Tag Archives: Colorado

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.

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.

 

Neighborhood Spotlight: Frasier Meadows

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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.

 

Denver news: Rooney Valley Development Plans

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Development plans for Rooney Valley were approved by Lakewood City Council and the Morrison Town Board early in February.  The approval set the plans for one of the last large open sections of land running along C-470.  While no public disapproval was expressed in Morrison, Lakewood residents brought up concerns to the council.

Many Lakewood residents were concerned about what impact the development would have on the environment.  Also, view sheds were a point of concern for many.  While amendments were made to address these concerns, councilmen Charley Able still opposed it.  “Different doesn’t necessarily mean better,” Mr. Able said.  “Because this is not as bad as the previous plan is not a reason to vote for it.”

The updates to the plan that were amended included preserving views.  The minimum space allotted for wildlife was expanded from Dakota Hogback to Pikes Peak, as well as a limitation on how many dwellings per acre could be built.  But, according to Morrison’s town planner Carrie McCool, that wasn’t the largest change.  That was what is being called the neighborhood node.

“It basically sets forth at key intersections and areas of the valley that are for more mixed  uses  located within walking distance from maybe lower-density residential areas  including  ground floor commercial with maybe residential on top,” McCool said.

The plan, known as Plan Rooney Valley, outlines the standards for commercial and residential development.  However, this doesn’t just apply to the two counties.  Developers will also have to conform to these standards in order for their plans to be approved.  This is one reason why councilwoman Dana Gutwein voted to approve the plan.  “The sign that you drive in and see is ‘Building an inclusive community,’ and I believe this plan is not a less-bad plan or whatever, I think it’s a good plan.”  Morrison’s mayor Sean Forey shared a similar position.  He found the new plan to be a replacement of “a very bad plan.”

Morrison’s position has been focused on commercial development in their section of the valley.  So, with the amendments and updates, town board member Brewster Caesar began to feel their position was starting to shift.  “If it’s going to be developed I would like to see Lakewood be the one to get the homes, I want the residences in Lakewood,” Caesar said.

A full draft of Plan Rooney Valley can be viewed by anyone looking for more details on Lakewood’s official website.