Stepping into 2026: How Boulder Valley Plans to Reinvent Itself, and How You Can Too

 

The Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Update — A 20-Year Vision

 

The Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP) is being updated, shaping the future of housing, transportation, land use, climate strategy, and community well-being through 2045.
This isn’t just policy work — it’s a big collective conversation about what Boulder Valley should become, with public engagement, artistic elements (like “Voicing Boulder”), and future policy changes.

 

Productivity experts suggest a clear-eyed review of the past year—celebrating the highs and honestly acknowledging the lows.

 

What lessons did 2025 teach you?

 

What habits are you ready to leave behind for good?

 

Answering these questions provides the clarity needed for truly effective 2026 goals.

 

With a foundation of self-awareness, the next step is to define what you want to build.

 

Consider what you will continue doing, and, more importantly, what new ventures you will start.

 

Whether it's exploring a new neighborhood, starting a small business, or simply spending more time on Pearl Street, your goals should feel as vibrant as the city around you.

 

BIG Cultural News: Boulder Is Hosting the Sundance Film Festival (2027)

 

This is major for Boulder’s arts and culture scene. The world-famous Sundance Film Festival — previously in Park City — will move to Boulder beginning in 2027, bringing filmmakers, screenings, and lots of visitors downtown and to the Pearl Street area. Locals and businesses are buzzing about the economic and cultural boost this will bring.

 

Make this a year of purpose, not just promises.

 

FAQ: Planning for 2026

 

How can I set realistic goals for the new year?

 

Focus on small, tangible steps rather than huge leaps. Instead of a vague goal like "get healthy," aim for specific actions like "walk along the lake three times a week." Breaking down large ambitions makes them more achievable.

 

What is the best way to reflect on the past year?

 

Set aside quiet time to journal or think about key moments from 2025. Ask yourself what energized you and what drained you. This simple audit can reveal powerful insights to guide your plans for 2026.

Key Rule for All Locations: Remove all decorations, lights, tinsel, stands, and nails. Flocked (artificial snow) trees are generally not accepted for composting and must be thrown in the trash.

 

Erie

• Drop-Off (Free):

  • Location: Erie Recycling Center (1000 Briggs St).

     

  • Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

  • Details: Open to Erie residents (proof of residency required). Look for the designated drop-off area.

     

• Scout Pickup (Troop 62):

  • Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026.

  • Details: This is a fundraiser service. You must sign up in advance.

  • Cost: Suggested donation of $15–$20.

     

  • Action: If you haven't signed up yet, check the Troop 62 website or Erie Chamber event page immediately to see if slots are still available for this Saturday.

Louisville & Superior

• Scout Pickup (Troop 69):

  • Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026.

     

  • Details: Trees must be at the curb by 8:00 AM.

     

  • Cost: Suggested donation of $20.

  • Sign Up: You can register and donate online (search "Troop 69 Christmas Tree Recycling").

• Superior Drop-Off:

  • Location: Superior Yard Waste Site (2125 Honey Creek Lane).

     

  • Dates: Open daily through January 31, 2026.

  • Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Louisville Drop-Off:

  • Location: Branch Recycle Site (Empire Rd, north of the Louisville Cemetery).

     

  • Dates: Saturday, Jan. 3 and Saturday, Jan. 17 only.

  • Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

  • Note: Residents only; proof of residency required.

 

Lafayette

• Curbside Only:

  • The city has largely moved to a curbside model with Republic Services.

  • Details: Place your tree next to your compost cart on your regular collection day in January.

  • Requirements: Tree must be cut into 4-foot lengths and bundled with natural twine/rope.

 

Boulder (City & County)

• Western Disposal:

  • Location: 2051 63rd St, Boulder.

     

  • Dates: Accepted through January 31.

  • Cost: Residents typically receive a discount (often roughly 40% off the wood waste fee) for tree drop-off.

     

• Curbside (City of Boulder):

  • If you have curbside compost service, you can put your tree inside the compost bin (lid must close) or cut it into 4-foot lengths and bundle it next to the bin.

 

Longmont

• Drop-Off Locations:

  • Roosevelt Park, Garden Acres Park, Kanemoto Park, Centennial Park.

  • Dates: Generally accepted through early January (often Jan 5th or 6th).

• Waste Diversion Center:

  • Location: 140 Martin St.

  • Requirements: Bring a current utility bill and ID to show residency.