Page 16 - Denver, CO Adaptive Reuse Program

CHAPTER 3: THE POLICY BASE FOR ADAPTIVE
REUSE IN DENVER

The Formal Policy Base for Adaptive Reuse
Policy statements appear in several key documents that signal
support for adaptively reusing existing properties. These include
specific recommendations for reusing buildings, enhancing walk-
ability by providing services nearby for established residential
neighborhoods, and supporting job creation in the local economy.
These are some examples:

Comprehensive Plan 2040
i. Vision Element: Strong and Authentic Neighborhoods
As the Plan describes it, promoting strong and authentic neighbor-
hoods includes preserving the authenticity of Denver’s neighbor-
hoods and celebrating their history, architecture and culture (Goal
3). More specifically, this includes “supporting the stewardship
and reuse of existing buildings, including City properties.” Goal 4
within this Vision Element also encourages the growth and sup-
port of neighborhood-serving businesses, which is directly related
to the businesses often located in buildings that are adaptively
reused.

ii. Vision Element: Economically Diverse and Vibrant
The fourth vision element of the Plan discusses the need for a
“diverse, well-rounded economy,” which is realized by providing
opportunities “even to the most vulnerable” to participate in the
City’s economy. Goal 3 in particular aims to “sustain and grow
Denver’s local neighborhood businesses,” which includes promot-
ing small, locally-owned businesses and restaurants, a key feature
of many properties along East Colfax.

iii. Vision Element: Equitable, Affordable and Inclusive
The City’s commitment to creating a community that is equitable
and inclusive for all residents includes, among many things, the
opportunity to succeed and to access resources needed to improve
their quality of life. The ability to operate a small, family-owned
business helps residents build wealth and stability, making them
more likely to work and live in the area. Again, the adaptively
reused buildings are places for small businesses.

East and East Central Area Plans
Most recently, the East and East Central Area Plans have includ-
ed a series of recommendations for the Colfax corridor, some of
which promote adaptive reuse and even recommend “establishing
an adaptive reuse ordinance that eliminates existing barriers to
reusing structures.” This recommendation mentions issues related
to meeting public right-of-way improvements and parking require-

12 City of Denver, CO