One of Colorado’s Fastest-Growing Counties
Rich in Heritage, Culture and a great future to look forward to
Spread across a dynamic landscape of cities, suburbs and rural communities, Arapahoe is one of Colorado’s fastest growing counties. Projected to reach a population of 800,000 by 2030, the county is home to more than 656,000 residents who enjoy a high quality of life in a community with abundant opportunities for work, recreation, and relaxation.
“Arapahoe County is incredibly diverse—not just in our people, but in our geography,” says Commissioner Leslie Summey. “We’re home to highly educated professionals, hardworking families, and deeply engaged community members. That diversity is our strength, and it shapes how we plan for the future.”
Housing and Services for Everyone
In preparation for continued growth, Arapahoe County has made housing a main priority. “We’re committed to ensuring that everyone—from those seeking affordable housing to those with greater means—can find a place to call home in Arapahoe County,” Summey explains. “We’re proactively planning for growth, and that means being intentional about zoning, density, and access to transit.”
Infill is one solution, and Arapahoe has worked on its zoning to allow development of new units on existing lots. “I was at a meeting where they were talking about areas where we could have a denser population and greater housing,” Summey expands.
“In my district, for example, we’re exploring opportunities in the Four Square Mile area to support higher-density housing,” she adds. “We’re also aligning new development with transit access, thanks to recent legislation that encourages building near bus and rail lines.”
With one of the lowest property tax mill levies in the state, only 12 percent of collected revenues are retained for county services and infrastructure, while the majority is distributed to schools, municipalities, and services like fire and water.
“We’re proud that voters supported our ballot measure to keep more of our property tax dollars here at home,” Summey says. “That funding goes directly into the services our residents rely on—roads, public safety, housing, and more.”
A Hub for Industry and Innovation
Arapahoe County is home to a wide array of industries, from aerospace and aviation to health care, advanced manufacturing, and technology. “We have extra incentives for those industries that would want to be here,” explains Summey. “We’re the third largest county in the state and we really do want to attract those industries and those businesses that want to come to a beautiful place like Arapahoe County.”
Centennial Airport, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States, serves as a major asset for the county and the surrounding region. Supporting more than 125 businesses and over 9,200 jobs, the airport generates $2.4 billion in economic impact.
“I’m honored to serve on both the Centennial Airport Authority Board and the Colorado Aeronautical Board,” Summey shares. “Centennial Airport is a jewel of our county—leading the way in aviation technology and sustainability, including the transition to unleaded aviation fuel.”
Culture and Recreation
Beyond its economic role, Centennial Airport is an Arapahoe County destination. Visitors and residents enjoy family friendly amenities such as The Perfect Landing restaurant, go-karting on the airport grounds with Colorado Karting Circuit, and a popular 5K run on the runway each summer, which attracts hundreds of participants. The Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight Campus is another gem, bringing an interactive and educational experience for flight enthusiasts of all ages. “It’s more than an airport—it’s a place where families come to learn, play, and connect,” Summey says.
Outdoor recreation options are equally abundant in Arapahoe County. The 71-mile-long High Line Canal Trail offers a scenic route that connects to parks and natural areas. “I love my neighborhood,” touts Summey. “If you want to be outdoors, if you are a nature buff, come to Arapahoe County. I have roughly 132,000 constituents in my district, and I’ve got at least four parks that I can actually walk to, and on top of that, we have the High Line Canal Trail.”
The county’s location adds to its appeal. Residents enjoy convenient access to ski slopes along the I-25 corridor, quick trips to Denver International Airport or Centennial Airport for flights to mountain destinations, and day excursions to landmarks such as Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. “We are in a perfect, perfect spot to do whatever you want to do outside,” Summey underscores.
With more than 16 languages spoken in the Four Square Mile area alone, the county celebrates its rich cultural diversity with local events and performances, showcasing everything from Filipino dance groups to Native American music classes, Denver Brass and fine art gallery shows. Summey details, “We support nonprofit arts organizations across the metro area, and we’re proud to host everything from Filipino dance to Native American music.” She notes that Fox Theatre is an excellent venue, helping to bring additional art and performance options to the community. Proximity to the Denver Performing Arts Center is another benefit for residents seeking a cultural experience. At the same time, Summey sees an opportunity for growth. “We’d love to see a larger performing arts venue in Arapahoe County,” she says. “We have the space—and the audience—for it.” The county also celebrates its heritage through exhibits like the History of Aurora Museum, sharing the unique story of the area. “That is the history of Aurora and Arapahoe County. Aurora is the largest city of our 13 cities and municipalities. So they have a wonderful thing,” she relays.
Planning for the Future
Looking ahead, Commissioner Summey suggests that continued fiscal responsibility is an area of focus for the county. “With our ballot measure we were able to bring more money from property taxes to keep for the county. The biggest thing is for us to take that influx of cash that we have and do the deferred road maintenance, put more money into programs that our residents have asked for to make Arapahoe County even more livable and more beautiful than it is now,” she imparts.
Summey also sees inclusivity as a priority.
“We serve more than 656,000 people, and every one of them deserves to feel like they belong here,” Summey affirms. “Whether you’re a business owner, a new resident, or someone who’s lived here for generations—there’s a place for you in Arapahoe County.”
“As commissioners, our job is to listen, to plan, and to serve. That’s what drives every decision we make.”
At a Glance
Name: Arapahoe County
What: One of the fastest growing counties in Colorado
Where: The Denver Metropolitan Area
Website: www.arapahoeco.gov
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