Broomfield’s targeted parking reductions aim to reduce variance requests while confronting transit limits

Summary

Broomfield updated its parking code in 2023 and again in 2025 to modernize land‑use types, add EV and bicycle parking requirements, create parking maximums and introduce parking reduction overlay areas near transit; staff cited reduced variance requests but noted financing and limited transit as constraints.

Mark Ambrosi, principal transportation planner for the City and County of Broomfield, described a two‑phase code update: a major overhaul in 2023 followed by a 2025 update to conform with state legislation. Broomfield established community‑wide parking maximums, parking reduction overlay areas around existing or planned transit, and new bicycle parking and EV charging requirements.

Ambrosi said the code changes were informed by regional norms, ITE occupancy data, academic studies and outreach to businesses, developers and emergency responders. He reported fewer variance requests and simpler staff review as early successes, and said bicycle parking requirements have been broadly accepted.

Challenges remain: many developers face lender or tenant stipulations that require minimum parking levels above Broomfield's maximums, and the city's limited transit service forces targeted rather than citywide reductions. Ambrosi said future progress depends on continued transit improvements, complementary land uses and continued engagement with the development community.