Target 36 Pilot Program

About the Target 36 Pilot Program

On July 6, the City of Brighton began its Target 36 Pilot Program. This new program is designed to support employee wellness while continuing to deliver the exceptional service our community expects. The Target 36 Pilot Program aims to reduce the standard full-time workweek to 36 hours, with no reduction in productivity, customer service, or quality of work.  

Below are some questions and answers about this new program

What is the Target 36 Pilot Program?

Target 36 is an alternative work schedule to the traditional five-day, 40-hour workweek for all city departments. Full-time staff will target the completion of a 40-hour workload within 36 hours each week.

Why is the City of Brighton moving to Target 36?

The COVID-19 Pandemic had a worldwide impact on how people and organizations perceive work. A demand for a greater work-life balance for employees is on the rise and a modified work week has shown itself to be a solution that both improves employee wellbeing and not compromising customer service and operational excellence. The City of Brighton strives to redefine productivity in the workplace with an innovative, cutting-edge solution to attract prospective workers while retaining current employees. This shift focuses on the quality of employee output rather than the quantity of hours worked which will have an impact on employee work-life balance, retain our talented employees, attract prospective employees, and maintain quality customer service. Studies of the impacts of compressed workweeks identified decreases in employee absenteeism and employee burnout, significant fiscal savings, and an increase in organizational productivity and performance, in addition to improved morale.

What will the compressed workweek schedule look like for the City of Brighton?

The City Hall building will be open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to Noon. However, specific Target 36 schedules will be tailored to department and resident needs. There are city departments that already work alternative schedules, such as the Brighton Police Department and the Brighton Recreation Center. These departments will create a staggered, 36-hour workweek schedule in order to maintain their existing business hours. Employee workload will not change within the Target 36 program. 

How long will the Target 36 pilot program run?

The Target 36 pilot began on July 6, 2025, and be evaluated at the end of six months. As this is a pilot program, metrics will be tracked and closely monitored to ensure the program is meeting intended goals and working for all City Departments and residents. The pilot is subject to repeal at the City Manager’s discretion if it is determined to no longer be working as intended.