On Friday, April 19, newly elected Arvada Mayor Lauren Simpson delivered the Annual State of the City Address to over 100 attendees inside Revive Church. In the hour speech, Mayor Simpson addressed achievements, issues, and upcoming projects for the City of Arvada. The full video recording, provided by the City of Arvada, key takeaways, and photos can be found below.
Thank you to the sponsors of the State of the City Address: City of Arvada, Arvada Urban Renewal, Arvada Economic Development Association, Arvada Vitality Alliance – AVA, and Red Rocks Community College Foundation.
3 Key Takeaways from the 2024 State of the City Address
1. New residential and commercial development highlights the city’s growth
Mayor Simpson detailed several projects along Ralston Road, including a mix of residential and commercial real estate, luxury apartment townhomes, and a beer garden. Ralston Commons Beer Garden will be built around Memorial Park as a pedestrian- and bike-friendly space. “It’s the definition of live, work, recreate, and even lunch,” said Mayor Simpson. “You can spend the morning with your kids at the park, come over to get lunch, and let them continue to play while the adults relax.”
The Mayor then pointed out the growth at Olde Town Station, with numerous new eateries, a Residence Inn, and coming soon: The Russell with 252 units of transit-oriented living.
She also highlighted the new Arvada Aquatics Center, which will replace Myers Pool. Opening in the fall, this state-of-the-art facility will be home to Jefferson County Public School swimmers at its Olympic-sized pool.
2. Housing challenges spur new projects
Mayor Simpson said the City of Arvada is aggressively looking at affordable and attainable housing solutions, particularly for seniors and young professionals. The City’s Housing Advisory Committee was formed with a mix of expertise; volunteers with real experience in banking and construction and policy. This committee is dedicated to identifying gaps in housing and possible solutions and new opportunities.
New partner-led housing projects include Arvada House, Vance Street Flats, Ralston Gardens, and Marshall Street Landing.
3. Homelessness continues to be a top issue
Homelessness is a crisis that Mayor Simpson says the City “probably hears the most about.” Last year, the Arvada Police Department’s Community, Outreach, Resource, and Enforcement (CORE) Team answered 2,327 calls for service, made 190 arrests, cleaned up 189 camps, and contacted 233 new unhoused people. Mayor Simpson also noted the One Small Step Program, a partnership with the Arvada City Attorney’s office and Municipal Court, designed to assist defendants who are experiencing homelessness. Read a recap of the Arvada Chamber’s State of Homelessness (January 2024).
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