Residents urge Denver to protect neighborhood park access and confront gentrification

Several residents used the March 22 public comment period to raise concerns about neighborhood park access and gentrification in Denver.

Theresa Mohan, called by the clerk to speak, said she lives in a high-density neighborhood and relies on Bellevue Plantation Dock as a nearby gathering place where neighbors and pets can meet and exercise. "I would really just like to see it available especially because our neighborhood is growing," she said, urging the city to preserve access for residents.

Jesse Paris spoke about what he characterized as ongoing neglect of historically Black neighborhoods, referencing District 9 and 5 Points and criticizing the council's pace on some renaming and preservation issues. He said newcomers and development are displacing long-term residents and urged council members to "do better." Paris also said he is considering running for city council.

Roderick Marshall, who identified himself as representing District 11, described his work mentoring youth in three Denver Public Schools and urged residents to contact him with leads on people who need support; he framed his comments as efforts to prevent recidivism and to provide positive alternatives for young people.

The clerk reminded speakers that council members would not respond to comments from the dais during this session and closed public comment with an invitation to submit written comments; the clerk announced the next public comment session for March 31 and sign-up details.

No formal council responses or actions on the park or neighborhood concerns took place during the session.