Boulder Business Recovery Program Extended Through April 2022

BOULDER, CO — Boulder businesses will have the option to keep their outdoor expansions open past Oct. 31, as the city is extending its Boulder Business Recovery Program (BBRP) through April 30, 2022.

Much like it did in fall and winter 2020, the city will allow for temporary structures and heating elements that will make outdoor activities more comfortable as temperatures drop.

The program will begin accepting applications next month, officials said.

Pearl Street and University Hill closures that have allowed for the program will remain in effect, and the HOP Bus will continue to run on a modified route.

BBRP-permitted businesses seeking an extension of their temporary alcohol licenses must reapply with the State of Colorado. Additional information concerning that process will be available next week and posted to the city's COVID-related webpage.

The city began the program in fall 2020 to help businesses create safe outdoor options and adhere to indoor capacity limits brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. It has helped over 100 businesses reopen and operate, officials said.

"We are pleased that this program has proven helpful in addressing community safety during the evolving pandemic," Community Vitality Department Director Yvette Bowden said. "COVID-19 continues to challenge our entire community and BBRP’s extension will continue to aid both Boulder’s local businesses and our economy."

More information about the BBRP extension can be found here.

Though the program ends on April 30, 2022, city of Boulder staff members will likely work with the Downtown Boulder Partnership on a three-year outdoor dining pilot program with a tentative May 2022 start date, officials said.

"The pilot program allows staff to evaluate and study safety, infrastructure, and operational and access considerations," officials wrote on the city's website. "Staff plans to update City Council on progress in exploring such an arrangement in February of 2022."