Northglenn City Council explores road widening and industrial development with Thornton partners

The Northglenn City Council Study Session on May 5, 2025, focused on critical infrastructure and development planning, particularly concerning the widening of 160th Avenue and the potential impact of light industrial and data center projects in the area.

Council members discussed the current state of 160th Avenue, noting that it is a two-way street that may require widening to accommodate larger vehicles, such as semi-trucks. This expansion is anticipated to be a collaborative effort involving the City of Thornton and developers, although specific plans and timelines remain uncertain. The council emphasized the importance of proactive planning to address future traffic needs as development progresses.

Another significant topic was the discussion around data centers versus light industrial facilities. Council members expressed concerns about the power demands of data centers, which could strain local resources. The capacity for power supply is variable and can change frequently, complicating long-term planning. Additionally, water availability was highlighted as a critical concern for future developments, with questions raised about how resource management will evolve over the next two decades.

The meeting underscored the need for foresight in urban planning, particularly as Northglenn and Thornton consider their growth strategies. Council members acknowledged the challenges of predicting the area's development landscape in 20 years, but they agreed on the necessity of preparing for various scenarios to ensure sustainable growth.

In conclusion, the discussions at the study session reflect Northglenn's commitment to strategic planning and collaboration with neighboring municipalities to address infrastructure needs and resource management as the region continues to develop.