Apr 20, 2026 - News

Boulder seeks input on renaming Civic Area

Mitchell Byars

A cyclist in black rides along a curved concrete bike path in a park. A woman in a pink jacket climbs yellow-edged stairs. In the background, a large white arched tunnel and bare trees. — The Boulder Civic Area in 2015. Photo: Jeremy Papasso/Digital First Media/Boulder Daily Camera via Getty Images

Boulder is seeking public input on renaming its Civic Area as part of a broader effort to revamp the downtown park and creek corridor's look and reputation.

Why it matters: More than a simple name change, this is part of a larger effort to create an events and cultural center in an area that has struggled at times with crime and homelessness.

Driving the news: The city of Boulder announced Friday it is seeking online feedback on possible names for the Civic Area that stretches from Ninth to 14th streets along Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue and extends toward the CU campus in downtown Boulder.

The proposed names are:

Creekside Park
Civic Soul Park
Heart Park
Sunset Plaza
Peace Park
Populus Park
Boulder Central Park
Boulder Creek Park

Yes, but: The list is not final; residents can also suggest their own ideas.

How it works: Residents can fill out an online form or provide in-person feedback at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art's Dia Del Niño event on Saturday.

What they're saying: "The names of public spaces often reflect deep-held community values. Similarly, how names are chosen can build connection to the space and a sense of belonging," said Boulder Parks and Recreation director Ali Rhodes in a statement.

What's next: The Civic Area Phase 2 project team will take feedback and bring a final recommendation for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board this summer.

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Boulder seeks input on renaming Civic Area

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