The new Central Recreation Center, located at 18150 E. Vassar Place near Tower Road, is due to open to the public this spring, with free tours and fun programming starting in mid-May.

The 55,000-square-foot center will provide programming for all ages, from fitness and fun to learning and doing. State-of-the-art amenities include a lap pool, an indoor wave pool, a lazy river, an interactive waterslide, an elevated indoor track, gymnasium, top-of-the-line fitness equipment, group exercise studios, teaching kitchens, party rooms, incredible views and more.

The interactive waterslide will be the first of its kind in North America. The inner tubing of the slide is manufactured with lights and sounds giving the slider a truly unique experience of soaring through a lit tunnel into the pool below. Similar to the slide at the Moorhead Recreation Center, this slide will also protrude from the building.

This is a center that was truly imagined by the community. An extensive public input process began in 2016 to see how Aurorans pictured their new recreation center. With three open houses and over 200 attendees at each, the outcome was an aquatics-focused center with fitness, an indoor running track and child care as well as the need for community rooms and places for people to connect.

This will be Aurora’s first new recreation center in 40 years. Meadowood, Expo and the original Moorhead were all the last of the city’s current recreation centers built in 1975. Moorhead Recreation Center was recently renovated and re-opened in 2017.

The site was purchased in 1998 specifically for a recreation center due to its connectivity to nearby walking/biking trails, public transit routes and schools. The $33 million project is fully-funded by city marijuana tax revenues.

For more information and project updates, visit AuroraGov.org/Recreation.

April 2019 accessible • comfortable • advancing • worth discovering

OPENING IN MAY

CENTRAL RECREATION CENTER

This is a center that was truly imagined

by the community.

news

Ward I Town MeetingsCouncil Member Crystal Murillo• April 25, 6-7:30 p.m. (budget town meeting) Martin Luther King Jr. Library9898 E. Colfax Ave.• May 23, 6-7:30 p.m.Village Exchange Center, 1609 Havana St.

Ward II Town MeetingsCouncil Member Nicole Johnston• April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m.• May 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (budget town meeting) Beck Recreation Center800 Telluride St.

Mornings with MarshaWard III Council Member• April 18, 7:15-8:30 a.m.• May 16, 7:15-8:30 a.m.Tin Cup Café, 50 S. Peoria St.

Ward III Town MeetingsCouncil Member Marsha Berzins• April 10, 6:30-8 p.m.• May 8, 6:30-8 p.m.Aurora Municipal Center, City Café15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Ward IV Town MeetingsCouncil Member Charlie Richardson• April 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Fire Station No. 11, 2291 S. Joliet St..• May 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (budget town meeting) Stampede, 2430 S. Havana St.

Ward V Town MeetingsCouncil Member Bob Roth• April 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.• May 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Heather Gardens Clubhouse2888 S. Heather Gardens Way

Ward VI Town MeetingCouncil Member Françoise Bergan• May 15, 6-8 p.m. (budget town meeting) Heritage Eagle Bend Clubhouse23155 E. Heritage Parkway

Upcoming Aurora City Council TOWN MEETINGS

FLOOD HAZARD INFORMATION AVAILABLEThe Public Works Department provides assistance to citizens, banks, mortgage companies, insurance and real estate agents who need flood hazard information. They can make map determinations for properties that appear on the current effective Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Aurora. The following information is available on request for each property location: Community Number • Panel Number and Suffix • Date of the FIRM’S Index (cover panel) • FIRM zone such as A, C, X, V, AE, AZ, AO • Base flood elevation (the depth in AO zones) • Floodway information • FHAD study information.

Direct inquires to 303.739.7300 or mail to City of Aurora, Public Works Department, Engineering Control SectionAurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Suite 3218, Aurora, CO 80012

303.739.7000 • AuroraGov.org • Follow us @AuroraGov • AuroraTV.orgThe city of Aurora Communications and Marketing Department produces this newsletter. Contact communications@auroragov.org.

SCHOOL CLINICS OFFER LOW-COST HEALTH CARE TO FAMILIESThanks to a partnership between Aurora Public Schools and Every Child Pediatrics, the district’s students and their siblings (newborn to age 21) receive comprehensive health care (physical, behavioral, dental) at the School Based Health Clinics. Families with no insurance pay a maximum of $7 per visit.

The School Based Health Clinics have four district locations: Crawford and Laredo elementary schools; Trojan Wellness Center next to Aurora Central High School; and Olympian Wellness Center, next to Gateway High School. Each clinic has different operating hours. Visit EveryChildPediatrics.org/Locations for details.

UPDATED HOME IMPROVEMENT HANDBOOK NOW AVAILABLEThe newly updated “DIY & Do It Right” Home Improvement handbook is now available to guide homeowners in completing their next home improvement project.

The handbook provides information on doing projects the right way whether hiring a contractor or doing it yourself. It includes a handy list of the 10 top improvement projects and a quick reference to all types of projects, including whether permits and inspections are needed.

Pick up a copy at the Aurora Municipal Center’s Permit Center or on the first floor across from Access Aurora or at any Aurora Public Library, contact 303.739.7420 or permitcounter@auroragov.org to have one mailed to you, or visit AuroraGov.org/Building to view it online.

EAST COLFAX TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS COMING SOONThe Regional Transportation District recently launched a major transit improvement project for route 15L bus stops along East Colfax Avenue. RTD will upgrade 37 stops between Interstate 225 in Aurora and Broadway Avenue in Denver to include enhanced shelters with lighting and security cameras. Other improvements such as queue bypass lanes and bus bulbouts (curb extensions) will be added in key locations along the corridor. Visit the project website at RTD-Denver.com/East-Colfax.shtml for additional information, to sign up for construction updates, and provide comments/feedback, or call the project hotline anytime at 720.429.3023.

RESIDENTS INVITED TO OPEN HOUSE ON I-70, E-470 AND GUN CLUB ROAD PROJECTSThe city of Aurora, the E-470 Public Highway Authority and Arapahoe County are hosting a joint meeting to present information on major projects affecting Aurora residents: the E-470 Road Widening Project, the I-70/Picadilly Interchange Project, the Quincy Avenue/Gun Club Road Intersection Improvements Project and the Stephen D. Hogan Parkway Project.

The open house is scheduled from 4 to 6:30 p.m. April 30 at the E-470 Public Highway Authority, 22470 E. Sixth Parkway, #100. The event will be an open house format; attendees may arrive at any time during the event.

The E-470 Road Widening Project breaks ground this summer, and will include the addition of a third lane in each direction on an eight-mile stretch of the road between Interstate 70 and East Quincy Avenue. It also will relocate the northbound E-470 ramp at Quincy Avenue to improve travel at the intersection at Gun Club Road, and extend the High Plains Trail for multi-purpose bike and pedestrian use. Find out more about the project at the open house, or visit E-470.com.

This is the second meeting taking place on the I-70/Picadilly Interchange project, which is being evaluated at this time. Information will be shared regarding preliminary plans for the interchange, how a diverging diamond interchange will function and potential environmental effects of the project. For more information on the project, visit AuroraGov.org/I70Picadilly.

Arapahoe County, in partnership with the city of Aurora and E-470, will start work later this year on a new partial continuous flow intersection at the intersection of Gun Club Road and Quincy Avenue, which is designed to solve the congestion issues in that area. For more details, visit ArapahoeGov.com/QuincyGunClub.

The Stephen D. Hogan Parkway Project is under construction to close a two-mile gap and connect East Sixth Avenue to E-470. The project is expected to be complete in the fall. For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/HoganParkway.

The city of Aurora invites you to the annual Colorado Remembers event May 25 to celebrate and honor our Colorado fallen military heroes.

Activities begin at 8 a.m. at the Colorado Freedom Memorial, 756 Telluride St., with a free-will donation pancake breakfast and displays of military vehicles and music from the Beverly Belles.

At 10 a.m., the annual CFM Remembrance Ceremony begins, and includes music from Sound of the Rockies Men’s Chorus, a flyover and military honors. This year, we are commemorating the “Beginning of the End” as we inch closer to the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II in 2020.

Following this heartfelt ceremony and tribute, static military displays and tours of the memorial will continue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring family, friends, lawn chairs and blankets, and join us as we celebrate those heroes never to be forgotten.

For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/ColoradoRemembers.

HONOR OUR HEROES AT COLORADO REMEMBERS

Keep Aurora

CLEAN

SAVE THE DATE: WASTE-FREE LUNCHEON AND RECYCLING FAIRJune 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.The People’s Building, 9995 E. Colfax Ave.RSVP to lkoiv@auroragov.org

Join us for a truly waste-free light lunch, celebrate sustainability and learn more about recycling opportunities in Aurora. Cash donation of $2 or bring a nonperishable food item or toiletries to benefit local homeless services.

outand

aboutONE SMALL STEP: FIFTY YEARS LATERThrough July 219 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and SundayAurora History Museum15051 E. Alameda Parkway303.739.6660 or AuroraMuseum.orgExplore this exhibit chronicling the 1969 moon landing, and learn about the history of space travel, humanity’s reaction to the landing and Apollo 11’s mission from launch to reentry. Free.

HOMETOWN PRIDE: STUDENT ATHLETIC & EXTRACURRICULAR HISTORY IN AURORAApril 23 to Sept. 299 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and SundayAurora History Museum15051 E. Alameda Parkway303.739.6660 or AuroraMuseum.orgThis exhibit explores the sports and activities that shaped Aurora’s youth throughout the years. Relive your glory days and learn about Aurora’s new generation of students as the museum celebrates the city’s hometown pride. Free.

SPRING QUILT SALEMay 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 3, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.,and May 4, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Aurora Center for Active Adults30 Del Mar Parkway303.739.7950Shop for beautiful handmade quilts made by the ACAA Quilting Bee, with proceeds benefiting special projects at the center. Special orders are accepted.

FAA DENVER METROPLEX PUBLIC WORKSHOPMay 2, 5 to 7:30 p.m.Aurora Municipal Center Lobby, 15151 E. Alameda ParkwayMore information at FAA.govThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is holding a public meeting to discuss changes to flight paths and procedures within the Denver metropolitan area airspace. The FAA has proposed these changes to increase efficiency and access to the airport. These proposed changes may increase or decrease air traffic over Aurora neighborhoods.

IT’S CLEAN-UP TIME, AURORADo you need to dispose of bulky items that can’t be recycled or set out with curbside trash? The city of Aurora wants to help you “Keep Aurora Clean” with a coupon program to offset a portion of the cost of a trip to the Denver-Arapahoe Disposal Site (DADS) Landfill.

Coupons are worth $60 each and will be available to Aurora residents only (one per household) on a first-come, first-served basis. To pick up your coupon, bring photo ID and proof of residence (mail reflecting an address in Aurora city limits) to the Aurora Municipal Center, Neighborhood Services office (fourth floor), 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Aurora, CO 80012. Coupons will be available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday starting May 1.

City of Aurora neighborhood liaisons will also have landfill coupons available at council ward meetings starting in May. Ward meeting information can be found at AuroraGov.org/Council.

Please note, only a limited number of coupons are available, and distribution will end when all coupons have been claimed. A message will be posted on AuroraGov.org/KeepAuroraClean when all coupons have been distributed.

The coupons will be valid through Aug. 31, 2019, only at DADS Landfill, 3500 S. Gun Club Road, Aurora, CO 80018. Depending on the how much trash you bring, the pre-coupon cost for a landfill trip ranges from about $70 to $95 for a car/pickup. As part of the coupon program in 2019, DADS Landfill can accept appliances, tires and electronics waste for recycling for an extra charge. Coupons cannot be redeemed for cash.

For more information about the coupon program, and a list of what items are not allowed at the landfill, go to AuroraGov.org/KeepAuroraClean or call 303.739.7287. Remember, we all have a part to play in making our city a great place to live, so help us “Keep Aurora Clean”!

NEW WATER BILL PAYMENT SYSTEM COMING SOONAurora Water will soon launch a faster, more secure and cost-efficient online payment platform. Customers should be prepared to re-register their information once the new program is implemented. Rest assured, we’ll be touching base with customers about the new system and how to update their accounts. Stay tuned for more details. For more information, go to AuroraWater.org.

Water Billing Questions: 303.739.7388 • Service Questions: 303.326.8645 • AuroraWater.org

AURORA WATER CONSERVATION DIVISIONAurora has a semi-arid climate, which means that our city receives about half as much rain and snowfall as the national average. Water Conservation staff is here to help you save water and money.

AuroraWater.org • 303.739.7195

Don’t start your automatic sprinkler system before May 15We can still expect to see freezing temperatures between now and May 15. Starting your sprinkler system before then can end in costly damages and repairs. Your lawn and trees, however, may need a drink. Visit AuroraGov.org/Trees for more information.

Free outdoor water assessmentSchedule a free outdoor water assessment to save water and money and ensure that your sprinkler system is working properly.

Beginning May 1, customers can contact Water Conservation anytime during the summer to be added to the wait list. With an assessment, Aurora Water’s specialists identify any items that need to be repaired or replaced and usually find ways to improve your sprinkler system. If your system needs to be fixed or requires updates, you may be eligible for rebates.

Smart controller and rain sensor rebates Weather in Colorado is unpredictable. Take the guesswork out of whether or not you should turn off your sprinkler system with a smart controller and rain sensor. We even have rebates for them.

A smart controller uses local weather and landscape conditions to tailor watering schedules to actual conditions on site. The controller then tells your sprinkler system when to turn on and off. Watering schedules are then better matched to plants’ water needs.

Smart controllers also require a rain sensor, which acts like a switch and shuts down your sprinkler system when it rains. Applications and information are available on our website.

WATER CONSERVATION CLASSESClasses are FREE and REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Visit AuroraGov.org/WaterClasses or call 303.739.7195.

Build Your Own Drip System Drip irrigation systems are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, simple to design and effectively reduce water waste. Learn how to design, construct and maintain a drip system in this hands-on class. May 1, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aurora Municipal Center, Aurora Room (first floor) 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Discover Water-wise PlantsWe have decades of experience growing plants suited to Aurora. We’ll show you our top recommended trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses. May 4, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aurora Water-wise Garden, meet at the shade structure15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Water-wise Landscape DesignPut your dreams onto paper as you learn to plan and draw your own water-wise landscape using basic design principles. This class is required for Aurora Water customers participating in our free design consultation service. May 8, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Aurora Municipal Center, Aurora Room (first floor) 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

CompostingCompost enriches soil, retains moisture and suppresses plant diseases and pests. Learn how to successfully compost at home. May 14, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aurora Water-wise Garden, meet at the shade structure15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Sprinkler System RefreshGet to know your system components, tune up your sprinkler system for maximum efficiency and learn how to check for leaks in this hands-on class. May 15, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Aurora Water-wise Garden, meet at the shade structure15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Installing Your Water-wise LandscapeLearn the practical steps from removing sod to installing a landscape suited to Aurora’s climate. If you plan on converting your own yard, this is your class. May 18, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aurora Water-wise Garden, meet at the shade structure15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Seven Principles of a Water-wise GardenYou know you want to convert to a low-water yard, but where do you start? We introduce you to the foundations of creating a water-wise landscape. Also included, landscape ideas as well as the beautiful and resilient plants that replace thirsty turf.May 30, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Central Library, Large Community Room14949 E. Alameda Parkway