energy

Commerce City, CO has been investing in energy efficiency through various initiatives. The city has embraced renewable energy sources, notably solar, by installing solar panels on municipal buildings. As part of the Colorado Energy Office's programs, residents are encouraged to participate in energy-saving measures such as home weatherization and the use of energy-efficient appliances, which are supported by rebates and incentives. Local businesses have also been incentivized to upgrade their facilities to reduce energy consumption. Moreover, the city's partnership with local utility companies allows for energy audits that help identify potential savings. The implementation of LED street lighting has further contributed to energy conservation, reducing municipal energy costs and environmental impact. The city recognizes the importance of community education on energy conservation and regularly holds workshops and events to promote sustainable practices. Furthermore, Commerce City's comprehensive plan emphasizes the expansion of green building practices, ensuring that new developments adhere to higher energy efficiency standards.

water

Commerce City has placed a strong focus on water efficiency and conservation, recognizing the importance of this resource in the arid Colorado climate. The city's water management strategies include promoting xeriscaping among residents, which is landscaping that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation. This is supported by water-wise gardening workshops and rebates for residents who replace turf with drought-tolerant plants. The city's water utility has invested in advanced metering infrastructure to detect leaks and monitor water usage more effectively. Rain barrel usage is also encouraged, allowing residents to collect rainwater for non-potable uses. Education campaigns highlight the significance of water conservation and provide practical tips for reducing water use at home. To ensure long-term water sustainability, Commerce City works closely with the South Platte River Basin and other regional entities on comprehensive water management plans, focusing on the replenishment and preservation of local watersheds.

transportation

Commerce City is continuously working to improve transportation efficiency within the city. The development of multimodal transportation options, including enhancements to the local bus service and promotion of carpooling, helps to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. The city has also invested in bicycle infrastructure, creating bike lanes and trails to encourage residents to use alternative forms of transportation. Additionally, incentive programs aim to increase the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by offering rebates for EV purchases and expanding the EV charging infrastructure around the city. As part of the Denver metro area, Commerce City benefits from the Regional Transportation District (RTD) services, which provide residents with access to light rail and bus connections to surrounding areas. The city's transportation plan emphasizes connectivity, aiming to create a seamless transit network that supports economic growth while reducing environmental impact. To optimize traffic flow and safety, the city has installed modern traffic management systems and is exploring the use of smart traffic technologies.

waste

Commerce City has a robust waste management system that emphasizes waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal. The city provides curbside recycling services to residents, encouraging the diversion of recyclable materials from landfills. The municipal waste management department actively promotes composting, offering compost bins and educational programs about the benefits of composting organic waste. Special waste collection events are hosted periodically to properly dispose of hazardous materials like electronics and chemicals, preventing them from contaminating the environment. Local ordinances also support recycling at construction sites, ensuring that materials such as metal, wood, and concrete are recycled whenever possible. Businesses in the city are supported with resources to develop waste reduction plans, and the city has made strides in implementing single-stream recycling, simplifying the recycling process for residents and increasing participation rates. Additionally, the city's partnership with waste management organizations leads to continuous improvement of solid waste services, aiming to attain higher sustainability goals.