Bike-accessible-only apartments proposed at Niwot Road and the Diagonal

Plans have been unveiled for the construction of innovative bike-accessible-only apartments in the median of CO 119 (the "Diagonal") at Niwot Road. Messer Development has applied for Special Use Review with the Boulder County Planning & Permitting & Pedaling Department to construct this new facility which it believes "will be a groundbreaking innovation to revitalize and enhance the community and Boulder County generally."

The project, slated to take three years to complete, promises to redefine the concept of sustainable living and leisure in the Boulder County area.

Residents of the 100-apartment complex will enjoy exclusive access to a state-of-the-art tennis facility boasting 10 tennis and pickleball courts and an indoor pool. Perhaps most notably, the entire complex will be accessible only by bicycle, aligning seamlessly with the community's commitment to zero-emission transportation.

"The vision behind this project is to create a harmonious blend of modern living and environmental consciousness," remarked Daniel Messer, CEO of Messer Development. "By embracing bike-centric accessibility and offering world-class recreational amenities, we aim to attract not only residents but also tennis enthusiasts from across Boulder County and beyond. Without the need for garages we can expand our tennis facility plans."

Located adjacent to the Niwot Park & Ride, the proposal is expected to dovetail the concept into the existing CO 119 Safety, Mobility, and Bikeway Project currently underway. Messer Development is working in conjunction with RTD, CDOT, Bikes-R-Us, Pickles & Paddles, In or Out, and Boulder County Alternative Transportation

Community members have expressed mixed reactions to the proposal. Some have expressed enthusiasm for the proposed development, citing its potential to enhance the surrounding neighborhoods and bolster the local economy. "This initiative represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable living and active lifestyles," remarked long-time resident Bob Riggs. "I believe it will serve as a model for future urban development projects in the region."

Other residents have expressed trepidation about the project. Angela Pedestal stated, " I don't see how this benefits anyone. It will just attract more bikes in the area. More bikes on the Diagonal can't be good. And what kind of fence will they construct to keep all the tennis balls off the highway?"

In addition to the residential and recreational components, plans include the construction of a community garden within the apartment complex with a permanent heart-shaped pet memorials to honor beloved furry friends.

However, the ambitious nature of the project does come with its challenges. Construction is expected to necessitate periodic closures of sections of the Diagonal, causing temporary disruptions to traffic flow. Despite this inconvenience, proponents of the project remain steadfast in their belief that the long-term benefits will far outweigh any short-term inconveniences.

The Special Use Review application is open for public comment. Opposition leaders have posted flyers throughout Niwot with a community meeting of the LID, NBA, NCA, NFL, NCAA, NHL, MLB and all HOAs scheduled for April 15 at 6:00 p.m. at the Grange.