DRCOG explores adding Clear Creek and Gilpin counties to MPO boundary; staff say funding impact would be minimal

Denver Regional Council of Governments staff briefed the committee on Feb. 17 about an exploration to expand the MPO boundary to include Clear Creek and Gilpin counties.

Jacob (DRCOG staff) said federal rules require a decennial review of the metropolitan planning area boundary and that Clear Creek and Gilpin are already closely tied to the region: they participate in DRCOG programs, are part of the state transportation planning region and the Evergreen small urbanized area already extends into Clear Creek. He said the proposal could strengthen regional planning coordination at relatively low cost and would provide the two counties access to TIP funding if they join the MPO.

Director Mulvey asked whether adding the counties would affect funding for fast‑growing areas; Jacob said the formulas used in TIP calls (population, employment and vehicle miles traveled) mean adding Clear Creek and Gilpin would not materially change the regional division of funds and that the counties would gain new funding opportunities they do not currently have access to. Jacob noted a final boundary change would require a DRCOG board action and a letter to the governor, who must give final approval under federal law.

Director Coleman asked why Eastern Adams and eastern Arapahoe counties were not being added; Jacob said the eastern areas are largely rural and would be harder to justify under the federal urbanization tests, so the agency is focusing first on Clear Creek and Gilpin. The briefing was informational; no formal action was taken.