Thornton City Council reviews East Creek Farm's 74 townhome development proposal

The Thornton City Council convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a significant focus on a public hearing regarding an amendment to the overall development plan for the East Creek Farm development.

The meeting commenced with Item 8a, a public hearing at 7:34 PM, concerning an ordinance to approve an amendment to the overall development plan, conceptual site plan, and plan development standards for approximately 17 acres of land. This amendment proposes the development of 74 townhome units in Planning Area 3 of East Creek Farm, located at the northeast corner of East 150 Second Avenue and York Street.

Senior Planner Ali Hassan presented the proposal, highlighting the shift from the previously approved 184 multifamily units to the new plan for 74 attached single-family townhomes. This change represents a significant reduction in density, aligning with the city’s goal to expand housing options within the mixed-use residential neighborhoods. The proposed townhomes will be two stories, alley-loaded, and designed to face greenways and parks, enhancing community connectivity.

The presentation included a detailed overview of the site, surrounding zoning, and the intended community amenities. The new plan aims to incorporate pocket parks and recreational facilities, including a multipurpose sports field and enhanced pedestrian connections throughout the neighborhood. The development will also feature various architectural styles and colors for the townhomes, promoting visual diversity.

Following the presentation, council members engaged in discussions regarding the motivations behind the shift from multifamily to townhome units. It was clarified that the change was prompted by the previous developer's withdrawal from the multifamily project, with Lennar Colorado taking over the development.

Council members raised questions about the implications of reduced public land dedication due to the change in unit type. The developer will provide amenities in lieu of the original requirement, including improved playgrounds and fitness equipment, which were not part of the initial multifamily plan.

The council's deliberations underscored the importance of balancing development needs with community amenities and public land dedication. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the proposed changes and their impact on the community.

Overall, the council's discussions reflected a proactive approach to urban development, emphasizing the need for diverse housing options while ensuring that community amenities are enhanced in the process. Further steps will be taken to finalize the amendment and address any outstanding concerns from council members and the public.