As we welcome 2025, I want to share my excitement for the year ahead and highlight the projects and initiatives that will shape our community in meaningful ways. Our vision for Wheat Ridge is one of prosperity, connection, and sustainability, and this year promises to be pivotal in realizing that vision.
This year the city is on track to complete several key initiatives. The first being the City Plan, a roadmap for the future of Wheat Ridge. This plan reflects our collective priorities, balancing growth with maintaining the unique character of our city. Its implementation will guide decision-making for years to come, ensuring we stay on track to meet the needs of all our residents.
In tandem with the City Plan, the Economic Prosperity Action Plan will be presented to council this month. This forward-thinking initiative focuses on fostering business growth, attracting new investments, and ensuring long-term economic stability. The Stormwater Master Plan and Parks and Recreation Pathway Plan are also expected to be complete. By aligning these plans, we are setting the foundation for a thriving and resilient community.
The Improve Wadsworth Project, one of the most ambitious infrastructure undertakings in Wheat Ridge’s history, is on track to be completed by the end of 2026 (paving by end of 2025). This project will improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and create better pedestrian and cyclist access along Wadsworth Boulevard. These upgrades not only modernize this vital corridor but also support local businesses and enhance quality of life for everyone who uses it.
As this 2E project completes, we’ll shift our focus to 2J projects voters approved in November 2023. These initiatives will tackle drainage, sidewalk connectivity, bike lanes, and small infrastructure improvements throughout the city. Details on these projects are expected to be announced later this month.
2025 also marks the expansion of our open spaces with the addition of the Green at 38th. With $1.6 million in grant funding, this vibrant park and community space will transform the heart of Wheat Ridge. The project reflects our commitment to creating spaces where residents and visitors can gather, connect, and celebrate the unique charm of our city.
After four years of discussion and input, 2025 will see key decisions regarding the development of the former Lutheran Hospital campus. With the passage of a2024 ballot question addressing building height limits, we will work closely with the community to balance growth, sustainability, and neighborhood character through a rezoning of the property. This redevelopment offers an opportunity to create a visionary space that meets the needs of current and future residents.
As we embark on this exciting year, I want to thank you for your continued engagement and support. Wheat Ridge’s success is built on collaboration and a shared love for our city. Whether it’s through attending public meetings, sharing your ideas, or participating in community events, your contributions make a difference.
Together, let’s make 2025 a year to remember. I look forward to celebrating our accomplishments and working alongside you to ensure Wheat Ridge remains a vibrant, welcoming, and thriving place for generations to come.
Wheat ridge Staff Highlight
Amazing Member of the City of Wheat Ridge Staff: Mike Ivancich
Explain your job: As the Operations Supervisor I am responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the city’s street maintenance and repair activities. This role ensures the efficient and safe functioning of street related services, including management of personnel, equipment, and resources. I work closely with the public works director to plan and implement projects, supervise field operations, and ensure the timely resolution of issues affecting the streets and public infrastructure. This includes snowplow operations daily management, coordination, and execution of snow removal and ice control activities within the city. To make sure that all snow plowing, salting operations are carried out efficiently and safely, minimizing disruption to traffic, and provide safe road conditions during winter weather events. I manage the staff, equipment, resources, and monitor the weather to our compliance and safety standards.
How long have you worked for the city? 6 years
Favorite pastime: Anything that involves being outdoors.
Favorite sandwich: Any
Favorite superhero: Mr. Incredible
If you had your own talk show, who would be your first guest?: Bill Murray or Andy Reid. I would have to rock paper scissors for one of them.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three albums would you want to have with you?: Marshall Tucker Band Greatest Hits, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Greatest Hits, Guns n Roses Appetite for Destruction. Shoot…Can I sneak one in just because? Best Jazz songs of all time – with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, and Bing Crosby. Must cover my bases if I am on the Island!
Why was Mike nominated for this highlight?: Mike was selected for City Corner because of his tireless work keeping our city streets clear of snow and ice during the winter months. I know it can be frustrating when you have to drive in snow and maybe your street wasn’t plowed yet but Mike works so hard and does an amazing job ensuring everyone can get to where they need to be as safely as possible! Plus, if you’re ever wondering where our trucks are, check out our snow plow map.
