Page 37 - Denver, CO Adaptive Reuse Program

vi. Grease interceptors
Understanding when a new grease interceptor is needed for an
adaptive reuse project can be challenging, as can selecting the ap-
propriate grease interceptor size, location and installation method.
Applicants often select the inappropriate size, over-estimating the
needs of their business and paying more money than necessary for
the equipment and installation.

Current Flexibility in DOTI
DOTI can make some adjustments to their streetscape and alley
requirements administratively. This often occurs on site during the
review process. While this allows DOTI reviewers to assess specific
site conditions and make decisions in real time, it can mean that
applicants are unclear about the way in which decisions are made
and about the range of potential solutions that may be available.

A variance process currently exists in the Right of Way Services
division of DOTI. There are separate variance committees for
private development and capital project review processes.

Recommendations
i. Clarify sidewalk width alternatives
In discussions with right-of-way inspectors, the required vs. ideal
sidewalk widths clearly differed. While holding as many properties
as possible to the ideal sidewalk width is understandable, discuss-
ing the potential flexibility earlier in the conversation with the ap-
plicant is needed. The ability to provide flexibility understandably
depends on the site – its context as well as potential constraints,
but some general guidelines for alternative sidewalk sections could
be published to inform applicants. Therefore, during any pre-ap-
plication meetings, as well as during the first on-site visit with the
applicant, the reviewer should determine whether holding the
applicant to the ideal 8’ sidewalk and 8’ attached lawn will be
reasonable, or if the requirements can be altered to fit the site. As
staff mentioned, maintaining the 5’ sidewalk width is the mini-
mum, and a wider sidewalk is desired, especially if there is on-
street parking, which then may trigger the need for more space to
locate street signs, parking meters and other objects.

Consider refining the standards for designated parts of the corri-
dor.

Adaptive Reuse Strategy Paper 33