It feels good to live in a place where people care about the same things you do. In Louisville, CO, people care about living in a community that takes steps to ensure that the quality of life they now enjoy can still be relished in the future by their children’s children.
How is Louisville making life better for its residents?
By going green. In November 2016, the city Council of Louisville adopted a Sustainability Action Plan. It outlines concrete steps on how the community can “adopt practices and decisions [that] do not compromise the quality of life for future generations.”
The initiatives cover the following key areas:
Climate and energy
Louisville’s renewable energy programs have resulted in supplying 56 percent carbon-free electricity to its jurisdiction. A local solar generation facility generates approximately 1,045 kW of electricity. In Boulder County, soldar gardens provide an additional 1,000 kW
Water
A good number of private and public facilities, including the Louisville Sports Complex and Coal Creek Golf Course, are irrigated with recycled water. Local officials are currently studying ways to expand the use of recycled water in the city within the next three to five years. Louisville also recently announced the completion of a new, more efficient wastewater treatment plant.
Transportation
In 2017, the local government approved the use of Class 1 and Class 2 electric powered bikes on all streets and trails. The city even installed dual-port charging stations at the Louisville Public Library to support and promote wider use of electric vehicles.
Waste
A successful recycling and composting program the city introduced in 2009, together with regular waste collection efforts, has allowed Louisville to keep around 45 percent of its waste stream away from landfills. This year, the city seeks to increase recycling and composting capabilities in parks, open spaces, shelters, and other high-use areas.
In addition, all special events are required to include waste diversion plans and mapping before they can be granted a permit. Events sponsored by the city must provide green products for participants and guests to use, including biodegradable plates, cups, and cutlery.
Local food and agriculture
Since 2016, Louisville has maintained a community garden to answer their residents’ own call for local food production. The garden rents out 24 plots that locals can use to grow their healthy produce.
Louisville’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) encourages residents to help pay for the seeds, labor, and other planting needs of local farmers – all for the price of a magazine subscription. The program aims to reduce the debt of farmers, encourage young people who go into farming, and boost community relationships.
Other initiatives
Louisville motivates local businesses to align with its environmental mission, goals, and values. Thus, the city has encouraged the rise of green transportation providers, environmentally conscious lawn care specialists, and even holistic dentists.
Many families want to live a green lifestyle, but not everyone knows where to start. A community that provides the opportunity and resources, and makes it a point to practice sustainable living on a daily basis, make it easy for others to follow suit.
Want to learn more about the small yet vibrant Colorado city of Louisville? Our real estate agents at The Noel Team can provide you with neighborhood-specific information as well as more insights into the community. Call 303.774.9400 or email sjnoel@remax.net today to learn how we can help.
