Vision & Values

The community was asked to think about the future and identify key issues that the plan should address. This sparked big ideas and refined existing priorities. This chapter offers a vision statement that expresses what the community aspires to be in the future. It also describes seven community values that lead policies throughout the plan and highlights topics of community interest.

Feet walking illustration

Vision

Our community works together to ensure everyone belongs, to create opportunities for all and to sustain the health of the Boulder Valley for future generations.

To realize this vision, we will:

  • Balance housing opportunities and economic activity with natural ecosystems and rural lands.
  • Serve as a model for innovation and action as we face a changing climate.
  • Strengthen physical and social connections that are accessible to everyone.
  • Embrace our differences and leverage our community assets and creative spirit to solve tough problems.
A portion of mural artwork titled Future Flourishing by Android and Martha Jones created for the major update to the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan through Experiments in Public Art.

A portion of mural artwork titled Future Flourishing by Android and Martha Jones was created for the major update to the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan through Experiments in Public Art.

Community Values

The comprehensive plan is grounded in shared community values. These values guide policies, land use planning and public investments, helping the community make thoughtful choices about our collective future. Through the comprehensive planning process, community members reaffirmed these values.

  • Accessible and Connected

    Accessible & Connected

    Our sustainable multimodal transportation system and open access to information connect people safely and seamlessly to each other and to opportunities.

  • Livable

    Livable

    Our community is a great place to live, with safe, well-built homes and buildings, and well-maintained infrastructure that supports the diverse ways people live, work, learn and play.

  • Economically Vital

    Economically Vital

    Our economy is resilient, inclusive and driven by innovation and collaboration to benefit all who live, work and visit the Boulder Valley.

  • Responsibly Governed

    Responsibly Governed

    Our government serves with integrity, manages resources wisely and makes decisions shaped by data and inclusive community voices, including those historically left out.

  • Environmentally Sustainable

    Environmentally Sustainable

    Our community lives in balance with nature by committing to clean energy, conserving resources and preserving and improving the ecosystems that support and sustain us.

  • Safe

    Safe

    Our community is welcoming and inclusive, ensures everyone is safe and cared for during emergencies and in day-to-day life and provides reliable infrastructure to keep our air, water and land clean.

  • Healthy and Socially Thriving

    Healthy & Socially Thriving

    Our community nurtures well-being where everyone can meet their needs, champions human rights, and offers rich opportunities to learn, create, connect and enjoy life.