Phase II Community Feedback Summary: Reimagining the Poudre River Corridor

Reimagining the Poudre River Corridor

Public feedback shows strong support for a vision that restores the river's natural function, improves safe access, balances recreation with ecological protection, and reflects Greeley’s identity as a river-based, outdoor-loving community. While perspectives vary, a clear majority of responses reveal a shared desire to treat the river as a community asset worth investing in—through both thoughtful protection and inclusive enhancement. Key themes from the community include:

1. Strong Support for Restoration and Natural River Function

Residents overwhelmingly voiced a desire to restore the natural beauty and health of the river, especially in industrialized or degraded sections. There is clear support for removing old infrastructure, addressing erosion, and reintroducing natural processes.

“The Poudre River is so essential to our community and surrounding wildlife! I want to see it protected and cared for.”

“Restore the riverbanks reinforced by concrete or old cars to their natural state.”

2. Recreation That Respects Nature

People want more places to fish, paddle, bike, walk, and gather, but emphasized that any new recreation should preserve the river’s natural feel and prioritize wildlife. Many called out successful examples from Fort Collins and Windsor, while warning against overdevelopment.

“Recreation and access must be balanced with natural habitat and riparian corridor protection.”

“Don’t make it Disneyland. Maintain natural character as first priority.”

3. Equity, Access, and Comfort Matter

Residents desired safe, inclusive, and family-friendly access, including shaded trails, bathrooms, water stations, better pedestrian crossings, and park features for all ages.

“As someone with small kids, we stopped using the trail for several years because there was no guarantee they could find bathrooms or shelter if a storm rolled in.”

“It’s hot and humid, no coverage from sun for people to take a rest. Now I drive to Ft. Collins or Denver.”

4. Safety and Maintenance Are Priorities

A large portion of comments raised concerns about homelessness, trail safety, and maintenance needs. While many acknowledged the importance of serving vulnerable populations, they also emphasized the need for visible care and public safety.

“The homeless are destroying the river banks… Start there, then think about asking for more money.”

“Please keep park areas safe and clean.”

5. Connect the Corridor to the Community

Improving bike/pedestrian connections to neighborhoods, schools, and downtown was another consistent theme. Many residents want to reach the trail without driving and desire better integration across the region.

“I’d love to ride my bike or run to the trail rather than drive.”

“More access points so it’s not so isolating… Safety is a concern, which is why I don’t go too far.”

6. Recognition That This Is a Long-Term, Worthwhile Investment

Many residents acknowledged the challenges of balancing cost, flood resilience, and development—yet consistently returned to a shared belief: this work is worth doing.

“The most important focus is protecting the water from the many pollutants impacting Weld County.”

“Restoration of the river corridor WILL benefit the health and wellbeing of the Greeley community.”

“Stop treating those areas like industrial parks. Let these ponds become city centers for recreation instead.”

Overall Community Alignment with the Vision

While a small number of respondents expressed skepticism about change or spending, the majority of comments reflect strong community support for a restored, resilient, and inclusive river corridor. The vision to protect nature, provide safe and welcoming spaces, and reconnect residents to the river is well aligned with both public values and the City of Greeley’s strategic priorities.

This feedback reinforces the need for a balanced, transparent, and phased approach that listens to residents, honors the land and water, and builds a river corridor that current and future generations can be proud of.

View the summary report here.