Communities

Town of Minturn Community Plan

Town of Minturn, Colorado

Outdoor concert with audience seated on grassy hillside, string lights above.

SE Group worked with the Town of Minturn to prepare an updated Community Plan that reflects the community’s values, vision, and priorities for future growth and development. The plan brings together land use, housing, mobility, economic vitality, and environmental sustainability into a cohesive framework that celebrates Minturn’s character while preparing for future challenges. The effort was guided by a 17-member Steering Committee and involved deep collaboration with local leaders, residents, and partner organizations.

Nestled in a narrow valley along the Eagle River, Minturn is one of Colorado’s most authentic mountain towns. Its historic downtown, vibrant arts and events scene, and proximity to the White River National Forest set it apart from nearby resort communities. Minturn’s strong sense of place, resilient history, and connection to the outdoors make it both a hidden gem and a beloved home for generations of residents. The Community Plan honors this legacy by balancing growth, preservation, and stewardship of its natural and cultural assets.

Aerial view of a small town in a valley at sunset, surrounded by lush green hills.

The Challenge

Minturn faced increasing pressure from regional growth, limited land availability, and infrastructure constraints such as water capacity. The Town needed a clear and actionable plan that aligned land use, design standards, and community priorities while addressing housing affordability, historic preservation, and economic sustainability. Coordinating multiple planning efforts—including zoning, park, and downtown design updates—required a unified framework that connected these initiatives to a shared community vision.

SE Group’s Role

SE Group led the planning process using an inclusive and flexible engagement approach. The team facilitated workshops, open houses, and online engagement sessions designed to meet residents where they already gathered, including during popular community events. When a COVID resurgence disrupted in-person meetings, SE Group successfully transitioned to virtual workshops to maintain momentum and ensure broad participation.

Through analysis and collaboration, the team developed strategic recommendations that addressed land use and zoning modernization, attainable housing opportunities, downtown design standards, and sustainability measures. The plan also introduced guiding principles for governance, hazard mitigation, and implementation to ensure long-term adaptability.

The Impact

The Minturn Community Plan provides a long-term vision that reinforces the Town’s small-town identity while promoting sustainable growth and resilience. The plan gives Minturn the tools to manage change, protect its natural resources, and maintain its vibrant community character. By blending local insight with professional expertise, SE Group helped Minturn chart a path that supports both its residents and its future generations.