Boulder City officials are moving forward with a significant redevelopment proposal aimed at enhancing housing options for university students. During the recent Planning Board meeting, city staff presented plans for a 2.94-acre site located at the northwest corner of Baseline Road and Thirtieth Street. The proposal includes the construction of two four- to five-story buildings, offering a total of 100 attached dwelling units with a mix of one to six bedrooms.

This redevelopment is strategically positioned less than a third of a mile from the University of Colorado's main campus, making it an ideal location for student housing. The site is surrounded by various commercial establishments, including office buildings, gas stations, and restaurants, which further supports its potential as a vibrant residential area.

Key aspects of the proposal include a ground-floor amenity space and an upper-level community deck, designed to foster a sense of community among residents. The project also proposes a 62% reduction in parking requirements, reflecting a shift towards more sustainable transportation options. The site is well-connected, featuring existing bike lanes and proximity to multiple bus routes, which aligns with the city’s goals for multimodal transportation.

However, the proposal is not without its challenges. City staff highlighted the need for revisions to better align with the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP). Recommendations include incorporating a mix of land uses on the ground floor to enhance activity and support local businesses, as well as improving the design of open spaces to ensure they are functional for residents.

The redevelopment plan requires a rezoning request to change the zoning of certain parcels from Residential Medium (RM-2) to Residential High (RH-5), which staff believes is consistent with the BVCP's designation for high-density residential use. Additionally, a use review is necessary for the proposed ground-level residential units in the Business Transitional (BT-1) zone, aimed at ensuring compatibility with surrounding uses.

As the project moves forward, city officials are seeking feedback from the Planning Board on these key issues, emphasizing the importance of creating a development that not only meets housing needs but also enhances the overall community fabric. The next steps will involve addressing staff recommendations and preparing for further reviews, including demolition and site reviews, as the city aims to balance growth with community interests.