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Community Survey Results 2023 8001 Terrace Ave., Middleton, WI 53562 info.polco.us • 608-709-8683 City of Boulder Community Survey 2023 Report of Results November 2023 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 2 - Contents Figures ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................ 5 Summary of Survey Methods ....................................................................................................................................... 5 Key Findings .......................................................................................................................................... 5 Survey Background ............................................................................................................................ 9 Survey Administration ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 How the Results Are Reported .................................................................................................................................. 10 Precision of Estimates .................................................................................................................................................... 10 Comparison of Results Over Time and By Subgroups .............................................................................. 10 Comparing Survey Results to Other Communities ..................................................................................... 10 Quality of Life and Community ................................................................................................................. 12 Quality of Life ....................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Community Characteristics ......................................................................................................................................... 14 Economy .................................................................................................................................................................................. 20 Feelings of Safety .............................................................................................................................................................. 22 Feeling Accepted and Welcome in Boulder ...................................................................................................... 24 City Government ................................................................................................................................ 25 City Services ......................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Government Performance ............................................................................................................................................ 29 City Decision-Making ....................................................................................................................................................... 31 City Government Focus Areas ...................................................................................................... 32 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ............................................................................................................................... 32 Homelessness ...................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Housing .................................................................................................................................................................................... 34 Future Focus Areas ........................................................................................................................................................... 35 Appendix A: Respondent Characteristics ................................................................................ 38 Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies ........................................................................... 44 Appendix C: Verbatim Responses to Open-Ended Questions ......................................... 69 Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics .................................................................................................................................... 70 Comparisons by Race and Ethnicity ...................................................................................................................... 71 Survey Results by Age and Gender....................................................................................................................... 89 Comparisons by Income ............................................................................................................................................. 108 Survey Results by Quadrant .................................................................................................................................... 133 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 3 - Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons ................................................................. 173 Comparison Data ............................................................................................................................................................. 173 Interpreting the Results .............................................................................................................................................. 173 National Benchmark Comparisons ....................................................................................................................... 174 Front Range Benchmark Comparisons .............................................................................................................. 182 Appendix F: Survey Methodology ............................................................................................. 190 About the Survey ............................................................................................................................................................. 190 Developing the Questionnaire ................................................................................................................................. 190 Selecting Survey Recipients ..................................................................................................................................... 190 Survey Administration and Response Rate .................................................................................................... 191 Margin of Error ............................................................................................................................................................ 192 Survey Processing (Data Entry) ............................................................................................................................ 192 Weighting the Data ........................................................................................................................................................ 193 Analyzing the Data ......................................................................................................................................................... 195 Appendix G: Open Participation Survey Results ................................................................ 196 About the Open Participation Survey ................................................................................................................. 196 Respondent and Household Characteristics .................................................................................................. 198 Complete Set of Responses ...................................................................................................................................... 204 Open-Ended Responses ............................................................................................................................................... 228 Appendix H: Survey Materials .................................................................................................... 229 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 4 - Figures Figure 1: Overall Quality of Life in Boulder, 2023 ............................................................................................ 12 Figure 2: Overall Quality of Life Compared by Year ....................................................................................... 12 Figure 3: Aspects of Quality of Life Compared by Year ................................................................................ 13 Figure 4: Aspects of Quality of Life Benchmarks .............................................................................................. 14 Figure 5: Ratings of Overall Community Characteristics Compared by Year................................. 15 Figure 6: Overall Community Characteristics Benchmarks ........................................................................ 16 Figure 7: Ratings of Individual Community Characteristics Compared by Year .......................... 17 Figure 8: Individual Community Characteristics Benchmarks ................................................................. 18 Figure 9: Economy Characteristics Compared by Year ................................................................................. 21 Figure 10: Economy Characteristics Benchmark Comparisons ............................................................... 21 Figure 11: Feelings of Safety Compared by Year ............................................................................................. 23 Figure 12: Safety Characteristics Benchmark Comparisons ..................................................................... 23 Figure 13: Feeling Welcome and Accepted in Boulder .................................................................................. 24 Figure 14: Value of City Services, 2023 ................................................................................................................. 25 Figure 15: Value of City Services Compared by Year .................................................................................... 25 Figure 16: Quality of City Services Compared by Year and Benchmarks ........................................ 26 Figure 17: Aspects of Government Performance Compared by Year .................................................. 30 Figure 18: Government Performance Benchmarks ......................................................................................... 30 Figure 19: Provided Input in City Decision-Making, 2023 .......................................................................... 31 Figure 20: Belief that Input was Heard ................................................................................................................... 31 Figure 21: Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ........................................................................ 32 Figure 22: Homelessness .................................................................................................................................................. 33 Figure 23: Importance of Contributing to Services for Homeless, 2023 .......................................... 34 Figure 24: City Encouragement of Housing Types ........................................................................................... 35 Figure 25: Focus Areas in the Coming Years, 2023 ........................................................................................ 37 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 5 - Executive Summary Summary of Survey Methods The 2023 City of Boulder Community Survey provided residents the opportunity to rate the quality of life in the City of Boulder, as well as the quality of service delivery and overall workings of local government. The survey also permitted residents to provide feedback to government on what is working well and what is not, and to share their priorities for community planning and resource allocation. Survey invitations were mailed to 6,000 randomly selected resident households in September 2023. A total of 895 surveys were completed, yielding a response rate of 15%. In addition to the scientific survey of randomly selected households, a link to an online, community-wide, open participation survey was publicized through various channels, including the City of Boulder website and social media. This open participation survey was identical to the scientific survey and open to all Boulder residents, and 324 responses were received. The key findings and body of this report focus on the 895 responses to the scientific survey; the results to the open-participation survey have been provided separately in Appendix G: Open Participation Survey Results on page 196). Survey results were weighted so that respondent gender, age, housing unit type (attached or detached), housing tenure (rent or own), race, and ethnicity were represented in proportions reflective of the entire adult population of the City. The margin of error is plus or minus three percentage points around any given percentage point reported for all survey respondents. Because Boulder has administered resident surveys before, some comparisons could be made between 2023 responses and those from 2018 and 2016. Boulder also elected to have its results compared to those of other jurisdictions around the nation and communities in the Front Range in Colorado. Comparisons are made possible through a national benchmark database created and maintained by Polco/National Research Center (NRC). This database contains resident perspectives gathered in resident surveys from over 500 jurisdictions over the past five years. Key Findings Quality of life is high in Boulder. • Boulder residents continue to rate quality of life highly, with 85% awarding excellent or good marks in 2023. This rating was similar to national and Front Range benchmarks. • At least 8 in 10 survey participants gave high marks to Boulder as a place to visit and as a place to live, while about three-quarters of residents positively rated Boulder as a place to work and as a place to raise children. • More than half of community members rated Boulder as a place to retire and the sense of community as either excellent or good. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 6 - • All overall community ratings were similar to both national and Front Range benchmarks, except for Boulder as a place to work (higher than the Front Range benchmark) and Boulder as a place to visit (much higher than both benchmarks). • Over 9 in 10 residents positively rated the overall quality of natural environment in Boulder, overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder, and overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities. • More than three-quarters of residents gave high marks to the overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts (lower than previous years), overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder, and the overall quality of the transportation system. • Seven in 10 survey respondents praised the city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, while more than half gave excellent or good ratings to residents’ connection and engagement with their community. • Where comparisons were available, all community characteristics were higher or much higher than both sets of benchmark comparisons, apart from residents’ connection and engagement with their community and overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder, which were similar to both benchmarks. • Among the highest rated individual community characteristics were fitness opportunities, availability of paths and walking trails, and recreational opportunities, with at least 9 in 10 respondents rating each positively. • At least 8 in 10 residents gave high marks to opportunities to volunteer, ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder, opportunities in attend special events and festivals, ease of walking, outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups, and opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities. • Fewer than one-quarter of survey respondents positively rated the variety of housing options and the availability of affordable quality housing. • While most individual community characteristics declined in 2023 compared to 2018, many of these characteristics were rated higher or much higher than national and Front Range benchmarks. Residents feel positive about economic aspects of Boulder, apart from cost of living. • Over 8 in 10 survey participants rated the overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder as excellent or good. • About three-quarters of residents gave high marks to the vibrancy of the downtown/commercial area and shopping opportunities. • Two-thirds of respondents positively rated the variety of business and service establishments in Boulder, while more than half praised employment opportunities. • Fewer than 1 in 10 residents positively rated the cost of living in Boulder. • Compared to 2018, respondents in 2023 rated the vibrancy of the downtown/commercial area and employment opportunities less positively. • Overall quality of business and service establishments, variety of business and service establishments and employment opportunities were ranked higher than the Front Range City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 7 - benchmarks, while vibrancy of downtown/commercial area and shopping opportunities were ranked much higher than the Front Range benchmarks. These two aspects were also ranked higher than the national benchmark. • Cost of living in Boulder ranked much lower than the national benchmark and lower than the Front Range benchmark. While scores for many City services have declined, Boulder still ranks highly among national and Front Range peers for several services. • At least 9 in 10 respondents positively rated fire services, sewer services, recreational opportunities in Boulder open space, and drinking water. • More than 8 in 10 residents gave high marks to recreation programs or classes, ambulance or emergency medical services, recreation centers or facilities, preservation of natural areas, storm water management, and city parks. • The lowest-rated services, affordable high-speed internet access, snow removal, code enforcement, crime prevention, land use, planning, and zoning, and street repair, were positively rated by at least one-third of residents. • A number of services received lower ratings in 2023 compared to 2018. These services included: Drinking water, recreation programs or classes, ambulance or emergency medical services, recreation centers or facilities, preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts), storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.), city parks, overall customer service by Boulder employees, recycling/composting, fire prevention and education, public information and communication, bus or transit services, police/sheriff services, land use, planning, and zoning, street repair, snow removal, code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.), and crime prevention. • Although many services decreased in quality in 2023 compared to 2018, all items were either similar to or higher than the Front Range benchmarks. Similarly, all items available for national benchmark comparisons were either similar or higher, apart from police/sheriff services, crime prevention, and snow removal which were lower. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important residents, and most feel welcome and accepted in the Boulder community. • About 9 in 10 residents indicated that they feel either very welcome or somewhat welcome at city parks, trails, and facilities. • More than 8 in 10 respondents indicated that feel safe and accepted at city-sponsored community engagement activities and in the Boulder community, based on their identity. • Nearly 7 in 10 survey participants indicated that it is either essential or very important for local government to focus on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 8 - • About 1 in 10 residents felt that creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city is not at all important. Homelessness is a significant problem in the city, and residents are supportive of funding community-based services for the homeless and those in need. • Over 9 in 10 Boulder resident indicated that homelessness is a major or moderate problem in the city; only 1% of respondents indicated that homelessness was not a problem in Boulder. • More than 8 in 10 residents indicated that it is either essential or very important to contribute funding for mental health programs, shelter during severe weather (including severe temperatures), and substance abuse programs. • Over 7 in 10 respondents indicated that it is essential or very important to contribute funding for supportive housing (which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment) and housing/rental assistance programs. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 9 - Survey Background The City of Boulder contracted with Polco/National Research Center (NRC) to conduct a community- wide resident survey. The primary goal of the survey was to assess the attitudes and opinions of residents by: • Evaluating City programs and services. • Determining general perceptions of the quality of life in the city. • Identifying issues facing the city. • Comparing survey results to other communities across the nation. • Establishing trendlines to measure government performance over time. The City of Boulder Community Survey serves as a consumer report card for Boulder by providing residents the opportunity to rate the quality of life in the City, as well as the community’s amenities, service delivery and their satisfaction with local government. Residents also provide feedback on what is working well and what is not, and communicate their priorities for community planning and resource allocation. Focus on the quality of service delivery helps council, staff, and the public to set priorities for budget decisions and lays the groundwork for tracking community opinions about the core responsibilities of Boulder City government, helping to assure maximum service quality over time. This type of survey gets at the key services that local government controls to create a quality community. It is akin to private sector customer surveys that are used regularly by many corporations to monitor where there are weaknesses in product or service delivery before customers defect to competition or before other problems from dissatisfied customers arise. This is the 10th iteration of the Boulder Community Survey since the baseline study conducted in 1987. Survey Administration A postcard was mailed to 6,000 Boulder households, selected at random, notifying residents that they had been chosen to participate in the survey. One group received a reminder postcard after one week, while another group received a paper copy of the survey. All mailings included a web link so that residents could take the survey online, if desired. There were 895 respondents to the mailed questionnaire (with 125 undeliverable addresses), yielding a response rate of 15%. In addition to the scientific, random sample, a link to an online “opt-in” survey was publicized through various channels including the Boulder website and social media. This opt-in survey was identical to the scientific survey and open to all Sanford residents. A total of 324 online surveys were completed in that effort. The key findings and body of this report focus on the 895 responses to the scientific survey; the results to the open-participation survey have been provided separately in Appendix G: Open Participation Survey Results. The margin of error is plus or minus three percentage points around any given percentage for all respondents. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 10 - Survey results were weighted so that respondent gender, age, housing unit type (attached or detached), housing tenure (rent or own), race, and ethnicity were represented in the proportions reflective of the entire city. More information about the survey methodology can be found in Appendix F: Survey Methodology. How the Results Are Reported For the most part, the full set of frequencies or the “percent positive” are presented in the body and narrative of the report. The percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., “excellent” and “good,” “very safe” and “somewhat safe,” “strongly support” and “somewhat support,” etc.). On many of the questions in the survey, respondents could give an answer of “don’t know.” The proportion of respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies and is discussed in the body of this report if it is 30% or greater. However, these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in the body of the report, unless otherwise indicated. In other words, the majority of the tables and graphs in the body of the report display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item. Precision of Estimates It is customary to describe the precision of estimates made from surveys by a “level of confidence” and accompanying “confidence interval” (or margin of error). The margin of error for this survey is generally no greater than plus or minus three percentage points around any given percent reported for the entire sample (N=895). Comparison of Results Over Time and By Subgroups Results from the 2016 and 2018 surveys are presented when comparisons to 2023 were available. Where differences in ratings from 2018 to 2023 are four percentage points or greater, they can be considered significantly higher or lower. Selected survey results were compared by geographic location of a respondent’s home, race and ethnicity, age, gender, housing unit type (attached or detached), housing unit tenure (rent or own) and income. These crosstabulations are summarized and presented in tabular form in Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics. For each pair of subgroups that has a statistically significant difference, an upper-case letter denoting significance is shown in the category with the larger column proportion. Comparing Survey Results to Other Communities NRC’s database of comparative resident opinion comprises resident perspectives gathered in resident surveys from approximately 500 communities whose residents evaluated their services. Communities to which Boulder was compared can be found in Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons. National and Front Range benchmark comparisons have been provided when similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 11 - questions on the Boulder survey are included in NRC’s database, and there were at least five communities in which the question was asked. Where comparisons for quality ratings were available, Boulder’s results were generally noted as being “higher” than the benchmark, “lower” than the benchmark or “similar” to the benchmark. In instances where ratings are considerably higher or lower than the benchmark, these ratings have been further demarcated by the attribute of “much,” (for example, “much lower” or “much higher”). These labels come from a comparison of Boulder’s rating to the benchmark where a rating is considered “similar” if it is within the standard margin of error (10 points or less on the 100-point scale); “higher” or “lower” if the difference between Boulder’s rating and the benchmark is greater than 10 points but 20 points or less; and “much higher” or “much lower” if the difference between Boulder’s rating and the benchmark is more than twice the standard margin of error (greater than 20 points). Comparisons for a number of items on the survey are not available in the benchmark database. These items are excluded from the benchmark tables. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 12 - Quality of Life and Community The City of Boulder Community Survey contained a set of questions related to quality of community life in the city ranging from the overall quality of life to Boulder as a place to work, to visit and to retire. Survey respondents were also asked to rate several characteristics of Boulder. Quality of Life Boulder residents continue to rate the quality of life highly, with 85% awarding excellent or good marks in 2023. This rating was similar than national and Front Range benchmarks (communities in the Front Range area of Colorado; see Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons for detailed information on the benchmark comparisons). This rating was lower than previous years. Survey results were compared by geographic location of residency and select respondent demographic characteristics. Survey participants in the areas of Central Boulder, South Boulder, and Southeast Boulder, as well as those with an income below $100,000, were less likely to positively rate the overall quality of life in Boulder compared to their counterparts (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 1: Overall Quality of Life in Boulder, 2023 Figure 2: Overall Quality of Life Compared by Year Percent excellent or good Excellent, 37% Good, 48% Fair, 14% Poor, 1% 92%92%85% 2016 2018 2023 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 13 - Residents also assessed other aspects related to quality of life in the city. At least 8 in 10 survey participants gave high marks to Boulder as a place to visit and as a place to live. Additionally, about three-quarters of residents positively rated Boulder as a place to work and as a place to raise children. More than half of community members rated Boulder as a place to retire and sense of community as either excellent or good. Each of these ratings was lower in 2023 compared to 2018. All community ratings were similar to both national and Front Range benchmarks, except for Boulder as a place to work (higher than the Front Range benchmark) and Boulder as a place to visit (much higher than both benchmarks; see Figure 4 on the following page). When differences were significant, those living in the areas of the University of Colorado, Crossroads, Gunbarrel, North Boulder, and Palo Park, as well as those age 35+ and those with incomes above $100,000, were generally more positive about these aspects of quality of life compared to other residents. Residents identifying as white, Asian, Not Hispanic, those with an income below $200,000, or those between the ages of 18-34 were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate Boulder as a plate to visit (For additional comparisons by respondent demographics, see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 3: Aspects of Quality of Life Compared by Year Percent excellent or good When asked about Boulder as a place to raise children, 35% of residents said “don’t know”. The full set of responses, including “don’t know”, can be found in Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies. 64% 67% 85% 81% 94% 94% 61% 61% 83% 81% 93% 95% 51% 55% 74% 75% 86% 91% Sense of community Boulder as a place to retire Boulder as a place to raise children Boulder as a place to work Boulder as a place to live Boulder as a place to visit 2023 2018 2016 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 14 - Figure 4: Aspects of Quality of Life Benchmarks Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: National benchmark Front Range benchmark Boulder as a place to live Similar Similar Boulder as a place to raise children Similar Similar Boulder as a place to work Similar Higher Boulder as a place to visit Much higher Much higher Boulder as a place to retire Similar Similar Overall quality of life in Boulder Similar Similar Community Characteristics Over 9 in 10 residents positively rated the overall quality of natural environment in Boulder, overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder, and overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities. Ratings for the overall quality of natural environment and overall health and wellness opportunities were similar to previous years. More than three-quarters of residents gave high marks to the overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts (lower than previous years), overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder, and the overall quality of the transportation system. Seven in 10 survey respondents praised the city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, while more than half gave excellent or good ratings to residents’ connection and engagement with their community. Where comparisons were available, all aspects were higher or much higher than both sets of benchmark comparisons, apart from residents’ connection and engagement with their community and overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder, which were similar to both sets of benchmarks (see Figure 5 on page 15). Comparisons by demographic differences revealed that, in general, residents who identified as nonwhite or multi-racial, as well as those unable to cover all of their expenses without accumulating debt, were less likely than their counterparts to positively rate overall community characteristics of Boulder. Residents living in the University of Colorado area, as well as men, were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate the overall quality of the transportation system. Residents living in the Southeast Boulder area were less likely to positively rate the overall quality of the transportation system in Boulder. Those living in the Central Uni-Hill area, as well as those with an income of less than $50,000 ,were less likely than their counterparts to give high marks to the overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder. Those living in South Boulder, as well as those identifying as Hispanic were less likely than their counterparts to positively rate the overall quality of natural environment in Boulder. Residents living in the Gunbarrel area were less likely than residents living in other areas to give positive scores to the overall health and wellness opportunities in the City. Residents living in the Colorado University area were more likely than residents in other areas to highly rate the overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts. Women, and those City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 15 - identifying as not Hispanic were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate residents’ connection and engagement with their community. Those identifying as Asian were more likely than their counterparts to give high marks to the city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 5: Ratings of Overall Community Characteristics Compared by Year Percent excellent or good Prior to 2023, “Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder” was “Quality of overall natural environment in Boulder”, “Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder” was “Health and wellness opportunities in Boulder”, and “Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts” was “Overall opportunities for education and enrichment”. 94% 94% 95% 92% 93% 95% 56% 70% 77% 78% 85% 92% 93% 94% Residents' connection and engagement with their community The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 2023 2018 2016 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 16 - Figure 6: Overall Community Characteristics Benchmarks Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: National benchmark Front Range benchmark Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar Similar Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder Higher Higher Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) Similar Similar Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Higher Much higher Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Higher Higher Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder Much higher Much higher Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder Much higher Much higher Residents were also asked to evaluate several individual characteristics of the community (see Figure 7). Among the highest rated aspects were fitness opportunities, availability of paths and walking trails, and recreational opportunities with at least 9 in 10 respondents rating each positively. At least 8 in 10 residents gave high marks to opportunities to volunteer, ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder, opportunities in attend special events and festivals, ease of walking, outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups, and opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities. Fewer than one- quarter of survey respondents positively rated the variety of housing options and the availability of affordable quality housing. Several ratings declined from 2018 to 2023, including ease of travel by bicycle, ease of walking, opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities, adult educational opportunities, public places where people want to spend time, opportunities to participate in community matters, preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community, cleanliness of Boulder, air quality, ease of travel by public transportation, the availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool, and the availability of affordable quality mental health care. Ease of travel by car in Boulder, ease of public parking, and the variety of housing options were rated higher by respondents in 2023 compared to 2018. However, many characteristics were rated higher or much higher than both national and Front Range benchmark comparisons. These characteristics included fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.), availability of paths and walking trails, recreational opportunities, opportunities to volunteer, ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder, opportunities to attend special events and festivals, ease of walking in Boulder, opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities, and community support for the arts. Additionally, public places where people want to spend time and City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 17 - ease of travel by public transportation were rated higher than the Front Range benchmark. Only three items were rated lower than the benchmarks. Air quality was rated lower than the national benchmark, while variety of housing options and availability of affordable quality housing were rated lower than the Front Range benchmarks (see Figure 8). Residents identifying as white or Asian, as well as those under age 55 and those able to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt, were generally more likely to rate these community characteristics more positively than their counterparts (for additional comparisons, please see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 7: Ratings of Individual Community Characteristics Compared by Year Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. (Percent excellent or good) 2023 2018 2016 Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 96% 95% 96% Availability of paths and walking trails 94% 95% 95% Recreational opportunities 93% 95% 97% Opportunities to volunteer 85% 86% 90% Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 82% 87% 89% Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 82% NA NA Ease of walking in Boulder 81% 87% 89% Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 81% NA NA Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 80% 87% 86% Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 79% NA NA Community support for the arts 78% NA NA Adult educational opportunities 77% 85% 87% Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 72% NA NA Public places where people want to spend time 68% 85% 85% Opportunities to participate in community matters 68% 77% 76% Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 65% 93% 88% Ease of travel by car in Boulder 64% 39% 43% Cleanliness of Boulder 62% 88% 89% Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 62% NA NA Air quality 62% 81% 87% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 18 - Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 56% 63% 69% Ease of public parking 54% 32% 29% Well-designed neighborhoods 52% NA NA Well-planned commercial growth 41% NA NA Well-planned residential growth 37% NA NA Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 32% 43% 50% Availability of affordable quality mental health care 28% 53% 56% Variety of housing options 23% 19% 20% Availability of affordable quality housing 9% 8% 10% At least 30% of respondents said “don’t know” when rating the following characteristics: Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations, the availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool, adult educational opportunities, and the availability of affordable quality mental health care. The responses presented in the body of the report are for those who had an opinion. The full set of responses, including “don’t know” can be found in Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies. Figure 8: Individual Community Characteristics Benchmarks Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. National benchmark Front Range benchmark Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) Much higher Much higher Availability of paths and walking trails Much higher Much higher Recreational opportunities Much higher Much higher Opportunities to volunteer Higher Higher Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder Much higher Higher Opportunities to attend special events and festivals Higher Higher Ease of walking in Boulder Higher Higher Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities Higher Higher Community support for the arts Higher Higher Adult educational opportunities Higher Much higher Public places where people want to spend time Similar Higher Opportunities to participate in community matters Similar Similar Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community Similar Similar Ease of travel by car in Boulder Similar Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 19 - Cleanliness of Boulder Similar Similar Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) Similar Similar Air quality Lower Similar Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder Higher Higher Ease of public parking Similar Similar Well-designed neighborhoods Similar Similar Well-planned commercial growth Similar Similar Well-planned residential growth Similar Similar Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool Similar Similar Availability of affordable quality mental health care Similar Similar Variety of housing options Similar Lower Availability of affordable quality housing Similar Lower City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 20 - Economy As in previous years, survey participants were asked about various aspects of the economy in Boulder (see Figure 9). Over 8 in 10 survey participants rated the overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder as excellent or good. Additionally, about three-quarters of residents gave high marks to the vibrancy of the downtown/commercial area and shopping opportunities. Two- thirds of respondents positively rated the variety of business and service establishments in Boulder, while more than half praised employment opportunities. Fewer than 1 in 10 residents positively rated the cost of living in Boulder. Compared to 2018, respondents in 2023 rated the vibrancy of the downtown/commercial area and employment opportunities less positively (Please see Appendix F: Survey Methodology for more information on how to interpret changes over time.) Boulder ranked higher than other national and Front Range communities for many economy-related areas. The overall quality and variety of business and service establishments, as well as employment opportunities, were ranked higher than the Front Range benchmarks, while vibrancy of downtown/commercial area and shopping opportunities were ranked much higher than the Front Range benchmarks. These two aspects were also ranked higher than the national benchmark. One item, cost of living, ranked much lower than the national benchmark and lower than the Front Range benchmark. In terms of differences between subgroups, those unable to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt were less likely than their counterparts to positively rate all aspects of the economy in Boulder. Those with an income of less than $50,000 were less likely than their counterparts to highly rate employment opportunities. Residents between the ages of 18-34 were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate the vibrance of downtown/commercial area and shopping opportunities. Men were also more likely than women to highly rate shopping opportunities. Those identifying as not Hispanic were more likely to give excellent or good ratings to the variety of business and service establishments in Boulder and shopping opportunities. Those living in the Gunbarrel and South Boulder areas were less likely to positively rate the overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder. Those living in the Crossroads area were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate the variety of business and service establishments in Boulder. Residents in the University of Colorado area were more likely than their counterparts to give high marks to shopping opportunities (for more detail, see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 21 - Figure 9: Economy Characteristics Compared by Year Percent excellent or good Prior to 2023, “Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area” was “Vibrant downtown/commercial area”. Figure 10: Economy Characteristics Benchmark Comparisons Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. (Percent excellent or good) National benchmark Front Range benchmark Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder Similar Higher Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Higher Much higher Shopping opportunities Higher Much higher Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder Similar Higher Employment opportunities Similar Higher Cost of living in Boulder Much lower Lower 10% 60% 85% 88% 85% 9% 64% 77% 85% 83% 6% 57% 67% 74% 75% 84% Cost of living in Boulder Employment opportunities Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder Shopping opportunities Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 2023 2018 2016 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 22 - Feelings of Safety Over 9 in 10 Boulder residents indicated that they feel at least somewhat safe in their neighborhood during the day, a mark that was lower in 2023 compared to 2018. Over 8 in 10 survey respondents indicated that they feel very or somewhat safe in Boulder, based on their personal identity. Over 7 in 10 residents indicated that they feel safe from violent crime, in Boulder’s downtown/commercial area during the day (a decrease in 2023 compared to 2018), and in city parks, facilities, and trails. Boulder ranked similar to the national and Front Range benchmarks for feelings of safety in most areas, where comparisons were available (see Figure 12). However, Boulder ranked lower than the national benchmark for feeling of safety from property crime, and much lower for feelings of safety from fire, flood, or other natural disaster. Boulder also ranked lower than the Front Range benchmark for feelings of safety from fire, flood, or other natural disaster. Residents in the Colorado University area were more likely than their counterparts to feel safer in Boulder and from various types of crime. Residents living in the Central Boulder area were generally less likely than their counterparts to feel safer in Boulder and from various types of crime. Men, and those able to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt, were generally more likely than their counterparts to feel safe in Boulder and from various types of crime (for more detail, see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 23 - Figure 11: Feelings of Safety Compared by Year Percent very safe or somewhat safe Figure 12: Safety Characteristics Benchmark Comparisons Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: (Percent very or somewhat safe) National benchmark Front Range benchmark In your neighborhood during the day Similar Similar In Boulder’s downtown/commercial area during the day Similar Similar From property crime Lower Similar From violent crime Similar Similar From fire, flood, or other natural disaster Much lower Lower 91% 97% 92% 97% 46% 59% 71% 77% 77% 82% 93% From fire, flood, or other natural disaster From property crime In city parks, facilities, and trails In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day From violent crime In Boulder, based on your personal identity In your neighborhood during the day 2023 2018 2016 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 24 - Feeling Accepted and Welcome in Boulder Residents were asked for the first time in 2023 how welcome and accepted they feel in the Boulder community. About 9 in 10 residents indicated that they feel very welcome or somewhat welcome at city parks, trails, and facilities. More than 8 in 10 respondents indicated that feel safe and accepted at city-sponsored community engagement activities and in the Boulder community, based on their identity. Those identifying as Hispanic were less likely to feel welcome at city-sponsored community engagement activities compared to those identifying as not Hispanic. Men were more likely than women to feel welcome and accepted at city parks, trails, and facilities. Those unable to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt were less likely to feel welcome and accepted at city-sponsored community engagement activities and in the Boulder community, based on their personal identity (for more detail, see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 13: Feeling Welcome and Accepted in Boulder Percent very welcome or somewhat welcome 85% 86% 89% At city-sponsored community engagement activities In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity At city parks, trails, and facilities How welcome and accepted do you feel… City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 25 - City Government The City of Boulder Community Survey included several questions aimed at measuring City services, government performance, and decision-making. City Services When asked to rate the overall value of Boulder services, 6 out of 10 residents rated the value as excellent or good. This rating was lower in 2023 compared to 2018. This measure was similar to both the national and Front Range benchmark comparisons (see Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons for detailed information on the benchmark comparisons). Survey respondents who were unable to cover all their essential expenses without accumulating debt were less likely than their counterparts to positively rate the value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder (See Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 14: Value of City Services, 2023 Figure 15: Value of City Services Compared by Year Percent excellent or good Excellent 14% Good 46% Fair 27%Poor 13% 64%66%60% 2016 2018 2023 Please rate the value of City services considering the property taxes you pay: City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 26 - Residents were asked their opinion on the quality of 31 individual services provided to them by the City of Boulder (see Figure 16 below). At least 9 in 10 respondents positively rated fire services, sewer services, recreational opportunities in Boulder open space, and drinking water. More than 8 in 10 residents gave high marks to recreation programs or classes, ambulance or emergency medical services, recreation centers or facilities, preservation of natural areas, storm water management, and city parks. Most other services were rated highly by at least half of residents. The lowest-rated services, affordable high-speed internet access, snow removal, code enforcement, crime prevention, land use, planning, and zoning, and street repair, were positively rated by at least one-third of residents. A number of services received lower ratings in 2023 compared to 2018. These services included: Drinking water, recreation programs or classes, ambulance or emergency medical services, recreation centers or facilities, preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts), storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.), city parks, overall customer service by Boulder employees, recycling/composting, fire prevention and education, public information and communication, bus or transit services, police/sheriff services, land use, planning, and zoning, street repair, snow removal, code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.), and crime prevention. Although many services decreased in quality in 2023 compared to 2018, all available community comparisons were either similar to or higher than the Front Range benchmarks. Similarly, all items available for national benchmark comparisons were either similar or higher, apart from police/sheriff services, crime prevention, and snow removal which were lower (see Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons for more information.) When differences were significant, those identifying as white or Asian, those able to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt, men, and residents age 18-34 tended to provide higher ratings to various city services (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics for more detail). Figure 16: Quality of City Services Compared by Year and Benchmarks Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder: (Percent excellent or good) 2023 2018 2016 National benchmark Front Range benchmark Fire services 93% 96% 97% Similar Similar Sewer services 92% 89% 88% Higher Higher Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 91% NA NA NA NA Drinking water 90% 85% 87% Higher Higher Recreation programs or classes 88% 92% 92% Higher Higher Ambulance or emergency medical services 87% 93% 91% Similar Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 27 - Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder: (Percent excellent or good) 2023 2018 2016 National benchmark Front Range benchmark Recreation centers or facilities 87% 91% 92% Higher Higher Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 86% 93% 88% Much higher Higher Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 83% 76% 76% Similar Similar City parks 83% 95% 95% Similar Similar Yard waste pick-up 78% 81% 81% Similar Higher Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 78% 86% 83% Similar Similar Animal management 76% 75% 74% Similar Similar Recycling/composting 76% 92% 92% Similar Similar Fire prevention and education 74% 85% 87% Similar Similar Public information and communication 71% 82% 79% Similar Similar Bus or transit services 68% 80% 82% Higher Much higher Street cleaning 67% 70% 67% Similar Similar Utility billing 66% 79% 82% Similar Similar Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 66% 79% 80% Similar Similar Street lighting 65% 66% 70% Similar Similar Police/sheriff services 65% 82% 83% Lower Similar Sidewalk maintenance 60% 62% 62% Similar Similar Traffic enforcement 59% 57% 58% Similar Similar Traffic signal timing 57% 51% 52% Similar Similar Affordable high-speed internet access 48% NA NA Similar Similar Snow removal 47% 58% 54% Lower Similar Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 47% 56% 56% Similar Similar Crime prevention 44% 75% 70% Lower Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 28 - Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder: (Percent excellent or good) 2023 2018 2016 National benchmark Front Range benchmark Land use, planning, and zoning 40% 51% 52% Similar Similar Street repair 34% 50% 47% Similar Similar Prior to 2023, ” Public information and communication” was “Public information services”, “Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.)” was “Storm drainage”, “Utility billing” was “Water utility billing”, “Animal management” was “Animal control”, “Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts)” was “Preservation of natural areas such as open space, farmlands and greenbelts”, and “Recycling and composting” was “Recycling”. At least 30% of respondents said “don’t know” when rating the following services: Code enforcement, ambulance or emergency medical services, fire services, fire prevention and education, and yard waste pick-up. The responses presented in the body of the report are for those who had an opinion. The full set of responses, including “don’t know” can be found in Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 29 - Government Performance Over 6 in 10 survey respondents rated the job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect as excellent or good. More than half praised the job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement (similar to previous years) and informing the public with openness and transparency. Fewer than half of residents highly rated the overall direction that Boulder is taking (lower in 2023 compared to 2018) and the job Boulder’s City Council does at implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community. All ratings were similar to both national and Front Range benchmark comparisons. Those living in the CU and Crossroads areas were more likely than their counterparts to positively rate the overall direction that Boulder is taking. Additionally, those in the Colorado University area were more likely than those living in other areas to positively rate the job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency and the job Boulder’s City Council does implementing policies that reflect the value of the Boulder community. Those living in the Gunbarrel and Southeast Boulder areas were less likely than their counterparts to positively rate the job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect. Men, those able to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt, and residents between the ages of 18-34 were generally more likely than their counterparts to positively rate aspects of government performance (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics for more detail). City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 30 - Figure 17: Aspects of Government Performance Compared by Year Percent excellent or good Prior to 2023, “The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement” was “The job Boulder government does at welcoming citizen involvement”. Figure 18: Government Performance Benchmarks Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent excellent or good) National benchmark Front Range benchmark The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency Similar Similar The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement Similar Similar The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect Similar Similar The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency Similar Similar The overall direction that Boulder is taking Similar Similar 46% 55% 50% 59% 42% 43% 53% 57% 62% The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community The overall direction that Boulder is taking The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 2023 2018 2016 Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 31 - City Decision-Making Nearly 3 in 10 Boulder residents indicated that they provided input to the City as a part of City decision-making in the past 12 months. Residents living in the Palo Park area of Boulder, those identifying as Asian, and those able to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt were less likely than their counterparts to have provided input to the City in the last 12 months (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 19: Provided Input in City Decision-Making, 2023 Those who indicated that they had provided input to the City in the past 12 months were then asked if they believed that their input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what they preferred. A little more than half of respondents indicated that they believed their input was heard. Those identifying as not Hispanic and those unable to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt were less likely than their counterparts to believe that their input was heard. Figure 20: Belief that Input was Heard Yes 29% No 71% Yes 55% No 45% In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred? City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 32 - City Government Focus Areas Survey respondents were asked about several areas of potential for the City to focus on. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Nearly 7 in 10 survey participants indicated that it is either essential or very important for local government to focus on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city. About 1 in 10 residents felt that creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city is not at all important. Residents living in the Colorado University and Crossroads areas, as well as those with an income of less than $200,000, women, and those between the ages of 18-34 were more likely than their counterparts to feel that it is essential or very important that local government focus on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 21: Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essential 44%Very important 25% Somewhat important 19% Not at all important 12% How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 33 - Homelessness Over 9 in 10 Boulder residents indicated that homelessness is a major or moderate problem in the City. Only 1% of respondents indicated that homelessness was not a problem in Boulder. Residents living in the Central Uni-Hill and Palo Park areas, as well as women, and those age 35+ were more likely than their counterparts to indicate that homelessness is a major or moderate problem (see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Figure 22: Homelessness Survey participants were then asked to rate the importance of providing funding to community- based organizations that provide services to the homeless population and others in need. More than 8 in 10 residents indicated that it is either essential or very important to contribute funding for mental health programs, shelter during severe weather (including severe temperatures), and substance abuse programs. Over 7 in 10 respondents indicated that it is essential or very important to contribute funding for supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment, as well as housing/rental assistance programs. Survey participants with an income of $200,000 or more, men, those age 35+, and those living in the Central Boulder, South Boulder, or Southeast Boulder were generally less likely than their counterparts to support the contribution of funding to community-based organizations (for additional differences, please see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics.) Major problem 63% Moderate problem 29% Minor problem 7% Not a problem 1% To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 34 - Figure 23: Importance of Contributing to Services for Homeless, 2023 Percent essential or very important Housing Over 7 in 10 residents indicated that they felt it is essential or very important for the City to encourage the preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers). About 6 in 10 indicated that it is vital for the City to encourage medium-density development. More than half of survey respondents indicated that it is essential or very important for the City to encourage higher-density development, changes to the occupancy levels in current housing, and building more accessory dwelling units. Residents living in the CU and Crossroads areas were more likely than their counterparts to indicate that the City should encourage higher density development and changes to the occupancy levels in current housing. Residents living the Crossroads area were less likely than their counterparts to indicate that the City should encourage the preservation of small starter homes. Men were more likely than women to feel that the City should encourage most types of housing, apart from the preservation of starter homes. Residents age 55+ were less likely than their counterparts to feel that the City should encourage various housing types. Those with an income of less than $200,000, as well as those unable to cover all of their essential expenses without accumulating debt were more likely than their counterparts to feel that the City should encourage various types of housing (for additional differences, please see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics.) 73% 79% 82% 84% 87% Housing/rental assistance programs Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment Substance abuse programs Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes Mental health programs How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community- based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 35 - Figure 24: City Encouragement of Housing Types Percent essential or very important Future Focus Areas Respondents were asked to indicate how important it is for the City to focus on various aspects of Boulder in the next two to three years. More than 8 in 10 residents felt that it is either essential or very important for the City to focus on the overall quality of natural environment in Boulder, the overall quality of the transportation system, and the overall feeling of safety in Boulder. More than 7 in 10 respondents indicated that it is vital for the City to focus on the overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities, overall quality of the utility infrastructure, overall economic health, and overall design or layout of Boulder’s residential and commercial areas. Over 6 in 10 felt it is either essential or very important to focus on equity and inclusivity, overall health and wellness opportunities, and connection and engagement within the community. About 6 in 10 indicated that they feel a focus on overall opportunities for education culture, and the arts is important. Residents with an income of $200,000 or more were more likely than their counterparts to feel that a focus on the overall feeling of safety in Boulder and the overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities were essential or very important. Women were more likely than men to indicate that they would like the City to focus on the overall feeling of safety in Boulder and equity and inclusivity. Those identifying as Asian were generally more likely than their counterparts to want the City to focus on all areas. Those identifying as Hispanic were more likely than their counterparts to indicate 52% 53% 56% 61% 73% Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing Higher-density development (like apartments) Medium-density development (like townhouses) Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 36 - that they would like the City to focus on the overall feeling of safety in Boulder, overall quality of natural environment, and overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities. Those living in the CU and Crossroads areas were less likely than their counterparts to indicate that they want the City to focus on the overall feeling of safety in Boulder. Those living in the Crossroads area were more likely than those living in other areas to indicate that it is essential or very important for the City to focus on equity and inclusivity (for additional differences, please see Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics.) City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results - 37 - Figure 25: Focus Areas in the Coming Years, 2023 Percent essential or very important 59% 63% 65% 68% 72% 75% 77% 78% 81% 84% 86% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Connection and engagement within the community Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder Equity and inclusivity Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) Overall economic health of Boulder Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Overall feeling of safety in Boulder Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 38 Appendix A: Respondent Characteristics The following tables summarize the demographic characteristics of Boulder’s survey respondents in 2023. Table 1: Question D1 without "don’t know" responses In general, how many times do you: Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Total Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 45% N=395 17% N=149 13% N=110 5% N=47 19% N=169 100% N=869 Use or check email 77% N=669 18% N=158 4% N=32 1% N=7 1% N=7 100% N=872 Send or receive text messages by phone 86% N=748 8% N=73 4% N=35 1% N=8 1% N=9 100% N=872 Table 2: Question D1 with "don’t know" responses In general, how many times do you: Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Don’t know Total Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 45% N=395 17% N=149 13% N=110 5% N=47 19% N=169 0% N=4 100% N=874 Use or check email 77% N=669 18% N=158 4% N=32 1% N=7 1% N=7 0% N=0 100% N=872 Send or receive text messages by phone 86% N=748 8% N=73 4% N=35 1% N=8 1% N=9 0% N=1 100% N=873 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 39 Table 3: Question D2 How many years have you lived in Boulder? Percent Number Less than 2 years 19% N=164 2-5 years 29% N=254 6-10 years 11% N=97 11-20 years 13% N=114 More than 20 years 29% N=252 Total 100% N=882 Table 4: Question D3 Which best describes the building you live in? Percent Number Single-family detached home 41% N=363 Townhouse or duplex (may share walls but no units above or below you) 16% N=145 Condominium or apartment (have units above or below you) 41% N=362 Mobile home 1% N=5 Other 1% N=7 Total 100% N=883 Table 5: Question D4 Do you rent or own your home? Percent Number Rent 50% N=440 Own 50% N=441 Total 100% N=881 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 40 Table 6: Question D5 Do any children 17 or under live in your household? Percent Number No 82% N=720 Yes 18% N=162 Total 100% N=882 Table 7: Question D6 Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? Percent Number No 80% N=707 Yes 20% N=172 Total 100% N=879 Table 8: Question D7 Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Percent Number No 16% N=140 Yes 84% N=738 Total 100% N=878 Table 9: Question D8 How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number Less than $25,000 9% N=76 $25,000 to $49,999 10% N=85 $50,000 to $74,999 15% N=122 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 41 How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number $75,000 to $99,999 12% N=103 $100,000 to $149,999 18% N=150 $150,000 to $199,999 13% N=108 $200,000 to $299,999 12% N=103 $300,000 or more 11% N=93 Total 100% N=839 Table 10: Question D9 What is your race/ethnicity? (Select all that apply) Percent Number White 89% N=754 Hispanic 12% N=98 Asian 9% N=76 American Indian or Alaskan Native 2% N=21 A race/ethnicity not listed 2% N=17 Black or African American 2% N=15 Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 1% N=4 Nepali 0% N=2 Total may exceed 100% as respondents could select more than one answer. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 42 Table 11: Question D10 In which category is your age? Percent Number 18-24 years 17% N=152 25-34 years 33% N=287 35-44 years 10% N=90 45-54 years 14% N=123 55-64 years 8% N=72 65-74 years 10% N=90 75 years or older 7% N=58 Total 100% N=873 Table 12: Question D11 What is your gender? Percent Number Woman 48% N=413 Man 51% N=444 Identify in another way 1% N=8 Total 100% N=865 Table 13: Question D11a If you identify in another way, how would you describe your gender? Percent Number Agender/I don’t identify with any gender 12% N=1 Genderqueer/gender fluid 25% N=2 Non-binary 12% N=1 Transgender man 0% N=0 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 43 If you identify in another way, how would you describe your gender? Percent Number Transgender woman 12% N=1 Two-spirit 0% N=0 Identify in another way 37% N=3 Total 100% N=8 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 44 Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies The following pages contain a complete set of responses to each question on the survey. For questions that included a “don’t know” or “no opinion” response option, two tables for that question are provided: the first excludes the “don’t know” or “no opinion” responses and the second includes those response options. Table 14: Question 1 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Boulder as a place to live 42% N=377 44% N=396 12% N=110 1% N=12 100% N=895 Boulder as a place to raise children 32% N=186 42% N=245 20% N=114 6% N=36 100% N=580 Boulder as a place to work 31% N=248 44% N=351 21% N=169 3% N=26 100% N=793 Boulder as a place to visit 57% N=483 34% N=290 7% N=63 2% N=15 100% N=852 Boulder as a place to retire 23% N=148 31% N=198 28% N=175 18% N=112 100% N=634 The overall quality of life in Boulder 37% N=332 48% N=426 14% N=122 1% N=9 100% N=889 Sense of community 13% N=116 38% N=334 34% N=299 15% N=127 100% N=876 Table 15: Question 1 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Boulder as a place to live 42% N=377 44% N=396 12% N=110 1% N=12 0% N=0 100% N=895 Boulder as a place to raise children 21% N=186 27% N=245 13% N=114 4% N=36 35% N=312 100% N=893 Boulder as a place to work 28% N=248 40% N=351 19% N=169 3% N=26 11% N=95 100% N=888 Boulder as a place to visit 55% N=483 33% N=290 7% N=63 2% N=15 4% N=34 100% N=886 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 45 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Boulder as a place to retire 17% N=148 22% N=198 20% N=175 13% N=112 28% N=250 100% N=884 The overall quality of life in Boulder 37% N=332 48% N=426 14% N=122 1% N=9 0% N=0 100% N=889 Sense of community 13% N=116 37% N=334 33% N=299 14% N=127 2% N=16 100% N=892 Table 16: Question 2 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 30% N=267 47% N=414 17% N=154 6% N=51 100% N=886 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 25% N=215 53% N=453 18% N=151 5% N=41 100% N=859 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 74% N=653 20% N=179 5% N=42 1% N=11 100% N=884 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 66% N=581 26% N=229 6% N=49 2% N=21 100% N=881 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 60% N=519 33% N=280 6% N=51 1% N=9 100% N=859 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 40% N=339 45% N=387 12% N=107 3% N=23 100% N=856 Residents' connection and engagement with their community 13% N=108 43% N=355 34% N=278 10% N=87 100% N=828 The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 26% N=194 44% N=328 23% N=173 7% N=53 100% N=749 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 46 Table 17: Question 2 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 30% N=267 46% N=414 17% N=154 6% N=51 1% N=5 100% N=891 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 24% N=215 51% N=453 17% N=151 5% N=41 3% N=31 100% N=891 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 74% N=653 20% N=179 5% N=42 1% N=11 0% N=4 100% N=888 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 65% N=581 26% N=229 6% N=49 2% N=21 1% N=7 100% N=887 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 58% N=519 31% N=280 6% N=51 1% N=9 3% N=30 100% N=890 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 38% N=339 44% N=387 12% N=107 3% N=23 4% N=32 100% N=888 Residents' connection and engagement with their community 12% N=108 40% N=355 31% N=278 10% N=87 7% N=63 100% N=891 The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 22% N=194 37% N=328 20% N=173 6% N=53 15% N=136 100% N=885 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 47 Table 18: Question 3 without "don't know" responses Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Total In your neighborhood during the day 77% N=687 16% N=141 3% N=27 3% N=31 1% N=6 100% N=892 In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 45% N=404 31% N=277 6% N=57 13% N=117 4% N=32 100% N=887 From property crime 21% N=184 38% N=333 11% N=101 22% N=190 8% N=74 100% N=882 From violent crime 43% N=378 34% N=297 9% N=83 11% N=101 2% N=22 100% N=880 From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 9% N=83 37% N=323 25% N=224 25% N=223 3% N=28 100% N=880 In city parks, facilities, and trails 35% N=311 36% N=317 12% N=103 12% N=108 5% N=43 100% N=882 In Boulder, based on your personal identity 59% N=519 23% N=201 10% N=92 6% N=51 1% N=11 100% N=874 Table 19: Question 3 with "don't know" responses Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Don’t know Total In your neighborhood during the day 77% N=687 16% N=141 3% N=27 3% N=31 1% N=6 0% N=0 100% N=892 In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 45% N=404 31% N=277 6% N=57 13% N=117 4% N=32 0% N=4 100% N=891 From property crime 21% N=184 38% N=333 11% N=101 21% N=190 8% N=74 1% N=6 100% N=888 From violent crime 43% N=378 34% N=297 9% N=83 11% N=101 2% N=22 1% N=5 100% N=885 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 48 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Don’t know Total From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 9% N=83 36% N=323 25% N=224 25% N=223 3% N=28 1% N=5 100% N=885 In city parks, facilities, and trails 35% N=311 36% N=317 12% N=103 12% N=108 5% N=43 1% N=10 100% N=892 In Boulder, based on your personal identity 58% N=519 23% N=201 10% N=92 6% N=51 1% N=11 2% N=19 100% N=892 Table 20: Question 4 without "don't know" responses How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? Percent Number Essential 44% N=387 Very important 25% N=220 Somewhat important 19% N=169 Not at all important 12% N=101 Total 100% N=876 Table 21: Question 4 with "don't know" responses How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? Percent Number Essential 43% N=387 Very important 25% N=220 Somewhat important 19% N=169 Not at all important 11% N=101 Don’t know 2% N=15 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 49 How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? Percent Number Total 100% N=891 Table 22: Question 5 without "don't know" responses How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very welcome Somewhat welcome Neither welcome nor unwelcome Somewhat unwelcome Very unwelcome Total At city parks, trails, and facilities 73% N=641 16% N=138 7% N=60 3% N=30 1% N=6 100% N=875 At city-sponsored community engagement activities 65% N=469 19% N=138 10% N=72 4% N=27 2% N=12 100% N=717 In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 64% N=551 22% N=191 9% N=77 4% N=35 1% N=5 100% N=860 Table 23: Question 5 with "don't know" responses How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very welcome Somewhat welcome Neither welcome nor unwelcome Somewhat unwelcome Very unwelcome Don’t know Total At city parks, trails, and facilities 72% N=641 15% N=138 7% N=60 3% N=30 1% N=6 2% N=17 100% N=892 At city-sponsored community engagement activities 53% N=469 15% N=138 8% N=72 3% N=27 1% N=12 20% N=175 100% N=892 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 50 How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very welcome Somewhat welcome Neither welcome nor unwelcome Somewhat unwelcome Very unwelcome Don’t know Total In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 62% N=551 22% N=191 9% N=77 4% N=35 1% N=5 3% N=26 100% N=885 Table 24: Question 6 without "don't know" responses Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Ease of public parking 17% N=144 38% N=323 31% N=263 15% N=127 100% N=856 Ease of travel by car in Boulder 21% N=178 43% N=370 25% N=217 11% N=96 100% N=860 Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 16% N=132 39% N=315 32% N=257 12% N=95 100% N=799 Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 40% N=321 42% N=334 15% N=120 3% N=21 100% N=796 Ease of walking in Boulder 37% N=329 44% N=392 17% N=149 2% N=18 100% N=889 Well-planned residential growth 7% N=56 30% N=224 27% N=203 36% N=267 100% N=750 Well-planned commercial growth 6% N=45 35% N=241 29% N=201 29% N=201 100% N=688 Well-designed neighborhoods 11% N=87 42% N=340 37% N=305 10% N=83 100% N=815 Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 31% N=224 48% N=350 16% N=114 5% N=34 100% N=724 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 20% N=147 45% N=338 23% N=176 12% N=90 100% N=751 Public places where people want to spend time 27% N=240 41% N=359 23% N=200 9% N=82 100% N=881 Variety of housing options 4% N=33 19% N=160 33% N=278 44% N=375 100% N=847 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 51 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Availability of affordable quality housing 4% N=31 6% N=47 21% N=172 70% N=581 100% N=832 Cleanliness of Boulder 17% N=152 44% N=392 29% N=257 9% N=81 100% N=882 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 18% N=154 44% N=377 26% N=222 12% N=102 100% N=855 Air quality 18% N=153 44% N=387 27% N=231 11% N=99 100% N=871 Availability of paths and walking trails 64% N=560 31% N=273 5% N=42 1% N=7 100% N=882 Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 66% N=577 29% N=254 4% N=33 1% N=5 100% N=869 Recreational opportunities 66% N=577 27% N=237 6% N=48 1% N=11 100% N=873 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 36% N=301 44% N=367 17% N=139 4% N=30 100% N=838 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 34% N=287 47% N=397 15% N=126 3% N=26 100% N=837 Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 40% N=314 41% N=321 15% N=119 4% N=30 100% N=785 Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 32% N=125 40% N=155 22% N=88 6% N=23 100% N=390 Community support for the arts 26% N=193 51% N=379 19% N=140 3% N=25 100% N=738 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 12% N=35 20% N=56 30% N=84 38% N=109 100% N=284 Adult educational opportunities 26% N=152 52% N=307 19% N=111 4% N=22 100% N=592 Opportunities to volunteer 37% N=250 48% N=324 13% N=85 3% N=18 100% N=676 Opportunities to participate in community matters 24% N=162 44% N=296 25% N=166 7% N=49 100% N=673 Availability of affordable quality mental health care 9% N=40 20% N=89 32% N=145 40% N=181 100% N=454 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 52 Table 25: Question 6 with "don't know" responses Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Ease of public parking 16% N=144 36% N=323 29% N=263 14% N=127 4% N=37 100% N=894 Ease of travel by car in Boulder 20% N=178 42% N=370 24% N=217 11% N=96 3% N=30 100% N=890 Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 15% N=132 35% N=315 29% N=257 11% N=95 10% N=91 100% N=890 Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 36% N=321 38% N=334 13% N=120 2% N=21 10% N=93 100% N=889 Ease of walking in Boulder 37% N=329 44% N=392 17% N=149 2% N=18 0% N=2 100% N=891 Well-planned residential growth 6% N=56 25% N=224 23% N=203 30% N=267 16% N=142 100% N=891 Well-planned commercial growth 5% N=45 27% N=241 23% N=201 23% N=201 23% N=202 100% N=890 Well-designed neighborhoods 10% N=87 39% N=340 35% N=305 9% N=83 8% N=67 100% N=882 Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 25% N=224 39% N=350 13% N=114 4% N=34 18% N=164 100% N=888 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 17% N=147 38% N=338 20% N=176 10% N=90 15% N=131 100% N=883 Public places where people want to spend time 27% N=240 40% N=359 23% N=200 9% N=82 1% N=6 100% N=886 Variety of housing options 4% N=33 18% N=160 31% N=278 42% N=375 5% N=41 100% N=888 Availability of affordable quality housing 4% N=31 5% N=47 19% N=172 66% N=581 6% N=55 100% N=887 Cleanliness of Boulder 17% N=152 44% N=392 29% N=257 9% N=81 0% N=0 100% N=882 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 17% N=154 42% N=377 25% N=222 12% N=102 4% N=32 100% N=888 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 53 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Air quality 17% N=153 44% N=387 26% N=231 11% N=99 1% N=10 100% N=880 Availability of paths and walking trails 63% N=560 31% N=273 5% N=42 1% N=7 0% N=2 100% N=884 Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 65% N=577 29% N=254 4% N=33 1% N=5 2% N=21 100% N=889 Recreational opportunities 65% N=577 27% N=237 5% N=48 1% N=11 2% N=15 100% N=888 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 34% N=301 41% N=367 16% N=139 3% N=30 5% N=48 100% N=886 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 32% N=287 45% N=397 14% N=126 3% N=26 6% N=50 100% N=887 Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 35% N=314 36% N=321 13% N=119 3% N=30 11% N=101 100% N=886 Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 14% N=125 18% N=155 10% N=88 3% N=23 56% N=492 100% N=882 Community support for the arts 22% N=193 43% N=379 16% N=140 3% N=25 16% N=137 100% N=875 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 4% N=35 6% N=56 10% N=84 12% N=109 68% N=597 100% N=882 Adult educational opportunities 17% N=152 35% N=307 13% N=111 2% N=22 33% N=289 100% N=881 Opportunities to volunteer 28% N=250 37% N=324 10% N=85 2% N=18 23% N=205 100% N=881 Opportunities to participate in community matters 18% N=162 34% N=296 19% N=166 6% N=49 24% N=210 100% N=883 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 54 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Availability of affordable quality mental health care 5% N=40 10% N=89 16% N=145 20% N=181 49% N=430 100% N=884 Table 26: Question 7 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 25% N=216 59% N=513 15% N=129 1% N=8 100% N=867 Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 20% N=173 47% N=410 27% N=239 5% N=48 100% N=869 Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 32% N=277 43% N=374 19% N=167 6% N=48 100% N=867 Employment opportunities 12% N=79 45% N=287 36% N=232 7% N=45 100% N=643 Shopping opportunities 29% N=253 44% N=384 22% N=187 5% N=41 100% N=866 Cost of living in Boulder 1% N=8 6% N=49 28% N=243 66% N=582 100% N=883 Table 27: Question 7 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 25% N=216 58% N=513 15% N=129 1% N=8 1% N=10 100% N=877 Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 20% N=173 47% N=410 27% N=239 5% N=48 1% N=11 100% N=880 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 55 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 32% N=277 43% N=374 19% N=167 5% N=48 1% N=12 100% N=879 Employment opportunities 9% N=79 33% N=287 26% N=232 5% N=45 27% N=234 100% N=877 Shopping opportunities 29% N=253 44% N=384 21% N=187 5% N=41 1% N=13 100% N=878 Cost of living in Boulder 1% N=8 6% N=49 27% N=243 66% N=582 0% N=3 100% N=886 Table 28: Question 8 without "don't know" responses Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Public information and communication 20% N=159 51% N=413 23% N=189 5% N=44 100% N=806 Traffic enforcement 12% N=96 46% N=363 25% N=198 16% N=125 100% N=782 Traffic signal timing 14% N=123 43% N=365 29% N=244 14% N=122 100% N=855 Street repair 7% N=60 28% N=238 37% N=323 28% N=243 100% N=864 Street cleaning 17% N=136 50% N=406 24% N=192 9% N=75 100% N=809 Street lighting 16% N=139 49% N=428 28% N=244 8% N=67 100% N=878 Snow removal 11% N=87 37% N=302 29% N=237 24% N=201 100% N=828 Sidewalk maintenance 13% N=113 47% N=404 27% N=236 13% N=111 100% N=863 Bus or transit services 20% N=153 49% N=380 23% N=183 8% N=65 100% N=781 Land use, planning, and zoning 9% N=59 31% N=216 34% N=232 26% N=183 100% N=690 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 12% N=73 35% N=215 33% N=200 20% N=122 100% N=611 Affordable high-speed internet access 15% N=118 33% N=263 28% N=222 23% N=185 100% N=789 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 56 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Drinking water 49% N=427 40% N=346 9% N=75 2% N=15 100% N=862 Sewer services 45% N=337 47% N=355 7% N=53 1% N=6 100% N=752 Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 29% N=218 54% N=410 13% N=100 4% N=29 100% N=758 Utility billing 20% N=162 46% N=365 25% N=203 9% N=69 100% N=798 Police/sheriff services 18% N=127 47% N=327 25% N=175 11% N=75 100% N=704 Crime prevention 10% N=73 34% N=254 30% N=222 26% N=191 100% N=739 Animal management 22% N=153 54% N=371 16% N=113 7% N=48 100% N=685 Ambulance or emergency medical services 36% N=173 51% N=246 11% N=50 2% N=11 100% N=480 Fire services 46% N=264 47% N=268 6% N=35 0% N=2 100% N=570 Fire prevention and education 26% N=149 48% N=277 20% N=117 6% N=33 100% N=575 Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 17% N=112 49% N=319 27% N=176 6% N=42 100% N=649 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 50% N=428 36% N=306 12% N=98 2% N=18 100% N=850 Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 61% N=507 30% N=250 8% N=64 2% N=14 100% N=835 Recycling/composting 34% N=296 42% N=360 16% N=136 8% N=69 100% N=862 Yard waste pick-up 34% N=201 44% N=262 17% N=99 5% N=31 100% N=592 City parks 44% N=373 39% N=333 11% N=97 6% N=48 100% N=852 Recreation programs or classes 37% N=228 51% N=314 11% N=67 2% N=11 100% N=619 Recreation centers or facilities 36% N=265 51% N=373 11% N=81 2% N=13 100% N=732 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 57 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 32% N=232 45% N=326 18% N=132 4% N=29 100% N=718 Table 29: Question 8 with "don't know" responses Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Public information and communication 18% N=159 47% N=413 22% N=189 5% N=44 7% N=65 100% N=871 Traffic enforcement 11% N=96 41% N=363 22% N=198 14% N=125 11% N=99 100% N=881 Traffic signal timing 14% N=123 42% N=365 28% N=244 14% N=122 3% N=25 100% N=880 Street repair 7% N=60 27% N=238 37% N=323 28% N=243 2% N=14 100% N=877 Street cleaning 16% N=136 47% N=406 22% N=192 9% N=75 7% N=63 100% N=873 Street lighting 16% N=139 48% N=428 28% N=244 8% N=67 1% N=5 100% N=882 Snow removal 10% N=87 34% N=302 27% N=237 23% N=201 6% N=54 100% N=882 Sidewalk maintenance 13% N=113 46% N=404 27% N=236 13% N=111 2% N=13 100% N=876 Bus or transit services 17% N=153 43% N=380 21% N=183 7% N=65 11% N=96 100% N=878 Land use, planning, and zoning 7% N=59 25% N=216 26% N=232 21% N=183 21% N=186 100% N=876 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 8% N=73 25% N=215 23% N=200 14% N=122 30% N=267 100% N=878 Affordable high-speed internet access 13% N=118 30% N=263 25% N=222 21% N=185 10% N=88 100% N=877 Drinking water 49% N=427 39% N=346 9% N=75 2% N=15 2% N=16 100% N=878 Sewer services 38% N=337 40% N=355 6% N=53 1% N=6 15% N=129 100% N=881 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 58 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 25% N=218 47% N=410 11% N=100 3% N=29 14% N=124 100% N=881 Utility billing 18% N=162 41% N=365 23% N=203 8% N=69 10% N=85 100% N=884 Police/sheriff services 14% N=127 37% N=327 20% N=175 8% N=75 20% N=176 100% N=880 Crime prevention 8% N=73 29% N=254 25% N=222 22% N=191 16% N=138 100% N=877 Animal management 17% N=153 42% N=371 13% N=113 6% N=48 22% N=189 100% N=873 Ambulance or emergency medical services 20% N=173 28% N=246 6% N=50 1% N=11 45% N=392 100% N=872 Fire services 30% N=264 31% N=268 4% N=35 0% N=2 34% N=298 100% N=867 Fire prevention and education 17% N=149 32% N=277 13% N=117 4% N=33 34% N=294 100% N=869 Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 13% N=112 37% N=319 20% N=176 5% N=42 26% N=223 100% N=872 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 49% N=428 35% N=306 11% N=98 2% N=18 3% N=27 100% N=877 Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 58% N=507 28% N=250 7% N=64 2% N=14 5% N=43 100% N=878 Recycling/composting 34% N=296 41% N=360 16% N=136 8% N=69 2% N=16 100% N=878 Yard waste pick-up 23% N=201 30% N=262 11% N=99 4% N=31 32% N=280 100% N=873 City parks 43% N=373 38% N=333 11% N=97 6% N=48 2% N=22 100% N=874 Recreation programs or classes 26% N=228 36% N=314 8% N=67 1% N=11 29% N=259 100% N=878 Recreation centers or facilities 30% N=265 43% N=373 9% N=81 1% N=13 16% N=144 100% N=875 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 59 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 27% N=232 37% N=326 15% N=132 3% N=29 18% N=154 100% N=872 Table 30: Question 9 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Total Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 54% N=472 46% N=406 100% N=878 Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 78% N=686 22% N=192 100% N=878 Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 79% N=691 21% N=187 100% N=878 Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 73% N=640 27% N=239 100% N=879 Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 55% N=483 45% N=396 100% N=879 Voted in your most recent local election 19% N=164 81% N=715 100% N=880 Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 23% N=200 77% N=678 100% N=878 Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 25% N=221 75% N=657 100% N=877 Walked or biked instead of driving 9% N=77 91% N=803 100% N=880 Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 8% N=68 92% N=810 100% N=879 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 60 Table 31: Question 10 without "don’t know" responses Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 14% N=109 46% N=365 27% N=218 13% N=104 100% N=797 The overall direction that Boulder is taking 10% N=80 33% N=271 30% N=250 27% N=223 100% N=823 The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 15% N=91 42% N=260 29% N=178 14% N=88 100% N=617 The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 14% N=104 39% N=281 31% N=226 16% N=115 100% N=726 The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 10% N=74 31% N=223 33% N=239 25% N=179 100% N=715 The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 18% N=128 44% N=308 27% N=193 11% N=76 100% N=705 Table 32: Question 10 with "don’t know" responses Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 13% N=109 42% N=365 25% N=218 12% N=104 9% N=77 100% N=874 The overall direction that Boulder is taking 9% N=80 31% N=271 28% N=250 25% N=223 6% N=54 100% N=877 The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 10% N=91 30% N=260 21% N=178 10% N=88 29% N=251 100% N=869 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 61 Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 12% N=104 32% N=281 26% N=226 13% N=115 17% N=145 100% N=872 The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 9% N=74 26% N=223 28% N=239 21% N=179 18% N=154 100% N=869 The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 15% N=128 35% N=308 22% N=193 9% N=76 19% N=165 100% N=870 Table 33: Question 11 In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision -making? Percent Number No 71% N=624 Yes 29% N=252 Total 100% N=875 Table 34: Question 11a Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? Percent Number No 45% N=112 Yes 55% N=135 Total 100% N=247 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 62 Table 35: Question 12 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Overall economic health of Boulder 35% N=294 40% N=334 24% N=203 1% N=12 100% N=842 Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 49% N=418 35% N=304 14% N=118 2% N=19 100% N=859 Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 39% N=337 33% N=288 23% N=201 5% N=40 100% N=865 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 38% N=327 39% N=339 22% N=187 2% N=13 100% N=867 Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 53% N=456 28% N=241 17% N=151 2% N=15 100% N=862 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 56% N=485 30% N=259 13% N=115 1% N=11 100% N=869 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 35% N=306 43% N=370 20% N=173 2% N=18 100% N=866 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 30% N=258 35% N=307 30% N=256 5% N=46 100% N=867 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 24% N=208 35% N=304 36% N=314 5% N=43 100% N=869 Connection and engagement within the community 22% N=194 40% N=349 34% N=293 4% N=31 100% N=867 Equity and inclusivity 42% N=363 26% N=222 21% N=184 11% N=98 100% N=866 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 63 Table 36: Question 13 without "don't know" responses To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? Percent Number Major problem 63% N=547 Moderate problem 29% N=255 Minor problem 7% N=62 Not a problem 1% N=6 Total 100% N=869 Table 37: Question 13 with "don't know" responses To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? Percent Number Major problem 62% N=547 Moderate problem 29% N=255 Minor problem 7% N=62 Not a problem 1% N=6 Don’t know 1% N=8 Total 100% N=878 Table 38: Question 14 without "don't know" responses How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Job training programs 30% N=248 37% N=313 26% N=219 7% N=59 100% N=839 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 64 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Mental health programs 60% N=519 27% N=236 11% N=91 3% N=22 100% N=869 Substance abuse programs 59% N=509 23% N=203 15% N=129 3% N=28 100% N=869 Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 58% N=504 26% N=224 12% N=105 4% N=36 100% N=869 Housing/rental assistance programs 44% N=382 29% N=250 18% N=157 9% N=76 100% N=866 Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 54% N=471 24% N=209 15% N=131 6% N=54 100% N=864 Table 39: Question 14 with "don't know" responses How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Job training programs 29% N=248 36% N=313 25% N=219 7% N=59 2% N=20 100% N=859 Mental health programs 59% N=519 27% N=236 10% N=91 3% N=22 1% N=10 100% N=878 Substance abuse programs 58% N=509 23% N=203 15% N=129 3% N=28 1% N=10 100% N=879 Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 58% N=504 26% N=224 12% N=105 4% N=36 1% N=5 100% N=874 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 65 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Housing/rental assistance programs 44% N=382 29% N=250 18% N=157 9% N=76 1% N=9 100% N=874 Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 54% N=471 24% N=209 15% N=131 6% N=54 1% N=11 100% N=876 Table 40: Question 15 without "don't know" responses There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 45% N=385 29% N=248 18% N=152 9% N=80 100% N=865 Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 28% N=238 24% N=205 31% N=263 17% N=144 100% N=849 Medium-density development (like townhouses) 27% N=233 34% N=288 32% N=270 7% N=62 100% N=854 Higher-density development (like apartments) 33% N=279 23% N=195 24% N=206 19% N=164 100% N=845 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 66 There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 34% N=277 18% N=148 23% N=182 25% N=199 100% N=806 Table 41: Question 15 with "don't know" responses There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 44% N=385 28% N=248 17% N=152 9% N=80 1% N=11 100% N=876 Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 27% N=238 23% N=205 30% N=263 16% N=144 3% N=23 100% N=872 Medium-density development (like townhouses) 27% N=233 33% N=288 31% N=270 7% N=62 2% N=20 100% N=874 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 67 There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Higher-density development (like apartments) 32% N=279 23% N=195 24% N=206 19% N=164 2% N=22 100% N=867 Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 32% N=277 17% N=148 21% N=182 23% N=199 8% N=69 100% N=875 Table 42: Question 16 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services: Major source Minor source Not a source Total City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 24% N=204 43% N=369 33% N=283 100% N=856 City website (bouldercolorado.org) 49% N=422 38% N=328 13% N=110 100% N=860 Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 33% N=288 39% N=335 28% N=238 100% N=861 Government access cable channel 5% N=41 25% N=217 70% N=600 100% N=858 City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 17% N=144 40% N=349 43% N=368 100% N=861 Nextdoor 16% N=138 30% N=255 54% N=467 100% N=860 Facebook 9% N=76 28% N=245 63% N=538 100% N=858 Twitter 17% N=145 24% N=205 59% N=503 100% N=853 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 68 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services: Major source Minor source Not a source Total Instagram 9% N=79 25% N=216 66% N=563 100% N=858 YouTube 4% N=36 25% N=216 70% N=599 100% N=851 Boulder Daily Camera 41% N=349 38% N=326 21% N=185 100% N=860 The Denver Post 16% N=134 41% N=347 43% N=364 100% N=845 Boulder Weekly 23% N=197 40% N=345 37% N=313 100% N=856 Local TV/radio stations 19% N=161 40% N=341 41% N=349 100% N=851 Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 25% N=210 34% N=287 42% N=358 100% N=855 Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 53% N=457 41% N=357 6% N=50 100% N=865 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 69 Appendix C: Verbatim Responses to Open-Ended Questions Following are verbatim responses to the open-ended question on the survey. Because these responses were written by survey participants, they are presented here in verbatim form, including any typographical, grammar or other mistakes. The responses are grouped by category and are in alphabetical order. Question D9: What is your race/ethnicity? – Other • European American. • Heterogeneity within/beneath umbrella of both "whiteness," and its associated skin privilege. • human being, will share 23andme DNA report if requested. Questions like this perpetuate racism, especially the one drop concept. • Italian native - 1/2 african, 1/2 western European • ITALIAN. • Jewish • Latino • Middle Eastern • mix of races and ethnicities • MIXED RACE. • MIXED. • Multi race, Indian American • Multiple • None of your ******* business • Persian • Prefer not to answer • PUNJAB - SIKH. • Racially mixed. • SOUTH ASIAN. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 70 Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics The subgroup comparison tables contain the cross tabulations of selected survey questions by respondent characteristics. Chi-square or ANOVA tests of significance were applied to these breakdowns of survey questions. A “p-value” of 0.05 or less indicates that there is less than a 5% probability that differences observed between groups are due to chance; or in other words, a greater than 95% probability that the differences observed in the selected categories of the sample represent “real” differences among those populations. For each pair of subgroups that has a statistically significant difference, an upper-case letter denoting significance is shown in the category with the larger column proportion. The letter denotes the category with the smaller column proportion from which it is statistically different. Differences were marked as statistically significant if the probability that the differences were due to chance alone were less than 5%. Categories were not used in comparisons when a column proportion was equal to zero or one. Items that have no upper-case letter denotation in their column and that are also not referred to in any other column were not statistically different. For example, in Table 43 on page 72, 94% of residents who identified as Hispanic (B) gave excellent or good ratings to Boulder as a place to live. This proportion of residents (B) was statistically higher than residents who identified as not Hispanic (A). City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 71 Comparisons by Race and Ethnicity Table 43: Quality of Life Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Boulder as a place to live 87% 90% 85% 86% 94% A 86% Boulder as a place to raise children 75% 78% 73% 73% 85% A 74% Boulder as a place to work 76% 77% 72% 75% 78% 75% Boulder as a place to visit 93% C 96% C 86% 93% B 83% 91% Boulder as a place to retire 54% 78% A C 49% 55% 54% 55% The overall quality of life in Boulder 86% 92% 83% 85% 91% 85% Sense of community 55% C 50% 39% 53% 48% 51% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 72 Table 44: General Community Characteristics Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 78% 73% 79% 78% 82% 77% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 80% 72% 77% 78% 85% 78% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 95% 100% C 91% 95% B 87% 94% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 94% C 92% 87% 93% 89% 92% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 94% C 97% 89% 94% 90% 93% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 87% C 83% 80% 86% 85% 85% Residents' connection and engagement with their community 61% C 53% 38% 58% B 47% 56% The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 70% 86% A C 67% 71% 63% 70% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 73 Table 45: Safety Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) In your neighborhood during the day 95% C 90% 90% 94% 93% 93% In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 79% 76% 81% 78% 85% 77% From property crime 61% C 71% C 49% 61% B 46% 59% From violent crime 79% 73% 78% 78% 78% 77% From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 47% 58% 43% 47% 51% 46% In city parks, facilities, and trails 72% 86% A 73% 72% 79% 71% In Boulder, based on your personal identity 88% B C 63% 71% 84% 79% 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 74 Table 46: Importance of Local Government Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by Race and Ethnicity How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? 70% 84% A 75% 71% 72% 69% Table 47: Feeling Welcome and Accepted by Race and Ethnicity How welcome and accepted do you feel... (Percent "very welcome" or "somewhat welcome") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) At city parks, trails, and facilities 92% B 79% 87% 90% 94% 89% At city-sponsored community engagement activities 90% C 84% C 69% 87% B 73% 85% In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 91% B C 65% 80% B 88% 81% 86% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 75 Table 48: Community Characteristics Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Ease of public parking 56% 54% 52% 56% 53% 54% Ease of travel by car in Boulder 63% 73% 70% 64% 71% 64% Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 57% 62% 54% 56% 63% 56% Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 85% B 68% 79% 84% 78% 82% Ease of walking in Boulder 85% C 82% C 65% 85% B 63% 81% Well-planned residential growth 38% 39% 39% 37% 47% 37% Well-planned commercial growth 41% 50% 43% 42% 45% 41% Well-designed neighborhoods 55% C 61% C 39% 55% 45% 52% Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 83% B C 69% 72% 80% 83% 79% Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 67% C 78% C 54% 66% 63% 65% Public places where people want to spend time 69% 62% 71% 68% 78% A 68% Variety of housing options 22% 32% 20% 23% 20% 23% Availability of affordable quality housing 8% 21% A C 6% 9% 6% 9% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 76 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Cleanliness of Boulder 64% C 66% 54% 63% 61% 62% Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 65% C 60% 53% 63% 59% 62% Air quality 64% C 71% C 52% 63% 59% 62% Availability of paths and walking trails 95% 100% C 93% 96% B 89% 94% Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 97% 94% 94% 97% 93% 96% Recreational opportunities 96% B C 86% 86% 94% 92% 93% Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 84% C 73% 66% 80% 76% 80% Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 85% B C 71% 74% 83% 81% 82% Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 82% 88% 78% 82% 85% 81% Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 74% 83% 65% 75% 62% 72% Community support for the arts 82% B C 65% 63% 79% 70% 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 77 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 33% 45% 23% 34% 20% 32% Adult educational opportunities 82% C 70% 64% 79% 71% 77% Opportunities to volunteer 86% C 92% 78% 86% 78% 85% Opportunities to participate in community matters 73% B C 37% 62% B 69% 69% 68% Availability of affordable quality mental health care 29% 48% A C 19% 29% 28% 28% Table 49: Economy Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 86% 87% 80% 86% 81% 84% Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 71% C 64% 55% 70% B 50% 67% Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 77% 78% 77% 76% 81% 75% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 78 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Employment opportunities 60% C 49% 47% 58% 52% 57% Shopping opportunities 76% C 82% C 67% 77% B 61% 74% Cost of living in Boulder 6% 12% 6% 7% 4% 6% Table 50: City Services Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Public information and communication 74% 74% 67% 72% 74% 71% Traffic enforcement 60% 62% 60% 59% 68% 59% Traffic signal timing 57% 49% 60% 56% 69% A 57% Street repair 34% 51% A 37% 33% 51% A 34% Street cleaning 69% 67% 67% 69% 64% 67% Street lighting 67% 62% 59% 66% 63% 65% Snow removal 46% 58% 53% 47% 52% 47% Sidewalk maintenance 60% 59% 64% 60% 69% 60% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 79 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Bus or transit services 70% 70% 62% 69% 65% 68% Land use, planning, and zoning 41% 51% 33% 41% 43% 40% Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 45% 58% 61% A 46% 72% A 47% Affordable high-speed internet access 51% C 56% C 39% 51% B 34% 48% Drinking water 91% 89% 86% 90% 90% 90% Sewer services 95% C 88% 88% 94% B 84% 92% Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 83% 91% 85% 83% 88% 83% Utility billing 69% C 70% 55% 67% 64% 66% Police/sheriff services 62% 87% A C 65% 63% 77% A 65% Crime prevention 46% C 66% A C 28% 46% B 30% 44% Animal management 78% 74% 78% 77% 82% 76% Ambulance or emergency medical services 88% 100% C 81% 88% 85% 87% Fire services 94% 100% C 89% 94% 91% 93% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 80 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Fire prevention and education 75% 76% 66% 75% 67% 74% Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 67% 92% A C 57% 68% 61% 66% Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 87% 87% 86% 87% 88% 86% Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 92% B 79% 94% B 91% 95% 91% Recycling/composting 79% C 83% C 64% 78% B 64% 76% Yard waste pick-up 80% 84% 73% 79% 80% 78% City parks 85% 80% 82% 84% 84% 83% Recreation programs or classes 91% C 95% C 73% 90% B 75% 88% Recreation centers or facilities 90% 85% 85% 89% 86% 87% Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 79% 77% 79% 78% 86% 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 81 Table 51: Community Member Engagement and Activities by Race and Ethnicity Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 46% 36% 44% 44% 55% A 46% Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 22% 19% 24% 21% 28% 22% Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 21% B 8% 24% B 20% 28% 21% Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 26% 23% 32% 25% 40% A 27% Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 45% B 17% 54% B 44% 54% 45% Voted in your most recent local election 84% B 45% 81% B 81% 83% 81% Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 77% 75% 83% 77% 84% 77% Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 75% B 58% 86% A B 74% 90% A 75% Walked or biked instead of driving 91% 88% 96% 91% 97% A 91% Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 93% 86% 93% 92% 96% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 82 Table 52: Government Performance Ratings by Race and Ethnicity Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent "excellent" or "good") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 61% 75% 58% 61% 64% 60% The overall direction that Boulder is taking 43% 55% 46% 44% 47% 43% The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 59% 48% 56% 57% 68% 57% The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 55% 66% C 45% 54% 56% 53% The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 43% 57% C 38% 45% B 31% 42% The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 63% 73% 58% 63% 65% 62% Table 53: Provided Input To the City by Race and Ethnicity In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? (Percent "yes") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? 29% B 5% 34% B 27% 35% 29% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 83 Table 54: Belief that Input was Heard by Race and Ethnicity Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred? (Percent "yes") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? 55% 43% 65% 52% 83% A 55% Table 55: Future Focus Areas by Race and Ethnicity Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall economic health of Boulder 77% C 82% C 61% 75% 66% 75% Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 84% 95% A 85% 84% 87% 84% Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 73% C 87% A C 62% 72% 73% 72% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 78% C 99% A C 62% 78% B 63% 77% Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 80% 88% 79% 79% 90% A 81% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 84 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 84% 94% 90% 84% 94% A 86% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 76% 85% 83% 77% 89% A 78% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 64% 83% A C 56% 64% 67% 65% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 58% 79% A C 55% 60% B 49% 59% Connection and engagement within the community 63% C 87% A C 53% 63% 58% 63% Equity and inclusivity 68% 84% A 70% 70% 63% 68% Table 56: Degree to Which Homelessness is a Problem by Race and Ethnicity To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder (Percent "major problem" or "moderate problem") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi-racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? 92% 89% 91% 91% 96% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 85 Table 57: Funding for Services for Those in Need by Race and Ethnicity How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Job training programs 70% C 79% C 55% 68% 59% 67% Mental health programs 87% 100% A 90% 88% 87% 87% Substance abuse programs 83% 73% 88% B 83% 82% 82% Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 84% 93% 89% 85% 90% 84% Housing/rental assistance programs 75% 69% 77% 75% 72% 73% Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 83% B 59% 76% B 81% 74% 79% Table 58: Housing Choices by Race and Ethnicity There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 73% 70% 79% 73% 79% 73% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 86 There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 51% 70% A 61% A 52% 66% A 52% Medium-density development (like townhouses) 63% 73% 59% 63% 59% 61% Higher-density development (like apartments) 59% 74% A C 52% 58% 53% 56% Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 52% 73% A 64% A 53% 63% 53% Table 59: Information Sources by Race and Ethnicity Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 67% B 41% 75% B 65% 78% A 67% City website (bouldercolorado.org) 90% B 58% 88% B 87% 86% 87% Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 73% 69% 67% 72% 70% 72% Government access cable channel 32% 21% 23% 30% 28% 30% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 87 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 58% B 40% 57% B 57% 57% 57% Nextdoor 45% 45% 48% 45% 52% 46% Facebook 36% 70% A C 37% 38% 43% 37% Twitter 39% 71% A C 43% 41% 50% 41% Instagram 32% 46% A 45% A 34% 46% A 34% YouTube 29% 56% A C 29% 31% 28% 30% Boulder Daily Camera 82% B C 67% 69% 80% B 69% 79% The Denver Post 58% 50% 56% 57% 55% 57% Boulder Weekly 67% B C 38% 54% B 65% B 54% 63% Local TV/radio stations 60% B 36% 60% B 58% 56% 59% Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 59% B 38% 65% B 58% 63% 58% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 88 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Race Ethnicity Overall White Asian Other race or Multi- racial Not Hispanic Hispanic (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 94% B 82% 97% B 94% 99% 94% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 89 Survey Results by Age and Gender Table 60: Quality of Life Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18-34 35-54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Boulder as a place to live 85% 91% A 87% 85% 89% 86% Boulder as a place to raise children 65% 81% A 81% A 77% 72% 74% Boulder as a place to work 71% 78% 84% A 73% 78% 75% Boulder as a place to visit 96% B C 87% 87% 91% 92% 91% Boulder as a place to retire 56% 47% 60% B 51% 60% A 55% The overall quality of life in Boulder 87% 86% 84% 84% 88% 85% Sense of community 49% 53% 57% 52% 52% 51% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 90 Table 61: General Community Characteristics Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 80% 77% 74% 75% 81% A 77% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 78% 80% 77% 79% 79% 78% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 93% 96% 94% 95% 93% 94% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 94% C 92% 89% 93% 92% 92% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 96% B 90% 92% 92% 95% 93% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 87% B 80% 89% B 86% 86% 85% Residents' connection and engagement with their community 54% 56% 62% 62% B 52% 56% The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 65% 71% 78% A 69% 71% 70% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 91 Table 62: Safety Ratings by Age and Gender Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Age Gender Overall 18-34 35-54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) In your neighborhood during the day 97% B C 89% 90% 91% 95% A 93% In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 87% B C 66% 70% 72% 83% A 77% From property crime 64% B 52% 56% 54% 65% A 59% From violent crime 87% B C 67% 68% 72% 82% A 77% From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 45% 48% 48% 38% 56% A 46% In city parks, facilities, and trails 82% B C 61% 63% 63% 81% A 71% In Boulder, based on your personal identity 85% 83% 79% 81% 86% 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 92 Table 63: Importance of Local Government Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by Age and Gender How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? 79% B C 61% 61% 76% B 65% 69% Table 64: Feeling Welcome and Accepted by Age and Gender How welcome and accepted do you feel... (Percent "very welcome" or "somewhat welcome") Age Gender Overall 18-34 35-54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) At city parks, trails, and facilities 92% C 89% 84% 87% 92% A 89% At city-sponsored community engagement activities 88% C 84% 81% 87% 85% 85% In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 91% B C 83% 83% 88% 86% 86% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 93 Table 65: Community Characteristics Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Ease of public parking 56% C 60% C 47% 49% 60% A 54% Ease of travel by car in Boulder 69% C 68% C 51% 60% 68% A 64% Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 57% 58% 54% 58% 56% 56% Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 85% C 83% 78% 82% 85% 82% Ease of walking in Boulder 78% 87% A 83% 83% 82% 81% Well-planned residential growth 35% 45% A 37% 40% 36% 37% Well-planned commercial growth 48% C 41% 32% 44% 40% 41% Well-designed neighborhoods 52% 53% 54% 52% 54% 52% Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 78% 81% 83% 78% 83% 79% Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 64% 68% 66% 61% 70% A 65% Public places where people want to spend time 71% 64% 68% 63% 75% A 68% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 94 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Variety of housing options 17% 26% A 31% A 24% 22% 23% Availability of affordable quality housing 5% 16% A 14% A 9% 10% 9% Cleanliness of Boulder 68% B C 53% 60% 57% 68% A 62% Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 64% 58% 63% 60% 66% 62% Air quality 65% 60% 58% 56% 69% A 62% Availability of paths and walking trails 96% C 94% 92% 95% 95% 94% Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 99% B C 90% 95% B 95% 97% 96% Recreational opportunities 93% 93% 94% 96% B 91% 93% Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 78% 74% 90% A B 84% B 77% 80% Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 81% 78% 88% A B 85% 80% 82% Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 85% B C 78% 77% 80% 83% 81% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 95 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 76% 69% 71% 74% 71% 72% Community support for the arts 78% 74% 82% 79% 78% 78% Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 39% 27% 34% 28% 36% 32% Adult educational opportunities 78% 74% 82% 81% 76% 77% Opportunities to volunteer 84% 82% 91% A B 90% B 81% 85% Opportunities to participate in community matters 64% 71% 75% A 77% B 62% 68% Availability of affordable quality mental health care 29% 28% 29% 28% 29% 28% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 96 Table 66: Economy Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18-34 35-54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 87% C 82% 81% 82% 87% 84% Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 69% 64% 67% 66% 69% 67% Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 83% B C 67% 69% 74% 78% 75% Employment opportunities 54% 57% 66% A 57% 58% 57% Shopping opportunities 84% B C 69% C 61% 69% 79% A 74% Cost of living in Boulder 4% 8% 11% A 6% 7% 6% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 97 Table 67: City Services Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Public information and communication 74% 71% 69% 73% 72% 71% Traffic enforcement 65% C 59% 50% 63% 56% 59% Traffic signal timing 57% 60% 55% 59% 56% 57% Street repair 43% B C 27% 25% 31% 38% A 34% Street cleaning 79% B C 61% 52% 67% 69% 67% Street lighting 64% 67% 66% 64% 67% 65% Snow removal 50% 46% 44% 42% 54% A 47% Sidewalk maintenance 66% C 58% 50% 61% 60% 60% Bus or transit services 71% 67% 65% 68% 70% 68% Land use, planning, and zoning 40% 44% 38% 42% 39% 40% Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 56% B C 45% 36% 42% 54% A 47% Affordable high-speed internet access 54% B 40% 46% 46% 51% 48% Drinking water 91% 87% 89% 88% 92% 90% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 98 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Sewer services 96% B C 89% 88% 92% 94% 92% Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 87% C 81% 77% 83% 84% 83% Utility billing 67% 63% 68% 63% 70% A 66% Police/sheriff services 58% 65% 74% A 69% B 62% 65% Crime prevention 51% B 33% 44% B 41% 48% 44% Animal management 78% 80% 73% 79% 75% 76% Ambulance or emergency medical services 84% 90% 90% 87% 88% 87% Fire services 94% 92% 94% 96% 92% 93% Fire prevention and education 70% 77% 78% 75% 75% 74% Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 62% 71% 70% 62% 73% A 66% Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 86% 87% 88% 86% 88% 86% Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 91% 91% 90% 92% 90% 91% Recycling/composting 72% 81% A 80% A 76% 78% 76% Yard waste pick-up 79% 80% 75% 79% 78% 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 99 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) City parks 87% B 78% 81% 83% 85% 83% Recreation programs or classes 91% B 82% 90% B 91% 86% 88% Recreation centers or facilities 92% B 82% 87% 88% 89% 87% Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 79% 75% 80% 79% 78% 78% Table 68: Community Member Engagement and Activities by Age and Gender Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 34% 61% A 58% A 51% B 41% 46% Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 20% 23% 25% 21% 23% 22% Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 13% 25% A 34% A B 21% 21% 21% Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 25% 30% 29% 30% 25% 27% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 100 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 41% 47% 52% A 46% 44% 45% Voted in your most recent local election 73% 85% A 95% A B 83% 80% 81% Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 87% B C 76% C 60% 76% 79% 77% Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 83% B C 75% C 58% 77% 74% 75% Walked or biked instead of driving 96% C 94% C 81% 89% 94% A 91% Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 93% 94% 90% 95% B 90% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 101 Table 69: Government Performance Ratings by Age and Gender Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent "excellent" or "good") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 71% B C 45% 55% B 59% 62% 60% The overall direction that Boulder is taking 51% B C 34% 35% 37% 50% A 43% The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 62% B 49% 57% 58% 58% 57% The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 58% B 48% 51% 49% 59% A 53% The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 50% B C 35% 33% 37% 48% A 42% The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 64% 58% 62% 59% 66% 62% Table 70: Provided Input To the City by Age and Gender In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? (Percent "yes") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? 26% 31% 31% 29% 28% 29% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 102 Table 71: Belief that Input was Heard by Age and Gender Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred? (Percent "yes") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? 61% 47% 52% 55% 56% 55% Table 72: Future Focus Areas by Age and Gender Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall economic health of Boulder 68% 78% A 84% A 77% 73% 75% Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 88% B 78% 83% 81% 88% A 84% Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 71% 69% 79% A B 72% 73% 72% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 66% 84% A 91% A 77% 77% 77% Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 71% 86% A 94% A B 87% B 75% 81% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 83% 85% 93% A B 83% 87% 86% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 103 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 73% 79% 87% A B 76% 80% 78% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 59% 62% 79% A B 65% 65% 65% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 54% 60% 69% A 60% 57% 59% Connection and engagement within the community 60% 63% 68% 64% 62% 63% Equity and inclusivity 72% B 62% 65% 74% B 62% 68% Table 73: Degree to Which Homelessness is a Problem by Age and Gender To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder (Percent "major problem" or "moderate problem") Age Gender Overall 18-34 35-54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? 89% 95% A 97% A 94% B 90% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 104 Table 74: Funding for Services for Those in Need by Age and Gender How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Job training programs 71% B 57% 68% B 73% B 61% 67% Mental health programs 90% B 83% 85% 92% B 83% 87% Substance abuse programs 83% 80% 82% 84% 81% 82% Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 90% B C 71% 83% B 87% B 82% 84% Housing/rental assistance programs 82% B C 61% 66% 76% 72% 73% Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 84% B C 73% 73% 84% B 75% 79% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 105 Table 75: Housing Choices by Age and Gender There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 79% B 63% 73% B 79% B 69% 73% Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 56% C 56% C 42% 48% 56% A 52% Medium-density development (like townhouses) 68% B C 57% 52% 55% 67% A 61% Higher-density development (like apartments) 70% B C 49% C 36% 46% 66% A 56% Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 63% B C 50% C 37% 49% 58% A 53% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 106 Table 76: Information Sources by Age and Gender Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 59% 71% A 79% A 70% B 64% 67% City website (bouldercolorado.org) 85% 92% A 88% 88% 86% 87% Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 64% 81% A 80% A 75% 70% 72% Government access cable channel 25% 25% 46% A B 34% 27% 30% City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 53% 58% 66% A 63% B 52% 57% Nextdoor 34% 56% A 60% A 54% B 37% 46% Facebook 37% 42% 35% 42% B 34% 37% Twitter 51% B C 41% C 23% 42% 41% 41% Instagram 43% B C 32% C 21% 42% B 28% 34% YouTube 31% 32% 26% 26% 34% A 30% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 107 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Age Gender Overall 18- 34 35- 54 55+ Woman Man (A) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) Boulder Daily Camera 76% 81% 81% 83% B 75% 79% The Denver Post 67% B C 50% 44% 59% 55% 57% Boulder Weekly 61% 68% 65% 65% 62% 63% Local TV/radio stations 52% 58% 73% A B 66% B 52% 59% Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 59% 59% 58% 60% 57% 58% Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 96% C 94% 90% 94% 94% 94% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 108 Comparisons by Income Table 77: Quality of Life Ratings by Income Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Boulder as a place to live 78% 82% 92% A B 92% A B 72% 89% A 86% Boulder as a place to raise children 76% B 63% 78% B 82% B 64% 77% A 74% Boulder as a place to work 63% 73% A 79% A 87% A B 48% 81% A 75% Boulder as a place to visit 94% D 93% D 94% D 87% 94% 91% 91% Boulder as a place to retire 43% 54% 62% A 55% 35% 58% A 55% The overall quality of life in Boulder 83% 79% 92% A B 91% A B 70% 88% A 85% Sense of community 59% B 42% 52% B 57% B 37% 55% A 51% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 109 Table 78: General Community Characteristics Ratings by Income Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 86% B C 73% 74% 85% B C 76% 78% 77% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 69% 79% A 80% A 84% A 67% 80% A 78% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 90% 91% 98% A B 96% A 91% 95% 94% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 91% 94% 97% A D 89% 89% 93% 92% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 93% 92% 94% 97% B 88% 94% A 93% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 89% B 82% 87% 84% 79% 86% A 85% Residents' connection and engagement with their community 56% 50% 61% B 59% 45% 59% A 56% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 110 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 74% 66% 71% 69% 52% 73% A 70% Table 79: Safety Ratings by Income Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) In your neighborhood during the day 93% 93% 96% 92% 87% 94% A 93% In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 84% D 77% 82% D 71% 73% 78% 77% From property crime 53% 61% 64% A 56% 49% 61% A 59% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 111 Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) From violent crime 80% 72% 83% B D 75% 72% 78% 77% From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 51% 48% 46% 45% 51% 46% 46% In city parks, facilities, and trails 83% B 66% 78% B D 65% 71% 72% 71% In Boulder, based on your personal identity 78% 81% 88% A 84% 70% 85% A 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 112 Table 80: Importance of Local Government Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by Income How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? 82% B D 72% D 75% D 55% 75% 68% 69% Table 81: Feeling Welcome and Accepted by Income How welcome and accepted do you feel... (Percent "very welcome" or "somewhat welcome") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) At city parks, trails, and facilities 89% 91% 91% 88% 87% 89% 89% At city-sponsored community engagement activities 84% 84% 90% D 82% 76% 86% A 85% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 113 How welcome and accepted do you feel... (Percent "very welcome" or "somewhat welcome") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 88% 86% 88% 86% 78% 88% A 86% Table 82: Community Characteristics Ratings by Income Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Ease of public parking 28% 56% A 64% A 64% A 38% 58% A 54% Ease of travel by car in Boulder 51% 63% A 70% A 71% A 55% 66% A 64% Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 64% B C 53% 48% 66% B C 48% 58% A 56% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 114 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 88% C 84% 80% 85% 85% 82% 82% Ease of walking in Boulder 80% 87% C 77% 83% 75% 83% A 81% Well-planned residential growth 43% 35% 40% 37% 35% 38% 37% Well-planned commercial growth 50% 39% 44% 39% 33% 43% 41% Well-designed neighborhoods 58% 49% 55% 53% 40% 55% A 52% Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 69% 80% A 82% A 86% A 72% 81% A 79% Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 54% 62% 72% A B 69% A 51% 67% A 65% Public places where people want to spend time 70% 69% 72% 64% 56% 71% A 68% Variety of housing options 31% B C 18% 15% 30% B C 12% 25% A 23% Availability of affordable quality housing 10% 7% 7% 12% 3% 11% A 9% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 115 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Cleanliness of Boulder 52% 65% A 69% A 62% 39% 66% A 62% Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 57% 70% A D 66% D 53% 51% 65% A 62% Air quality 58% 65% 65% 59% 49% 65% A 62% Availability of paths and walking trails 96% 95% 94% 95% 95% 94% 94% Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 95% 95% 96% 98% 94% 96% 96% Recreational opportunities 96% 91% 92% 96% B 88% 94% A 93% Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 80% 83% 80% 77% 68% 82% A 80% Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 82% 84% 81% 82% 74% 84% A 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 116 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 83% 83% 82% 80% 79% 82% 81% Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 70% 76% 65% 79% C 58% 75% A 72% Community support for the arts 76% 78% 83% D 72% 61% 81% A 78% Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 32% 29% 27% 38% 16% 35% A 32% Adult educational opportunities 80% 70% 82% B 80% B 63% 81% A 77% Opportunities to volunteer 89% B 77% 88% B 86% B 75% 87% A 85% Opportunities to participate in community matters 66% 67% 76% D 64% 55% 71% A 68% Availability of affordable quality mental health care 31% B 19% 37% B 29% 7% 34% A 28% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 117 Table 83: Economy Ratings by Income Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 89% 82% 84% 85% 76% 86% A 84% Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 64% 61% 73% B 71% B 46% 72% A 67% Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 75% 74% 79% 76% 67% 77% A 75% Employment opportunities 40% 57% A 59% A 69% A B 38% 61% A 57% Shopping opportunities 74% 72% 77% 76% 65% 76% A 74% Cost of living in Boulder 3% 7% 6% 9% A 1% 7% A 6% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 118 Table 84: City Services Ratings by Income Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Public information and communication 70% 73% 72% 71% 60% 74% A 71% Traffic enforcement 62% D 58% 66% D 51% 51% 61% 59% Traffic signal timing 55% 57% 55% 65% C 47% 59% A 57% Street repair 38% 33% 34% 38% 27% 36% A 34% Street cleaning 68% 74% C 65% 68% 65% 68% 67% Street lighting 63% 63% 64% 71% 54% 67% A 65% Snow removal 47% 44% 53% 49% 45% 48% 47% Sidewalk maintenance 61% 56% 63% 62% 54% 61% 60% Bus or transit services 72% C 72% C 61% 74% C 68% 69% 68% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 119 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Land use, planning, and zoning 49% B 31% 40% 44% B 28% 43% A 40% Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 45% 44% 56% B D 45% 49% 47% 47% Affordable high-speed internet access 49% 45% 53% 48% 32% 52% A 48% Drinking water 86% 86% 93% A B 93% A B 71% 93% A 90% Sewer services 89% 94% 92% 95% A 80% 94% A 92% Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 83% 79% 85% 88% B 80% 84% 83% Utility billing 55% 65% 70% A 73% A 43% 71% A 66% Police/sheriff services 61% 60% 69% 66% 38% 69% A 65% Crime prevention 47% 44% 47% 39% 25% 48% A 44% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 120 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Animal management 76% 73% 80% 78% 67% 79% A 76% Ambulance or emergency medical services 87% 88% 84% 91% 83% 88% 87% Fire services 97% C 94% 90% 96% C 91% 94% 93% Fire prevention and education 67% 73% 76% 78% A 64% 76% A 74% Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 60% 66% 71% A 73% A 49% 70% A 66% Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 71% 87% A 92% A 92% A 78% 88% A 86% Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 87% 91% 94% A 90% 91% 91% 91% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 121 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Recycling/composting 67% 74% 75% 89% A B C 58% 80% A 76% Yard waste pick-up 74% 73% 80% 86% A B 68% 80% A 78% City parks 82% 88% D 88% D 75% 78% 84% 83% Recreation programs or classes 90% 91% 85% 88% 85% 88% 88% Recreation centers or facilities 90% 87% 88% 87% 84% 88% 87% Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 83% B D 73% 84% B D 73% 60% 81% A 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 122 Table 85: Community Member Engagement and Activities by Income Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Contacted the City of Boulder (in- person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 35% 48% A 44% 56% A C 49% 46% 46% Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 30% B C 17% 20% 24% 25% 21% 22% Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 21% 21% 21% 20% 25% 21% 21% Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 20% 32% A 29% A 24% 30% 27% 27% Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 37% 46% 49% A 45% 47% 45% 45% Voted in your most recent local election 72% 80% A 83% A 86% A 79% 82% 81% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 123 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 83% 76% 78% 78% 84% B 76% 77% Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 74% 68% 77% B 83% B 82% B 74% 75% Walked or biked instead of driving 89% 91% 94% 96% A B 95% 91% 91% Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 89% 91% 95% A 95% A 93% 92% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 124 Table 86: Government Performance Ratings by Income Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent "excellent" or "good") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 60% 61% 61% 62% 47% 62% A 60% The overall direction that Boulder is taking 46% D 44% 49% D 35% 25% 46% A 43% The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 56% 58% 62% 52% 47% 59% A 57% The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 54% 55% 61% D 46% 34% 57% A 53% The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 47% D 44% D 50% D 28% 29% 44% A 42% The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 62% 60% 64% 64% 34% 67% A 62% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 125 Table 87: Provided Input To the City by Income In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision- making? (Percent "yes") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision-making? 29% 33% 26% 27% 41% B 27% 29% Table 88: Belief that Input was Heard by Income Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred? (Percent "yes") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? 61% 47% 58% 64% 31% 62% A 55% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 126 Table 89: Future Focus Areas by Income Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Overall economic health of Boulder 75% 72% 75% 75% 67% 76% A 75% Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 86% 79% 91% B D 81% 79% 85% 84% Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 70% 78% 71% 71% 69% 73% 72% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 73% 79% 78% 73% 79% 77% 77% Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 76% 80% 76% 91% A B C 73% 82% A 81% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 92% B 76% 86% B 91% B 86% 85% 86% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 78% 72% 76% 88% A B C 72% 79% 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 127 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 67% 64% 63% 67% 70% 64% 65% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 67% D 57% 61% 53% 63% 58% 59% Connection and engagement within the community 75% B C D 60% 66% D 54% 64% 62% 63% Equity and inclusivity 77% D 68% D 74% D 54% 76% B 66% 68% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 128 Table 90: Degree to Which Homelessness is a Problem by Income To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder (Percent "major problem" or "moderate problem") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? 91% 90% 93% 95% B 91% 92% 92% Table 91: Funding for Services for Those in Need by Income How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Job training programs 80% C D 71% D 65% D 55% 65% 67% 67% Mental health programs 90% 88% 88% 85% 91% 86% 87% Substance abuse programs 82% 84% 83% 80% 85% 82% 82% Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 92% B D 85% D 86% D 76% 81% 84% 84% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 129 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Housing/rental assistance programs 88% B C D 77% D 74% D 60% 83% B 71% 73% Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 84% 81% 76% 78% 81% 78% 79% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 130 Table 92: Housing Choices by Income There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 88% C D 81% C D 67% 65% 83% B 72% 73% Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 65% B C D 52% 50% 52% 62% B 50% 52% Medium-density development (like townhouses) 57% 59% 68% A B 64% 64% 61% 61% Higher-density development (like apartments) 64% D 59% D 61% D 47% 60% 56% 56% Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 62% D 55% D 57% D 44% 65% B 51% 53% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 131 Table 93: Information Sources by Income Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 61% 72% A 66% 66% 71% 66% 67% City website (bouldercolorado.org) 83% 88% 89% 87% 84% 88% 87% Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 73% 76% 71% 70% 77% 72% 72% Government access cable channel 41% C D 34% D 29% D 19% 36% 29% 30% City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 61% 58% 53% 59% 63% 56% 57% Nextdoor 41% 46% 44% 52% A 45% 46% 46% Facebook 48% B C D 38% 36% 35% 38% 37% 37% Twitter 53% B C D 37% 43% 36% 38% 42% 41% Instagram 51% B C D 31% 37% D 26% 45% B 33% 34% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 132 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Income Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Overall Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more No Yes (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (A) (B) YouTube 37% B D 24% 35% B D 25% 30% 30% 30% Boulder Daily Camera 71% 80% A 81% A 80% A 70% 80% A 79% The Denver Post 54% 64% A D 64% A D 45% 65% 55% 57% Boulder Weekly 65% 67% D 68% D 56% 70% 62% 63% Local TV/radio stations 61% D 70% C D 55% 48% 69% B 57% 59% Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 57% 62% 59% 57% 70% B 56% 58% Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 95% 95% 91% 96% C 96% 94% 94% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 133 Survey Results by Quadrant Table 94: Quality of Life Ratings by Area Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1 (Central Boulder) 2 (Central Uni- Hill) 3 (Colorado University) 4 (Crossroads) 5 (Gunbarrel) 6 (North Boulder) 7 (Palo Park) 8 (South Boulder) 9 (Southeast Boulder) (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Boulder as a place to live 87% B 73% 89% B 92% B 95% B H 87% B 94% B H 82% 87% B 86% Boulder as a place to raise children 65% 60% 69% 87% A B 88% A B 85% A B C I 88% A B C I 74% 70% 74% Boulder as a place to work 78% 70% 73% 90% B C G H I 79% 84% 71% 72% 72% 75% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 134 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1 (Central Boulder) 2 (Central Uni- Hill) 3 (Colorado University) 4 (Crossroads) 5 (Gunbarrel) 6 (North Boulder) 7 (Palo Park) 8 (South Boulder) 9 (Southeast Boulder) (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Boulder as a place to visit 90% 93% 91% 96% H 97% H 93% 92% 85% 92% H 91% Boulder as a place to retire 47% 61% 51% 53% 48% 58% 59% 52% 65% A 55% The overall quality of life in Boulder 81% 91% A H I 87% 95% A H I 94% A H I 87% 92% A H I 81% 80% 85% Sense of community 50% 70% A C D E G H 53% 42% 48% 58% H 42% 43% 60% D G H 51% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 135 Table 95: General Community Characteristics Ratings by Area Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 72% I 80% I 90% A D E F H I 69% 74% 77% I 87% A D I 79% I 62% 77% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 78% B 66% 75% 89% B 85% B 82% B 85% B 76% 76% 78% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 96% H 94% H 95% H 97% H 94% H 96% H 97% H 86% 97% H 94% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 136 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 87% 90% 94% A 100% A H 94% 94% 95% A 89% 94% 92% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 94% E 97% E 93% 97% E 85% 93% 95% E 92% 91% 93% Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 81% 80% 95% A B D E G H 81% 79% 88% 82% 83% 87% 85% Residents' connection and engagement with their community 51% 58% 50% 67% F 60% 47% 65% C F 55% 63% A C F 56% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 137 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole: (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 71% 60% 80% B F H 79% 76% 66% 66% 64% 73% 70% Table 96: Safety Ratings by Area Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) In your neighborhood during the day 85% 93% A 98% A E 96% A 89% 96% A 93% A 93% A 96% A 93% In Boulder's downtown/commercia l area during the day 70% 78% 93% A B F G H I 82% 81% 80% 71% 70% 77% 77% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 138 Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following: (Percent "very" or "somewhat likely") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) From property crime 52% 55% 69% A D I 49% 68% 59% 63% 59% 56% 59% From violent crime 69% 83% A 92% A F G H I 78% 79% 70% 80% 72% 76% 77% From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 51% I 57% H I 53% H I 54% 39% 41% 45% 40% 38% 46% In city parks, facilities, and trails 60% 83% A G H I 94% A F G H I 79% A 81% A G H I 70% 62% 66% 64% 71% In Boulder, based on your personal identity 74% 91% A 83% A 96% A F H I 88% A 81% 85% A 82% A 82% 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 139 Table 97: Importance of Local Government Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by Area How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? 66% 62% 79% A B H 88% A B E F H I 67% 70% 71% 63% 70% 69% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 140 Table 98: Feeling Welcome and Accepted by Area How welcome and accepted do you feel... (Percent "very welcome" or "somewhat welcome") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni-Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) At city parks, trails, and facilities 82% 96% A 93% A 99% A 89% 90% 87% 89% 88% 89% At city- sponsored community engagement activities 83% 88% 85% 76% 86% 82% 82% 89% 87% 85% In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 81% 86% 93% A H 88% 86% 87% 93% A 84% 86% 86% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 141 Table 99: Community Characteristics Ratings by Area Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6- North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8- South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Ease of public parking 51% B 29% 57% B 59% B 54% B 65% A B I 67% A B I 59% B 49% B 54% Ease of travel by car in Boulder 66% B 52% 66% 70% 77% B H 64% 66% 60% 62% 64% Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 53% 54% 76% A B D E F H I 52% 48% 49% 61% I 57% 45% 56% Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 80% 86% E 91% A D E F I 74% 68% 77% 92% A D E F I 85% E 77% 82% Ease of walking in Boulder 92% B C D E F I 79% 81% F 78% 78% 69% 82% F 85% F I 73% 81% Well-planned residential growth 33% 54% A D H I 43% 25% 35% 42% 41% 33% 34% 37% Well-planned commercial growth 39% 46% 58% A D E F G H I 34% 35% 42% 40% 35% 41% 41% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 142 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6- North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8- South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Well-designed neighborhoods 53% 56% 57% 43% 67% D 47% 61% 49% 50% 52% Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 77% E 88% E 81% E 75% 59% 86% E 87% E 75% E 81% E 79% Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 66% 56% 64% 71% 83% B C G H 70% H 58% 56% 69% H 65% Public places where people want to spend time 67% B 53% 79% A B E H I 93% A B E F G H I 57% 70% B 74% B E 66% B 63% 68% Variety of housing options 21% 19% 24% 15% 21% 25% 36% A B D H I 22% 21% 23% Availability of affordable quality housing 8% 7% 9% 4% 4% 15% D E 11% 12% 8% 9% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 143 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6- North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8- South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Cleanliness of Boulder 65% B H 43% 64% B 85% A B C F G H I 78% B H I 61% B 65% B 54% 60% B 62% Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 57% B 40% 71% A B G 90% A B C F G H I 69% B 64% B 52% 60% B 71% A B G H 62% Air quality 68% H 66% 60% 67% 59% 63% 68% H 53% 61% 62% Availability of paths and walking trails 94% 92% 99% B E H 97% 89% 98% E 96% 93% 94% 94% Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 95% 94% 99% E 97% 92% 95% 95% 95% 98% 96% Recreational opportunities 93% 88% 99% A B D H I 86% 98% B D 96% 92% 92% 91% 93% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 144 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6- North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8- South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 84% B 71% 78% 78% 86% 78% 77% 77% 85% B 80% Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 86% G H 81% 78% 78% 88% 91% C G H 74% 78% 85% 82% Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 74% 69% 96% A B F G H 97% A B H 89% A B H 82% B 82% B 74% 86% A B H 81% Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 74% 74% 74% 71% 69% 73% 72% 65% 79% 72% Community support for the arts 65% 74% 85% A H 91% A 87% A 77% A 81% A 75% 85% A 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 145 Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6- North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8- South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 32% 51% G 33% 18% 32% 37% 21% 30% 32% 32% Adult educational opportunities 71% 88% A H 79% 81% 77% 81% 81% 74% 76% 77% Opportunities to volunteer 86% 79% 94% B F H I 94% H 88% 81% 87% 79% 83% 85% Opportunities to participate in community matters 69% 63% 72% 62% 81% H 69% 65% 62% 72% 68% Availability of affordable quality mental health care 35% I 35% 36% I 35% 29% 21% 28% 24% 19% 28% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 146 Table 100: Economy Ratings by Area Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 86% H 91% E H 91% E H 93% E H 76% 82% 86% H 76% 82% 84% Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 62% 66% 68% 92% A B C E F G H I 70% 62% 67% 68% 68% 67% Vibrancy of downtown/commercia l area 72% 78% 83% A F H 93% A E F H 74% 67% 79% H 67% 83% A F H 75% Employment opportunities 64% B G 46% 57% 50% 53% 66% B G 44% 60% 55% 57% Shopping opportunities 75% 66% 89% A B D F G H I 68% 80% 66% 73% 69% 75% 74% Cost of living in Boulder 10% G 4% 6% 11% 4% 10% 3% 5% 5% 6% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 147 Table 101: City Services Ratings by Area Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Public information and communication 69% 67% 76% 78% 67% 69% 73% 68% 76% 71% Traffic enforcement 55% 60% 74% A F H I 75% A F H I 66% F 44% 65% F 54% 52% 59% Traffic signal timing 55% G 59% G 70% A D E G 47% 49% 60% G 37% 61% G 57% G 57% Street repair 41% B H I 26% 47% B E F G H I 67% A B C E F G H I 27% 30% 32% 27% 28% 34% Street cleaning 70% F 62% 80% B E F G H I 91% A B E F G H I 54% 52% 66% 66% F 64% 67% Street lighting 64% 55% 61% 81% A B C E H 59% 65% 73% B 62% 70% B 65% Snow removal 48% 47% 49% 50% 34% 44% 64% A B C E F H I 45% 41% 47% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 148 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Sidewalk maintenance 54% 65% E 57% 76% A C E 43% 62% E 67% E 61% E 59% 60% Bus or transit services 68% I 72% I 77% D F I 57% 62% 58% 79% D F I 73% F I 55% 68% Land use, planning, and zoning 38% 39% 53% A E F H 36% 32% 35% 50% 34% 40% 40% Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 46% 46% 59% H 47% 45% 46% 49% 43% 45% 47% Affordable high- speed internet access 57% H I 51% 61% E F H I 42% 41% 43% 46% 41% 43% 48% Drinking water 91% G 88% 93% D G 81% 92% 86% 82% 89% 94% D G 90% Sewer services 94% 92% 94% 93% 88% 89% 94% 89% 94% 92% Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 80% 81% 89% H 87% 87% 89% H 92% A H 74% 82% 83% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 149 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Utility billing 69% 66% 64% 66% 61% 69% 57% 72% G 61% 66% Police/sheriff services 65% 64% 60% 70% 54% 65% 70% 66% 67% 65% Crime prevention 38% 58% A F H I 56% A F H I 54% 41% 35% 52% A F 42% 37% 44% Animal management 70% 76% 82% 81% 85% 76% 87% A I 77% 69% 76% Ambulance or emergency medical services 84% 81% 94% B F 85% 90% 76% 94% F 87% 92% F 87% Fire services 88% 94% 97% A D 84% 91% 97% A D 96% 93% 94% 93% Fire prevention and education 75% 72% 68% 59% 75% 76% 80% 72% 80% 74% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 150 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 70% B 52% 70% B 48% 76% B D 76% B D H I 81% B D H I 62% 57% 66% Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 88% B 73% 85% B 97% B H 91% B 92% B 91% B 83% B 85% B 86% Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 90% 85% 93% H 89% 94% 95% H 95% H 85% 92% 91% Recycling/compostin g 82% C 80% C 58% 82% C 73% 83% C 81% C 77% C 75% C 76% Yard waste pick-up 77% 73% 76% 88% 73% 82% 85% 76% 81% 78% City parks 80% B 68% 90% A B H 96% A B E H 78% 87% B 86% B 78% B 88% B H 83% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 151 Please rate the quality of each of the following services Boulder (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Recreation programs or classes 89% 86% 94% E H 78% 80% 90% 88% 84% 91% 88% Recreation centers or facilities 92% E H 84% 91% 84% 78% 88% 87% 83% 89% 87% Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 78% B 58% 85% B H 89% B 77% B 82% B 80% B 74% B 79% B 78% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 152 Table 102: Community Member Engagement and Activities by Area Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 44% D 44% D 36% 24% 40% 64% A B C D E G I 44% D 57% A C D E I 44% D 46% Contacted Boulder elected officials (in- person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 19% G 24% G 29% G 47% A B C E F G H I 16% 26% G 6% 21% G 21% G 22% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 153 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 17% 15% 20% 30% 28% 27% 25% 24% 18% 21% Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 31% B I 17% 31% B I 38% B F I 24% 20% 23% 34% B F I 19% 27% Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 40% 45% 39% 44% 59% A C 49% 42% 44% 54% A C 45% Voted in your most recent local election 79% D 69% 76% 66% 84% B D 90% A B C D G 77% 85% B D 91% A B C D G 81% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 154 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (Percent "yes") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 79% E I 80% E 86% D E F I 69% 60% 69% 83% E F I 82% E F I 69% 77% Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 70% 80% 80% 65% 77% 69% 77% 72% 82% A D F 75% Walked or biked instead of driving 96% E F G I 90% 94% E 98% E I 81% 88% 88% 93% E I 87% 91% Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 95% B C I 87% 88% 99% B C I 94% 95% 93% 95% B C I 87% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 155 Table 103: Government Performance Ratings by Area Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 58% 58% 69% E 55% 47% 61% 57% 61% 60% 60% The overall direction that Boulder is taking 35% 37% 60% A B E F G H I 74% A B E F G H I 35% 39% 40% 38% 46% 43% The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 48% 73% A F H I 70% A H I 59% 67% A H 55% 63% 48% 52% 57% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 156 Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. (Percent "excellent" or "good") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 50% 52% 69% A B E F H I 59% 49% 53% 59% H 43% 52% 53% The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 37% 45% 59% A E F H I 54% H 32% 39% 45% 33% 42% 42% The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 55% 69% E H 66% E H 71% E H 47% 66% E 75% A E H 52% 70% A E H 62% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 157 Table 104: Provided Input To the City by Area In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision- making? (Percent "yes") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni-Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision- making? 27% G 23% 28% G 33% G 35% G 32% G 9% 31% G 37% G 29% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 158 Table 105: Belief that Input was Heard by Area Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred? (Percent "yes") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni-Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? 59% 73% F 55% 83% F 47% 38% 40% 52% 56% 55% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 159 Table 106: Future Focus Areas by Area Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall economic health of Boulder 76% H 88% C F H 68% 79% 79% 73% 84% C H 65% 77% H 75% Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 80% 84% 86% 94% A H 88% 89% 86% 80% 83% 84% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 160 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 71% 75% 74% 68% 73% 81% I 69% 71% 68% 72% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 73% 73% 75% 71% 87% G 81% G 67% 83% A G 78% 77% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 161 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 88% C D H 86% C D H 70% 60% 85% C D 90% C D H 89% C D H 75% D 80% D 81% Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 88% D I 81% 95% B D H I 75% 89% I 86% 85% 86% I 76% 86% Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 83% B I 66% 78% 83% B I 84% B I 79% B 79% 81% B I 68% 78% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 70% 61% 65% 70% 61% 69% 65% 63% 61% 65% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 162 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 56% 55% 69% A H I 71% H 72% A H 57% 64% 52% 55% 59% Connection and engagement within the community 61% 64% 77% A F G H I 66% 78% A G H I 63% 57% 58% 53% 63% Equity and inclusivity 61% 68% 74% A F 92% A B C E F G H I 71% 57% 72% F 66% 66% 68% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 163 Table 107: Degree to Which Homelessness is a Problem by Area To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder (Percent "major problem" or "moderate problem") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? 91% 99% A C H I 90% 89% 90% 92% 100% A C H I 91% 90% 92% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 164 Table 108: Funding for Services for Those in Need by Area How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Job training programs 66% 61% 80% A B F G H I 79% F 66% 60% 62% 67% 64% 67% Mental health programs 84% 86% 93% A H I 99% A E H I 83% 87% 93% H 83% 84% 87% Substance abuse programs 73% 81% 89% A F I 93% A F I 79% 78% 93% A E F I 86% A 77% 82% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 165 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 78% 87% 92% A G H 96% A G H 83% 82% 77% 82% 86% 84% Housing/rental assistance programs 67% 69% 91% A B E F G H I 94% A B E F G H I 70% 71% 65% 75% 65% 73% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 166 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 70% 80% 87% A H 93% A E H I 73% 81% A 83% A 76% 78% 79% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 167 Table 109: Housing Choices by Area How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 67% D 80% A D 84% A D H 51% 71% D 72% D 81% A D 69% D 76% D 73% Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 56% E 61% E I 51% 57% 38% 56% 57% 49% 45% 52% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 168 How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? (Percent "essential" or "very important") Area Overall 1- Central Boulder 2- Central Uni- Hill 3- Colorado University 4- Crossroads 5- Gunbarrel 6-North Boulder 7- Palo Park 8-South Boulder 9- Southeast Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Medium-density development (like townhouses) 58% 63% 67% I 68% 52% 62% 63% 65% I 52% 61% Higher-density development (like apartments) 59% E G I 48% 73% A B E F G H I 82% A B E F G H I 40% 53% 41% 60% E G I 44% 56% Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 54% E I 46% 73% A B E F G H I 77% A B E F G H I 37% 42% 55% 50% 41% 53% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 169 Table 110: Information Sources by Area Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 58% 47% 66% B 51% 68% B 85% A B C D H 79% A B D 68% B 75% A B D 67% City website (bouldercolorado.org ) 76% 78% 92% A B 93% A B 98% A B 91% A B 93% A B 89% A B 88% A B 87% Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 69% 65% 74% 79% 72% 76% 81% B 72% 70% 72% Government access cable channel 27% 31% 36% I 21% 40% I 28% 50% A B C D F H I 25% 23% 30% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 170 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 55% 44% 52% 77% A B C H I 64% B 61% B 68% B C I 59% B 52% 57% Nextdoor 46% 43% 43% 43% 43% 50% 61% A B C H I 42% 43% 46% Facebook 34% 40% 45% H 60% A B E G H I 30% 45% H 40% 28% 35% 37% Twitter 43% 44% 60% A B F G H I 50% 44% 35% 38% 34% 32% 41% Instagram 30% 42% H 47% A H I 64% A B F G H I 44% H 36% H 34% 22% 30% 34% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 171 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) YouTube 25% 35% H 39% A H I 51% A H I 35% H 37% A H I 37% H I 19% 21% 30% Boulder Daily Camera 74% 66% 77% 87% B E 67% 82% B E 90% A B C E H 78% B 88% A B C E H 79% The Denver Post 49% 49% 65% A B F 72% A B F 64% F 43% 58% 55% 71% A B F H 57% Boulder Weekly 54% 50% 69% A B 68% 57% 79% A B E G 56% 67% A B 69% A B 63% Local TV/radio stations 40% 51% 67% A B 60% A 65% A 69% A B 67% A B 60% A 66% A B 59% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 172 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services (Percent "major source" or "minor source") Area Overal l 1- Central Boulde r 2- Centra l Uni- Hill 3- Colorado Universit y 4- Crossroad s 5- Gunbarre l 6- North Boulde r 7- Palo Par k 8- South Boulde r 9- Southeas t Boulder (A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 59% B 39% 52% 69% B G 65% B 66% B C G 48% 64% B G 60% B 58% Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 93% 96% 93% 100% 99% 92% 94% 94% 96% 94% City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 173 Appendix E: Detailed Benchmark Comparisons Comparison Data Polco/National Research Center (NRC)’s database of comparative resident opinion comprises resident perspectives gathered in surveys from over 500 communities whose residents evaluated the same kinds of topics on the Boulder Quality of Life Survey. The comparison evaluations are from the most recent survey completed in each community; most communities conduct surveys every year or in alternating years. NRC adds the latest results quickly upon survey completion, keeping the benchmark data fresh and relevant. The communities in the database represent a wide geographic and population range. National benchmark comparisons and Front Range benchmark comparisons have been provided when similar questions on the Boulder Quality of Life Survey are included in NRC’s database. Interpreting the Results Ratings are compared when there are at least five communities in which a similar question was asked. Where comparisons are available, four columns are provided in the table. The first column is Boulder’s “percent positive.” The percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., “excellent” and “good,” “very safe” and “somewhat safe,” “essential” and “very important,” etc.), or, in the case of resident behaviors/participation, the percent positive represents the proportion of respondents indicating “yes” or participating in an activity at least once a month. The second column is the rank assigned to Boulder’s rating among communities where a similar question was asked. The third column is the number of communities that asked a similar question. The final column shows the comparison of Boulder’s rating to the benchmark. In that final column, Boulder’s results are noted as being “higher” than the benchmark, “lower” than the benchmark or “similar” to the benchmark, meaning that the average rating given by residents is statistically similar to or different (greater or lesser) than the benchmark. Being rated as “higher” or “lower” than the benchmark means that Boulder’s average rating for a particular item was more than 10 points different than the benchmark. If a rating was “much higher” or “much lower,” then Boulder’s average rating was more than 20 points different when compared to the benchmark. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 174 National Benchmark Comparisons Table 111: Quality of Life Quality of Life Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark The overall quality of life in Boulder 85% 124 373 Similar Boulder as a place to live 86% 158 357 Similar Table 112: Governance Governance Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark The overall direction that Boulder is taking 43% 273 339 Similar The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 60% 119 359 Similar The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 53% 121 257 Similar The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 57% 117 336 Similar The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 62% 140 254 Similar Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 78% 168 351 Similar Public information and communication 71% 99 314 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 175 Table 113: Economy Economy Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 84% 54 315 Similar Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 67% 80 252 Similar Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 75% 36 295 Higher Shopping opportunities 74% 33 317 Higher Boulder as a place to visit 91% 27 317 Much higher Boulder as a place to work 75% 77 352 Similar Employment opportunities 57% 83 325 Similar Cost of living in Boulder 6% 295 305 Much lower Table 114: Mobility Mobility Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 77% 14 259 Higher Ease of travel by car in Boulder 64% 216 323 Similar Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 56% 26 298 Higher Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 82% 7 322 Much higher Ease of walking in Boulder 81% 34 326 Higher Ease of public parking 54% 173 294 Similar Bus or transit services 68% 31 288 Higher Traffic enforcement 59% 214 348 Similar Traffic signal timing 57% 112 307 Similar Street repair 34% 241 347 Similar Street cleaning 67% 153 316 Similar Street lighting 65% 136 334 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 176 Mobility Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Snow removal 47% 224 264 Lower Sidewalk maintenance 60% 145 317 Similar Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 77% 4 282 Much higher Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 75% 1 298 Much higher Walked or biked instead of driving 91% 3 300 Much higher Table 115: Community Design Community Design Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Well-planned residential growth 37% 189 253 Similar Well-planned commercial growth 41% 153 253 Similar Well-designed neighborhoods 52% 138 251 Similar Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 65% 115 250 Similar Public places where people want to spend time 68% 79 301 Similar Variety of housing options 23% 285 311 Lower Availability of affordable quality housing 9% 307 332 Lower Land use, planning, and zoning 40% 194 317 Similar Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 47% 148 338 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 177 Table 116: Utilities Utilities Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 78% 59 251 Similar Affordable high-speed internet access 48% 158 247 Similar Drinking water 90% 13 314 Higher Sewer services 92% 8 312 Higher Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 83% 63 323 Similar Utility billing 66% 172 291 Similar Table 117: Safety Safety Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Police/sheriff services 65% 322 368 Lower Crime prevention 44% 311 346 Lower Animal management 76% 123 323 Similar Ambulance or emergency medical services 87% 184 316 Similar Fire services 93% 126 335 Similar Fire prevention and education 74% 200 311 Similar Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 66% 160 312 Similar In your neighborhood during the day 93% 171 330 Similar In Boulder’s downtown/commercial area during the day 77% 271 320 Similar From property crime 59% 223 261 Lower From violent crime 77% 180 261 Similar From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 46% 245 252 Much lower City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 178 Table 118: Natural Environment Natural Environment Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 94% 3 315 Much higher Cleanliness of Boulder 62% 233 329 Similar Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 62% 122 233 Similar Air quality 62% 258 302 Lower Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 86% 3 300 Much higher Recycling/composting 76% 103 329 Similar Yard waste pick-up 78% 100 293 Similar Table 119: Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 92% 11 257 Higher Availability of paths and walking trails 94% 6 325 Much higher City parks 83% 105 327 Similar Recreational opportunities 93% 4 319 Much higher Recreation programs or classes 88% 17 320 Higher Recreation centers or facilities 87% 30 310 Higher Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 96% 1 302 Much higher Table 120: Health and Wellness Health and Wellness Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 93% 3 308 Much higher City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 179 Health and Wellness Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Availability of affordable quality mental health care 28% 225 298 Similar Table 121: Education, Arts, and Culture Education, Arts, and Culture Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 85% 19 312 Higher Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 80% 15 315 Higher Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 82% 27 305 Higher Community support for the arts 78% 43 250 Higher Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 32% 242 309 Similar Adult educational opportunities 77% 26 301 Higher Table 122: Inclusivity and Engagement Inclusivity and Engagement Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Residents" connection and engagement with their community 56% 130 253 Similar Sense of community 51% 260 328 Similar Boulder as a place to raise children 74% 232 360 Similar Boulder as a place to retire 55% 254 357 Similar Opportunities to volunteer 85% 18 305 Higher Opportunities to participate in community matters 68% 65 307 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 180 Table 123: Participation Participation Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Contacted the City of Boulder (in- person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 46% 171 329 Similar Contacted Boulder elected officials (in- person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 22% 46 300 Similar Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings) 21% 110 303 Similar Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 27% 100 292 Similar Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 45% 39 306 Higher Voted in your most recent local election 81% 72 250 Similar Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 75% 204 249 Similar Use or check email 98% 45 239 Similar Table 124: Focus Areas Importance Items Percent essential or very important Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall economic health of Boulder 75% 286 289 Lower Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 84% 9 250 Higher Overall design or layout of Boulder’s residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 72% 135 289 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 181 Importance Items Percent essential or very important Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 77% 246 250 Lower Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 81% 229 289 Similar Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 86% 16 289 Higher Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 78% 124 251 Similar Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 65% 244 289 Similar Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 59% 276 289 Lower Connection and engagement within the community 63% 229 289 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 182 Front Range Benchmark Comparisons Table 125: Quality of Life Quality of Life Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark The overall quality of life in Boulder 85% 7 24 Similar Boulder as a place to live 86% 7 23 Similar Table 126: Governance Governance Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark The overall direction that Boulder is taking 43% 16 19 Similar The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 60% 6 21 Similar The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 53% 4 9 Similar The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 57% 5 22 Similar The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 62% 5 9 Similar Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 78% 9 21 Similar Public information and communication 71% 3 15 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 183 Table 127: Economy Economy Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 84% 1 16 Higher Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 67% 3 9 Higher Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 75% 2 13 Much higher Shopping opportunities 74% 1 19 Much higher Boulder as a place to visit 91% 2 15 Much higher Boulder as a place to work 75% 5 24 Higher Employment opportunities 57% 3 20 Higher Cost of living in Boulder 6% 13 14 Lower Table 128: Mobility Mobility Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 77% 2 11 Higher Ease of travel by car in Boulder 64% 10 20 Similar Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 56% 2 15 Higher Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 82% 3 20 Higher Ease of walking in Boulder 81% 4 20 Higher Ease of public parking 54% 5 13 Similar Bus or transit services 68% 1 11 Much higher Traffic enforcement 59% 9 22 Similar Traffic signal timing 57% 3 15 Similar Street repair 34% 15 22 Similar Street cleaning 67% 6 20 Similar Street lighting 65% 6 16 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 184 Mobility Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Snow removal 47% 12 21 Similar Sidewalk maintenance 60% 4 13 Similar Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 77% 1 12 Much higher Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 75% 1 14 Much higher Walked or biked instead of driving 91% 1 13 Much higher Table 129: Community Design Community Design Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Well-planned residential growth 37% 7 9 Similar Well-planned commercial growth 41% 5 9 Similar Well-designed neighborhoods 52% 7 10 Similar Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 65% 3 9 Similar Public places where people want to spend time 68% 2 13 Higher Variety of housing options 23% 15 16 Lower Availability of affordable quality housing 9% 17 18 Lower Land use, planning, and zoning 40% 10 18 Similar Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 47% 6 21 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 185 Table 130: Utilities Utilities Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 78% 3 9 Similar Affordable high-speed internet access 48% 5 9 Similar Drinking water 90% 1 16 Higher Sewer services 92% 1 17 Higher Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 83% 6 19 Similar Utility billing 66% 9 16 Similar Table 131: Safety Safety Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Police/sheriff services 65% 13 22 Similar Crime prevention 44% 16 19 Similar Animal management 76% 5 20 Similar Ambulance or emergency medical services 87% 6 15 Similar Fire services 93% 3 17 Similar Fire prevention and education 74% 5 15 Similar Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 66% 2 16 Similar In your neighborhood during the day 93% 8 20 Similar In Boulder’s downtown/commercial area during the day 77% 15 18 Similar From property crime 59% 8 12 Similar From violent crime 77% 7 12 Similar From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 46% 8 9 Lower City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 186 Table 132: Natural Environment Natural Environment Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 94% 1 18 Much higher Cleanliness of Boulder 62% 8 17 Similar Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 62% 4 9 Similar Air quality 62% 9 16 Similar Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 86% 1 13 Higher Recycling/composting 76% 5 17 Similar Yard waste pick-up 78% 2 12 Higher Table 133: Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 92% 2 9 Higher Availability of paths and walking trails 94% 1 17 Much higher City parks 83% 6 16 Similar Recreational opportunities 93% 1 18 Much higher Recreation programs or classes 88% 2 21 Higher Recreation centers or facilities 87% 2 18 Higher Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 96% 1 13 Much higher Table 134: Health and Wellness Health and Wellness Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 93% 1 15 Much higher City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 187 Health and Wellness Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Availability of affordable quality mental health care 28% 6 12 Similar Table 135: Education, Arts, and Culture Education, Arts, and Culture Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 85% 1 15 Much higher Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 80% 1 18 Higher Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 82% 2 14 Higher Community support for the arts 78% 3 9 Higher Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 32% 9 16 Similar Adult educational opportunities 77% 1 14 Much higher Table 136: Inclusivity and Engagement Inclusivity and Engagement Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Residents" connection and engagement with their community 56% 4 9 Similar Sense of community 51% 11 19 Similar Boulder as a place to raise children 74% 11 24 Similar Boulder as a place to retire 55% 14 24 Similar Opportunities to volunteer 85% 1 16 Higher Opportunities to participate in community matters 68% 4 17 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 188 Table 137: Participation Participation Items Percent positive Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Contacted the City of Boulder (in- person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 46% 9 19 Similar Contacted Boulder elected officials (in- person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 22% 2 13 Similar Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings) 21% 9 15 Similar Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 27% 4 15 Similar Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 45% 3 14 Higher Voted in your most recent local election 81% 7 10 Similar Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 75% 6 9 Similar Use or check email 98% 4 8 Similar Table 138: Focus Areas Importance Items Percent essential or very important Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall economic health of Boulder 75% 10 11 Lower Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 84% 1 9 Higher Overall design or layout of Boulder’s residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 72% 5 11 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 189 Importance Items Percent essential or very important Rank Number of communities in comparison Comparison to benchmark Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 77% 9 9 Lower Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 81% 8 11 Similar Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 86% 2 11 Higher Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 78% 6 9 Similar Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 65% 7 11 Similar Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 59% 9 11 Similar Connection and engagement within the community 63% 5 11 Similar City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 190 Appendix F: Survey Methodology About the Survey The City of Boulder Quality of Life Survey was first administered in 1987. General resident surveys, such as this one, ask recipients their perspectives about the quality of life in the city, their use of city amenities, their opinions on policy issues facing the city and their assessment of city service delivery. The City of Boulder funded this research. Please contact Chris Passarelli of the City of Boulder at passarellic@bouldercolorado.gov if you have any questions about the survey. Developing the Questionnaire The 2023 survey instrument was developed by starting with the version from the previous implementation in 2018. In an iterative process between City staff and NRC staff, a final five-page questionnaire was created. Selecting Survey Recipients “Sampling” refers to the method by which survey recipients are chosen. The “sample” refers to all those who were given a chance to participate in the survey. A list of all households within the zip codes serving Boulder was purchased from Go-Dog Direct based on updated listings from the United States Postal Service, updated every three months, providing the best representation of all households in a specific geographic location. NRC used the USPS data to select the survey recipients. A larger list than needed was pulled so that a process referred to as “geocoding” could be used to eliminate addresses from the list that were outside Boulder’s boundaries. Geocoding is a computerized process in which addresses are compared to electronically mapped boundaries and coded as inside or outside desired boundaries; in this case, within Boulder. All addresses determined to be outside the study boundaries were eliminated from the list of potential households. Each address identified as being within city boundaries was further identified as being within one of nine areas: Central Boulder, Central Uni-Hill, Colorado University, Crossroads, Gunbarrel, North Boulder, Palo Park, South Boulder, and Southeast Boulder. A random selection was made of the remaining addresses to create a mailing list of 6,000 addresses. To choose the 6,000 survey recipients, a systematic sampling method was applied to the list of households previously screened for geographic location. Systematic sampling is a procedure whereby a complete list of all possible households is culled, selecting every Nth one, giving each eligible household a known probability of selection, until the appropriate number of households is selected. Multi-family housing units were selected at a higher rate as residents of this type of housing typically respond at lower rates to surveys than do those in single-family housing units. In general, because of the random sampling techniques used, the displayed sampling density will closely mirror the overall housing unit density (which may be different from the population density). While the theory of probability assumes no bias in selection, there may be some minor variations in practice City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 191 (meaning, an area with only 15% of the housing units might be selected at an actual rate that is slightly above or below that). An individual within each household was randomly selected to complete the survey using the birthday method. The birthday method selects a person within the household by asking the “person whose birthday has most recently passed” to complete the questionnaire. The underlying assumption in this method is that day of birth has no relationship to the way people respond to surveys. This instruction was contained in the cover letter accompanying the questionnaire. In addition to the scientific, random sample, a link to an online “opt-in” survey was publicized through various channels including the Boulder website and social media. This opt-in survey was identical to the scientific survey and open to all City residents. Survey Administration and Response Rate Each selected household was contacted twice. First, a prenotification announcement was sent to all households on September 5, 2023, informing the household members that they had been selected to participate in the City of Boulder Community Survey. Approximately one week after mailing the prenotification, each household received a second mailing. For one group, the second mailing was a survey containing a cover letter signed by City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde enlisting participation. The packet also contained a postage-paid return envelope in which the survey recipients could return the completed questionnaire directly to NRC. The other group received a reminder postcard. The online survey was available in English and Spanish, and each mailing contained instructions in all three languages. The paper survey that was sent to households was in English only. Each mailing included a web link for residents to visit if they preferred to take the survey online. Data collection was open through October 17, 2023. The online “opt-in” survey became available to all Boulder residents on October 3, 2023 and remained open for the final two weeks of data collection. About 2% of the 6,000 surveys mailed were returned because the housing unit was vacant, or the postal service was unable to deliver the survey as addressed. Of the 5,875 households presumed to have received a survey, 895 completed the survey (689 of which were completed online), providing a response rate of 15%. Additionally, responses were tracked by geographic area; response rates by area ranged from 8% to 30%. The response rates were calculated using AAPOR’s response rate #21 for mailed surveys of unnamed persons. 1 See AAPOR’s Standard Definitions here: http://www.aapor.org/Standards-Ethics/Standard-Definitions-(1).aspx for more information City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 192 Margin of Error The 95% confidence interval (or “margin of error”) quantifies the “sampling error” or precision of the estimates made from the survey results. A 95% confidence interval can be calculated for any sample size and indicates that in 95 of 100 surveys conducted like this one, for a particular item, a result would be found that is within three percentage points of the result that would be found if everyone in the population of interest was surveyed. The practical difficulties of conducting any resident survey may introduce other sources of error in addition to sampling error. Despite best efforts to boost participation and ensure potential inclusion of all households, some selected households will decline participation in the survey (referred to as non-response error) and some eligible households may be unintentionally excluded from the listed sources for the sample (referred to as coverage error). While the margin of error for the survey is generally no greater than plus or minus three2 percentage points around any given percent reported for the entire sample, results for subgroups will have wider confidence intervals. Where estimates are given for subgroups, they are less precise. Survey Processing (Data Entry) Upon receipt, completed surveys were assigned a unique identification number. Additionally, each survey was reviewed and “cleaned” as necessary. For example, a question may have asked a respondent to pick two items out of a list of five, but the respondent checked three; in this case, NRC would use protocols to randomly choose two of the three selected items for inclusion in the dataset. All surveys then were entered twice into an electronic dataset; any discrepancies were resolved in comparison to the original survey form. Range checks as well as other forms of quality control were also performed. NRC uses Polco, an online public engagement tool designed primarily for local governments, to collect online survey data. The Polco platform includes many features of online survey tools, but also includes elements tailored to the civic environment. For example, like NRC’s mailed surveys, surveys on Polco are presented with the city name, logo (or other image) and a description, so residents understand who is asking for input and why. Optionally, Polco can also verify respondents with local public data to ensure respondents are residents or voters. More generally, an advantage of online programming and data gathering is that it allows for more rigid control of the data format, making extensive data cleaning unnecessary. A series of quality control checks were also performed in order to ensure the integrity of the web data. Steps may include and not be limited to reviewing the data for clusters of repeat IP addresses 2 Although this has become the traditional way to describe survey research precision, when opt -in results are blended with scientific results, assumptions about randomness of responses are not the same as when results come only from the random sample. Consequently other terms sometimes are used in place of "confidence interval" or "margin of error," such as "credibility intervals." We hew to the traditional way of describing sample-driven uncertainty while we work with the industry to sort out the best ways to describe these new approaches. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 193 and time stamps (indicating duplicate responses) and removing empty submissions (questionnaires submitted with no questions answered). Weighting the Data The demographic characteristics of the survey sample were compared to those found in the 2020 Census and the 2021 American Community Survey estimates for adults in the City of Boulder. The primary objective of weighting survey data is to make the survey sample reflective of the larger population of the community. Both samples were weighted independently and then combined into one final dataset. The characteristics used for weighting were respondent gender, age, housing unit type (attached or detached), housing tenure (rent or own), race, and ethnicity. This decision was based on: • The disparity between the survey respondent characteristics and the population norms for these variables • The saliency of these variables in differences of opinion among subgroups • The historical profile created and the desirability of consistently representing different groups over the years A special software program using mathematical algorithms is used to calculate the appropriate weights. Several different weighting “schemes” are tested to ensure the best fit for the data. The results of the weighting scheme are presented in the table on the following page. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 194 2023 Boulder Community Survey Weighting Table Characteristic Population Norm Unweighted Data Weighted Data Housing* Rent home 52% 27% 50% Own home 48% 73% 50% Detached unit 40% 59% 42% Attached unit 60% 41% 58% Race and Ethnicity* White 85% 90% 85% Not white 15% 10% 15% Not Hispanic 90% 94% 88% Hispanic 10% 6% 12% Sex and Age* Female 48% 52% 48% Male 52% 48% 52% 18-34 years of age 53% 16% 50% 35-54 years of age 24% 25% 24% 55+ years of age 23% 59% 25% Females 18-34 24% 6% 20% Females 35-54 12% 14% 14% Females 55+ 12% 33% 14% Males 18-34 29% 10% 31% Males 35-54 12% 11% 11% Males 55+ 11% 27% 11% Quadrant Central Boulder 18% 19% 19% Central Uni-Hill 9% 7% 8% Colorado University 13% 8% 13% Crossroads 5% 3% 4% Gunbarrel 3% 6% 5% North Boulder 13% 14% 10% Palo Park 11% 9% 8% South Boulder 15% 21% 19% Southeast Boulder 12% 14% 13% * 2020 U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 American Community Survey Population Estimates City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 195 Analyzing the Data The electronic dataset was analyzed by NRC staff using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). For the most part, frequency distributions and mean ratings are presented in the body of the report. A complete set of frequencies for each survey question is presented in Appendix B: Complete Survey Frequencies. Also included are results by respondent characteristics (Appendix D: Responses to Selected Survey Questions by Respondent Characteristics). Chi-square or ANOVA tests of significance were applied to these breakdowns of selected survey questions. A “p-value” of 0.05 or less indicates that there is less than a 5% probability that differences observed between groups are due to chance; or in other words, a greater than 95% probability that the differences observed in the selected categories of the sample represent “real” differences among those populations. Where differences between subgroups are statistically significant, they have been denoted with capital letters. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 196 Appendix G: Open Participation Survey Results About the Open Participation Survey After data collection for the address-based survey was underway, a web-based survey was made available to Boulder residents through a link publicized by the City. Residents were able to complete the survey from October 3 - October 17, 2023. A total of 324 responses were received. This section contains results of this open participation, web-based survey. These data were not collected through a random sample, and it is unknown who in the community was aware of the survey; therefore, a level of confidence in the representativeness of the sample cannot be estimated. However, to reduce bias where possible, these data were weighted to match the U.S. Census and American Community Survey (ACS) population norms for Boulder. The results of the weighting scheme for the open participation survey are presented in the table on the following page. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 197 2023 Boulder Community Survey Weighting Table – Open Participation Survey Characteristic Population Norm* Unweighted Data Weighted Data Housing Rent home 52% 18% 46% Own home 48% 82% 54% Detached unit 40% 70% 46% Attached unit 60% 30% 54% Race and Ethnicity White 85% 91% 84% Not white 15% 9% 16% Not Hispanic 90% 94% 89% Hispanic 10% 6% 11% Sex and Age Female 48% 64% 50% Male 52% 36% 50% 18-34 years of age 53% 11% 46% 35-54 years of age 24% 35% 27% 55+ years of age 23% 54% 27% Females 18-34 24% 5% 18% Females 35-54 12% 24% 16% Females 55+ 12% 35% 16% Males 18-34 29% 6% 29% Males 35-54 12% 10% 10% Males 55+ 11% 20% 11% * 2020 U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 American Community Survey Population Estimates City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 198 Respondent and Household Characteristics Table 139: Question D1 without "don’t know" responses In general, how many times do you: Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Total Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 49% N=152 20% N=64 14% N=44 3% N=10 13% N=41 100% N=311 Use or check email 78% N=244 17% N=54 4% N=12 0% N=0 1% N=2 100% N=311 Send or receive text messages by phone 84% N=263 10% N=31 4% N=13 0% N=0 1% N=4 100% N=311 Table 140: Question D1 with "don’t know" responses In general, how many times do you: Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Don’t know Total Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. 49% N=152 20% N=64 14% N=44 3% N=10 13% N=41 0% N=1 100% N=312 Use or check email 78% N=244 17% N=54 4% N=12 0% N=0 1% N=2 0% N=1 100% N=313 Send or receive text messages by phone 84% N=263 10% N=31 4% N=13 0% N=0 1% N=4 0% N=1 100% N=313 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 199 Table 141: Question D2 How many years have you lived in Boulder? Percent Number Less than 2 years 16% N=53 2-5 years 16% N=50 6-10 years 11% N=37 11-20 years 20% N=63 More than 20 years 37% N=118 Total 100% N=321 Table 142: Question D3 Which best describes the building you live in? Percent Number Single-family detached home 41% N=133 Townhouse or duplex (may share walls but no units above or below you) 24% N=76 Condominium or apartment (have units above or below you) 29% N=92 Mobile home 4% N=13 Other 2% N=7 Total 100% N=320 Table 143: Question D4 Do you rent or own your home? Percent Number Rent 46% N=146 Own 54% N=174 Total 100% N=320 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 200 Table 144: Question D5 Do any children 17 or under live in your household? Percent Number No 78% N=249 Yes 22% N=71 Total 100% N=320 Table 145: Question D6 Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? Percent Number No 75% N=240 Yes 25% N=79 Total 100% N=319 Table 146: Question D7 Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt? Percent Number No 23% N=72 Yes 77% N=245 Total 100% N=316 Table 147: Question D8 How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number Less than $25,000 2% N=6 $25,000 to $49,999 7% N=19 $50,000 to $74,999 17% N=50 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 201 How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number $75,000 to $99,999 19% N=54 $100,000 to $149,999 19% N=54 $150,000 to $199,999 17% N=48 $200,000 to $299,999 11% N=32 $300,000 or more 7% N=21 Total 100% N=286 Table 148: Question D9 What is your race/ethnicity? (Select all that apply) Percent Number White 84% N=247 Hispanic 11% N=31 Nepali 5% N=14 Asian 5% N=14 A race/ethnicity not listed 4% N=11 American Indian or Alaskan Native 1% N=3 Black or African American 1% N=2 Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 0% N=0 Total may exceed 100% as respondents could select more than one answer. City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 202 Table 149: Question D10 In which category is your age? Percent Number 18-24 years 10% N=32 25-34 years 36% N=109 35-44 years 13% N=40 45-54 years 14% N=42 55-64 years 10% N=32 65-74 years 13% N=40 75 years or older 4% N=13 Total 100% N=307 Table 150: Question D11 What is your gender? Percent Number Woman 49% N=152 Man 49% N=150 Identify in another way 2% N=6 Total 100% N=309 Table 151: Question D11a If you identify in another way, how would you describe your gender? Percent Number Agender/I don’t identify with any gender 17% N=1 Genderqueer/gender fluid 0% N=0 Non-binary 17% N=1 Transgender man 0% N=0 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 203 If you identify in another way, how would you describe your gender? Percent Number Transgender woman 0% N=0 Two-spirit 0% N=0 Identify in another way 67% N=4 Total 100% N=6 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 204 Complete Set of Responses Table 152: Question 1 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Boulder as a place to live 33% N=106 47% N=151 16% N=52 4% N=13 100% N=322 Boulder as a place to raise children 29% N=66 33% N=76 26% N=59 12% N=27 100% N=229 Boulder as a place to work 26% N=75 52% N=150 19% N=54 3% N=7 100% N=287 Boulder as a place to visit 48% N=148 35% N=106 13% N=41 4% N=11 100% N=306 Boulder as a place to retire 20% N=52 35% N=89 22% N=55 23% N=58 100% N=254 The overall quality of life in Boulder 23% N=74 49% N=156 24% N=78 4% N=13 100% N=321 Sense of community 10% N=33 32% N=102 38% N=119 20% N=64 100% N=317 Table 153: Question 1 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Boulder as a place to live 33% N=106 47% N=151 16% N=52 4% N=13 0% N=0 100% N=322 Boulder as a place to raise children 21% N=66 24% N=76 19% N=59 8% N=27 28% N=91 100% N=320 Boulder as a place to work 24% N=75 47% N=150 17% N=54 2% N=7 10% N=31 100% N=317 Boulder as a place to visit 47% N=148 33% N=106 13% N=41 3% N=11 4% N=11 100% N=318 Boulder as a place to retire 16% N=52 28% N=89 17% N=55 18% N=58 21% N=66 100% N=321 The overall quality of life in Boulder 23% N=74 49% N=156 24% N=78 4% N=13 0% N=0 100% N=321 Sense of community 10% N=33 32% N=102 37% N=119 20% N=64 1% N=2 100% N=319 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 205 Table 154: Question 2 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 15% N=47 47% N=150 30% N=97 9% N=28 100% N=322 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 19% N=59 51% N=159 26% N=81 4% N=13 100% N=312 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 59% N=188 36% N=115 4% N=12 1% N=4 100% N=319 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 49% N=156 35% N=112 11% N=36 6% N=18 100% N=321 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 45% N=141 44% N=138 6% N=19 5% N=17 100% N=315 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 29% N=93 52% N=168 16% N=50 3% N=10 100% N=321 Residents' connection and engagement with their community 12% N=37 38% N=117 40% N=124 10% N=31 100% N=309 The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 21% N=63 43% N=126 29% N=84 7% N=20 100% N=292 Table 155: Question 2 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 15% N=47 46% N=150 30% N=97 9% N=28 0% N=1 100% N=322 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 206 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 18% N=59 50% N=159 25% N=81 4% N=13 2% N=6 100% N=318 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 59% N=188 36% N=115 4% N=12 1% N=4 0% N=0 100% N=319 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 49% N=156 35% N=112 11% N=36 6% N=18 0% N=0 100% N=321 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 44% N=141 43% N=138 6% N=19 5% N=17 2% N=6 100% N=321 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 29% N=93 52% N=168 15% N=50 3% N=10 0% N=0 100% N=322 Residents' connection and engagement with their community 12% N=37 37% N=117 39% N=124 10% N=31 3% N=8 100% N=318 The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship 20% N=63 40% N=126 26% N=84 6% N=20 8% N=27 100% N=319 Table 156: Question 3 without "don't know" responses Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Total In your neighborhood during the day 62% N=198 27% N=86 3% N=9 6% N=20 2% N=6 100% N=320 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 207 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Total In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 32% N=104 29% N=93 9% N=28 19% N=61 11% N=36 100% N=321 From property crime 14% N=43 31% N=98 10% N=31 22% N=68 24% N=75 100% N=314 From violent crime 30% N=93 31% N=97 9% N=27 21% N=67 9% N=29 100% N=312 From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 13% N=42 34% N=108 26% N=82 21% N=68 6% N=17 100% N=318 In city parks, facilities, and trails 20% N=64 36% N=116 12% N=39 19% N=60 13% N=41 100% N=320 In Boulder, based on your personal identity 42% N=134 32% N=102 14% N=45 9% N=29 3% N=10 100% N=319 Table 157: Question 3 with "don't know" responses Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Don’t know Total In your neighborhood during the day 62% N=198 27% N=86 3% N=9 6% N=20 2% N=6 0% N=1 100% N=321 In Boulder's downtown/commercial area during the day 32% N=104 29% N=93 9% N=28 19% N=61 11% N=36 1% N=2 100% N=323 From property crime 13% N=43 31% N=98 10% N=31 21% N=68 23% N=75 2% N=6 100% N=320 From violent crime 30% N=93 31% N=97 9% N=27 21% N=67 9% N=29 0% N=1 100% N=314 From fire, flood, or other natural disaster 13% N=42 34% N=108 26% N=82 21% N=68 5% N=17 0% N=1 100% N=319 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 208 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Don’t know Total In city parks, facilities, and trails 20% N=64 36% N=116 12% N=39 19% N=60 13% N=41 0% N=1 100% N=320 In Boulder, based on your personal identity 41% N=134 31% N=102 14% N=45 9% N=29 3% N=10 1% N=4 100% N=323 Table 158: Question 4 without "don't know" responses How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? Percent Number Essential 41% N=131 Very important 20% N=64 Somewhat important 28% N=90 Not at all important 11% N=35 Total 100% N=320 Table 159: Question 4 with "don't know" responses How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city? Percent Number Essential 40% N=131 Very important 20% N=64 Somewhat important 28% N=90 Not at all important 11% N=35 Don’t know 1% N=3 Total 100% N=324 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 209 Table 160: Question 5 without "don't know" responses How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very welcome Somewhat welcome Neither welcome nor unwelcome Somewhat unwelcome Very unwelcome Total At city parks, trails, and facilities 61% N=193 25% N=78 10% N=32 2% N=8 2% N=8 100% N=319 At city-sponsored community engagement activities 49% N=140 29% N=84 13% N=37 7% N=19 2% N=5 100% N=286 In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 58% N=183 21% N=67 14% N=43 5% N=17 2% N=6 100% N=316 Table 161: Question 5 with "don't know" responses How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very welcome Somewhat welcome Neither welcome nor unwelcome Somewhat unwelcome Very unwelcome Don’t know Total At city parks, trails, and facilities 60% N=193 24% N=78 10% N=32 2% N=8 2% N=8 1% N=3 100% N=321 At city-sponsored community engagement activities 44% N=140 26% N=84 12% N=37 6% N=19 2% N=5 10% N=32 100% N=318 In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity 57% N=183 21% N=67 13% N=43 5% N=17 2% N=6 2% N=5 100% N=321 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 210 Table 162: Question 6 without "don't know" responses Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Ease of public parking 15% N=43 32% N=95 34% N=100 19% N=57 100% N=295 Ease of travel by car in Boulder 18% N=58 33% N=105 33% N=107 16% N=50 100% N=320 Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 8% N=24 26% N=74 45% N=127 21% N=60 100% N=286 Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 24% N=71 41% N=122 28% N=83 6% N=18 100% N=295 Ease of walking in Boulder 25% N=79 41% N=131 24% N=77 10% N=31 100% N=318 Well-planned residential growth 5% N=14 14% N=43 35% N=106 45% N=136 100% N=300 Well-planned commercial growth 4% N=11 14% N=39 46% N=129 37% N=104 100% N=282 Well-designed neighborhoods 3% N=10 27% N=80 51% N=153 19% N=57 100% N=300 Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 17% N=46 52% N=139 20% N=52 11% N=29 100% N=267 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 10% N=31 44% N=135 25% N=77 20% N=62 100% N=304 Public places where people want to spend time 15% N=49 34% N=107 31% N=98 20% N=65 100% N=319 Variety of housing options 6% N=18 20% N=62 25% N=77 49% N=154 100% N=312 Availability of affordable quality housing 5% N=13 7% N=22 18% N=51 70% N=204 100% N=290 Cleanliness of Boulder 9% N=28 36% N=114 43% N=135 13% N=40 100% N=317 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 8% N=24 46% N=142 35% N=107 11% N=34 100% N=306 Air quality 17% N=52 41% N=128 31% N=98 11% N=34 100% N=312 Availability of paths and walking trails 47% N=150 40% N=127 11% N=34 3% N=10 100% N=321 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 211 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 49% N=154 40% N=125 6% N=18 5% N=15 100% N=312 Recreational opportunities 49% N=153 40% N=125 7% N=22 4% N=14 100% N=314 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 27% N=85 53% N=167 18% N=56 3% N=9 100% N=318 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 28% N=86 52% N=161 19% N=58 2% N=6 100% N=311 Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 27% N=77 41% N=118 23% N=68 9% N=28 100% N=291 Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 16% N=24 43% N=66 20% N=31 20% N=31 100% N=152 Community support for the arts 22% N=62 55% N=155 18% N=52 5% N=13 100% N=282 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 9% N=11 17% N=21 25% N=31 48% N=58 100% N=121 Adult educational opportunities 18% N=40 44% N=96 25% N=55 12% N=27 100% N=219 Opportunities to volunteer 29% N=80 48% N=133 20% N=54 3% N=8 100% N=275 Opportunities to participate in community matters 16% N=47 46% N=139 28% N=85 11% N=33 100% N=304 Availability of affordable quality mental health care 7% N=12 23% N=41 21% N=36 50% N=87 100% N=176 Table 163: Question 6 with "don't know" responses Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Ease of public parking 14% N=43 30% N=95 31% N=100 18% N=57 7% N=22 100% N=317 Ease of travel by car in Boulder 18% N=58 33% N=105 33% N=107 15% N=50 1% N=3 100% N=322 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 212 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder 8% N=24 23% N=74 40% N=127 19% N=60 10% N=32 100% N=318 Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder 22% N=71 38% N=122 26% N=83 6% N=18 8% N=26 100% N=321 Ease of walking in Boulder 25% N=79 41% N=131 24% N=77 10% N=31 1% N=2 100% N=319 Well-planned residential growth 4% N=14 13% N=43 33% N=106 42% N=136 7% N=23 100% N=323 Well-planned commercial growth 3% N=11 12% N=39 40% N=129 32% N=104 12% N=38 100% N=320 Well-designed neighborhoods 3% N=10 26% N=80 49% N=153 18% N=57 4% N=14 100% N=315 Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces 14% N=46 44% N=139 16% N=52 9% N=29 17% N=53 100% N=320 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community 10% N=31 42% N=135 24% N=77 19% N=62 6% N=19 100% N=323 Public places where people want to spend time 15% N=49 33% N=107 30% N=98 20% N=65 1% N=2 100% N=321 Variety of housing options 6% N=18 20% N=62 24% N=77 48% N=154 3% N=8 100% N=320 Availability of affordable quality housing 4% N=13 7% N=22 16% N=51 63% N=204 10% N=32 100% N=321 Cleanliness of Boulder 9% N=28 36% N=114 43% N=135 13% N=40 0% N=0 100% N=317 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) 8% N=24 45% N=142 33% N=107 11% N=34 4% N=12 100% N=319 Air quality 17% N=52 41% N=128 31% N=98 11% N=34 1% N=2 100% N=314 Availability of paths and walking trails 47% N=150 40% N=127 11% N=34 3% N=10 0% N=1 100% N=322 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 213 Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 48% N=154 39% N=125 6% N=18 5% N=15 3% N=9 100% N=321 Recreational opportunities 48% N=153 39% N=125 7% N=22 4% N=14 2% N=6 100% N=320 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 27% N=85 52% N=167 18% N=56 3% N=9 1% N=4 100% N=321 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals 27% N=86 50% N=161 18% N=58 2% N=6 4% N=12 100% N=322 Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups 24% N=77 37% N=118 21% N=68 9% N=28 9% N=30 100% N=321 Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 8% N=24 21% N=66 10% N=31 10% N=31 53% N=168 100% N=321 Community support for the arts 20% N=62 49% N=155 16% N=52 4% N=13 10% N=33 100% N=314 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 4% N=11 7% N=21 10% N=31 19% N=58 61% N=191 100% N=312 Adult educational opportunities 13% N=40 30% N=96 17% N=55 9% N=27 31% N=98 100% N=317 Opportunities to volunteer 25% N=80 42% N=133 17% N=54 3% N=8 13% N=41 100% N=316 Opportunities to participate in community matters 15% N=47 44% N=139 27% N=85 10% N=33 4% N=13 100% N=317 Availability of affordable quality mental health care 4% N=12 13% N=41 12% N=36 28% N=87 43% N=135 100% N=310 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 214 Table 164: Question 7 without "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 15% N=48 60% N=188 23% N=71 3% N=8 100% N=316 Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 11% N=35 49% N=156 28% N=90 11% N=36 100% N=316 Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 18% N=56 48% N=150 23% N=71 11% N=35 100% N=311 Employment opportunities 15% N=34 42% N=95 35% N=79 8% N=19 100% N=227 Shopping opportunities 17% N=54 43% N=134 30% N=95 9% N=29 100% N=312 Cost of living in Boulder 2% N=7 5% N=18 30% N=98 62% N=200 100% N=322 Table 165: Question 7 with "don't know" responses Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder 15% N=48 59% N=188 23% N=71 3% N=8 0% N=1 100% N=317 Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder 11% N=35 49% N=156 28% N=90 11% N=36 0% N=1 100% N=317 Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 18% N=56 47% N=150 22% N=71 11% N=35 2% N=6 100% N=317 Employment opportunities 11% N=34 30% N=95 25% N=79 6% N=19 28% N=89 100% N=316 Shopping opportunities 17% N=54 43% N=134 30% N=95 9% N=29 1% N=2 100% N=314 Cost of living in Boulder 2% N=7 5% N=18 30% N=98 62% N=200 0% N=0 100% N=322 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 215 Table 166: Question 8 without "don't know" responses Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Public information and communication 12% N=33 49% N=138 28% N=79 11% N=32 100% N=283 Traffic enforcement 9% N=25 31% N=88 37% N=107 24% N=68 100% N=288 Traffic signal timing 3% N=9 43% N=134 29% N=91 25% N=79 100% N=313 Street repair 1% N=4 24% N=78 29% N=93 45% N=144 100% N=319 Street cleaning 4% N=11 55% N=163 31% N=92 11% N=33 100% N=299 Street lighting 7% N=20 49% N=152 30% N=94 14% N=43 100% N=309 Snow removal 6% N=16 25% N=75 39% N=116 30% N=90 100% N=298 Sidewalk maintenance 4% N=12 40% N=128 41% N=131 15% N=46 100% N=317 Bus or transit services 10% N=28 39% N=114 34% N=100 17% N=49 100% N=292 Land use, planning, and zoning 5% N=15 20% N=54 42% N=111 33% N=88 100% N=268 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 5% N=11 22% N=49 40% N=88 33% N=72 100% N=220 Affordable high-speed internet access 10% N=26 30% N=83 30% N=82 30% N=83 100% N=274 Drinking water 37% N=116 42% N=132 19% N=59 1% N=5 100% N=311 Sewer services 33% N=85 51% N=131 14% N=36 1% N=3 100% N=256 Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 20% N=51 52% N=131 19% N=48 9% N=22 100% N=252 Utility billing 8% N=21 51% N=135 29% N=78 12% N=31 100% N=265 Police/sheriff services 11% N=30 43% N=113 35% N=92 11% N=30 100% N=266 Crime prevention 7% N=22 21% N=63 31% N=93 42% N=126 100% N=303 Animal management 12% N=32 55% N=143 26% N=67 7% N=20 100% N=262 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 216 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Ambulance or emergency medical services 20% N=39 60% N=120 20% N=40 1% N=2 100% N=201 Fire services 37% N=88 52% N=122 10% N=24 0% N=0 100% N=235 Fire prevention and education 27% N=68 47% N=118 24% N=61 1% N=4 100% N=252 Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 18% N=44 48% N=116 26% N=63 9% N=21 100% N=244 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 48% N=151 37% N=117 9% N=27 5% N=17 100% N=312 Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 52% N=162 36% N=112 9% N=28 3% N=9 100% N=311 Recycling/composting 28% N=85 45% N=140 21% N=64 7% N=20 100% N=310 Yard waste pick-up 25% N=54 46% N=96 17% N=36 12% N=25 100% N=212 City parks 26% N=81 43% N=133 23% N=71 8% N=26 100% N=311 Recreation programs or classes 29% N=68 48% N=110 18% N=42 5% N=11 100% N=230 Recreation centers or facilities 23% N=58 49% N=124 17% N=44 12% N=29 100% N=255 Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 26% N=69 52% N=135 17% N=45 5% N=13 100% N=262 Table 167: Question 8 with "don't know" responses Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Public information and communication 11% N=33 45% N=138 26% N=79 10% N=32 9% N=27 100% N=310 Traffic enforcement 8% N=25 28% N=88 34% N=107 22% N=68 8% N=26 100% N=313 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 217 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Traffic signal timing 3% N=9 42% N=134 29% N=91 25% N=79 1% N=3 100% N=316 Street repair 1% N=4 24% N=78 29% N=93 45% N=144 1% N=2 100% N=321 Street cleaning 3% N=11 51% N=163 29% N=92 10% N=33 6% N=20 100% N=318 Street lighting 6% N=20 49% N=152 30% N=94 14% N=43 1% N=4 100% N=313 Snow removal 5% N=16 24% N=75 36% N=116 28% N=90 6% N=20 100% N=318 Sidewalk maintenance 4% N=12 40% N=128 41% N=131 14% N=46 1% N=3 100% N=320 Bus or transit services 9% N=28 36% N=114 31% N=100 15% N=49 9% N=28 100% N=320 Land use, planning, and zoning 5% N=15 17% N=54 35% N=111 28% N=88 15% N=46 100% N=314 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 3% N=11 16% N=49 28% N=88 23% N=72 29% N=92 100% N=312 Affordable high-speed internet access 8% N=26 26% N=83 26% N=82 26% N=83 13% N=40 100% N=314 Drinking water 37% N=116 42% N=132 19% N=59 1% N=5 1% N=2 100% N=313 Sewer services 27% N=85 42% N=131 12% N=36 1% N=3 18% N=57 100% N=313 Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 17% N=51 42% N=131 15% N=48 7% N=22 19% N=60 100% N=312 Utility billing 7% N=21 43% N=135 25% N=78 10% N=31 15% N=48 100% N=313 Police/sheriff services 10% N=30 36% N=113 29% N=92 10% N=30 15% N=48 100% N=314 Crime prevention 7% N=22 20% N=63 29% N=93 40% N=126 3% N=11 100% N=314 Animal management 10% N=32 46% N=143 21% N=67 6% N=20 16% N=51 100% N=312 Ambulance or emergency medical services 13% N=39 38% N=120 13% N=40 1% N=2 36% N=111 100% N=312 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 218 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total Fire services 28% N=88 39% N=122 8% N=24 0% N=0 25% N=78 100% N=313 Fire prevention and education 22% N=68 38% N=118 20% N=61 1% N=4 19% N=60 100% N=311 Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) 14% N=44 38% N=116 20% N=63 7% N=21 21% N=66 100% N=310 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 48% N=151 37% N=117 9% N=27 5% N=17 1% N=3 100% N=315 Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space 52% N=162 36% N=112 9% N=28 3% N=9 1% N=3 100% N=314 Recycling/composting 27% N=85 45% N=140 20% N=64 6% N=20 1% N=4 100% N=314 Yard waste pick-up 17% N=54 31% N=96 12% N=36 8% N=25 32% N=98 100% N=310 City parks 26% N=81 42% N=133 23% N=71 8% N=26 1% N=3 100% N=314 Recreation programs or classes 22% N=68 35% N=110 14% N=42 3% N=11 26% N=82 100% N=312 Recreation centers or facilities 18% N=58 40% N=124 14% N=44 9% N=29 18% N=57 100% N=311 Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 22% N=69 43% N=135 14% N=45 4% N=13 16% N=50 100% N=312 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 219 Table 168: Question 9 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Total Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information 36% N=116 64% N=204 100% N=320 Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion 56% N=179 44% N=141 100% N=320 Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) 58% N=187 42% N=133 100% N=320 Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 48% N=152 52% N=162 100% N=315 Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder 43% N=135 57% N=179 100% N=314 Voted in your most recent local election 13% N=41 87% N=278 100% N=319 Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 25% N=80 75% N=238 100% N=318 Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 20% N=61 80% N=251 100% N=313 Walked or biked instead of driving 8% N=25 92% N=295 100% N=319 Taken steps to reduce your climate impact 10% N=32 90% N=288 100% N=320 Table 169: Question 10 without "don’t know" responses Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 7% N=21 33% N=94 35% N=102 25% N=71 100% N=288 The overall direction that Boulder is taking 6% N=19 29% N=91 24% N=76 41% N=131 100% N=317 The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 12% N=34 34% N=94 33% N=91 20% N=55 100% N=274 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 220 Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 8% N=25 33% N=99 37% N=111 21% N=62 100% N=297 The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 4% N=12 28% N=79 27% N=76 41% N=116 100% N=283 The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 13% N=35 37% N=102 37% N=101 13% N=36 100% N=274 Table 170: Question 10 with "don’t know" responses Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder 7% N=21 29% N=94 32% N=102 22% N=71 10% N=32 100% N=320 The overall direction that Boulder is taking 6% N=19 29% N=91 24% N=76 41% N=131 1% N=3 100% N=320 The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement 11% N=34 30% N=94 29% N=91 18% N=55 13% N=41 100% N=315 The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency 8% N=25 31% N=99 35% N=111 20% N=62 6% N=18 100% N=315 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 221 Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Total The job Boulder's City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community 4% N=12 25% N=79 24% N=76 37% N=116 10% N=32 100% N=315 The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect 11% N=35 32% N=102 32% N=101 11% N=36 13% N=41 100% N=315 Table 171: Question 11 In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision -making? Percent Number No 40% N=128 Yes 60% N=194 Total 100% N=321 Table 172: Question 11a Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn't ultimately what you preferred? Percent Number No 42% N=80 Yes 58% N=112 Total 100% N=192 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 222 Table 173: Question 12 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Overall economic health of Boulder 28% N=85 47% N=146 24% N=73 1% N=5 100% N=309 Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder 50% N=159 32% N=102 14% N=44 3% N=10 100% N=316 Overall design or layout of Boulder's residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) 44% N=140 36% N=113 17% N=53 3% N=9 100% N=315 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) 35% N=107 44% N=135 20% N=63 1% N=4 100% N=308 Overall feeling of safety in Boulder 60% N=190 24% N=77 12% N=39 3% N=9 100% N=316 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder 53% N=167 34% N=105 11% N=35 2% N=5 100% N=313 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities 33% N=103 42% N=129 19% N=60 5% N=17 100% N=309 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder 21% N=67 42% N=132 25% N=78 11% N=34 100% N=311 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts 13% N=39 42% N=129 36% N=111 9% N=27 100% N=306 Connection and engagement within the community 22% N=69 47% N=146 28% N=86 3% N=10 100% N=311 Equity and inclusivity 32% N=101 27% N=86 27% N=84 13% N=41 100% N=313 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 223 Table 174: Question 13 without "don't know" responses To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? Percent Number Major problem 68% N=219 Moderate problem 28% N=91 Minor problem 3% N=9 Not a problem 0% N=1 Total 100% N=320 Table 175: Question 13 with "don't know" responses To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder? Percent Number Major problem 68% N=219 Moderate problem 28% N=91 Minor problem 3% N=9 Not a problem 0% N=1 Don’t know 0% N=1 Total 100% N=321 Table 176: Question 14 without "don't know" responses How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Job training programs 28% N=83 28% N=84 35% N=106 9% N=28 100% N=300 Mental health programs 53% N=165 29% N=90 15% N=45 3% N=11 100% N=311 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 224 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Substance abuse programs 51% N=158 30% N=94 16% N=50 3% N=8 100% N=310 Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 49% N=154 25% N=78 17% N=52 9% N=29 100% N=313 Housing/rental assistance programs 38% N=117 27% N=83 20% N=62 14% N=43 100% N=306 Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 47% N=146 30% N=92 14% N=45 9% N=27 100% N=310 Table 177: Question 14 with "don't know" responses How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Job training programs 27% N=83 27% N=84 34% N=106 9% N=28 4% N=12 100% N=312 Mental health programs 53% N=165 29% N=90 15% N=45 3% N=11 0% N=1 100% N=312 Substance abuse programs 51% N=158 30% N=94 16% N=50 2% N=8 1% N=2 100% N=312 Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes 49% N=154 25% N=78 17% N=52 9% N=29 0% N=1 100% N=314 Housing/rental assistance programs 38% N=117 27% N=83 20% N=62 14% N=43 1% N=3 100% N=309 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 225 How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment 46% N=146 29% N=92 14% N=45 8% N=27 1% N=5 100% N=314 Table 178: Question 15 without "don't know" responses There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Total Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) 37% N=116 31% N=98 19% N=60 12% N=36 100% N=311 Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 22% N=68 25% N=76 28% N=87 25% N=79 100% N=310 Medium-density development (like townhouses) 31% N=97 30% N=95 29% N=94 10% N=32 100% N=318 Higher-density development (like apartments) 34% N=109 14% N=43 28% N=88 24% N=77 100% N=316 Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 31% N=95 18% N=55 17% N=53 33% N=102 100% N=306 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 226 Table 179: Question 15 with "don't know" responses There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Don’t know Total Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first- time buyers) 37% N=116 31% N=98 19% N=60 12% N=36 1% N=4 100% N=314 Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) 21% N=68 24% N=76 27% N=87 25% N=79 3% N=9 100% N=319 Medium-density development (like townhouses) 30% N=97 30% N=95 29% N=94 10% N=32 0% N=2 100% N=319 Higher-density development (like apartments) 34% N=109 13% N=43 27% N=88 24% N=77 1% N=3 100% N=319 Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing 30% N=95 17% N=55 17% N=53 32% N=102 3% N=11 100% N=317 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 227 Table 180: Question 16 Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services: Major source Minor source Not a source Total City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email 33% N=107 39% N=124 27% N=88 100% N=319 City website (bouldercolorado.org) 54% N=170 36% N=113 10% N=33 100% N=316 Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city 47% N=147 34% N=107 19% N=59 100% N=313 Government access cable channel 8% N=25 25% N=78 67% N=208 100% N=311 City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts 25% N=78 37% N=114 38% N=118 100% N=311 Nextdoor 19% N=60 36% N=111 45% N=140 100% N=311 Facebook 14% N=44 36% N=114 49% N=154 100% N=312 Twitter 18% N=54 34% N=104 48% N=148 100% N=306 Instagram 25% N=77 24% N=74 51% N=159 100% N=310 YouTube 10% N=30 25% N=77 66% N=203 100% N=309 Boulder Daily Camera 41% N=128 35% N=109 24% N=74 100% N=311 The Denver Post 12% N=39 38% N=117 50% N=155 100% N=311 Boulder Weekly 21% N=64 37% N=113 42% N=128 100% N=305 Local TV/radio stations 14% N=43 35% N=107 51% N=154 100% N=303 Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat 41% N=129 27% N=84 32% N=99 100% N=312 Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors 46% N=143 47% N=145 6% N=20 100% N=308 City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 228 Open-Ended Responses Following are verbatim responses to the open-ended question on the survey. Because these responses were written by survey participants, they are presented here in verbatim form, including any typographical, grammar or other mistakes. The responses are grouped by category and are in alphabetical order. Question D9: What is your race/ethnicity? – Other • European • European American • Human • Human • Jewish • Multiracial • No • Shouldn't matter • Spanish Irish City of Boulder Community Survey November 2023 Report of Results Page 229 Appendix H: Survey Materials The following pages contain copies of the survey materials sent to randomly selected households within the City of Boulder. Dear Boulder Community Member, It won’t take much of your time to make a big difference! Your household has been randomly selected to participate in Boulder’s 2023 Community Survey. Your participation in this survey is very important—your answers will help the City of Boulder make decisions that affect us all. In order to hear from a diverse group of residents, the adult 18 years or older in your household who most recently had a birthday should complete this survey. You can go online now and complete the confidential survey at: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Please do not share your survey link. This survey is for randomly selected households only. The city will conduct a separate survey that is open to all who wish to share feedback just a few weeks from now. If you have any questions about the survey, please call 303-441-3554. Thank you for helping create a better city! Sincerely, Estimado Residente de Boulder, ¡Unos pocos minutos de su tiempo pueden ser de gran ayuda para nuestra comunidad! Su hogar ha sido elegido al azar para participar en la Encuesta de la Comunidad del 2023 de Boulder. Su participación en esta encuesta confidencial es muy importante— sus respuestas ayudarán a tomar decisiones que afectan nuestra comunidad. Puede completar la encuesta confidencial en línea en español en: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Para acceder a la encuesta en español elija la opción ‘español’ en la parte superior de la pantalla. Por favor no comparta el enlace de su encuesta. Esta encuesta es solamente para hogares seleccionados al azar. Dentro de unas pocas semanas llevaremos a cabo otra encuesta que estará abierta a todos los residentes. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre la encuesta o si le gustaría recibir una encuesta en español por correo, por favor llame al 303- 441-3554. ¡Gracias por ayudar a crear una ciudad mejor! Atentamente, Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde City Manager/Administrador de la Ciudad Scan to take the survey on your phone Escanear para tomar la encuesta en su teléfono Communication and Engagement Department, City of Boulder 1001 Arapahoe Ave. Boulder, CO 80306 Presorted First Class Mail US Postage PAID Boulder, CO Permit NO. 94 Dear Boulder Community Member, Just a reminder—if you have not yet completed Boulder’s 2023 Community Survey, please do so. If you have completed it, thank you! Please do not respond twice. Your participation in this survey is very important— your answers will help the City of Boulder make decisions that affect us all. You can complete the confidential survey online now at: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder If you have any questions about the survey, please call 303 -441-3554. Thank you for helping create a better city! Sincerely, Estimado Residente de Boulder, Si aún no ha contestado la Encuesta de la Comunidad de Boulder de 2023, ¡aquí tiene otra oportunidad de hacerlo! Si ya la ha completado, gracias. Por favor no responda dos veces. Su participación en esta encuesta es muy importante— sus respuestas ayudarán a tomar decisiones que afectan nuestra comunidad. Puede completar la encuesta confidencial en línea en: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Para acceder a la encuesta en español elija la opción ‘español’ en la parte superior de la pantalla. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre la encuesta o si le gustaría recibir una encuesta en español por correo, por favor llame al 303-441 -3554. ¡Gracias por ayudar a crear una ciudad mejor! Atentamente, Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde City Manager/Administrador de la Ciudad Scan to take the survey on your phone Escanear para tomar la encuesta en su teléfono Communication and Engagement Department, City of Boulder 1001 Arapahoe Ave. Boulder, CO 80306 Presorted First Class Mail US Postage PAID Boulder, CO Permit NO. 94 Dear Boulder Community Member, It won’t take much of your time to make a big difference! Your household has been randomly selected to participate in Boulder’s 2023 Community Survey. Your participation in this survey is very important—your answers will help the City of Boulder make decisions that affect us all. In order to hear from a diverse group of residents, the adult 18 years or older in your household who most recently had a birthday should complete this survey. You can wait a few days for a paper survey to arrive in the mail, or go online now and complete the confidential survey at: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Please do not share your survey link. This survey is for randomly selected households only. The city will conduct a separate survey that is open to all who wish to share feedback just a few weeks from now. If you have any questions about the survey, please call 303-441-3554. Thank you for helping create a better city! Sincerely, Estimado Residente de Boulder, ¡Unos pocos minutos de su tiempo pueden ser de gran ayuda para nuestra comunidad! Su hogar ha sido elegido al azar para participar en la Encuesta de la Comunidad del 2023 de Boulder. Su participación en esta encuesta confidencial es muy importante— sus respuestas ayudarán a tomar decisiones que afectan nuestra comunidad. Puede completar la encuesta confidencial en línea en español en: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Para acceder a la encuesta en español elija la opción ‘español’ en la parte superior de la pantalla. También puede esperar unos días hasta recibir la encuesta en inglés por correo. Por favor no comparta el enlace de su encuesta. Esta encuesta es solamente para hogares seleccionados al azar. Dentro de unas pocas semanas llevaremos a cabo otra encuesta que estará abierta a todos los residentes. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre la encuesta o si le gustaría recibir una encuesta en español por correo, por favor llame al 303-441-3554. ¡Gracias por ayudar a crear una mejor ciudad! Atentamente, Scan to take the survey on your phone Escanear para tomar la encuesta en su teléfono Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde City Manager/Administrador de la Ciudad Communication and Engagement Department, City of Boulder 1001 Arapahoe Ave. Boulder, CO 80306 Presorted First Class Mail US Postage PAID Boulder, CO Permit NO. 94 September 2023 Dear City of Boulder Community Member: Please help us shape the future of Boulder! You have been selected at random to participate in the 2023 Boulder Community Survey. If you’ve already completed the survey online, thank you. Please do not respond twice. Please take a few minutes to fill out the enclosed survey. Your participation in this survey is very important—especially since your household is one of only a small number of households being surveyed. Your feedback will help Boulder make decisions that affect our city. A few things to remember: • Your responses are confidential and no identifying information will be shared. • In order to hear from a diverse group of residents, the adult 18 years or older in your household who most recently had a birthday should complete this survey. • You may return the survey by mail in the enclosed postage-paid envelope, or you can complete the survey online at: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Please do not share your survey link. This survey is for randomly selected households only. The city will conduct a separate survey that is open to all who wish to participate just a few weeks from now. If you have any questions about the survey, please call 303-441-3554. Thank you for your time and participation! Sincerely, Estimado Residente de la ciudad de Boulder: ¡Por favor ayúdenos a moldear el futuro de Boulder! Usted ha sido seleccionado al azar para participar en la Encuesta de la Comunidad de Boulder del 2023 . Si ya completó la encuesta en línea, gracias. Por favor no responda dos veces. Por favor tome unos minutos para completar la encuesta adjunta; si usted prefiere completar la encuesta en español, por favor siga las instrucciones abajo para acceder a la encuesta en español por medio de la red. Su participación en esta encuesta es muy importante—especialmente porque su hogar es uno de solamente un número pequeño de hogares que se están encuestando. Sus observaciones le ayudarán a Boulder tomar decisiones que afectarán a nuestra ciudad. Algunas cosas para recordar: • Sus respuestas son confidenciales y no se compartirá ninguna información de identificación. • Para poder escuchar a un grupo diverso de residentes, la encuesta la debe completar el adulto de 18 años o más en su hogar que haya celebrado su cumpleaños más recientemente. • Puede devolver la encuesta en inglés por correo en el sobre prepagado adjunto, o puede completar la encuesta en línea en español en: https://polco.us/xxplaceholder Por favor no comparta el enlace de su encuesta. Esta encuesta es solamente para hogares seleccionados al azar. Dentro de unas semanas, llevaremos a cabo otra encuesta que estará abierta a todos los residentes. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre la encuesta o si le gustaría recibir una encuesta en español por correo, por favor llame al 303-441-3554. ¡Gracias por su tiempo y participación! Atentamente, Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde City Manager/Administrador de la Ciudad Scan to take the survey on your phone Escanear para tomar la encuesta en su teléfono The City of Boulder 2023 Community Survey Page 1 of 5 Please complete this survey if you are the adult (age 18 or older) in the household who most recently had a birthday (the year of birth does not matter). Your responses are confidential and no identifying information will be shared. 1. Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Boulder as a place to live ...................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Boulder as a place to raise children ................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Boulder as a place to work ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Boulder as a place to visit ..................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Boulder as a place to retire .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 The overall quality of life in Boulder ............................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Sense of community ................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 2. Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Boulder as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder................................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) ........................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder ................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities ............................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder ............................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Residents’ connection and engagement with their community .......................... 1 2 3 4 5 The city as a place for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship ................ 1 2 3 4 5 3. Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very Somewhat Neither safe Somewhat Very Don’t safe safe nor unsafe unsafe unsafe know In your neighborhood during the day ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 In Boulder’s downtown/commercial area during the day ............................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From property crime ....................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From violent crime ........................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From fire, flood, or other natural disaster ............................. 1 2 3 4 5 6 In city parks, facilities, and trails................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 6 In Boulder, based on your personal identity ......................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 4. How important is it that local government focuses on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city?  Essential  Very important  Somewhat important  Not at all important  Don’t know 5. How welcome and accepted do you feel… Very Somewhat Neither welcome Somewhat Very Don’t welcome welcome nor unwelcome unwelcome unwelcome know At city parks, trails, and facilities .............................. 1 2 3 4 5 6 At city-sponsored community engagement activities......................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 In the Boulder community, based on your personal identity ........................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 6 6. Please also rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Ease of public parking ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by car in Boulder ......................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by public transportation in Boulder ................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by bicycle in Boulder ................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of walking in Boulder .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Well -planned residential growth ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Well -planned commercial growth .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Page 2 of 5 Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Well -designed neighborhoods ........................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Clarity and language options of signage in public spaces ....................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community ............ 1 2 3 4 5 Public places where people want to spend time ........................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Variety of housing options ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality housing ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Cleanliness of Boulder ........................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) ..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Air quality .................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of paths and walking trails .......................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) ... 1 2 3 4 5 Recreational opportunities .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities .......................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Outdoor spaces to gather with large families or groups ......................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Quantity and variety of city activities, programs, and/or locations available to children and teens under 18 .................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Community support for the arts ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool ............................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Adult educational opportunities ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to volunteer .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to participate in community matters ................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality mental health care ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 7. Please rate each of the following in the Boulder community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Overall quality of business and service establishments in Boulder ................... 1 2 3 4 5 Variety of business and service establishments in Boulder .................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Employment opportunities ................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Shopping opportunities......................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Cost of living in Boulder ........................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 8. Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Boulder. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Public information and communication .................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Traffic enforcement ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Traffic signal timing ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Street repair ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Street cleaning ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Street lighting ........................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Snow removal ........................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Sidewalk maintenance ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Bus or transit services ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Land use, planning, and zoning ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Affordable high-speed internet access ....................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Drinking water ...................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Sewer services ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) .................... 1 2 3 4 5 Utility billing .......................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Police/sheriff services ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Crime prevention ................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Animal management........................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ambulance or emergency medical services ............................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Fire services ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Fire prevention and education ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 The City of Boulder 2023 Community Survey Page 3 of 5 Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) ..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) ..... 1 2 3 4 5 Recreational opportunities in Boulder open space ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Recycling/composting ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Yard waste pick-up.............................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 City parks................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Recreation programs or classes .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Recreation centers or facilities ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall customer service by Boulder employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 9. Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Contacted the City of Boulder (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information ............................... 1 2 Contacted Boulder elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion................... 1 2 Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City, advisory boards, town halls, HOA meetings, neighborhood watch, etc.) ...................................................................................................................... 1 2 Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting ............................................................................................... 1 2 Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Boulder ............................................................................................ 1 2 Voted in your most recent local election ................................................................................................................................ 1 2 Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving ............................................................... 1 2 Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone............................................................................... 1 2 Walked or biked instead of driving ........................................................................................................................................... 1 2 Taken steps to reduce your climate impact ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 10. Please rate the following categories of Boulder government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know The value of services for the taxes paid to Boulder .............................................. 1 2 3 4 5 The overall direction that Boulder is taking ............................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 The job Boulder government does at welcoming community member involvement ........................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 The job Boulder government does at informing the public with openness and transparency ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 The job Boulder’s City Council does implementing policies that reflect the values of the Boulder community ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 The job Boulder government does at treating community members with respect ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 11. In the past 12 months, have you provided any input to the city as a part of city decision -making?  No (skip to question 12)  Yes (continue to question 11a) 11a. Do you believe that your input was heard, even if the outcome wasn’t ultimately what you preferred?  No  Yes 12. Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Boulder community to focus on each of the following in the coming two to three years. Very Somewhat Not at all Essential important important important Overall economic health of Boulder....................................................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Boulder ..................................................................................................................................1 2 3 4 Overall design or layout of Boulder’s residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) .....................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Boulder (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband)...........................................1 2 3 4 Overall feeling of safety in Boulder .....................................................................................1 2 3 4 Page 4 of 5 Very Somewhat Not at all Essential important important important Overall quality of natural environment in Boulder ......................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities ...............................................1 2 3 4 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Boulder ...............................................1 2 3 4 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts........................................1 2 3 4 Connection and engagement within the community ...................................................1 2 3 4 Equity and inclusivity................................................................................................................1 2 3 4 13. To what degree, if at all, is homelessness a problem in the City of Boulder?  Major problem  Moderate problem  Minor problem  Not a problem  Don’t know 14. How important to you, if at all, is it for the city to contribute funding to community-based organizations that provide each of the following services to the homeless population and others in need? Very Somewhat Not at all Don’t Essential important important important know Job training programs ............................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Mental health programs ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Substance abuse programs .................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Shelter during severe weather, including temperature extremes ...... 1 2 3 4 5 Housing/rental assistance programs .............................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Supportive housing, which combines housing with services such as job training and substance abuse treatment ........................... 1 2 3 4 5 15. There are different ways that a community can try to ensure there are a wider variety of housing choices. How important, if at all, do you think it is that the city encourage each of the following? Very Somewhat Not at all Don’t Essential important important important know Preservation of small starter homes (homes with fewer rooms or other amenities that are affordable for first-time buyers) ..........1 2 3 4 5 Building of more accessory dwelling units (apartments or small homes built above garages, in backyards, etc.) .................................1 2 3 4 5 Medium-density development (like townhouses)...............................1 2 3 4 5 Higher-density development (like apartments) ...................................1 2 3 4 5 Changes to the occupancy levels (the number of people who can live in) in current housing ........1 2 3 4 5 16. Please indicate how much of a source, if at all, you consider each of the following to be for obtaining information about the city government and its activities, events and services: Major source Minor source Not a source City of Boulder print newsletter (2x a year) and bi-monthly newsletter by email .................................................................................... 1 2 3 City website (bouldercolorado.org) .......................................................................................... 1 2 3 Topic specific electronic emails issued by the city ............................................................. 1 2 3 Government access cable channel ............................................................................................. 1 2 3 City Council meeting livestreams or recorded broadcasts ............................................. 1 2 3 Nextdoor ............................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 Facebook ............................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 Twitter ................................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 Instagram ............................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 YouTube ................................................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 Boulder Daily Camera ...................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 The Denver Post .................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 Boulder Weekly ................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 Local TV/radio stations .................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 Other online news sources, like Boulder Reporting Lab or the Boulder Beat ........ 1 2 3 Word of mouth from family, friends, community connectors or neighbors ............ 1 2 3 The City of Boulder 2023 Community Survey Page 5 of 5 Our last questions are about you and your household. Again, all of your responses to this survey are confidential and no identifying information will be shared. D1. In general, how many times do you: Several Once A few times Every Less often Don’t times a day a day a week few weeks or never know Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, etc. ...............................1 2 3 4 5 6 Use or check email ....................................................................1 2 3 4 5 6 Send or receive text messages by phone ........................1 2 3 4 5 6 D2. How many years have you lived in Boulder?  Less than 2 years  2-5 years  6-10 years  11-20 years  More than 20 years D3. Which best describes the building you live in?  Single -family detached home  Townhouse or duplex (may share walls but no units above or below you)  Condominium or apartment (have units above or below you)  Mobile home  Other D4. Do you rent or own your home?  Rent  Own D5. Do any children 17 or under live in your household?  No  Yes D6. Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older?  No  Yes D7. Are you able to cover all of your essential expenses without accumulating debt?  No  Yes D8. How much do you anticipate your household’s total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.)  Less than $25,000  $100,000 to $149,999  $25,000 to $49,999  $150,000 to $199,999  $50,000 to $74,999  $200,000 to $299,999  $75,000 to $99,999  $300,000 or more D9. What is your race/ethnicity? (Select all that apply.)  American Indian or Alaskan Native  Asian  Black or African American  Hispanic  Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander  Nepali  White  A race/ethnicity not listed (please specify:________________________________________________) D10. In which category is your age?  18-24 years  55-64 years  25-34 years  65-74 years  35-44 years  75 years or older  45-54 years D11. What is your gender?  Woman  Man  Identify in another way  go to D11a D11a. If you identify in another way, how would you describe your gender?  Agender/I don’t identify with any gender  Genderqueer/gender fluid  Non-binary  Transgender man  Transgender woman  Two-spirit  Identify in another way Thank you! Please return the completed survey in the postage-paid envelope to: National Research Center, Inc., PO Box 549, Belle Mead, NJ 08502