For Boulder Creek, flood damages were not as severe in September 2013, as with other locations in Colorado; however, the flood did not go unnoticed. Roads and bridges overtopped, avulsions occurred, and questions arose regarding the best approach to rebuild and restore Boulder Creek. For these reasons this Mater Planning Study was initiated and by regional partners, including the Urban Drainage & Flood Control District (UDFCD), Boulder County, and the Cities of Boulder and Longmont. This study is also among the latest to be funded through the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) grant program. The purpose of the master plan is to develop guidance in planning of the future.

This project encumbers nearly 24-miles along Boulder Creek, extending from the confluence with Fourmile Creek, located within Boulder Canyon upstream of the City of Boulder, downstream to the confluence with the St. Vrain River, in the City of Longmont. The focus of this study is to develop and evaluate alternatives for Boulder Creek, such that feasible drainage, flood management, and restoration opportunities are identified. Projects will be quantified and prioritized to assist the local communities in identify needs associated with ongoing and long-term watershed recovery efforts.