May 28, 2026 City of Boulder City Council Special Meeting and Study Session

The City of Boulder City Council held a special meeting and study session on May 28, 2026, focusing primarily on two major procurement-related topics. First, the Council unanimously approved Ordinance 8749, authorizing the acquisition of property interests for the Arapahoe Avenue safety improvement project, including the use of eminent domain if necessary. This $12 million transportation safety project is funded largely by a $9.6 million federal grant and $2.4 million in city funds, with construction anticipated to start in late 2027. The project involves acquiring easements from 14 properties to accommodate safety and multimodal improvements along the corridor. Second, the Council discussed the formation of a Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to address economic development challenges in the downtown area. The DDA would use tax increment financing (TIF), a mill levy, and parking assets to fund redevelopment and infrastructure improvements over a 30-year horizon. Council members provided feedback on the financial structure, governance, and potential impacts on other taxing entities, with general support to proceed with drafting ballot measures for voter consideration in November 2026. The Council also agreed to hold a public hearing regarding the continued use of airport land, emphasizing community input before making a final decision. Overall, the meeting included significant procurement and budget-related decisions aimed at advancing key infrastructure and economic development projects in Boulder.