Countywide Drop in COVID-19 Cases Leads to Loosened Capacity Restrictions for City Facilities and Services

​Some city services to expand starting Jan. 11; library services expanding Jan. 19

The City of Boulder will be adjusting operations and staffing in preparation to expand some services, in accordance with new public health protocols, starting Monday, Jan. 11.

Following a decline in new cases, Boulder County moved to a less restrictive level on the state’s COVID-19 dial, “Level Orange: High Risk,” on Monday, Jan. 4. This is a transition from the county’s prior status of “Level Red: Severe Risk.” The change, ordered by Gov. Jared Polis, resulted in loosened capacity restrictions in Boulder County for offices, retail, restaurants and a variety of other types of businesses and facilities. The county must be able to meet and hold certain metrics based on number of new COVID-19 cases, percent positivity and the impact on hospitals in order to move back another level on the state dial.

The following City of Boulder service changes will go into effect starting Monday, Jan. 11, unless noted otherwise, and be in place until further notice:

• Main Library
  • Capacity will increase and access to second floor public computers will be available starting on Tuesday, Jan. 19.
• Parking permits for in-person service
  • Front office in-person services will be offered by appointment only. All other services may be accomplished via phone (303-413-7300), email ([email protected]) or through the city’s online parking portal.
• Parks and Recreation
  • Recreation center capacities will increase to 25% or less.
  • Currently operating services will be modified in schedule, format or capacity.
• Special event permits
  • Currently permitted events and permit applications will be held to the Level Orange guidance.

The City of Boulder commends community members for their vigilance in following public health protocols, which has helped reduce the number of COVID-19 cases. At the same time, the city encourages everyone to continue doing their part. Continued caution is prudent given that health officials anticipate the potential of a case spike associated with the winter holidays.

The City of Boulder will continue to adjust its operations as needed to safely and effectively provide critical services, resources and information to our community throughout the pandemic. The city is working closely with Boulder County, Boulder County Public Health and other partner organizations to respond to and recover from COVID-19. For more information, visit bouldercolorado.gov/coronavirus.

Media Contact:

Sarah Huntley, Media Relations, 720-564-2111

Published: Jan. 5, 2021