Tag Archives: 2017

Boulder News: Arapahoe Ridge ‘Rock’ Park Renovation

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

Upcoming Events in June

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

Events to Look Forward to in May

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Frasier Meadows

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The East Boulder neighborhood of Frasier Meadows is one certainly worth looking into.  The homes were built in the mid to late 60’s and are full of personality.  In addition, there are plenty of condos and apartments for families of all sizes.  The safe and beautiful winding streets and paths all weave this neighborhood together.  For those looking for a quiet place to call home, Frasier Meadows is just the place.

 

Getting Around

Transportation

Frasier Meadows has two excellent choices for driving in or out of town.  The first is Baseline, perhaps the best route to get downtown.  The second is the unique outlet right onto the Denver Boulder Turnpike.  No other neighborhood in Boulder has access to both of these roads right out of the community.  If public transportation is preferable, then the Meadows delivers yet again.  The RTD has multiple stops along Baseline right in front of the neighborhood.  And, to the south, the Park ‘n’ Ride is just across the street.

 

Biking

Bike riders should prepare themselves for an abundance of choice in Frasier Meadows.  First there is the Meadow’s shopping center, which is bike accessible without touching a main road.  Then there’s all the bike paths right along Baseline, such as the Boulder Creek path.  From there, an entire network of options opens up.  Whether it’s for work or play, biking from this neighborhood may be more convenient than driving.

 

Neighborhood Amenities

As the similar names imply, Frasier Meadows touches right up to the Meadows shopping center.  This little shopping plaza turns an afternoon of errands into a one trip affair.  The Safeway carries all the family’s favorites, plus a Rite Aid on the corner for extra odds and ends.  Or, why not make a day of it and get some ice cream at the locally owned Glacier Ice Cream.  Plus there’s the Meadow’s branch of the public library right around back.  What better way to spend a day than picking up a book and heading over to Burke Park to read by the water?  This quiet little park offers one of a kind views of the majestic flatirons in the heart of the neighborhood.

For families with, or who plan to have, children, this neighborhood is ready with two nearby schools.  Horizons is a K-8 located right next to Burke Park, which is perfect for older kids to walk or bike to.  A little further across the street is Manhattan Middle school.  While it is across Foothills Parkway, there is a convenient pedestrian path that connects these two neighborhoods safely.  Parents can rest assured their kids will arrive safe thanks to this overpass.

 

Frasier Meadows in a Nutshell

Small, beautiful, and convenient.  Frasier Meadows is all of these things and more.  Built for families of all types and sizes, there’s a place for everyone.  Commuters have the best roads in Boulder at their fingertips, and bikers have a huge web of paths to explore.  Shopping and recreation are joined into one thanks to the Meadows shopping center and park.  There just really isn’t anything bad to say about this fantastic neighborhood.

 

Boulder News: East Edge

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2017-03_BoNews

In December of 2016 a team of designers and developers volunteered their time for a technical advisory panel.  The goal of this panel, the Urban Land Institute Colorado (ULI Colorado) was to design a redevelopment plan for the area of East Boulder north of Arapahoe and west of 55th.  This 325 acre space is primarily used as an office park with some small industrial sites as well.  The panel was tasked by the Boulder Chamber and Boulder Area Realtor Association with seeing how this space could be used for more workforce housing. The panel took this request a step further.   They addressed a complete overhaul of the area, rather than just focusing on housing.    Their vision of this new hub of creativity would be called East Edge.  Linked with new transportation options, East Edge would be broken into three districts that mix residential and commercial use.  Existing business would continue being supported and add new ones as well.  The idea being that each of the businesses within each district would be within walking distance.  This more ambitious and extreme plan is not what many current residents had in mind.  A large scale expansion is seen by many as inconsistent their own vision for their neighborhood.  However, there are some potential benefits in this plan worth considering which may influence public opinion.

This panel envisions East Edge as a “creativity hub”.  ULI Colorado hopes to encourage the growth of new jobs here as well as housing, services, and transportation growth. .  They envision transition from an office park to a more multi-use neighborhood.

One challenge to East Edge’s redevelopment plan is in zoning.  The panel suggests that the city allow them to go beyond the current 55ft height limit in place (up to 90ft in some areas).  This would allow for residential and retail services in the same space.  Additionally, office buildings could have shops on the ground level.  Because of the area’s low ground level relative to the rest of Boulder the panel believes the view shed would not be harmed.

Another concern ULI Colorado has for East Edge, and all potential development plans, is flooding.  The entire area is located within a floodplain, and said to be in need of mitigation.  The panel suggests that the Flatiron Golf course be used for mitigation before moving forward.

The top priority of the East Edge plan is to begin by redeveloping the land between Arapahoe and the BNSF rail corridor.  This land would become one of the mixed-use neighborhoods for residential and commercial space with an interior main street.  This would have the advantage of much safer pedestrian and bike traffic.  But this is just one of many steps and details outlined for East Edge.  The entire plan is available for all citizens to see on the better boulder website, and are encouraged to do so.

5 Great March Events in Boulder

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2017-03_Events

It might be hard to believe March is already here, but with so many events coming up there’s no time to look back.  This month is packed with events for the entire family to enjoy.  Or, if it’s a more mature crowd looking for entertainment, there’s still plenty of choices.  Here’s a breakdown of 5 events that should have something for all audiences.

On March 14th at 7:30pm, the Boulder Bookstore is hosting author Daniel Pinchbeck to speak about his book.  Titled “How Soon is Now?” his book looks at what he calls an ecological mega-crises on Earth.  Actions taken now may determine what kind of world and lives future generations have.  Pinchbeck, a futurist and philosopher, wrote his book as a social guide to avoid this crises.  It covers subjects ranging from agriculture, energy, and ideology.  Vouchers cost just $5, but are also good for $5 off the author’s book or other item bought that day.

The people of Boulder are known for, among many things, their love of supporting fellow locals.  In celebration of that, the Seeds Library Cafe is hosting an event called Dinner On the Bridge.  Providing food from local farmers and artisans, a five course meal is created by some of Boulder’s top chefs.  And, if that wasn’t enough, live music and a complementary cocktail are provided to attendees.  At just $50 per ticket, it’s a steal for the quality of food on offer.

The Five “Mother Sauces” Cooking Class on March 28th will teach what the basis is for all great sauces.  Hosted at the Food Lab from 6-9pm for $79 per person, this class is the perfect first step for learning how to make any classic sauce on your own.  The five mother sauces being taught are Bechamel, Espagnole, Hollandaise, Tomato and Veloute.  Because this class is sauce focused, a proper meal isn’t going to be made.  However, the amount of tasting and snacking is sure to be enough to fill anyone up.

 

Matisyahu’s “Release the Bound Freedom Tour” continues at Boulder Theater March 19th.  The show will feature music from his newly released album, “Release The Bound via Thirty Tigers”.  This long awaited collaboration with The Polish Ambassador and Salt Cathedral, hasn’t been performed live until this month.  His previous songs, such as “King Without A Crown”, have reached the number 1 spot on alternative rock charts.  And, his follow up album was even nominated for a Grammy.  At just $25 a ticket, this all ages show is certain to be the most unique of the month.
The Boulder Dinner Theater Academy is putting on another musical aimed at kids and their families.  This comedic take on Jack and the Beanstalk will be performed from March 16 through the 27th for just $8 a ticket.  The story focuses on a forgetful boy named Jack who sells his family’s cow for beans instead of food.  This drives his mother mad, but all is well when Jack makes friends with a giant.  Teaching morals about unlikely friends and patience, this play brings the audience in to participate in the performance throughout.

 

February Events

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2017-02_Events

February may be a short month, but is not short on Boulder events.   Valentine’s day is not dominating this month, though any of these events would make a great date night.  Here’s a look at just four events this February has in store for Boulder.

Boulder Bookstore: February 10th, 7:30pm-Laird Hunt and Eleni Sikelianos

Authors Laird Hunt and Eleni Sikelianos will be speaking about, and doing signings, for their new books.  “The Evening Road” by Laird Hunt, is the story of two women on the run through Jim Crow-era Indiana.  The two travel a violence and hate filled America in search of a new life and escape their pasts.  “Make yourself Happy” by Eleni Sikelianos offers an answer for one of the greatest questions: How to live.  This unique book has both text and images sprawled out across the pages in a fresh take on mimicking ideas.  “Humanity, happiness, and the survival of the biosphere spin each section forward, species are wiped out, yet the poem endures.”  Vouchers are $5, and good for $5 off the author’s book or any purchase made that day.

Boulder Public Library: February 12th, 3:15pm- The Boulder Choral

The Boulder Public Library is hosting this all ages event showcasing the Boulder Choral. As part of their concert series, this free event will be an afternoon of live choral music by local performers.  Everyone can come enjoy these beautiful sounds at the Library’s Canyon Theater  with no reservations or tickets required.

Mountain Sun: February 19th, 10pm-1am- Hello, Dollface

If you’re looking for a more instrumental live music experience, Mountain Sun has you covered.  Hello, Dollface, a 2-10 piece band, will be playing live all night.  Their style embraces the energy and soulful nature of music rather than being perfectly precise.  The event is free to enter, but drinks and food are available.  This event is for those 21 and up.

POSHsplt: February 25th, 9-11am- Kid’s Saturday Morning Art Exploration

For those under 21, there’s still plenty of fun to be had.  This event is designed to allow kids a chance to be fully creative.  Participants are encouraged to use all types of materials to create works of art. while working together and independently.  Each group is hosted by an art therapist to make sure everyone is having fun.  Kids will be given as much assistance and support as they need to make something all their own.  With clay, beads, paint, and much more at their fingertips, imaginations can run wild.  At $20 per child, this weekly event is great for inspiring creativity.

Colorado News: Colorado’s Economy to Grow in 2017

News and Insights, , , , , , , ,

construction

The Business Economic Outlook at CU Boulder predicts that Colorado’s economy will continue to grow through 2017.  Construction, tourism, and healthcare are anticipated to be the main drivers of the expected 64,000 new jobs in Colorado in the coming year.  Expected 2017 growth of 2.4 percent exceeds the 2.2 percent seen in 2016.

Colorado is likely to remain within the top 10 states for job growth, a position Colorado has held for the last 6 years.  The population is also on the rise because of the new jobs.  In fact, Colorado is predicted to become the second fastest growing population in the country this year.

Richard Wobbekind, an economist at Leeds school of Business at CU Boulder, commented on the matter.  “The growth will be across every sector except natural resources and mining and again will support the strongest period of employment growth that we’ve had since the 1990s.”  Wobbekind stated that workers in the mining sector are able to find other jobs opening up.

The construction sector is expected to see the largest increase in jobs.  Approximately 9,000 jobs are expected with more single family home construction predicted.  That would be a 5.7 percent increase over 2016.  Voters passed a large number of bonds which will fund many projects, creating the demand for jobs.

Leisure and hospitality is expected to be second to construction in growth.  This sector is estimated to increase by over 12,000 jobs, or 3.7 percent.  Health and education look to see the least growth with an increase of over 10,000 jobs is expected.  However, farmers are likely to see continued difficulty in the coming year.  A combination of weather, drought, and commodity prices predict further decrease in farmer income.  Agriculture annual income decreased from $850 million to $444 million statewide between 2014 and 2016.  Income is predicted to fall to $392 million in 2017.

 

January Events

News and Insights, , , , , , , , , , ,

new-year

Why not make your 2017 resolution to enjoy more of the events Boulder has to offer.  January is shaping up to be a great month to make your resolution a reality. Let’s take a look at some events kicking off 2017.

Boulder Theater: Jan 26th Chevelle

The alternative rock group Chevelle will be performing at the Boulder Theater.  Chavelle has nearly 2 decades of experience and a newly released album.  Opening for the band is Black Map and Dinosaur Pile Up.  The event is for all ages, but kids 15 and under will need a parent with them.  The tickets are tightly priced at $27.50-$30 and are sure to sell out fast.

Boulder Bookstore: January 12, 7:30PM – Adrienne Russell

Adrienne Russell will appear at the Boulder Bookstore on January 12th to speak about her new book, titled “Journalism as Activism.”  The book explores the important aspects of journalism and how it is changing in the modern age.  “Journalism as Activism” delves into the effects of digital journalism as a means to cover issues.  Adrienne Russel will sign books after the appearance.  The voucher to attend is $5 and good for $5 off the book price or any other item the day of the event.

Puzzah! at the Flatiron Mall: All January Long – Escape Room

Escape rooms have been growing in popularity for the past few years all across the country.  A unique puzzle experience where groups of 2-6 must solve puzzles as a team in 60 minutes.  Puzzah! Is a Colorado based company creating unique puzzle rooms for teams to solve.  All through January they are running the Specimen rooms, based on escaping an alien ship.  At $25 per person, it is a great afternoon with friends and family for a fun team building experience like no other.  In addition, there are 2 escape rooms in Boulder if you’d prefer to stay in Boulder.

Jester Dinner Theature: Every Thursday, Friday, & Sunday in January – Seussical

A collection of Dr. Seuss’s most loved characters come together in this original musical.  A young child, Jojo, brings all these characters together in a lighthearted musical.  Familiar characters such as The Cat in the Hat, Horton, and the Whos are just a few of Seuss’ creations to appear.  The music spans a wide range of genres, from Pop, to Latin and Funk.  All the charm of the original stories make this a great show for all ages.  The show will play at the Jester Theatre every Thursday, Friday, and Sunday in January.  Tickets range from just $7.50-$15 so there’s no reason to miss this great family outing.