Ponderosa is a diverse, tight-knit community located at 4475 Broadway in North Boulder.

Project Overview

In 2017, the City of Boulder purchased the property, located adjacent to West Fourmile Canyon Creek, with plans to minimize displacement, preserve long-term affordability, replace outdated infrastructure, reduce flood risk to the community and introduce new energy-efficient affordable housing options. In 2019, a site plan, informed by inclusive community engagement, was approved and Ponderosa was annexed into the city.

Goals

The central goal of the project is to create long-term stability for Ponderosa. As documented in the Ponderosa Resolution, the city is committed to collaborating with the individuals and families that make up the Ponderosa community. Current residents of Ponderosa can choose to stay in their home or buy a new affordable and highly energy-efficient home within the community.

Coming Soon: First Three Habitat Homes!

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Three Habitat for Humanity volunteers standing in front of nearly completed new homes at Ponderosa.

Ponderosa’s first three “foundation-built homes” will be completed and ready for new owners in May 2024. The triplex located at 4521 West Court is at the finishing stage where trim, flooring, and appliance installation is completed. Site construction staff anticipates getting to “Certificate of Occupancy” for each unit in May. The first three homebuyers are finalizing their paperwork for financing and are prepared to close as soon the units are ready. The first three homes boast big windows and big views and include significant energy-efficient features. Stay tuned as we prepare to welcome our new home buyers in the coming months.

Timeline

Year Description
2013

Property damaged from the 2013 flood qualifies Ponderosa for grant funding assistance

2015

West Fourmile Canyon Creek Study: Community engagement and infrastructure replacement cost estimate

2016

City staff options analysis: City staff explores how best to advance the goals for Ponderosa identified in the West Fourmile Canyon Creek Study.

2017

City of Boulder purchases Ponderosa and inclusive community engagement begins

2018-19

Site Plan is approved, Property is annexed

2020-22

Old infrastructure (sewer, water, electric, gas) replaced. New entrances, fire hydrants, paved streets and sidewalks, and stormwater management system introduced. Infrastructure connected to existing mobile homes and will serve fixed foundation homes too.

2022

Home construction begins

2022+

Long-term Vision

  • Voluntary transition from existing homes to new, permanently affordable, energy-efficient, fixed-foundation homes.
  • Introduction of site amenities (e.g., green space, play areas, gardens, landscaping and community house)