Boulder City Council proposes sweeping changes to off street parking requirements

Boulder City is poised for a major shift in its parking regulations, as the Planning Board discussed a groundbreaking ordinance aimed at eliminating minimum off-street parking requirements citywide. This significant change, which has been a staple of zoning codes since the 1950s, reflects a growing trend across the United States, where nearly 80 cities have already adopted similar reforms.

The ordinance, which is set for compliance by June 30, will primarily affect multifamily residential and mixed-use developments located within transit service areas. Boulder estimates that 77% of its parcels fall within these zones, making the impact widespread. The move aligns with Colorado's recent legislation that prohibits local jurisdictions from enforcing minimum parking requirements in these areas, a step that advocates argue will enhance urban mobility and reduce reliance on cars.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that extensive studies over the past decade have shown that parking spaces in Boulder are underutilized, with many developments not fully utilizing even the reduced parking they have. This data has fueled the push for reform, as the city aims to better align parking availability with actual demand.

In addition to eliminating minimum parking requirements, the ordinance includes updates to bicycle parking standards, emphasizing security and usability for larger bikes, such as cargo and electric bikes. New requirements will ensure that a percentage of bike parking spaces are designed for these larger vehicles and that charging stations for e-bikes are included in larger developments.

The Planning Board also discussed updates to on-street parking management strategies, aiming to simplify the neighborhood permit parking system and introduce new tools to manage demand effectively. Proposed changes include reducing the number of residential permits per licensed driver and replacing confusing guest and visitor permits with streamlined day passes and flex permits.

As Boulder continues to evolve, these parking reforms are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the city’s urban landscape, promoting sustainable transportation options, and addressing the challenges posed by new developments. The anticipated outcomes of these changes could lead to a more efficient use of space and a shift towards a more pedestrian-friendly environment.