BOCC Work Session 10/19/26, 1:30 p.m. - Community Planning, Infrastructure & Resources

Larimer County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) work session of October 19, 2026, focused on community planning, infrastructure, and natural resources. Natural Resources staff briefed commissioners on the River Bluffs restoration project at the Fossil Creek–Poudre River confluence, currently about 60% designed with estimated implementation costs of $2.3–$2.5 million. Staff described pursuing Colorado Water Conservation Board grant funding and discussions with Northern Water, which could provide some or all of the required match—estimated at approximately $1.25 million—in connection with its NISP-related riparian habitat mitigation obligations. The project itself is already planned; the potential partnership would change the funding sources, not the design. Commissioners were supportive of continuing discussions toward an intergovernmental agreement (IGA), which would return for consideration later. No formal vote or contract award occurred.

Community Development updated commissioners on Thornton’s water pipeline and pump-station work, including permits, construction-document review, pending development-agreement and bonding items for some pipeline segments, and community outreach. Staff will follow up on construction notices, project timing, and NISP-related schedule questions. The meeting also noted a planned US 287 realignment schedule: trail work beginning in fall 2028, main relocation and traffic shift expected in fall 2029, and work near Ted’s Place continuing through summer 2030. No additional procurement awards or purchasing decisions were identified.