City leaders push for urgent downtown revitalization plan

During a recent city council meeting, discussions centered on the stalled Burnham Yards malaria plan and the ongoing updates to the downtown area plan. Council members expressed concerns about the lack of a comprehensive plan for the Loma Lincoln Park neighborhood, which has not been included in the broader neighborhood planning initiative since the 2010 Blueprint Denver.

Councilman Lewis raised questions regarding the allocation of funds for the downtown area plan, seeking clarity on whether the additional dollars would be used for planning or execution. Senior city planner Sam Han clarified that the funds are intended solely for planning purposes, outlining a roadmap for future implementation rather than immediate execution of projects.

The urgency of updating the downtown area plan was emphasized by several council members, including Councilman Flynn, who noted the significant changes downtown has experienced in recent years, particularly post-pandemic. The council believes that revitalizing downtown is crucial for the overall economic health of the city, as it serves as a vital economic engine.

Councilman Cashman inquired about the status of the Burnham Yards project, highlighting its importance but noting that progress has been hindered by a lack of federal funding and delays from the state, which owns the site. The council acknowledged that without the necessary funding and site ownership readiness, the planning process for Burnham Yards remains on hold.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing planning needs in both downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, while also navigating the complexities of funding and stakeholder engagement.