City of Thornton

The City of Thornton, located in Adams County, Colorado, is a home rule municipality that offers a wide array of services and amenities to its residents and visitors. Established in 1956, Thornton has grown into a vibrant community with a population of approximately 141,867 as of the 2020 census.

City Services

Thornton provides essential services through its Infrastructure Department, which encompasses Public Works and Water Utilities. The Public Works Division is responsible for maintaining the city's streets, drainage systems, and ensuring safe public transit through snow removal and street sweeping services.

Additionally, the Engineering Services Division oversees capital improvements, surveying, and the maintenance of the city's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).

The Water Utilities Division is dedicated to delivering dependable and sustainable water resources to the community. Thornton ensures the protection of water sources and the efficient distribution of water to homes and businesses.

While the city collects wastewater, it does not own or operate a wastewater treatment plant.

Community Resources

Thornton Cares is a resource platform developed by the city's Community Connections division to assist residents in finding various services, including:

• food assistance
• transportation
• mental health support
• housing resources

This platform is accessible 24/7, providing a comprehensive directory of community programs and services.

Parks and Recreation

The city boasts 81 parks and nearly 2,000 acres of open space, offering over 80 miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreational facilities include the Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center and the Thornton Community Center, which provide a variety of programs and activities for all ages.

Golf courses such as Thorncreek Golf Course and Todd Creek Golf add to the city's recreational offerings.

Transportation

Thornton is well-connected through an extensive transportation network. Six highways, including Interstates 25 and 76, run through the city, facilitating easy access to neighboring areas.

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides bus and commuter rail services, with three commuter rail stations within the city:

• Original Thornton/88th
• Thornton Crossroads/104th
• Eastlake/124th

These stations serve as the northern terminus of the N Line, enhancing connectivity for residents and visitors.

Business and Economic Development

Thornton supports local businesses through various resources and partnerships. The city's Economic Development Department offers assistance with business licenses, development permits, and connections to regional economic organizations.

These initiatives aim to attract, retain, and support businesses, contributing to the city's economic growth and diversity.

Recent Developments

In June 2025, Chicken N Pickle, a Kansas City-based restaurant known for combining dining with pickleball, opened its first Colorado location in Thornton.

The 45,000-square-foot complex at The Grove shopping center features eight indoor pickleball courts, promoting a family-friendly atmosphere and a chef-driven, fast-casual dining experience.

Location

• Thornton, CO, USA

Overall, the City of Thornton is committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents through comprehensive services, recreational opportunities, and a supportive environment for businesses and community engagement.