivalent to that amount in place of raw funds.

The city of Boulder’s grant of $15,000 will be used to create a strategy for increasing electric vehicle adoption rates.  The overall goal is to reach a level that meets the city’s climate commitment target.  Lafayette has a similar goal with their $15,000 involving solar power.  They intend to make the process of planning and permitting panels much easier.  Additionally, solar workshops and resources for the community will be made available.

Louisville, also receiving $15,000, will hire a sustainability consultant.  They will carry out the city’s short and long term objectives in their Sustainability Action Plan.  Superior will use their $15,000 to improve their waste drop off site.  This will increase waste diversion from the landfill, while also making the facility more user friendly and safer.  Superior’s goal is to reach 50% waste diversion with this grant.

Jamestown, receiving the smallest grant of $6,785, also looks to use the funds for waste diversion.  Their approach will be through community education on zero waste and recycling collection.  Ward intends to continue efforts in food security.  Also, they will be able to hire a consultant to look into septic system solutions.

All projects were reviewed and approved by the County.  They were detailed in full in the country news release.

 

Denver News: New Aurora Community Could House 60,000 People

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Steamboat’s ski resort has enjoyed a rising level of commercial success ever since 2007 when Intrawest first arrived and made the $265 million purchase of the ski area.  This was nearly triple what the asking price was 6 years previously, and was a strong hint at what plans were in store for the resort.  The market noticed, and the real estate market erupted for both buyers and developers with sales hitting a record level of $1.5 billion.

When looking back on whether or not Intrawest was actually the cause for this boom, David Baldinger, owner of Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, had this to say.  “We can’t figure out if it was just the tail end of the real estate boom or if it was Intrawest.  We think it was Intrawest, because the financial crisis was underway but Steamboat had strong volume for another year. We think it was enthusiasm for a new owner.”

The trend of a resort getting a new owner stimulating the real estate market is one the high country is very familiar with.  The same thing occurred in 2002, also involving Intrawest, and Winter Park.  Then again in 2003 with the purchase of Crested Butte.

This year Aspen Skiing Co. and KSL Capital Partners have partnered to purchase six of Intrawest’s resorts including Winter Park and Steamboat.  It is expected that this purchase won’t make the same waves as earlier ones, however, largely due to the recession.  “We had locals buying condos in luxury developments purely as an investment, but it didn’t make sense given their capability if anything changed.  Then everything changed,” said Jon Wade, the owner of the Steamboat Group real estate firm.

Intrawest’s great success came to a screeching halt with the recession in 2008 and 2009.  They were forced to sell off some of their 11 resorts just to cover the debts they accrued.  Aspen Skiing and KSL intends to learn from this and use third parties for developing real estate on their 1,100 acres of slope-side land.

“We would love to see those areas developed in a responsible manner,” KSL Capital Partners chief Eric Resnick said. “But developing that real estate is not our main driver.”  Winter park has already been enjoying a growth period, with $30.1 million in sales in February alone, and the ski resort going to new owners is expected to bolster that growth according to local real estate owners.

“These guys, Aspen and KSL, they live in a world of responding to what resort and travel customers are looking for. I think they will add new fresh thoughts to the mountain and the village,” said Walter Koezbel, owner of a 1,100 acres of residential project.  “Activity begets activity, and they will take experience they have learned from their multitude of properties and they will bring new ideas to Winter Park and Grand County. It will shine a light on what we have up here.”

Baldinger summed up the mood with his statement that “I like the idea that the people in the ski business will be focusing on the ski business and the talent in the development community can focus on the development pieces.”

Neighborhood Spotlight: Martin Acres

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Situated in the Southern end of East Boulder, Martin Acres has become a highly sought after neighborhood.  With homes catering to families of all sizes, this wide open area is the perfect place to settle down or start raising a family.  These houses were mostly built in the early to mid-60’s and have proven to stand the test of time in both functionality and appearance.  Plus, the location couldn’t be better.  Whether it’s recreation, errands, or work, Martin Acres makes it easy and convenient.

 

Getting Around

Transportation

Martin Acres is one of the most commuter friendly neighborhoods in Boulder.  Table Mesa runs right through the neighborhood and links it to all the main roads one could want.  For example, taking to the north can lead right into highway 36.  Or, by taking a different turn, right onto Foothills parkway.  And, if that was isn’t enough, it also goes straight into the beginning of South Boulder road.  There’s nowhere in or out of town these roads couldn’t help you reach.  Then, to the West, Table Mesa links up with South Broadway.  With so many great roads and alternate paths, commuting by car will never be a worry.  But that’s not even mentioning public transportation.  The RTD park and ride is right down the road for a stress-free trip out of town.  If going into town is the destination, then there’s no better street than Broadway to catch a bus.

Biking

Martin Acres’ neighborhood design was designed with bikes in mind.  All the side streets are bike friendly, with plenty of dedicated paths linking to roads and trails.  And with all the buses being bike friendly, it is a breeze to bike to a stop and take it with you to your destination.  With so many places nearby, or in the neighborhood itself, to shop and eat, biking is often the faster way to get around.

Neighborhood Amenities

This neighborhood is a real gem.  Not only does it have two parks and a lake in its own backyard, but also a ton of great choices for shopping and eating.  Tantra Park to the East is a beautiful space for families and pets.  It’s the perfect place to take the dog for a walk, or bring the kids to the playground.  This park also right beside Tantra Lake, another perfect place for a casual walk.  The tables overlooking the lake also make it perfect for a family picnic.

In terms of restaurant and shopping options, Martin Acres is brimming with them.  Right in the neighborhood is a little center that’s great spot to stop at.  Que’s Espresso is perfect for the morning coffee, and Napal Cuisine offers a great local dinner option.  Traveling just across Broadway is both a King Soopers and Lucky’s Market to cover any grocery needs.  In addition, there’s the south Walnut Cafe and Southern Sun, among much more, for even more variety in places to eat.

Martin Acres in a Nutshell

For those with a family, or those who are thinking about starting one, this neighborhood is a perfect fit.  The homes are built to last on the safe and quiet streets.  Parks and lakes mean nature is never more than a short walk or bike away, and getting errands done couldn’t be more convenient.  Even a night out doesn’t require fighting traffic downtown when living here.  Martin Acres really does have it all.

 

Events to Kick off Spring

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April is a great transitional month.  Not only does it usher in the change from winter to spring, but with it a great variety of new events to look forward to.  Here are 5 events to shake up your schedule and welcome in the new season.

Starting off on April 17th, the SmithKlein Gallery is presenting Peter Burega’s artwork.  The gallery, open from 2-6pm, showcases a new series of oil paintings by the talented artist.  His work draws from nature and the appearance of light on different surfaces.  However, unlike more traditional artists, Burega only works with trowels, scrapers, and knives.  These tools create a vastly unique texture on the board.  And everyone’s individual interpretation is a key motivator for the artist.  With no fee, it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon on Pearl Street.

 

Just two days later, on April 19th, the Boulder Bookstore is hosting another author to speak about her book.  This month will feature Jessamyn Stanley and her book “Every Body Yoga.”  Her book focuses on inspiring all people to discover yoga.  She takes a very uplifting and body-positive approach to help people of all shapes and sizes.  But, her book isn’t just for people just beginning on their path to yoga.  People already well versed will find her book to offer great new motivations.  Ultimately, the book aims to showcase yoga’s mental benefits over the physical.  A $5 voucher is required to attend, but is also good for $5 off the author’s book.

Switching gears on April 21st is September School’s Battle of the Corporate Band at the Boulder Theater.  September School is Boulder’s longest running independent high school, starting back in 1973.  At that time 5,000 independent high schools opened their doors, but as of 2001 only 2% remained.  They have remained active thanks to their strong relationships they have built with the local community.  This event is just one of their efforts to partner with the people of Boulder to raise money for their scholarship fund.  Tickets are $25 and all proceeds will go toward aiding local students.

If you’re looking for an event that really says Spring, keep April 22nd open.  The Butterfly Pavilion is having one of their $5 days from 9-5pm.  The entire pavilion is open for explorations, including the new and improved crawl-a-see-em.  Those brave enough can hold Rosie, the famous tarantula.  Or, perhaps a starfish is more comfortable.  Whatever the case, 1,600 butterflies await in their little Tropical Rain forest.

Finally, on April 23rd, is the Taste of Pearl.  This event, running from 2-6, is a full on celebration of Boulder’s culinary arts.  Not only will there be plenty of food on offer, but local wines and distilleries are also showcased.  Plus, even more local boutiques and galleries will be open to explore while enjoying the local flavors.  Ticket prices are $65, but include samples from all vendors, food, wine, and spirits and a few other goodies.  This event is for 21 and up, and tickets are likely to sell out so make sure to grab some fast.