Your Voice. Our Future.

Central City 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update – Public Meeting #2: August 4, 2025

New Visualizations. Expanded Concepts. Our Future. Tonight we unveil the enhanced 3D renderings, detailed development envelopes, and comprehensive visualizations that bring Central City’s 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update to life.

Review Meeting #1

Review Meeting #3

Download a PDF Copy

August 4, 2025

2025 Comprehensive Plan Update - Meeting #2

August 4, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
City Council Chambers at City Hall, 141 Nevada St., Central City, CO, 80427

Join us for the second of three public meetings to shape Central City's future. Learn why our city needs this plan, explore proposed solutions for economic revitalization, and share your input on preserving our heritage while creating new opportunities.

Topics include:
- Current economic challenges facing Central City
- Proposed development zones and infrastructure improvements
- 3D planning technology and smart growth concepts
- How you can participate in the planning process

Your voice matters in creating a sustainable future for Central City.

Location: City Council Chambers at City Hall,
141 Nevada St, Central City, CO 80427

Parking: Available at the Big T Lot

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88640999675

This meeting will be recorded.

See more details

Meeting Overview

Welcome to the second of three public meetings in our Central City Comprehensive Plan Update engagement process. Following our July 22nd introduction, tonight we dive deeper with enhanced visualizations, detailed development concepts, and expanded planning materials.

Our timeline continues through August 18th for our final public input session, followed by Planning Commission and City Council reviews leading to adoption consideration. Tonight focuses on presenting the visual scope of possibilities and gathering your insights on the concepts shared.

Topics Covered In The Meeting

Proposed Land Use Changes

Areas of stability (no major changes) shown in black/white on map
Colored areas represent “villages” slated for growth/change, totaling ~600 acres
Villages include: Historic Core, Gregory Gulch, Mammoth Hill, Quartz Hill, Academy Village, Boodle Mill area
Potential for ~3,000 population increase over 20+ years across all villages

Transportation & Connectivity

Multimodal approach proposed: pedestrian paths, bike trails, public transit
“Pulse Gondola” system suggested to connect east and central areas
Capacity of 200 people/hour, similar to systems in Glenwood Springs, Royal Gorge
Potential for mountain biking attractions (downhill course, urban bike park)

Historic Preservation

Goals: Maintain district character, preserve assets, increase occupancy
Challenges: Harsh environment, high maintenance costs ($7-15/sq ft annually)
Recommend differentiating new construction from historic to maintain integrity
Case studies presented on balancing preservation and new development

Economic Development

Diversifying beyond gaming (only 3% of CO day trips) to capture more visitors
Creating four-season destination appeal
Improving Main Street with pedestrian areas, unified paving, outdoor dining

Comprehensive Plan Goals & Objectives



Increase Local Tax Revenue



Enhance Business Conditions



Improve Walkability



Expand Open Spaces



Foster Inspired Design



Preserve Historic Character



Strengthen Community Identity



Promote Sustainable Development



Enhance Public Services



Boost Economic Resilience



Encourage Community Engagement



Improve Infrastructure



Support Cultural Heritage



Facilitate Smart Growth



Enhance Transportation Networks

Historical Preservation Case Study: Larimer Square

This historic district was established when the ballpark was built in the mid-1990s in an area that used to be Skid Row.
It transformed that part of town into a vibrant, well-preserved historic district.
The historic buildings are clearly differentiated from the new construction, creating a contrast that highlights the historic character.
The district is now a pedestrian mall, with bollards blocking vehicle traffic and allowing for more outdoor activity and dining.
Overall, Larimer Square demonstrates how a historic district can be revitalized and remain active, while still preserving its historic assets through strategic redevelopment.

Village Concept & Zoning Overview

Quadrant

Villages

Uses

Notes

Urban Core

(A) Historic Core

CMU

Proposed allowing more diversification of upper floor uses in historic buildings
Proposed conversion of a portion of Main Street into a pedestrian corridor

North Side

(K) Winnebago Hill

SFR

Proposed incorporation

East Side

(B) Gregory Gulch
(C) Mtn. City

CMU
CMU, SFR

Gregory Gulch Village:

Centered around a prospective new resort development
Plans for a linear park and consistent landscape/urban design

West Side

(J) Boodle Hill
(M) Quarry West

SFR, MFR, CMU
SFR

Boodle Hill: Proposed incorporation

South Side

(D) Virginia Hill
(E) Mammoth Hill
(F) Quartz Hill
(G) Nevada
(H) Academy
(N) Lake Gulch

SFR, MFR, CMU
SFR, MFR
CMU, GAMING
HDR/MU
NGAR, MFR
CMU

Quartz Hill Village

Increased density with taller buildings stepping down to Main Street
Planned pedestrian bridge connecting to a “Nevada Village”

Academy Village:

Proposing higher density and increased building heights

Far West

(P) Eureka Valley Ranch

SFR, MFR, RMU, LCR