Arvada Urban Renewal

10/10/2025

We were heartbroken to learn of Joe Hengstler’s passing. Working alongside him on various Olde Town Arvada projects was an honor. He led with vision and compassion, and his influence will continue to shape our work.

Wishing peace and comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing Joe.

If you’ve spent enough time in Olde Town Arvada, chances are you were lucky enough to be greeted by the historic district’s de facto mayor, Joe Hengstler. If he had

07/07/2025

We're thrilled to share that the Arvada Beer Garden is officially open! Located at the northwest corner of Ralston Road and Garrison Street, this vibrant new space is designed for all residents to gather, unwind, and make lasting memories with friends and neighbors. This project is the result of a multi-year partnership with City Street Investors, whose collaboration and investment helped bring this exciting vision to life. Cheers to new beginnings in Arvada! 🍻

03/31/2025

Exciting News from AURA!

We’re pleased to share that Carrie Briscoe has been named Executive Director of the Arvada Urban Renewal Authority.

As a longtime Arvada resident and dedicated member of the AURA team since 2015, Carrie has played a key role in projects that strengthen our community. Her passion for Arvada and expertise in urban renewal will continue to guide AURA’s work in the years ahead.

We look forward to her continued leadership and commitment to the Arvada community!

03/13/2025

Celebrating the Legacy of Maureen Phair!

After 22 years of dedicated service and transformative leadership, Maureen Phair is set to retire on April 1, leaving behind an incredible legacy in our community. As the Executive Director of AURA, Maureen has been instrumental in shaping Arvada’s future—revitalizing key areas, fostering economic growth, and creating spaces that bring people together.

Her vision, passion, and commitment have made a lasting impact, and while we will miss her leadership, we are grateful for the strong foundation she has built. Please join us in celebrating Maureen and wishing her the very best in her well-earned retirement!

Visit our website for more on Maureen's legacy:
https://arvadaurbanrenewal.org/blogs-news-notices/

07/31/2024

AURA celebrated the groundbreaking for Ralston Commons today - nine years in the making! This project is the center of a larger mixed-use development that includes retail and restaurants, parks and open space, affordable housing, and townhomes. This project will bring 195 rental units beautifically located on Ralston Creek. Completion is estimated in 2026.

07/01/2024

Please share:

The library in Olde Town Arvada is being redesigned

Jefferson County Public Library will kick off the community engagement phase of its Arvada Library redesign project soon!

Arvada library patrons and community members will have the opportunity to participate in a digital survey (offered in Spanish and English) and in-person or virtual community meetings. The meeting content will be the same at all three meetings, so patrons and community members can attend just one. The survey will be open for the month of July and the community meetings will take place July 16, 17 and 20. Find project updates at

The Arvada Library, located within the Olde Town Arvada historic district, adjacent to Olde Town Square, is undergoing a redesign!…

05/28/2024

The stairs at the new Garrison Garden Paseo have been installed creating another path to the future overlook and bee-themed shade structure. Imagine watching the 4th of July fireworks from here 😍

05/03/2024

We're pretty excited about the work on a new park in The Garrison Garden Paseo will open in the fall of 2024!

04/26/2024

The Wilson House, at 7207 Grandview Avenue, is the first impression for visitors as they enter from the east along Grandview Ave. or on the G Line Commuter Rail Line.

AURA worked with the current owner and architects to spruce up the exterior without compromising the historic . The improvements include new paint and landscaping, a new picket fence, and new concrete pads and walkways.
The property owner chose the blue paint and white accents after doing extensive homework on Victorian facades.

The landscaping includes native plants, providing a more environmentally friendly terrain. The improvements also included lighting and a 6-foot privacy fence behind the apartments.

This property has lived many lives in the 134 years since its construction. Today the Wilson house is home to in the main structure, and the back of the property offers low-cost apartments that were once motel rooms.

04/19/2024

Congratulations to Mayor Lauren Simpson on her excellent State of the City presentation today.

We were honored to have our work in Ralston Creek and Station recognized by Mayor Simpson, including the development of:
• The Russell apartments, the new Marriott hotel, and The Shops at Olde Town Station.
• The Garrison Garden Paseo at Ralston Road and Garrison St.
• The Caroline mixed-use development at the site of an abandoned Kmart.
• Ralston Commons and the Arvada Beer Garden.
• Bringing more affordable housing to Arvada with the development of the Ralston Gardens apartments.

Learn more about AURA’s work at our website, https://arvadaurbanrenewal.org

04/02/2024

Congratulations to the Economic Development Association on their in their new space. We love our next-door neighbors and have enjoyed watching AEDA make their space come to life.

03/28/2024

Nothing beats the warm embrace of in and Mcllvoy Park! Chelsea, Sam and Abby are playing . What is your favorite way to enjoy the warm spring sun in ?