Long Range Planning

Current Projects - November 2024

Long Range Planning is currently in the process of working on two different plans: Thornton's Historic Preservation Plan and an update to Thornton's Development Code.

Historic Preservation Plan

The Historic Preservation Plan is being presented to City Council on November 19^th. For more information, visit the Historic Preservation Plan project page.

Development Code Update

Thornton's Development Code is currently under revision, and drafts of Article 6 – General Development Standards, Article 7 – Building Design Standards, Article 9 – Access and Mobility Standards are now available for review and public comment. To provide comments, or for information on the planning process, community engagement opportunities, and project progress, visit the Development Code Update website (external).

Thornton's Long Range Planning Division

Thornton is one of the fastest growing cities in Colorado and shows no sign of slowing down. Thoughtfully addressing change and growth in a city of 150,000 residents is crucial to maintaining the high-quality services and amenities that draw people to Thornton. The Long Range Planning Department collaborates with the community and City Council to guide the city’s land use, identify historic resources, and analyze trends within the city and the region.

Planning Documents

Plans are the tool the Long Range Planners most frequently utilize to guide effective decision-making within the city and define the community’s vision for Thornton. Plans can cover different geographical areas, like the area surrounding an N-Line Station, or they can address certain types of resources in the city, such as the Transportation and Mobility Master Plan.

Plans are not law, but they serve as the basis for city decision-making and prioritization while providing the foundation for more regulatory documents like the city’s Development Code. Visit the Plans page or view different types of Long Range Planning documents below.