🏛️ CITY HALL & CIVIC AFFAIRS

DURANGO, CO | WEEK OF MAY 8, 2026

🗞️ TOP STORY: Fast-Track for Workforce Housing

In a major legislative push this past Tuesday (May 5), the Durango City Council moved forward with an ordinance to drastically speed up the review process for affordable and workforce housing.

The Goal: To comply with Colorado’s Proposition 123, which requires a "fast-track" approval or denial within 90 days.

Why it Matters: This unlocks state financial incentives for local projects, aiming to tackle the city’s high cost of living.

Status: The council voted to accept the introduction of the amendment to the Land Use Development Code.

📋 MUNICIPAL UPDATES & PUBLIC NOTICES

National Community Survey Results: The city just released the 2026 survey data. Resident satisfaction with the "livability" of Durango rose to 84% (up from 79% last year). The highest marks were given to natural environment and safety.

Mandatory Water Restrictions: Stage 1 Water Shortage restrictions remain in effect. The city is leading by example, cutting irrigation on municipal properties by 10% to combat record-low snow-water equivalent levels.

RV & Trailer Parking: New enforcement is incoming. Council voted to prohibit parking recreational vehicles or trailers on public rights-of-way for more than 24 hours within a 7-day period to free up street parking.

🚧 THE ORANGE CONE REPORT (ROAD CLOSURES)

Schneider Park: The access road and parking lot are closed through today, May 8, for reconstruction. Pickleball courts remain open, but pedestrian access is advised.

Wilson Gulch Drive: Remains closed from Confluence Avenue for utility upgrades. Trail access is open, with parking redirected to Prospector Avenue.

West Park Avenue: The pilot "quick build" traffic project is now active. Motorists should watch for new lane markings and temporary bollards designed to slow traffic.