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Highlands Ranch, CO Experts in Container Rental, Sales & Customization

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Southwest Mobile Storage - Best Mobile Storage & Office Containers In Highlands Ranch, CO

Southwest Mobile Storage is a family-owned shipping container business founded in 1995. Our strength for more than 25 years comes from the specialized knowledge and passion of our people, along with serving over 24,000 commercial, construction and residential customers. Our facility and expertise in maintaining, manufacturing, and delivering corrugated steel containers is unrivaled in the industry.

While the rental side of our business is regional with branches throughout the Southwest, our container sales and modification operations are nationwide and becoming global. Highlands Ranch, CO offers a wide selection of portable offices and mobile storage containers you can rent, buy or modify.

Our experts in container rental, sales and customization are committed to providing you the highest quality and best experience from service to delivery - our reputation depends on it.

Whether your need is for storage, office space, moving, multi-purpose or custom use, we've got your back. Here's how:

Storage Containers Highlands Ranch, CO
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What Clients Say About Us

NO MATTER YOUR NEED, WE'VE GOT YOUR BACK.

STORE AT YOUR LOCATION

We bring your storage container to you for convenient, easy access at your home, business or jobsite. Plus, you'll get more choice in storage space and better security, for a fraction of the cost of a pod or add on building, saving money and energy.

STORE AT OUR LOCATION

Not enough room to keep a storage container at your business, home or construction site? No problem - we can store it for you. Plus, you get 70% more space and better security, for a fraction of the cost of public storage units.

CUSTOM STORAGE

Need a permanent storage solution for your business, residence or construction? We sell new and used shipping containers in many sizes with a variety of add-ons. Or customize a container to your specific storage needs with our certified fabrication experts.

LOCAL MOVE

Take your time packing with our moving containers. We'll deliver to your business or home and pick it up whenever you're ready to move. So, you don't have to stress about moving or making multiple trips in one day, like if you rented a moving truck.

LONG-DISTANCE MOVE

Our moving container solutions ensure the long-distance move of your home or business is highly efficient and affordable throughout the southwest. In fact, we usually cost 20%-40% less than full-service movers.

MOVING & STORAGE

We understand move-in and move-out dates might be different. We can store your moving container at our highly secure facilities until you're ready to move to your new home or business location, and you can conveniently access it at any time.

OFFICE USE

Whether you need a workspace, conference room, or other office requirement, our ground-mounted mobile offices meet any and all of your business needs. Plus, it's faster and easier than building additions.

BUSINESS USE

If you need your shipping container to serve multiple uses, such as office-storage combos, breakrooms and even utilities, we've got you covered. We'll modify a custom container to fit your business needs and bring your business to the next level

CUSTOM USE

We'll create a custom container to fit your unique needs anywhere in the US. With our container modification expertise, we make any idea a reality. From pop-up stores to multi-story structures, our unrivaled facilities and fabrication experts do it all.

You'll get your own dedicated storage and container expert to serve as your one point of contact for easy, convenient service you can trust.
With our wide selection of intermodal containers for sale and rent, you'll find exactly what you need, from size, to type and condition.
We maintain our rental fleet to the highest standard - our integrity depends on it.
Our certified, experienced Conex container modification experts have more than 500 years combined experience modifying ISO containers.
All of our containers come with high security dual-locking system for no additional charge, so you can rest assured your stored items stay safe and that you don't have to pay extra for it.
icon-scale
At our unrivaled 90,000 sq ft indoor fabrication facility, ensuring your custom shipping container is made exactly to your specifications.
With our level of service, quality and expertise, you won't find a better value anywhere else.
Our portable offices include lighting and electrical outlets, internet hookups, HVAC and were crafted by our in-house steel container fabrication experts for top-quality construction.

Premium Quality - High Security

With Southwest Mobile Storage, you get much more than a POD or typical Conex box. You also get high security, unparalleled service and unmatched container modification expertise and facilities. No other company offers that much.

Shipping containers and storage containers come in a range of sizes. The most common external lengths are 20ft and 40ft with a width of 8ft. ISO Containers are typically 8ft 6in tall, but high cube containers are 9ft 6in tall. We also have steel containers in a variety of sizes from 10ft long to 45ft long to rent or buy, and we can modify shipping containers into any size you want.

 Rent Storage Containers Highlands Ranch, CO

SMS Mobile Storage Containers have these high quality features:

1/8" thick steel plate bottom side rails
High strength steel supporting cross members
1 1/8" thick hardwood floor with galvanized self-tapping screws
16-gauge corrugated steel walls
16-gauge roof
270-degree swing cargo door(s)
High security dual-locking system*
Spot-grinded, primed & repainted with a beige high-grade water reducible alkyd direct-to-metal enamel*
* Comes standard on all rental units

SMS portable workspace containers have these structural features:

High security window bars, lever & deadbolt set with lock box
Studs & R-19 Insulation covered with wood paneling
1 1/8" marine board floor is covered with a durable single part gray epoxy coating
Dual pane low-E horizontal sliding windows with screens and miniblinds
18 Gauge steel polystyrene core 3-hour fire rated personnel door
All of our workspaces are manufactured in-house and arrive new or restored to factory specifications
Exterior load center operating on 100 Amp single phase 230 Volt power
Light switch, receptacles and 4' light fixtures; all wiring is Romex 12/2
CAT-6 voice and data lines with electrical junction box
HVAC units ranging from 1 ton to 2 ton on rentals; ability to customize up to 10 tons of cooling

Having flexible storage containers options is important, but security is crucial to protect your peace of mind and your possessions.

At Southwest Mobile Storage, we don't believe in leaving things to chance. We want you to rest easy knowing your inventory, documents, tools, equipment and other items are safe 24/7. That is why we equip SMS high-security slide bolt locking systems and lockboxes on our entire fleet of rental freight containers.

EVERY ONE OF OUR MOBILE STORAGE CONTAINERS FOR RENT IN Highlands Ranch, CO, INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SAFETY MEASURES:

High-security slide-bolt locking system and extra-long lock box, giving you twice the security and peace of mind.
No holes to ensure your rental shipping container is wind and water-tight.
No rust for your safety.
14-gauge corrugated steel for strength and reinforcement.

Contact us to speak with a helpful, friendly representative to better understand our full range of capabilities. We are happy to answer any questions you have, go over pricing and set up a time and place to deliver your Conex box. Our quotes are 100% free and you are under no obligation to pay for your consultation.

COMMERCIAL STORAGE CONTAINERS TO RENT, BUY OR MODIFY IN Highlands Ranch, CO

When you own a business or manage one, it's crucial to have efficient, affordable ways to store inventory and supplies, whether it's to grow your business or adapt to changes in the market, like the many caused by the pandemic.

Renting storage containers to keep at your business eliminates the cost and hassles of sending your staff to offsite storage facilities. Steel containers with roll up doors make storing and retrieving items faster and easier. Auto repair shops and other businesses that need easy access throughout the workday to secure storage for tools, parts, equipment or supplies find renting shipping containers to be the best solution for their business storage needs. Southwest Mobile Storage has your back.

 Storage Containers For Rent Highlands Ranch, CO

Renting portable offices gives your business more workspace, breakrooms, pop up stores, security booths and more, without the cost and red tape associated with constructing building additions. Plus, a steel storage container fits neatly into one parking space and provides much stronger security than Pods and way more convenience than self-storage units.

If you have a specific need, we can modify shipping containers to build whatever you need to grow your business. Whether it's a portable workspace to run your business, like a pop-up container bar, or a durable facility for scientific research, like a container laboratory, or even a container gym, our unrivaled fabrication facility and modification experts got you covered. Our full-time, in-house staff of certified welders, engineers, electricians, carpenters and painters have over 500 years combined experience modifying thousands of container projects for just about any business use you can imagine.

WHETHER YOUR BUSINESS IS COMMERCIAL, HEALTHCARE, GOVERNMENT OR EDUCATION, OR YOUR INTEREST IS TO RENT, BUY OR MODIFY SHIPPING CONTAINERS, SMS HAS YOU COVERED:

One
Offsite storage alternatives cause a mess of hassles and headaches. Expanding office space and storage capacity at your location saves time, money and hassle of making multiple trips offsite.
We offer more choice in security, size and features in steel Conex boxes or ISO shipping containers than a public storage unit or Pod for less cost and far greater service.
We offer flexible, month-to-month rental agreements and prorate by the day after your first 28-day billing cycle.
With us, you get a dedicated account manager you can rely on, so you can focus on running your business than waste time with a different person every time you call that doesn't know or care as much.
While other companies may have some staff for modifying containers, most outsource the work, so you don't know who is actually doing the modifications or how much they're marking up the price.
 Mobile Storage Containers Highlands Ranch, CO
When you modify a shipping container for your business, you won't have to worry about expensive, lengthy and complicated construction.
We have modified thousands of containers nationwide and internationally for more than 25 years for NASA, US Navy, GCP Applied Technologies, Helix and Sundt to name a few. And rent containers to Amazon, Walmart and many of other nationally recognized brands.
Our extensive staff makes it possible to custom build multiple projects simultaneously and our 90,000 sq ft indoor fabrication facility prevents contaminants from interfering with fabrication, which delivers better quality and precision.

HERE'S WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE US TO RENT, BUY OR MODIFY A SHIPPING CONTAINER FOR YOUR HOME:

With an extensive in-house staff and 90,000 sq ft container modification facility, we're able to deliver consistently high quality and work on multiple projects simultaneously for a fast turnaround.

Other companies don't have the facility, staff or resources to modify shipping containers and will outsource the work to various shops who may not have the special experience or tools needed to modify the right way.

You can rest assured knowing your custom container is safe in our hands. Our certified weld and quality control inspectors ensure everything is structurally sound and built to your specifications through every step of the process.

Renting a moving container from us makes your move much less stressful because you won't have to rush to pack your whole house into a moving truck in one day. Instead, you can take your time packing over the course of a month.

Our ISO shipping containers are weatherproof and come with vault-like security, so you don't have to worry about theft or damage to your belongings.

You won't get that level of security from U-Haul or other moving truck companies.

Renting a storage container at your home keeps your belongings close and gives you convenient 24/7 access, so you're always able to retrieve the contents of your container when you need to.

We know move in and move out dates don't always line up. We can store your packed rental container at our secure facility until your new home is ready.

With our mobile storage containers for rent in Highlands Ranch, CO, you can save up to 40% when compared to full-service long-distance movers, while gaining more flexibility in your schedule.

MOBILE STORAGE CONTAINERS & PORTABLE OFFICES TO RENT, BUY OR MODIFY IN Highlands Ranch, CO

We know your needs may change suddenly. With our extensive inventory and variety of sizes of portable offices and shipping containers to rent, buy or modify in Highlands Ranch, CO, we provide fast service and the best value possible so it's easy for you to get whatever you need when you need it.

Renting storage containers and portable offices from us gives you more flexibility when it comes to your schedule and options. If you don't have enough space at your current location or simply would prefer offsite storage, you can keep your rental storage and office containers at your location or ours - whichever is most convenient for you. You also get more options to choose from when it comes to size and features, like portable offices with divided rooms for private meetings or office/storage combos for storage and office space in one container. All while costing a fraction of the price of a pod or self-storage facility.

You can also buy new or used freight containers from us and choose from a variety of add-ons, including lights, electricity, doors and windows. Or fully customize a shipping container to save time, money and energy by skipping the expensive, lengthy process of constructing building additions. We can modify a Conex box into whatever you can imagine for any use you need, from construction tool cribs to office buildings, monitoring stations, mobile communication towers and much more. The possibilities are endless.

HERE'S HOW WE'VE GOT YOUR BACK:

You'll never face hidden fees or surprises with us. We give you transparent billing up front at the best prices.

With us, you get a reliable, dedicated point of contact, who keeps you updated every step of the way. You can rest assured knowing you'll always get what you need, when you need it.

No other company has the breadth and depth of staff and experience that we do when it comes to modifying shipping containers. Our certified welders, engineers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and painters have more than 500 years of combined experience in fabricating custom steel containers.

We prorate your rent by the day after the first 28-day billing cycle, so you don't have to pay for a full month when you only have your mobile containers and offices for a few days.

While other companies may be able to do small container modifications, most don't have an in-house fabrication staff or 90,000 sq ft fabrication facility like we do. As a result, they outsource the work on your custom container, so you don't know who's actually building it.

Rest assured knowing your modified shipping container will be built to the highest quality standards. Our certified weld and quality control inspectors check every step of the fabrication process to ensure everything is structurally sound and built to your specifications.

HOW RENTING A STORAGE CONTAINER AND MOBILE OFFICE WORKS

Whether you're in need of a storage container for your commercial business, a portable office for your construction site, or a moving container for your home, our process is simple and straightforward.

Choose Your Container

Choose the mobile storage solution that works best for your needs. In this step, you will let us know the number of containers you need, their sizes and what types of doors to equip.

Choose Your Options

Let us know if you would like to add any of our rental options, like a folding table or shelving.

Choose Your Security

Choose from padlocks, puck locks and other enhanced security options. All of our storage containers come standard with dual-locking, vault-like security.

Choose Your Delivery Timeframe

You can expect standard delivery within 3-5 days of your order. If you need expedited delivery, we will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs.

Pick-Up Planning

Do you need to keep your shipping container at our location? Prefer to have our team deliver your packed container to a location of your choice? Let us know, and we'll be by your side to work out the logistics.

HOW RENTING A STORAGE CONTAINER AND MOBILE OFFICE WORKS

1

DETERMINE DESTINATION

Let our team know where we should deliver your mobile storage container for rent in Highlands Ranch, CO. Be sure to let us know if there are any special conditions that might prevent our drivers from entering your chosen destination. Before you schedule your delivery, let us know which direction you would like the doors of your container to face.

2

SCHEDULE DATE & TIME

Our drivers can deliver your storage container Monday-Friday, between the hours of 6AM and 2PM local time. Our two-hour delivery window is the most precise in the industry. If you desire another delivery time outside of our standard delivery options, we will do our best to accommodate your needs. As a courtesy, our driver will call you at least 30 minutes before they arrive at your drop-off destination.

3

PREPARE FOR YOUR MOBILE STORAGE CONTAINER DELIVERY

Before we deliver your Conex box, prepare your delivery area by ensuring that there are no low overhangs, arches, wires, trees or any other obstacles that could interfere with your delivery. It's a good idea to mark the space where you would like your steel container placed.

4

DELIVERY & SETUP

When our driver arrives, they will back our truck into the space where you would like your shipping container placed. Once we arrive, we will ensure that your container is delivered safely and securely. If placed on asphalt or pavement, we will use wood dunnage pads to make sure your ground surface is protected and the container is level.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MOBILE CONTAINERS TO Rent, Buy OR Modify IN Highlands Ranch, CO?

Check out our FAQ page or reach out to our helpful customer service team today @

303.227.3881

Latest News in Highlands Ranch, CO

Colorado snow totals for Feb. 15-16, 2023

The following Colorado snow totals have been reported by the National Weather Service for Feb. 15, 2023, as of 2 p.m. Thursday:Air Force Academy, CO — 4.1 inches at 3:24 p.m. – 2/15/2023Alma, CO — 3.6 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023Arvada, CO — 6.1 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023Aspen Springs, CO — 2 inches at 7 a.m.Aurora, CO — 5.8 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023Aztec Ruins Natio, CO — 3.4 inches at 7 a.m.Bennett, CO — 3.8 inches at...

The following Colorado snow totals have been reported by the National Weather Service for Feb. 15, 2023, as of 2 p.m. Thursday:

Air Force Academy, CO — 4.1 inches at 3:24 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Alma, CO — 3.6 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Arvada, CO — 6.1 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Aspen Springs, CO — 2 inches at 7 a.m.

Aurora, CO — 5.8 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Aztec Ruins Natio, CO — 3.4 inches at 7 a.m.

Bennett, CO — 3.8 inches at 3:41 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Beulah, CO — 14 inches at 2:27 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Black Forest, CO — 5.5 inches at 8:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Blende, CO — 9.5 inches at 2:39 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Bloomfield, CO — 2.2 inches at 4 a.m.

Blue River, CO — 7.2 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Boulder, CO — 10 inches at 6:46 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Briggsdale, CO — 0.5 inch at 8 a.m.

Broomfield, CO — 6 inches at 10:28 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Brush, CO — 4 inches at 7:13 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Buckley Afb, CO — 1.5 inches at 9:27 a.m.

Cameron Pass, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Camp Bird, CO — 9 inches at 5:18 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Capulin, CO — 8 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Carter Lake, CO — 1 inch at 8:30 a.m.

Cascade, CO — 5.9 inches at 3:29 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Castle Rock, CO — 3.7 inches at 8 a.m.

Cattle Creek, CO — 1.1 inches at 7 a.m.

Cedar Cove, CO — 0.5 inch at 8 a.m.

Cedar Hill, CO — 5.8 inches at 8:29 a.m.

Cedaredge, CO — 10.5 inches at 7 a.m.

Chama, CO — 1.1 inches at 7 a.m.

Cheesman Reservoi, CO — 1.5 inches at 8:10 a.m.

Cherry Hills Villa, CO — 3.3 inches at 7 a.m.

Chromo, CO — 8.5 inches at 7 a.m.

Climax, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Coal Bank Pass, CO — 27 inches at 5:19 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Colona, CO — 14 inches at 6 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Colorado Springs, CO — 3.5 inches at 12:55 p.m.

Commerce City, CO — 4.5 inches at 7:18 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Conifer, CO — 10 inches at 6:30 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Crescent Village, CO — 9.5 inches at 8:45 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Crested Butte, CO — 18 inches at 4 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Crisman, CO — 12 inches at 8:07 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Denver Intl Airpo, CO — 3.6 inches at 5 a.m.

Denver, CO — 3.8 inches at 5 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Echo Lake, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Elizabeth, CO — 6.5 inches at 4:18 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Enchanted Forest X, CO — 9 inches at 5 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Ensenada, CO — 8.1 inches at 7 a.m.

Erie, CO — 4 inches at 6:59 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Farmington, CO — 5.1 inches at 6 a.m.

Federal Heights, CO — 5 inches at 7:12 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Flora Vista, CO — 6.7 inches at 7 a.m.

Foxfield, CO — 7 inches at 9:38 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Frederick, CO — 4.4 inches at 1:17 p.m.

Garden City, CO — 2.5 inches at 4:30 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Gary, CO — 3.1 inches at 7 a.m.

Genesee, CO — 11.8 inches at 9:07 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Georgetown, CO — 1 inch at 8 a.m.

Gould, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Grant, CO — 1 inch at 7:30 a.m.

Greeley, CO — 3.9 inches at 9 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Guanella Pass, CO — 9 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Henderson, CO — 5.5 inches at 8:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Highlands Ranch, CO — 6.5 inches at 3 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Hygiene, CO — 3 inches at 8:28 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Juanita, CO — 2.2 inches at 7 a.m.

Kassler, CO — 10.5 inches at 8:09 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Ken Caryl, CO — 8.5 inches at 9:18 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Kittredge, CO — 6 inches at 8:43 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Kutch, CO — 2 inches at 6:30 a.m.

Lafayette, CO — 2 inches at 7 a.m.

Lake George, CO — 1.5 inches at 7 a.m.

Lakewood, CO — 9.5 inches at 8:27 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Lazear, CO — 5 inches at 7 a.m.

Littleton, CO — 8 inches at 7:01 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Lone Tree, CO — 5.8 inches at 6:52 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Longmont, CO — 3.5 inches at 9:33 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Longs Peak, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Louisville, CO — 5.4 inches at 4:06 a.m.

Loveland Pass, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Loveland, CO — 1.4 inches at 4:35 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Marshall, CO — 10.6 inches at 8:35 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Meeker Park, CO — 7.2 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Milliken, CO — 2.9 inches at 7:10 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Molas Pass, CO — 14 inches at 5:19 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Montrose, CO — 5 inches at 7 a.m.

Monument, CO — 4.5 inches at 9:10 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Mount Audubon, CO — 1.8 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Mountain View, CO — 5 inches at 10:55 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Nederland, CO — 5 inches at 3 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Niwot, CO — 5.5 inches at 11:01 a.m.

Pagosa Springs, CO — 6 inches at 7 a.m.

Parker, CO — 4.8 inches at 6:48 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Penrose, CO — 1 inch at 6:34 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Ponderosa Park, CO — 6 inches at 7:23 a.m.

Poudre Park, CO — 1.3 inches at 6:21 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Pueblo West, CO — 8.3 inches at 9:23 a.m.

Rabbit Ears Pass, CO — 5.4 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Raton, CO — 2.5 inches at 7 a.m.

Red Mountain Pass, CO — 11 inches at 5:18 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Red River, CO — 16 inches at 8:06 a.m.

Roxborough Park, CO — 12 inches at 7:15 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Rye, CO — 10.4 inches at 5:42 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Sawpit, CO — 7.4 inches at 10:20 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Sheridan, CO — 7.5 inches at 6:53 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Silt, CO — 1.7 inches at 7 a.m.

Silver Plume, CO — 1 inch at 6 a.m.

Silverton, CO — 16 inches at 5:26 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Skyway, CO — 3 inches at 6 a.m.

Snowmass Village, CO — 2.8 inches at 6 a.m.

Telluride, CO — 2 inches at 6 a.m.

Ward, CO — 3.6 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Watkins, CO — 3 inches at 7:21 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Westcliffe, CO — 8 inches at 4:19 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Westminster, CO — 6.7 inches at 5:01 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Weston Pass, CO — 5.4 inches at 10:22 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Wheat Ridge, CO — 8 inches at 7:59 p.m. – 2/15/2023

Whitewater, CO — 1.2 inches at 7 a.m.

DougCo super talks next steps to right size schools

By Suzie Glassman/NewsBreak Denver(Castle Rock, CO) DougCo schools superintendent Erin Kane discussed plans to address growth and decline in the state’s third largest district in her “Super’s Vision” sent to district families.“One of the things we’re trying to do is get ahead of the district’s challenges with areas of growth and decline and look at making a proactive three t...

By Suzie Glassman/NewsBreak Denver

(Castle Rock, CO) DougCo schools superintendent Erin Kane discussed plans to address growth and decline in the state’s third largest district in her “Super’s Vision” sent to district families.

“One of the things we’re trying to do is get ahead of the district’s challenges with areas of growth and decline and look at making a proactive three to five-year plan so that our staff and families know what to expect.”

“As we look at paring schools, we’re also looking at opening new elementary schools. We want staff to hear us say, even if we reduce the number of schools, we’re promising that there is a job for everyone because of the other areas where we are growing,” said Kane.

Kane said it’s essential to her that they engage district staff and the community as they begin this process.

“Our first step is going to be to get out into our community and talk about this challenge we’re facing. We will have engagement opportunities in the next year,” she said.

Sitting across from Assistant Superintendent Danny Winsor, Executive Director of Schools in West Highlands Ranch, Ian Wells, and Executive Director of Schools in East Highlands Ranch, Kane asked each about their particular challenges.

Windsor said the north planning area has a “polarity of extremes” between growing and declining enrollment. The challenge is understanding how to provide excellent programming while retaining quality teachers and staff.

The Highlands Ranch community, with 36,000 homes and 18 elementary schools, is at the greatest risk for potential school closures. Other areas with exploding growth, like Sterling Ranch, The Canyons, and RidgeGate East, have none.

Gutierrez explained that larger schools could provide more programming and support resources because they benefit from economies of scale. Smaller schools may struggle to retain teachers, especially for specials like art, P.E., and music, because they aren’t needed full-time.

“We have to make tough choices when we get a little bit smaller. I think it’s really important to do what we can to best support our students and staff,” said Gutierrez.

Wells said that he and his team has had conversations with school principals and with school advisory councils. “How do you function with a half-time specials teacher? That’s not great programming for everyone involved,” he said.

The hope is that with community support, DougCo can avoid some of the challenges that neighboring districts are facing with upset parents and teachers.

Where to Eat in Highlands Ranch

The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals. Sign up today!Highlands Ranch is undergoing a food-fueled renaissance of sorts, with new outposts of Postino Wine Bar, Prost Brewing, and Lazy Dog cropping up in the suburb in the past year alone. And it’s a good thing, too. The metro district (which isn’t technically a city, but a 22,000-acre “m...

The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals. Sign up today!

Highlands Ranch is undergoing a food-fueled renaissance of sorts, with new outposts of Postino Wine Bar, Prost Brewing, and Lazy Dog cropping up in the suburb in the past year alone. And it’s a good thing, too. The metro district (which isn’t technically a city, but a 22,000-acre “master-planned community” founded in 1981) has more than 100,000 residents, and has been named one of the fastest-growing areas in the country—all culminating in a hunger for better fare. Here, check out 11 of the best spots to grab a bite in the ’burb directly south of I-470.

Postino Highlands Ranch

The three-week-old Postino Highlands Ranch, with its retro-chic decor (see: brown-and-orange striped wallpaper, yellow velvet couch, and board-game-adorned feature wall), offers a funky reprieve from the area’s sea of cookie-cutter chains. Here, suburbanites gather ’round the thoughtfully curated wine list and shareables like smoked salmon served with whipped feta cheese and assorted mushrooms with lemony labneh. Grab a seat on the shady patio lined with bright-orange banquettes, and make sure you visit for the daily happy hour, when glasses of grapes are just $6 until 5 p.m. 1497 Park Central Dr., Highlands Ranch

Zell’s Mountain Creperie

DTC-based entrepreneur Jim Beatty opened Zell’s this past July to bring European-inspired crêpes to the suburbs. Breakfast varieties come with your choice of bacon, ham, or bruschetta mixed with eggs, and for lunch, we like the thin pancakes filled with ham, brie, and fig preserves. Of course, there’s a sweet crêpe for any preference, from seasonal peaches and cream to the classics: Nutella, banana, and strawberry. Order ahead or watch the team make your selection to order on the traditional round griddles. 2229 Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Ste. A4, Highlands Ranch

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

Lazy Dog is a chain, yes, but with four of its 45 locations located in Colorado, this California-based bar and eatery feels like it’s part of the family—and a sprawling Highlands Ranch site is the newest member. The multi-page menu can be daunting until you realize that it’s all about comfort food, with soul-pleasing plates like chicken pot pie, pot roast with mashed potatoes, and a burger menu eight dishes deep. There’s even a new orange Tang-infused margarita and take-home, frozen TV dinners that deliver an extra hit of nostalgia. 43 Centennial Blvd., Highlands Ranch

Prost Brewing

This 11,000-square-foot, lager-lovers paradise has, hands-down, the busiest patio in town, with dozens of community picnic tables, lawn games, a stage, and ample heaters for cool-weather dining. While half-liters and liters of Prost’s notable German brews are the draw, there’s also a hearty menu of wursts and schnitzels to make a meal out of your visit. Try the Biergarten burger, topped with butterkäse cheese, beer-braised onions, German mustard, and cranberry sauce. 53 Centennial Blvd., Highlands Ranch

Highland’s Indian Cuisine

Highlands Ranch got its first Indian restaurant in early 2021 with the addition of Highland’s Indian Cuisine, a destination for masalas, biryani, and tandoor-fired offerings from around the subcontinent. Start with an order of juicy, steamed chicken momos before moving on to a bevy of traditional curries from the chef’s specialties menu. We like the tangy, onion- and tomato-sauce-based sweet potato masala and the fish korma, which is cooked in a light, cashew-based sauce. 9344 Dorchester St., Ste. 101, Highlands Ranch

Grist Brewing Company

The original brewery outpost of the Grist family of pubs (which now includes two themed cocktail bars in Lone Tree and Baker) is tucked into a quiet office park where imbibing seems like a fireable offense. But the comforts of a perfect neighborhood watering hole—a massive central bar, garage-door-accessible patio, ample TVs looping sports, and a wellspring of craft brews—make you forget where you are. Pick your dram and pair it with a snack from the in-house kitchen, which prepares pub grub like fried cheese curds, barbecue pulled-pork sandos, and burgers. 9150 Commerce Center Circle, Ste. 300, Highlands Ranch

Abo’s Pizza

The southernmost location of Abo’s Pizza delivers eats for any appetite—especially a hearty one—with a fount of dough-based pleasures going well beyond the famous New York–style slices (which are available à la carte if you dine in). Go for giant calzones made for sharing, butter-drenched garlic knots, and honey-garlic-glazed meatballs. The pizza list runs deep, and you can (and should) order a half-and-half pie to try two varieties at once. Heat seekers: Go for the Inferno, which, with its spicy Italian sausage, chorizo, and seed-in jalapeños, lives up to its name. 2229 Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Ste. A1, Highlands Ranch

Los Dos Potrillos

Of the four locations of Los Dos Potrillos along the I-470 corridor, the Highlands Ranch outpost may be the most beloved, with its breezy rooftop patio, labyrinthine dining room, and generous weekday happy hour (4–6 p.m.), when 16-ounce margaritas are just $5. Mexican comforts abound, but we like a hearty bowl of tableside-prepared guac and the communal Taquiza platter, where up to four guests can top their own street tacos from a field of carne asada and adobada, chicken, nopales, and onions. 35 Springer Dr., Highlands Ranch

Little Holly’s Asian Cafe

Located on the southwest side of town, Little Holly’s Asian Cafe serves pan-Asian delights from Thai curries to bento boxes to Peking duck. While the generous portion sizes make any of the $14 to $26 entrées a bargain, we recommend dining in for lunch, when most everything is under $11, including the Yushan chicken with carrots, broccoli, and peas wok-fried in a dark and tangy soy-based sauce. The price even includes egg drop or hot and sour soup and a crispy egg roll. 2223 W. Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Highlands Ranch

Lansdowne Arms

This 17-year-old Irish pub in Highlands Ranch Town Center is a lively place to grab a pint and a plate (best enjoyed on the rooftop patio, if it’s open). Fish and chips and bangers and mash—made with Tommyknocker beer sausages—are evergreen on the menu, and slow-roasted prime rib is served Friday to Sunday while it lasts. But the real draw is what’s behind the black-painted, Irish-style bar: an impressive lineup of Irish, Scotch, and single-malt whiskeys alongside imported suds like Guinness, Smithwicks, and Stella on tap. 9352 Dorchester St., Highlands Ranch

Honey B’s Macarons

No culinary tour of Highlands Ranch would be complete without stopping at Honey B’s Macarons, a specialty boutique that crafts more than 80 flavors of the meringue-based confections using classic French techniques. The current lineup includes temptations like pink peppercorn and violet-cassis flavors alongside tried-and-true parfums such as rose, red velvet, and orange dream. You can also indulge in alcohol-infused macarons, like the coffee ganache variety speared with a pipette of Bailey’s Irish Cream. 40 Springer Dr., Highlands Ranch

Read more

A Local’s Guide to Eating and Drinking in Littleton Where to Eat and Drink in Longmont Right Now

US 85 Widening from Highlands Ranch Parkway to C-470

RoadwayBudgetTotal Approximate Construction Cost = $108 MillionProject ManagerDouglas County / CDOT / Kraemer North AmericaUS85improvements@gmail.com 719-695-0052ContractorKraemer North America...

Roadway

Budget

Total Approximate Construction Cost = $108 Million

Project Manager

Douglas County / CDOT / Kraemer North America

US85improvements@gmail.com

719-695-0052

Contractor

Kraemer North America

US85improvements@gmail.com

719-695-0052

Partners

Project Update

RTD bus stop update: If you utilize the bus route along US 85, please start planning. Beginning Monday, March 13, seven bus stops along RTD Route 402L between County Line Road and Highlands Ranch Parkway, will be closed so construction crews can safely continue building improvements. Though some stops are closed, Route 402L will remain in service. Customers can sign up for RTD’s Service Alerts and check the Trip Planner app to plan trips in advance. Once the project is completed, there will be four new bus stop shelters with bike racks and three other updated stops, and a new shared-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians on the east side of US 85 to increase accessibility to public transportation.

Please pay extra attention along US 85 between Blakeland Drive and County Line Road next week. The traffic pattern is changing, starting Tuesday morning. The shift gives crews room to safely continue bridge construction and roadway widening.

See the “Schedule” section below for more detailed information on traffic impacts. For background information prior to construction, visit US85DouglasCounty.com

Phase 2 US 85 Rendering

This project will improve safety, mobility, and traffic operations by widening (from four to six lanes) and reconstructing a segment of US 85 (South Santa Fe Drive) from Highlands Ranch Parkway, extending north of the C-470 Interchange to Dad Clark Gulch (which is located approximately 1,200 feet north of County Line Road). Major US 85 intersection improvements will occur at Highlands Ranch Parkway, Town Center Drive, Blakeland Drive, the C-470 Interchange ramps and at County Line Road. The project also includes the replacement and widening of the existing bridge that carries US 85 over C-470.

Multimodal improvements include bus stop enhancements, a new shared-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians on the east side of US 85, a below-grade crossing for the C-470 Trail at US 85, a below-grade crossing for the High Line Canal Trail at US 85, and a new pedestrian link from the Wolhurst community to the C-470 Trail.

The project also includes the addition of continuous auxiliary lanes, new asphalt paving, relocation of utilities, raised medians, new curb and gutter, and a new closed storm sewer system with water quality ponds.

Timeline: Fall 2022 to Fall 2025

Partial Continuous Flow Intersection (CFI) will be installed for the following traffic movements:

View a map of US 85 Interchange at the above 3 listed intersections.

Other projects along US 85 in Douglas County

Schedule

Drivers should expect to see workers and heavy equipment during the day between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Please watch for crews, slow down, and avoid distracted driving in the work zone.

March 12 – March 18:

Daytime impacts:

Nighttime impacts:

Trail Closures

Three trail closures will stay in place into 2024 while crews install new underpasses to allow pedestrians and bicyclists to safely pass under US 85.

Business Access has permanently changed to right-in, right-out only at private driveways and un-signalized intersections between Highlands Ranch Parkway and C-470. Left turns at Norwood Drive, Carder Court, Brandon Drive, Grace Presbyterian Church, and Spring Gulch Equestrian Area are no longer allowed. View business access changes.

As always, we ask you to please continue to pay extra attention and follow all posted signage through the construction zone. Expect increased enforcement to ensure the safety of crews and motorists. Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted in the work zone – please use signed and signaled intersections to cross US 85.

Major construction starts Oct. 3 on US 85 from Highlands Ranch Parkway to C-470

If you are one of the thousands of daily drivers on US 85 (South Santa Fe Drive) in Highlands Ranch, please give yourself extra time to navigate upcoming construction.On Monday, Oct. 3, Douglas County and the Colorado Department of Transportation will begin the highly anticipated work to widen and reconstruct 2.5 miles of US 85 from Highlands Ranch Parkway to just north of C-470.Construction activities will require reduced speeds, lane closures, turn-lane closures, and various full closures.Drivers should expect to see w...

If you are one of the thousands of daily drivers on US 85 (South Santa Fe Drive) in Highlands Ranch, please give yourself extra time to navigate upcoming construction.

On Monday, Oct. 3, Douglas County and the Colorado Department of Transportation will begin the highly anticipated work to widen and reconstruct 2.5 miles of US 85 from Highlands Ranch Parkway to just north of C-470.

Construction activities will require reduced speeds, lane closures, turn-lane closures, and various full closures.

Drivers should expect to see workers and heavy equipment during the day between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. with daytime lane closures between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays. Overnight lane closures on US 85 and C-470 are expected from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. weeknights.

Please watch for crews, slow down, and avoid distracted driving in the work zone.

Get Updates

Stay updated by signing up for emails – select “US 85 Construction.” For updated travel information, visit cotrip.org.

Multimodal Improvements

In addition to widening US 85 from four to six lanes, the project includes the replacement and widening of the existing bridge that carries US 85 over C-470. Major US 85 intersection improvements will occur at Highlands Ranch Parkway, Town Center Drive, Blakeland Drive, the C-470 interchange ramps, and at County Line Road.

Multimodal improvements include bus stop enhancements, a new shared-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians on the east side of US 85, a below-grade crossing for the C-470 Trail at US 85, a below-grade crossing for the High Line Canal Trail at US 85, and a new pedestrian link from the Wolhurst community to the C-470 Trail.

The project also includes the addition of continuous auxiliary lanes, new asphalt paving, relocation of utilities, raised medians, new curb and gutter, and a new closed storm sewer system with water quality ponds.

Business Access Changes

To increase safety along the vital US 85 Corridor, access to businesses and some streets along US 85 will change to right-in, right-out only. No left turns will be permitted, and traffic will use signalized intersections at Highlands Ranch Parkway, Town Center Drive and Blakeland Drive for all business access.

About the Project

This project is Douglas County’s largest transportation project to date. Project partners include CDOT, the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG), the Federal Highway Administration, Highlands Ranch Metro District, and Chatfield Basin Developers. Construction is expected to be completed in 2025.

For more information about the upcoming work and to stay up to date on construction impacts, please visit our website, douglas.co.us/us-85-construction.

A safe and accessible multimodal transportation network is one of the Board of County Commissioner’s six core priorities. Read more about the County’s transportation initiatives online.

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