Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets)

Share Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets) on Facebook Share Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets) on Twitter Share Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets) on Linkedin Email Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets) link

In 2009, the City of Loveland Public Works Department developed the conceptual plan for the Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets), which explored opportunities to enhance the streets within the historic core of Downtown Loveland. In 2017, after gathering public input, the plan was modernized to include a thoughtful and cost-effective approach to revitalizing 19 core blocks of Downtown Loveland.

The first phase of the Heart Improvement Plan – the 4th Street Revitalization – addresses the five blocks along 4th Street that extend from Garfield Avenue to Washington Avenue. The current effort is focused on improving 4th Street through streetscape enhancements, while the City of Loveland Water and Power Department works on upgrades to the utility infrastructure beneath the road. As this project is a significant effort, the City of Loveland and the Loveland Downtown Development Authority (DDA) have come together to finally bring this portion of the Heart Improvement Plan to fruition. We’re excited to reimagine our Downtown and it all starts with 4th Street.

Our project team is composed of local industry professionals who understand the importance of these improvements and are committed to making this a project our community can be proud of while embracing our historic core and creating a vibrant space that highlights our artistic community.

Project Vision

Create a functional, aesthetically pleasing, eclectic Downtown environment that facilitates business vitality, fosters a sense of community, and accentuates the identity of the Downtown commercial district.

Incorporate streetscaping as part of an existing major infrastructure project to minimize business impact and improve the built environment.

Project Impacts

By late February 2025, the City of Loveland aims to begin construction, starting with underground water and stormwater utility improvements. Once infrastructure improvements are complete, the City of Loveland will focus on surface improvements determined by the streetscape design. Between utility and streetscape improvements, each block is anticipated to take six to eight months to construct.

Pedestrian access to 4th Street businesses will remain open throughout the project, however, the road will be closed to vehicular traffic. Visitors can access the corridor by parking in lots along 5th Street and by using other nearby designated on-street parking. Visit the downtown parking webpage for a map of available parking options.

Updates

  • Adopted Concept Plans (2009)
  • Parking Studies (2018/2019)
  • Revised Modernization Plan (2017)
  • Infrastructure Assessment (2019)
  • 4th Street Construction Design and Drawings (2023)
    • Parking study updated
    • Present updated plans to LRFA, City Planning Commission, Loveland Parks and Recreation, APP, City Management and DDA Board (07/2023-08/2023)
    • First Open House at The Foundry to review public input (08/23/2023)
    • Second Open House at the Desk Chair Workspace to gather additional input (12/12/2023)
    • City Council Update (01/23/2024)

Project Goals

  • Focus on Economic Vitality
    • Attract new downtown visitors and patrons to encourage tourism
    • Minimize construction disruption
    • Finish the project with no business loss or claims
    • Allow for efficient access, parking and circulation
    • Catalyze business potential in under-utilized areas
  • Create a Comfortable and Inviting Downtown Experience Unique to Loveland
    • Create a safe environment that is activated at night and day
    • Develop a vibrant, engaging and unique streetscape as a regional destination
    • Capitalize on artistic spirit and attitude towards placemaking
    • Build upon the unique Downtown Loveland identity
    • Incorporate art and culture in design and user experience
    • Identity and History, unique to Loveland
  • Create a Flexible and Adaptable Streetscape
    • Flexible and functional space for a variety of uses
    • Allow for ease of seasonal programming needs
    • Inviting and appealing place for a broad demographic to stimulate diverse businesses
    • Design and build an easily maintained space
    • Create more safe and comfortable walking/pedestrian zones
  • Foster Partnerships for Long Term Success
    • Provide for sustained stakeholder engagement
    • Ensure Downtown Business support throughout project

Project Funding

On Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, Loveland’s City Council unanimously approved using Certificates of Participation (COPs) to help fund the Heart Improvement Plan’s 4th Street Revitalization project. The $24.5 million project will be paid for through a mix of Utility Enterprise Funds and COPs. Utility Enterprise Funds (Stormwater, Water and Power) will contribute $12 million, while the remaining $12.5 million will come from COPs paid by the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). No General Funds will be used for this project.

Stay Informed During Construction

Whether you live outside downtown or are directly affected by the construction, we have project updates tailored to your needs.

  • General Public Updates: Receive updates on essential project news, major milestones, city-wide impacts, and opportunities to get involved in marketing and community events.
  • Downtown Business/Resident Updates: Receive detailed information about construction impacts, traffic changes, neighborhood-specific updates, and how your business can participate in marketing campaigns and support programs.

To sign up for the project newsletter, join the Heart Improvement Plan Email List. To contact the project team, call the Public Works Department at 970-962-2524 or email HIPStreets@cityofloveland.org. Please allow at least 24-48 hours for a response. Thank you!

In 2009, the City of Loveland Public Works Department developed the conceptual plan for the Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets), which explored opportunities to enhance the streets within the historic core of Downtown Loveland. In 2017, after gathering public input, the plan was modernized to include a thoughtful and cost-effective approach to revitalizing 19 core blocks of Downtown Loveland.

The first phase of the Heart Improvement Plan – the 4th Street Revitalization – addresses the five blocks along 4th Street that extend from Garfield Avenue to Washington Avenue. The current effort is focused on improving 4th Street through streetscape enhancements, while the City of Loveland Water and Power Department works on upgrades to the utility infrastructure beneath the road. As this project is a significant effort, the City of Loveland and the Loveland Downtown Development Authority (DDA) have come together to finally bring this portion of the Heart Improvement Plan to fruition. We’re excited to reimagine our Downtown and it all starts with 4th Street.

Our project team is composed of local industry professionals who understand the importance of these improvements and are committed to making this a project our community can be proud of while embracing our historic core and creating a vibrant space that highlights our artistic community.

Project Vision

Create a functional, aesthetically pleasing, eclectic Downtown environment that facilitates business vitality, fosters a sense of community, and accentuates the identity of the Downtown commercial district.

Incorporate streetscaping as part of an existing major infrastructure project to minimize business impact and improve the built environment.

Project Impacts

By late February 2025, the City of Loveland aims to begin construction, starting with underground water and stormwater utility improvements. Once infrastructure improvements are complete, the City of Loveland will focus on surface improvements determined by the streetscape design. Between utility and streetscape improvements, each block is anticipated to take six to eight months to construct.

Pedestrian access to 4th Street businesses will remain open throughout the project, however, the road will be closed to vehicular traffic. Visitors can access the corridor by parking in lots along 5th Street and by using other nearby designated on-street parking. Visit the downtown parking webpage for a map of available parking options.

Updates

  • Adopted Concept Plans (2009)
  • Parking Studies (2018/2019)
  • Revised Modernization Plan (2017)
  • Infrastructure Assessment (2019)
  • 4th Street Construction Design and Drawings (2023)
    • Parking study updated
    • Present updated plans to LRFA, City Planning Commission, Loveland Parks and Recreation, APP, City Management and DDA Board (07/2023-08/2023)
    • First Open House at The Foundry to review public input (08/23/2023)
    • Second Open House at the Desk Chair Workspace to gather additional input (12/12/2023)
    • City Council Update (01/23/2024)

Project Goals

  • Focus on Economic Vitality
    • Attract new downtown visitors and patrons to encourage tourism
    • Minimize construction disruption
    • Finish the project with no business loss or claims
    • Allow for efficient access, parking and circulation
    • Catalyze business potential in under-utilized areas
  • Create a Comfortable and Inviting Downtown Experience Unique to Loveland
    • Create a safe environment that is activated at night and day
    • Develop a vibrant, engaging and unique streetscape as a regional destination
    • Capitalize on artistic spirit and attitude towards placemaking
    • Build upon the unique Downtown Loveland identity
    • Incorporate art and culture in design and user experience
    • Identity and History, unique to Loveland
  • Create a Flexible and Adaptable Streetscape
    • Flexible and functional space for a variety of uses
    • Allow for ease of seasonal programming needs
    • Inviting and appealing place for a broad demographic to stimulate diverse businesses
    • Design and build an easily maintained space
    • Create more safe and comfortable walking/pedestrian zones
  • Foster Partnerships for Long Term Success
    • Provide for sustained stakeholder engagement
    • Ensure Downtown Business support throughout project

Project Funding

On Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, Loveland’s City Council unanimously approved using Certificates of Participation (COPs) to help fund the Heart Improvement Plan’s 4th Street Revitalization project. The $24.5 million project will be paid for through a mix of Utility Enterprise Funds and COPs. Utility Enterprise Funds (Stormwater, Water and Power) will contribute $12 million, while the remaining $12.5 million will come from COPs paid by the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). No General Funds will be used for this project.

Stay Informed During Construction

Whether you live outside downtown or are directly affected by the construction, we have project updates tailored to your needs.

  • General Public Updates: Receive updates on essential project news, major milestones, city-wide impacts, and opportunities to get involved in marketing and community events.
  • Downtown Business/Resident Updates: Receive detailed information about construction impacts, traffic changes, neighborhood-specific updates, and how your business can participate in marketing campaigns and support programs.

To sign up for the project newsletter, join the Heart Improvement Plan Email List. To contact the project team, call the Public Works Department at 970-962-2524 or email HIPStreets@cityofloveland.org. Please allow at least 24-48 hours for a response. Thank you!

  • Weekly project updates 10/6/25 - 10/12/25

    Share Weekly project updates 10/6/25 - 10/12/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 10/6/25 - 10/12/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 10/6/25 - 10/12/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 10/6/25 - 10/12/25 link

    Hello Loveland,

    Here are the project updates for next week (10/6/25-10/12/25).

    • Both lanes of Lincoln Avenue are open!
    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenue) are fully closed to motorists.
      • Implementation of “Construction Workzone Phase 1B” has started on Blocks 1 and 2.
      • During this phase, pedestrian access will shift to the center of the roadway, where new pavement will connect to temporary ramps leading to each business. All businesses will remain open.
    • Building headers are being installed on Block 1 and Block 2.


    An aerial of Blocks 1 and 2 facing west. Pictured is the completion of concrete paving on Block 1 (between Washington Avenue and Jefferson Avenue), as well as Block 2 (Jefferson Avenue to Lincoln Avenue). Pedestrian fencing is placed in the middle of Block 1 to guide pedestrians to their destinations while new sidewalk is installed on Block 1.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • Weekly project updates 9/29/25 - 10/3/25

    Share Weekly project updates 9/29/25 - 10/3/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 9/29/25 - 10/3/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 9/29/25 - 10/3/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 9/29/25 - 10/3/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for next week (9/29/25-10/5/25):

    • Crews will complete asphalt patching at the new Lincoln and east 3rd Street crosswalks this week.
      • Once complete, both northbound lanes on Lincoln and access at east 3rd Street will be restored.
    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenues) are fully closed to motorists. All businesses remain open and accessible to people walking.
    • Implementation of “Construction Workzone Phase 1B” has started on Blocks 1 and 2.
      • During this phase, pedestrian access will shift to the center of the roadway, where new pavement will connect to temporary ramps leading to each business. All businesses will remain open.


    Crews have completed the Lincoln Avenue and 4th Street stormwater improvements; however, alternating single lanes on Lincoln Avenue remain in effect while the project completes 3rd Street crosswalk installations. The map shows available parking in downtown Loveland while Blocks 1, 2 and 5 are under construction. For parking, visitors may also visit lovgov.org/DowntownParking.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org(External link) or 970-962-2524.


    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • Weekly project updates 9/22/25 - 9/26/25

    Share Weekly project updates 9/22/25 - 9/26/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 9/22/25 - 9/26/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 9/22/25 - 9/26/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 9/22/25 - 9/26/25 link

    Here are the project updates for next week (9/22/25-9/26/25).

    • The Lincoln and E. 4th Street intersection is open to the north and west. The east leg remains closed until Block 2 (Jefferson to Lincoln) is completed.

    • The lane closure at Lincoln and E. 3rd Street will remain in place until the week of 9/29/25.

    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln) and Block 5 (Garfield to RR Ave.) are fully closed to motorists.

      • Sidewalk removals have started on Block 1 and 2 and “Phase 1B” pedestrian access has been deployed in strategic areas. Please be mindful of changing surface conditions and pedestrian routes as construction progresses.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • FOR RELEASE: 3rd Street at Cleveland and Lincoln Avenue intersections will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety

    Share FOR RELEASE: 3rd Street at Cleveland and Lincoln Avenue intersections will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: 3rd Street at Cleveland and Lincoln Avenue intersections will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: 3rd Street at Cleveland and Lincoln Avenue intersections will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: 3rd Street at Cleveland and Lincoln Avenue intersections will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety link

    City of Loveland, Colorado

    MEDIA RELEASE

    CONTACT: Illianna Milldrum, Communication and Engagement Specialist, 970-962-2608, Illianna.Milldrum@cityofloveland.org

    3rd Street between Cleveland and Lincoln Avenues will install crosswalks for improved pedestrian safety

    LOVELAND, Colo. – Sept. 15, 2025 – In coordination with the Heart Improvement Plan’s 4th Street improvements, the City of Loveland will install crosswalks at the 3rd Street and Cleveland Avenue intersection and 3rd Street and Lincoln Avenue intersection. The installation will begin today and take approximately two weeks to complete.

    The project’s general working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. During the installation, business entrances and sidewalks remain open on 3rd Street between Cleveland and Lincoln Avenues.

    Below are more specific Frequently Asked Questions that may be helpful.

    Are the crosswalk improvements part of the Heart Improvement Plan?

    The project team will be coordinating traffic control impacts with the Heart Improvement Plan’s 4th Street Revitalization project. To assist with traffic impacts, the installation of the crosswalks will slightly overlap the 4th Street and Lincoln Avenue work; however, construction at the 4th Street and Lincoln Avenue intersection should be completed by the end of next week, weather permitting.

    Will traffic on Lincoln Avenue or Cleveland Avenue be impacted?

    For the two-week duration, Lincoln Avenue traffic will be reduced to a single lane. Westbound 3rd Street traffic will be fully closed at Lincoln Avenue, with a detour available at Jefferson Avenue. A similar closure will occur at 3rd Street and Cleveland Avenue, where eastbound traffic will be rerouted to Railroad Avenue. Pedestrians will be encouraged to cross Lincoln and Cleveland Avenues at 4th Street and 1st Street through installation.

    How are the crosswalk improvements funded?

    The City of Loveland and Loveland Downtown Development Authority (DDA) applied for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Revitalizing Main Streets (RMS) grant program and was awarded earlier this year. The program encourages physical activity and enhances local economic vitality in towns and cities across Colorado through funding infrastructure improvements to make walking and biking easy, yielding long-term benefits that bolster community connections. The amount awarded for the crosswalk installation was $250,000.

    Why are crosswalks being installed in this area?

    Based on feedback from downtown residents and businesses, this section was identified as a priority for improving pedestrian safety. A 2022 traffic study confirmed the challenges pedestrians faced when crossing 3rd Street and highlighted the need for better connectivity. The Colorado Department of Transportation agreed that crosswalks were essential in this high-pedestrian area. Once the project is complete, new bulb-out crosswalks will give pedestrians a safer, more direct connection to the Foundry Parking Garage.

    How to stay in the loop?

    To stay informed about the Heart Improvement Plan’s downtown construction, visit lovgov.org/HIPStreets. For questions about the crosswalk installation or to contact the project team, call the Public Works Department at 970-962-2524 or email PublicWorksInfo@cityofloveland.org.

    Project Funding

    The Revitalizing Main Streets (RMS) grant program was awarded to the City of Loveland and DDA earlier this year. The project was accepted with terms to have the crosswalks completed by October 2025 or else the funding would expire. The grant supports $250,000 for the installation with a 10% match from the DDA.

  • Weekly project updates 9/8/25 - 9/12/25

    Share Weekly project updates 9/8/25 - 9/12/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 9/8/25 - 9/12/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 9/8/25 - 9/12/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 9/8/25 - 9/12/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for next week (9/15/25-9/19/25).

      1. The Lincoln Avenue lane closure will be extended south to east 3rd Street for crosswalk improvements at east 3rd Street and Lincoln Avenue.
      2. Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenue) are fully closed to motorists.
        • Sidewalk removals have started on Block 1.
      3. The east-west crosswalks at Lincoln Avenue and east 4th Street, Washington and east 4th Street will remain closed this week. Weather permitting, we anticipate restoring these crosswalks by the end of the week.
        • Pedestrian detours will be in place as follows:
          • At Washington and east 4th Street, foot traffic will be directed to cross Washington Avenue at east 3rd Street or east 5th Street.
          • At Lincoln and east 4th Street, foot traffic will be directed to cross Lincoln Avenue at east 5 h Street.
          • At Lincoln and east 3rd Street, foot traffic will be directed to cross Lincoln Avenue at east 1st Street.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • Weekly project updates 9/1/25-9/5/25

    Share Weekly project updates 9/1/25-9/5/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 9/1/25-9/5/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 9/1/25-9/5/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 9/1/25-9/5/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for next week (9/1/25-9/5/25):

    • In observance of Labor Day, there will be no construction activity on Monday, Sept. 1. Operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 2.

    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues ) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenue) are fully closed to motorists.

      • Northbound traffic on Lincoln Avenue/US 287 has been shifted to the west lane while work on the east side of the Lincoln Avenue and East 4th Street intersection is completed.

    • The east-west crosswalks at Lincoln and East 4th Street and Washington and East 4th Street will be closed for several weeks. Weather permitting, we anticipate restoring these crosswalks the week of September 15.

    • Pedestrian detours will be in place as follows:

      • At Washington and East 4th Street, foot traffic will be directed to cross Washington Avenue at East 3rd Street or East 5th Street.
      • At Lincoln Avenue and East 4th Street, foot traffic will be directed to cross Lincoln Avenue at East 5th Street.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • Weekly project updates 8/25/25 - 8/29/25

    Share Weekly project updates 8/25/25 - 8/29/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 8/25/25 - 8/29/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 8/25/25 - 8/29/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 8/25/25 - 8/29/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for next week (8/25/25-8/29/25):

      1. Locks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenues) are fully closed to motorists.
        • Water mains, storm mains, and power conduits are complete in Blocks 1 and 2.
        • Water and storm mains are complete in Block 5.
        • Boulder seat wall installation on Block 2.
        • Concrete curb returns at Lincoln and 4th Street and Washington and 4th Street.
        • Power conduits in Block 5.
      2. Crews are finishing the west side of Lincoln Avenue and the west lane of Lincoln will be paved this week (weather dependent). Once the west lane is paved, traffic will be shifted to the west lane on Lincoln Avenue while the east side is being completed.
      3. Power conduit is starting in Block 5.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link) or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • Weekly project updates 8/11/25 - 8/15/25

    Share Weekly project updates 8/11/25 - 8/15/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 8/11/25 - 8/15/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 8/11/25 - 8/15/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 8/11/25 - 8/15/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for this week (8/18/25-8/22/25):

    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenue) are fully closed to motorists.
    • Concrete work, conduit installation, and irrigation lines.
    • Crews are completing utilities, curb returns, and temporary sidewalks on the west side of Lincoln Avenue.
    • One east to west and one north to south crosswalk has been maintained at the intersection.
    • Storm sewer installation on boulder seat walls/art pedestals on Block 5.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link) or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

  • FOR RELEASE: Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland

    Share FOR RELEASE: Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland on Facebook Share FOR RELEASE: Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland on Twitter Share FOR RELEASE: Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland on Linkedin Email FOR RELEASE: Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland link

    Found on Fourth: History Unearthed in the Heart of Downtown Loveland

    Digging into Downtown Loveland’s history…literally

    Loveland, Colo. — Aug. 14, 2025 — Construction crews working on the Heart Improvement Plan in Downtown Loveland are uncovering more than just old infrastructure—they’re unearthing pieces of the city’s past.

    As 4th Street undergoes revitalization, we expected that crews would discover a few unexpected artifacts buried beneath the surface. So far, the findings have amounted to old bottles, cans, wooden water pipes, and other historic bricks that offer a glimpse into Loveland’s early days.

    One particularly notable find: a large concrete column discovered directly beneath the center of the intersection of 4th Street and Lincoln Avenue. When City staff started going through historic photos to see what it could be, they discovered that it once served as the foundation for a flagpole in the center of the street. This flagpole was erected in 1918 to celebrate Loveland's participation and success in a Liberty Loan campaign during World War I. Later photos show that the flagpole was removed and the same base served as one of Loveland’s first traffic lights with one central light in the intersection.

    This piece of Loveland’s civic history has been carefully removed and placed on public display on 4th Street near Thompson Park, commonly known as Pocket Park. Curious community members are encouraged to stop by and see the artifact for themselves. The concrete base will be transported to a Loveland Recycle Center (400 N Wilson Ave, Loveland, CO 80537) facility the week of August 25.

    These discoveries are fueling a new exhibit in the works at the Loveland Museum, titled “Found on Fourth,” which will showcase the artifacts and tell the story of the history beneath our feet. The Heart Improvement Plan team, in collaboration with the museum, is currently gathering artifacts and historical materials to bring this exhibit to life in fall of 2026.

    As part of the effort, the team is seeking historic photos of 4th Street and downtown Loveland. Community members who have vintage images or relevant materials are encouraged to share them by contacting lwaneka@lovelandpartnership.org.

    “We knew this project would reveal old infrastructure, but it’s really fun to also uncover small meaningful pieces of the city’s past,” said Abby Powell, assistant director, Downtown Loveland District. “It’s a powerful reminder that as we build toward Downtown Loveland’s future, we’re always looking back on the foundations of its history.”

    Stay tuned for more updates on the exhibit and the transformation of 4th Street as Loveland continues to build forward—while honoring what lies beneath.

    Additional project details including construction phasing maps, images and other project updates, can be found at lovgov.org/HIPStreets. To stay informed throughout construction, stakeholders can sign up for the Heart Improvement Plan project newsletter at go.lovgov.org/SubscribetoHIP. For questions about this project or to contact the project team, call Public Works at 970-962-2524 or email HIPStreets@CityofLoveland.org.

    About

    In 2009, the City of Loveland developed the conceptual plan for the Heart Improvement Plan (HIP Streets), which explored opportunities to enhance the streets within the historic core of Downtown Loveland. In 2017, after gathering public input, the plan was modernized to include a thoughtful and cost-effective approach to revitalizing 19 core blocks of Downtown Loveland. The first phase of the Heart Improvement Plan – the 4th Street Revitalization – addresses the five blocks along 4th Street that extend from N. Garfield Avenue to N. Washington Avenue. The current effort has the City’s Public Works Department focused on improving 4th Street through streetscape enhancements, while the City of Loveland Water and Power Department works on upgrades to the utility infrastructure beneath the road. As this project is a significant effort, the City of Loveland and the Loveland Downtown Development Authority (DDA) have come together to finally bring this portion of the Heart Improvement Plan to fruition.

    Project Funding

    The Loveland City Council, with a unanimous vote, approved the Certificates of Participation (COPs) financing method providing funding for the Heart Improvement Plan’s 4th Street Revitalization project on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. The project will be funded using a combination of Utility Enterprise Funds and COPs. Utility Enterprise Funds (Stormwater, Water, and Power) will provide $12 million of the project cost, with the remaining $12.5 million funded by COPs. The total estimated program cost for the project is $24.5 million. No General Funds will be utilized or allocated to construct this project.

  • Weekly project updates 8/04/25 - 8/08/25

    Share Weekly project updates 8/04/25 - 8/08/25 on Facebook Share Weekly project updates 8/04/25 - 8/08/25 on Twitter Share Weekly project updates 8/04/25 - 8/08/25 on Linkedin Email Weekly project updates 8/04/25 - 8/08/25 link

    Hello, Loveland!

    Here are the project updates for this week (8/4/25-8/8/25):

    • Blocks 1 and 2 (Washington to Lincoln Avenues) and Block 5 (Garfield to Railroad Avenue) are fully closed to motorists.
      • Crews will begin paving Block 1 (Washington to Jefferson Avenues) next week!
      • Crews will continue conduit installation in Block 2 (Jefferson to Lincoln Avenues) next week. Completing the conduit will allow for seat wall installation to resume.
    • Crews are completing utilities and curb returns on the west side of Lincoln Avenue. Traffic has been switched to the east/northbound lane to provide room to work.
    • Storm sewer installation on Block 5.
    • Crews will begin sidewalk removal in preparation for boulder seat wall installation on Block 05.

    Weather permitting, work activities are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at HipStreets@cityofloveland.org(External link)(External link)(External link)(External link) or 970-962-2524.

    Thank you for your continued support as we revitalize 4th Street!

Page last updated: 03 Oct 2025, 02:58 PM