The City of Boulder is entering the public engagement phase of an in-depth look at the Boulder retail environment (the "Citywide Retail Study"). The study responds to the 2015 Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan update goals of supporting a vital retail base and maintaining affordable commercial space. City Council requested that the study also reflect the city’s core values of promoting a welcoming and inclusive community; environmental and fiscal sustainability; and creating a sense of place. The study includes two surveys:
First, a general shopper survey to ask Boulder community members of all ages, incomes and cultural backgrounds: Are you able to meet your basic needs for goods and services within Boulder? How accessible are Boulder’s retail areas to your home or place of employment? Chamber members are encouraged to share the shopper survey link with their customers and employees. A Spanish version of the survey is available here.
Second, a retailer survey to ask Boulder retailers, including Chamber members: What key factors affect your ability to thrive in Boulder? Retail business operators are encouraged to participate by clicking on the retailer survey link. The study consultants will also assess Boulder’s retail performance relative to neighboring communities and peer communities nationwide. The Boulder Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will conduct exit interviews with a representative sample of retailers who have closed their Boulder locations within the past two years.
Responses to both surveys are appreciated through April 7, 2019.