In February 2011 Historic Denver sent all candidates for mayor and contested city council seats a survey about so we could share with you their perspective on historic preservation. We also provided all candidates with a primer to introduce them to the mechanics of local preservation.
I love Denver’s historic schools. As a child I attended a number of DPS schools, including the beautiful Cole Middle School and Steck Elementary School. All of Denver's historic schools hold intrinsic cultural value for our community, preserving the design of the city and serving as a source of pride for our neighborhoods. Although I am a Historic Manual High School Thunderbolt through and through, I admit a sincere appreciation for all the gorgeous, historic schools throughout our great city. I believe we should go to great lengths to preserve and rehabilitate these institutions of learning, which will not only save money on capital costs but build stronger neighborhoods around these centers of community.
Historic Preservation has played a major role in Denver's economy, a prime example being the Lower Downtown Historic District (LoDo). I think we need to credit Dana Crawford and her work in Denver, particularly revitalizing Larimer Square, in the name of historic preservation at a time when it could have been easier to raze historic areas. We must not take the success of LoDo for granted today, remembering that Denver nearly lost LoDo to demolition. Because of the bold decision of the City Council in 1988 to create an Historic District we now have a thriving district that contributes sales tax to the general fund and has served as a catalyst for growth with the addition of Coors Field, Pepsi Center, Central Platte Valley, Commons Park, Union Station Redevelopment and the new headquarters for DaVita.
Historic preservation was also central to revitalizing Denver in the 1970's as young couples increased property values by refurbishing historic houses in the Capitol Hill and Washington Park neighborhoods. That revitalization continues in the current redevelopment of local historic neighborhood shopping and entertainment districts such as Five Points and the Welton Street Corridor, the Arts District on Santa Fe and Old South Pearl Street.
Today, these districts play an integral role in Denver's economy as they generate sales tax revenues that make up half of the General Fund that supports the city's basic services.
Much of our mixed-use development, as called for in Blueprint Denver, is a return to traditional urban design often found in much of our existing historic properties. I will ensure that historic design guidelines are streamlined, implementable and easy to follow. I will continue to support easements and tax credits available to property owners looking to apply for historic designation. I will educate neighborhoods and the business community on the importance historic preservation plays in economic development.
Historic Union Station serves as the heart of FasTracks and will be a key driver of job creation and economic growth in Denver – especially Lower Downtown – and across the region for years to come. While redeveloping what’s beneath and around Union Station is important, we also need to honor the station as a once and future transportation hub, preserving the beauty and value of the station itself. This includes ensuring the central train room remains the focal point of the station.
As mayor, I will create an innovative redevelopment plan for Union Station’s surrounding area, while continuing to honor neighborhood and station district plans. We will establish a process that will bring out the best and brightest ideas for revitalizing this area. Further, we should encourage the design of surrounding new development to interact with the design of Union Station – not mimic it, but complement it. Union Station will be the front door to Denver for generations to come.
I believe maintaining and protecting the historic integrity of Denver allows us to not only preserve our rich western heritage, but provides a distinct uniqueness to our city. I will work with the Department of Cultural Affairs, Theaters and Arenas, VisitDenver and Denver's Parks and Recreation to promote historical landmarks in Denver, such as the Molly Brown House and Denver's Mountain Parks system, which includes the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave and Denver's buffalo herd in Genessee Park. Through events such as AIA's Doors Open Denver event we can celebrate local architects such as Frank Edbrooke and William Lang and local landscape architect S.R. DeBoer who designed Botanic Gardens and Red Rock Ampitheater. These events and locations serve to provide tourists with a sense of Denver's heritage.
I have worked with Historic Denver for many years to preserve historic buildings. I was President of the Baker Historic Neighborhood Association just after it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and helped to promote the neighborhood for its historic qualities. I also worked with Historic Denver to save the Mayan Theatre and try to save other buildings as well. My favorite historic site in Denver is the Brown Palace Hotel because not only can you take in magnificent views of Denver, but it has been the meeting place of many in our community. You know this from the moment you enter the 116 year old building. The eloquent design and architecture make you truly realize the importance of the space to Denver’s history. From gubernatorial inaugural balls to wedding and charity events, the Brown Palace Hotel has hosted the special moments that make our history unique.
Historic preservation is part of the fabric of our city and greatly contributes to our quality of life. The historic nature of Denver’s neighborhoods was a huge factor in my moving to Denver and is surely a big factor for others as well. Having a good quality of life is the most important contributor to the economic well-being of a city. We also know that there is a thriving historic tourism industry as a result of our preservation efforts. Denver maintains a rich history and, by protecting our diverse neighborhoods, we can ensure a good quality of life and economic strength for years to come.
I think we should make it easier for people to landmark their properties. First, we should do whatever we can to streamline the process, which can sometimes be somewhat burdensome. We should also look into offering tax incentives for such remodeling. In addition, conducting a comprehensive inventory of historic properties would allow us to be proactive in preserving important properties for the future. With such an inventory we could look at how to make the most effective use of older buildings. As Mayor I will encourage preservation as well as sustainability. Environmental sustainability and historic preservation are not at odds with each other and should work together as dual goals. As Mayor, I will facilitate discussions as to how both goals can be achieved.
Union Station should be the centerpiece of this redevelopment. It is always important to appreciate the past when planning for the future. We must preserve the interior, exterior and views of Union Station to showcase our progress as a city since our being founded in 1858. There are strategies to achieve both preservation as well as improvements to the structure to support the demand of our new light rail system and I will insist that we not sacrifice what is most precious about this site.
As a City Councilman At-Large, I have always championed local developments that emphasize connections with our past, voting to preserve the character of historic areas and buildings. I have also supported tourism, creating Mile High Holidays to encourage people to visit the city and offering discount hotel rates to visit during our slowest times. As Mayor, I will continue to offer innovative ideas that will drive traffic into our tourism industry. I will continue to support the historic preservation of Denver's greatest historic assets and make these assets part of the promotion we do to attract tourists and ensure that they have plenty to see and do in Denver.
I do have a personal connection with Denver’s historic preservation. I am a Denver native and feel a connection to the history of our city. As we move Denver forward we cannot forget where we have been. Denver is a city built on resilience when faced with hardship. Our City’s landmarks are testaments to those who built Denver and are an inspiration to me as I look forward to move Denver into the next frontier.
My favorite historic place in Denver is the National Western Stock Show and the National Western Complex. Next year will be the 106th year of the Stock Show and every year I look forward to attending the Show as I have my entire life. The Stock Show represents western culture and has been a Denver institution attracting residents and visitors for over a century.
Preservation has a tremendous positive impact on Denver’s economy. One of the most successful examples of this is the development of Lower Downtown. Once the gateway to Denver, it fell on hard times and has re-emerged into the place we know it today. The redevelopment of LoDo occurred not by razing the historic buildings but rather by preserving their historic integrity and giving the neighborhood its distinctive character. We need to replicate this in all of Denver’s historic neighborhoods to encourage business and tourism.
Many visitors come to Denver to experience the West and its history. Iconic landmarks like Union Station, the Brown Palace and the Molly Brown House along with Denver’s historic neighborhoods tell the story of Denver. We need to continue to preserve and protect these, as well as other, landmarks so they will attract visitors to our city.
Many of Denver’s historic properties are desired for both business and residence. To encourage owners to rehabilitate and use historic properties the historic significance must be established. Once the significance is established, the owner should work with the City and organizations like Historic Denver to come up with the best preservation solution.
What discourages many owners from using a historic property are the costs of maintenance. I support state incentives and grant programs for upkeep for historic property owners. As Mayor, I will encourage Xcel to provide incentives to property owners to make historic properties more energy efficient. Historic properties add to the character of a neighborhood and I believe owners should be encouraged and incentivized to maintain rather than destroy historic properties.
The historic station will be the centerpiece of the Union Station redevelopment. Since it’s opening in 1881, the station welcomed visitors to Denver and now can serve the same purpose for visitors and citizens utilizing the station to visit and work in Downtown. I envision the station becoming a hub for transportation but also a location that will house businesses serving downtown. It is imperative to retain the historic significance of the building and ensuring the story of Union Station is told within its walls.
People have a fascination with the old west and frontier days when Denver was established. We have buildings and museums preserving western culture and art. Denver is home to the annual Stock Show and March Powwow that celebrates our history. From the Carnegie Library to the Molly Brown House and East High School to the Museum of Nature and Science, Denver should protect our historic structures. As Mayor, I will not only promote Colorado’s natural treasures but also its rich culture and heritage and ensure these institutions are preserved for generations to come.
Not only was I born in Denver, growing up in Park Hill and East Denver, but my grandfather served as Pastor of the historic Montview Presbyterian Church. Growing up our family lived in a vintage Denver home and today my own family now resides in Congress Park. I strongly value the unique character of each of Denver’s historic neighborhoods and believe they should be protected for our future generations.
Both Denver’s historic commercial areas and its residential neighborhoods constitute important economic drivers for our city. Historic communities are attractive to visitors throughout the metropolitan area who value the reminders they provide of Denver’s pioneering past, like redeveloped LoDo. Historic neighborhoods contribute to the perception of the city as a stable, safe and entertaining destination connected to the present across a rich history.
The city can help by streamlining the licensing process for redevelopment approvals. We should also monitor the recently approved zoning changes to ensure they support and encourage preservation efforts as well as support the unique character of Denver’s neighborhoods.
I worked on the Union Station redevelopment and I believe the historic station should serve as the centerpiece of this project. This is important for the station’s role as a transportation facility as well as the public focus for the architectural layout of surrounding commercial development. Sightlines should be preserved in order to showcase the station for approaching travelers, while the refurbishment of the building needs to preserve the sense of grandeur experienced a century ago by those arriving in Denver.
The primary impetus for creating a vibrant array of heritage tourism programs will be to leverage private-public partnerships. Existing hoteliers, tour providers and guide services will have strong ideas about what programs might best attract customers. The mayor and city government should support these tourist opportunities by making the licensure process easy, while assuring the safety of our visitors.
Historic preservation gives Denver its beauty, distinguishes us from other western cities and makes us the jewel of the west. Historic preservation gives our neighborhoods character; and I have personally restored four houses that were built between 1905 and 1911.
One of my favorite places is the Brown Palace Hotel, which was built in 1892. Having taken a tour and dined at the Brown Palace, I have a great appreciation for the unique history and architecture of the hotel.
Numerous studies have shown that preservation positively affects local economies. In addition, the reuse or adaptive use of historic structures can be a catalyst for the revitalization of Denver’s older, underutilized areas. Preservation also has a positive effect on property values and generates tourism spending. As mayor, I will work to build on Denver’s history and economy by encouraging preservation, adaptive use and historic tourism.
Like many of the historic lofts in Downtown Denver, the adaptive use of historic properties helps preserve Denver’s rich heritage while bringing new life and revenue to historic buildings. We need to partner with Historic Denver, the Department of Planning, Colorado Preservation Inc., and the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission to raise awareness about both the state and federal tax credits available to property owners. We must encourage the adaptive use of historic buildings to create a sense of civic pride and rich cultural heritage while creating new opportunities for business and residential use.
Historic Union Station will play a larger role than it currently does as an Amtrak and light rail station. The current plan, which I support, makes Union Station the center piece of the transit hub. The melding of historic Denver with a cutting edge transit hub will not only convey Denver’s rich history, but will help ensure Denver becomes a model for a sustainable, 21st century city.
The history of Denver is an integral part of our tourism economy. As mayor, I will partner with Visit Denver and Historic Denver to ensure that we encourage self-guided tours, like Historic Denver’s Story Trek program, on www.Denver.org and at visitor information kiosks and offices. We have an abundance of historical sites and buildings, like the Molly Brown House, that we must actively promote to tourists and residents alike.
After getting an MBA at DU in the early 90's the economy was in dire straits, so there were not a lot of jobs on offer, but there appeared to be some attractive values in real estate. I raised a small fund and bought single family and small multi-family residential properties from lenders. The bulk of these transactions were in and around the Highlands and involved structures from the 1920 and 30's. We renovated, updated and then rented or sold. During this period my wife and I also did (i.e. we were all of the trades except for plumbing and electrical) a top to bottom renovation of a turn of the century cottage at 23rd and Hooker. While living in London we renovated the top two floors of our Victorian double-fronted walk-up. When we returned to raise our children in Denver, we bought a 1932 home on Cranmer Park which we renovated and preserved. In 2008 we completed construction of our current home which was a new build in Belcaro. We took care to build in a green and sustainable way, following the process I participated in as a trustee of MCA|D and our new Gold LEED certified building at 15th and Delgany. For favorite historic place, I have to say the REI building on the Platte for a couple of reasons: I like industrial design and find beauty in big raw structures and material, and I like adaptive use particularly in a public private collaboration, also I office in LoDo, so it is always a fun break to walk over and shop for outdoor toys.
On a local level, I think the impact is more from how it defines the dichotomy of urban and suburban, and I believe preserved historic structures are what makes the urban environment much more rich and sought by enlightened demand. This is then the basis of preservation as an economic driver for Denver. On the national or for that matter global level, Denver is a magnet for the old and new evolving culture of the west, and with tourism as our largest, least volatile, sustainable industry, our preserved structures validate our history and draw both spending and investment.
With the state of the economy and the lending environment this will clearly need to be demand driven. That said, I think there are plenty of creative minds in our design and development community that have had success with these types of projects and will continue to find opportunities that do not require public financial assistance. In very unique "but for" situations that respond to a greater civic good, I would be willing to consider financial assistance.
I think it is the hallmark or crown to the entire development, and a long overdue re-integration or evolution of the space. My Norwegian spouse always brags about the superiority of European public transit, and was horrified to enter the time capsule that is/was Union Station 20 years ago and watch arrivals and departures being chalked up on a blackboard. Ideally, I would enjoy a green apron to replace the current surface lots to add to majestic aura of the structure.
I would assist/fund/collaborate/get my Rockmount on with anyone who can prove the benefits of pursing this target customer.
1. Do you have a personal connection to historic preservation in Denver and, if so, what is it? Feel free to let us know about your favorite historic place.
Over the last decade I personally have researched a lost Denver pioneer W.E. Sisty, found by way of Brookvale, Colorado. This man who was loved by all classes of society was lost to our history until this past year when the Denver Police Department declared Sisty as the first Police Chief of Denver. A new donated gravestone was dedicated on October 16, 2010 on the same day he was buried at Historic Riverside in 1889. The W.E. Sisty Story is a short fast film that covers this amazing pioneer and how he helped Denver. The more recent history of another is George Cranmer who gave us a finished Red Rocks, Mountain Parks and a transportation system, among others. Even more recently I have been involved in trying to save historic people & places of our arts, humanities and environmental community. Re-establishing new and lost history is very exciting as we continue to discover Denver. I was brought to Denver in 1955 by architect and philanthropist Temple Hoyne Buell and first lived in the Auditorium Hotel, while my father worked for the DCPA theater namesake. I'm forever grateful, with a love for our theatres which many have been lost i.e. Aladdin, Vogue and Bonfils/Lowenstein on Colfax.
I was happy to attend the Mayor's award for excellence in the Arts at the saved Denver Civic Theatre. My personal history dates back to seeing it for the first time with Mayor Pena and the father of Denver theatre, Henry Lowenstein, as a commissioner. Then seeing her through several transitions as a resident nonprofit, we brought her from bankruptcy, board relations, sales and a foreclosure to a happy ending.
As president of the Golden Triangle Museum District we are honored with the Molly Brown House Museum.
2. In your eyes, what impact has preservation had on Denver’s economy?
A very successful preservation conference and the continuing strides to save our buildings, neighborhoods and individual contributions to society, I see we are leaders. Historic Denver has educated us all about how from a small block, a single home and a concerned citizen can impact our lifestyle and economic development.
We are enjoying a renaissance with an appreciation for our heritage, historic homes and neighborhoods and yet gentrification is on the rise. That is why the next mayor must be a preservationist to sustain and work to find the best possible solution to something that can never be restored. We have kept but a few of the great downtown buildings, thanks to the owners, however even that can change if we don't show how they enhance the entire economic/urban environment. Historic Denver demonstrates just how important this industry is to Denver and the cities and small towns of America .
3. What ideas do you have to encourage rehabilitation and adaptive use of historic properties?
First we need to realize that progress is all relative to our past. Encourage land owners to really do due diligence in finding out what may have happened at that place. Develop a process to register the findings
so future owners will know. If a building can be retrofitted to be sustainable it has a better chance to survive, however, those that can maintain its existence as pure historic should be given a credit for energy use.
Developers have a choice to build around or integrate a design into the historic structure, but demolition should not be a given. The Evans School is one project that has been in process for decades, yet to be finished, leased and open to the public. Can we find the right use and help owners complete projects in a timely matter? This is the question that needs to be answered by a new administration with preservation in mind.
4. What role do you see the historic station playing in the redevelopment of the Union Station area into a multi-modal transportation hub?
I remember getting on the train at Union Station as a youngster and love that it hasn't changed. Except for the loss of our ski train, we have the great opportunity to build our transportation services that is most needed to become truly a tourist economy. Build the Gate and Welcome all to the City & County of Denver, Colorado.
5. How would you support heritage tourism in the city?
I ran my gubernatorial campaigns 2006 & 2010 on the value, revenue and support of cultural heritage tourism. I am your choice beyond a reasonable doubt that Denver must come to its rightful place as the gate way to the history and future of the Rocky Mountain region. We had a dress rehearsal in 2008 by showing the world who we are, and now we need to take center stage as we welcome the world visitors to Denver. Colorado, USA.
Feel free to let us know about your favorite historic place. Ever since my wife Lara and I have been living in Denver, we have had a connection to historic preservation. We have been living in the Lower Downtown Historic District, in both an historic building and in a new construction project designed to match the neighborhood. The success of our neighborhood (where I am now President) is due largely to the preservation of these Victorian-era warehouses. Additionally, we have been members of Trinity United Methodist Church for almost 10 years. The church stands out as a shining example of how the city’s history can be incorporated into its future and I am constantly inspired by its story. Both Lara and I were on the committee established to raise money to preserve and repair the historic structure while at the same time modernizing some of the infrastructure of the building.
The sanctuary of the church would also be one of my favorite historic places in Denver. With over 120 years of history, the people and events in the building have shaped the city. The hidden gem is written on a beam high up in the sanctuary, by one of the people who built the structure in 1889. It says, “Reader, what have you done since this church opened to make it a benefit to mankind? We trust your entire duty to this mission. This church extended a helping hand to the poor people outside of this church. Do you allow the poor to enter this church with the same welcome as those in costly robes?” Those are the kinds of timeless messages that are written, sometimes literally, into the historical buildings of Denver.
Historic preservation is key to Denver’s identity as a city and has been used to drive economic growth. Historic Denver’s investments of over $20 million to Denver’s communities have been a fundamental instrument in redeveloping and reinvigorating many of Denver’s diverse neighborhoods for residents and visitors alike.
In my own neighborhood, the incorporation of new development within and alongside historic landmarks has created an attractive mix to the LoDo area that spurred much needed economic growth. Not only has it turned this former slum into one of the top neighborhoods in America, it is also the most visited tourist location in the metro area. Using LoDo as an example, Denver should continue to use historic preservation as a tool for economic development throughout the city. The key is to build partnerships with residents, building owners, and the city.
Striking a balance between developer’s needs and historic preservation is key to any discussion concerning rehabilitation and adaptive use. Creating a stronger partnership between developers and Historic Denver should be a priority. When the two work together, new opportunities can emerge to enhance the quality of Denver’s neighborhoods.
Economic growth can be intertwined with rehabilitation efforts in many ways that harness the Denver creative industries. A few key properties that are ripe for innovative solutions are Union Station, the old Gates Rubber Plant, and the River North District.
As City Councilman, my priority for Denver is economic development through the creation of a more business friendly environment. It is essential to spur and foster small business development and harness Denver’s entrepreneurs. A city that emphasizes its History is attractive to new and emerging industries of every kind. Ensuring that we can preserve our landmarks within and alongside our development efforts can not only enhance landmark visibility, it can enhance the surrounding area and local community.
There are multiple areas in Denver where greater efforts towards preservation need to take place as they are becoming ripe for development. In these efforts it is vital to understand the community’s needs by reaching out to various neighborhood leaders and community members. We need to make sure that when development occurs it does so by respecting the significant historical impact of these places.
Feel free to let us know about your favorite historic place. I have a very personal connection to the 7th Avenue Historic District. My wife Mary and I were part of the contingent that petitioned for and were successful in obtaining the 7th Avenue historic designation. That district is also our home. I am also very fond of the Potter Highlands Historic District; it is a very special area of our City as well
Historic preservation has had a tremendous positive economic impact on our economy. This is especially true in some of our fabulous venues such as the “Paramount Theater and the “Ellie Caulkins Opera House”. However, the greatest impact has been to our neighborhoods. Denver is made of a broad tapestry of interesting neighborhoods, each with a unique history. Without historic preservation, many of those areas of our City would have lost their essential character and, in the long run, been de-valued and not have remained desirable places to live and raise our families.
If elected to Denver City Council-at-Large, I would be a partner with Historic Denver in furthering preservation efforts in Denver. I believe that Historic Denver is the good steward of our history for future generations. My doors would always be open to your organization and its membership to discuss your issues.
Feel free to let us know about your favorite historic place. I live in a home built in 1906. Although it is not what our ordinance would call an “outstanding” specimen, and therefore is not designated, we chose this home and this neighborhood because of an appreciation for the character of old homes and I believe they are a critical component of neighborhood character that brings and keeps people in Denver. We are on Winona Court, just across the street from the old Elitches, where there is a struggle to preserve the Old Elitch Theater. I feel the new amenities of a grocery store and gym and other services have been a great benefit to the quality of life in the neighborhood, but am so glad that the neighborhood and city fought to make sure the theater was protected to balance this new with the old band shell and theater which are what give the area soul and help remind visitors of what once was. I know the progress has been slow and not kept pace with hopes, but the fact that the landmarks weren’t lost is an interim victory even as we wait for restoration to be possible.
I have my campaign offices in the historic Grant Mansion at 11th and Grant, which is an outstanding specimen and is quickly becoming one of my favorite historic places in Denver.
But the winner of my favorite place is Historic Union Station. I have been on the board of the entity overseeing the redevelopment into a transit hub. I realize not everyone is happy with the potential for new buildings near the station and configuration of the transit, but I share the universal sentiment that this building’s history is more than bricks and mortar, it is a testament to how a place brings people together and plays a role in moving them around from place to place. And I think it is a befitting tribute to the building’s history that the area around it evolves to become a modern transit hub so that the building itself might be better preserved to continue serving this function for many more generations - sometimes the best way to preserve a building is to find a way to help bring its uses into the next generation.
I think preservation of historic homes in older neighborhoods has helped to stem a fall in property values in many of Denver neighborhoods, as we saw the homes in neighborhoods built more recently succumb to greater market fluctuation. Because of the strong personal appeal of these properties, they have economic value that helps to keep the city stronger than we would have been in this recession. I think preservation of key areas of Denver has been an economic catalyst, whether the historic warehouses of Lo Do or the Hangars on Lowry, it is better for our environment to maintain what is already built then to throw it away, and these areas are proving/intended to be catalysts for new business districts that attract residents and tourists alike because of the unique character.
I would ask questions about historic value early in the process of any redevelopment. When I was involved in the Gates Rubber Factory redevelopment, working to ensure community voices were heard in ways that ensured an inclusive project that would create good jobs and housing regular families could afford, it was very surprising to hear testimony against tearing down some of the factory buildings at the very last hearing, when I had never heard those questions raised in any of the prior public council hearings or testimonies. It made intuitive sense to ask this question once it was raised, but was so late in the process, and there were serious environmental issues that made preservation even harder than an ordinary question of adaptive reuse. The public debate around preservation of some of the buildings at CU also felt very late. Although there may have been private conversations in both projects very early, I think we need to ask for evaluation and opinions on these questions early so that the public is aware and there is adequate time to explore all the criteria and the cost involved long before council is approaching a final decision.
I would also take input from stakeholders on what additional steps council could take to support cooperative preservation in neighborhoods in a way that minimizes both the loss of historic properties but also minimizes the conflict involved in designation against the wishes of owners.
I have worked in the historic preservation field. My connection to historic preservation in Denver has actually, at times, included my employment. In fact, it was an archaeology job that I took first when I got out to Denver; and many of my closest friends are in the historic preservation field.
Historic preservation helps preserve the unique character of Denver. For every dollar spent on historic preservation there is a return of two dollars in rent, sales, or tourism. It has a quantifiable impact on the local economy.
I would definitely encourage the education of home owners and developers to understand how many resources are available in grants, tax rebates, non-profit services, and volunteer-based enterprises that work in historic preservation to restore homes of unique and valuable historic character. Also, it is important that home owners and developers realize environmental sustainability is part of historic preservation.
It is vital our local government realizes and provides those incentives for saving our local history. Property tax rebates and business tax credits should be used for those private and profit-based owners who own historic properties. Also, I would protect historic structures with the laws already applicable to them and make sure that they are enforced.
I have been a city planner for 15 years (8 in Denver) and have worked extensively on historic preservation issues. I have developed plans that include many policies that support historic preservation. As a result of my work on the East Colfax Plan and the Main Street zone district, we were able to save a number of structures from demolition with smart policy and incentives.
In one instance I convinced a developer to rezone his property to Main Street so that he could accomplish an amount of development similar to his original development but with less land. As a result we saved a house on Millionaire’s Row from demolition.
The Main Street zoning itself is based on historic patterns of development to restore character and a sense of place to key pedestrian corridors in Denver.
Also as a result of my work on East Colfax, renewed interest in the street helped to attract local developer Charlie Wooley (one of my supporters) and Joyce Meskis (owner of the Tattered Cover) who restored the Lowenstein Theater after it had sat vacant for more than 20 years.
On a personal note my childhood home was an antebellum mansion in rural Southern Indiana that had been a stop on the underground railroad. My parents lovingly restored it in the 1970s. It burned to the ground last year leaving me literally sick at the loss (see attached article). I’ve never lived in a structure less than 50 years old. My current home was built in 1902.
A desire to maintain the character and structure of the established neighborhoods of District 1 has prompted controversial down zonings. The District has a wealth of historic and intact Victorian, Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern structures worth preserving.
I would work with Community Planning & Development, Colorado Preservation, Inc., Historic Denver, the Denver Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the US Green Building Council to develop an Architectural Pattern Book to guide appropriate additions and redevelopment in established neighborhoods. I would work to promote a permit-on-demand system to allow investors to purchase pre-approved house plans for established neighborhoods as an alternative to the existing permitting process (which would remain in place). The pre-approved designs would simplify the development review process, introduce predictability to the redevelopment of the neighborhood and provide an attractive option for traditional neighborhood development (with appeal to developers, property owners and neighbors alike). After Katrina, the Mississippi Gulf Coast had the foresight to establish a pattern book to guide redevelopment to ensure that new construction would evoke the timeless styles that defined the charm and character of the region prior to the natural disaster (my website – www.cornwell4council.com provides a link to the Gulf Coast Pattern Book under the “Preservation” tab).
Do you think that existing buildings on the hospital campus can be retained and rehabilitated for new uses? The Chapel is an absolute gem and it must be preserved. Beyond the chapel, I would want to consider preservation within the context of the best development scenario for the site. The best development scenario must bring sufficient housing units to help build up the customer base to support retail/commercial spaces on Colfax and allow for the reintegration of the street grid to improve neighborhood connectivity. New development must seamlessly integrate with the surrounding neighborhood by concentrating higher intensity development at the center of the site and tapering the height, mass and scale of development as it reaches the edges. The site must also integrate aggregated open space that promotes community gathering and interaction. I served on the St. Anthony’s Hospital Redevelopment Task Force and wrote the West Colfax Plan. Taking full advantage of the development potential of this site is critical to the social, economic and cultural well-being of District 1.
I do have a personal connection to historic preservation. I reside in the Witter-Cofield
Historic District. I live in a house that was built in 1898. I chose my residence precisely
because it is an older Victorian that has been designated by the Landmark Preservation
Commission as a contributing structure in this historical district. I love my historical
home!
Preservation has had a positive impact in maintaining the historic, aesthetic and architectural integrity of neighborhoods especially in our Historical Districts. Northwest Denver has numerous Historical Districts which are controlled by the Landmark reservation Ordinance, basically requiring contributing structures to conform to the historical designation.
If Denver is to continue to be the center and hub of the greater Denver Metropolitan area it will need to accommodate and attract new residents. Denver has the infrastructure and land space to support new construction. There will need to be, of course, a balance between growth and the overall architectural integrity of Denver’s established neighborhoods, including designated Historical Districts. I believe that through cooperation District 1 can be a model for how neighborhoods, communities and developers can come together to ensure that any new construction be historically, aesthetically and architecturally consistent with the neighborhood. These terms I think better describe how older neighborhoods and new construction can coexist rather than such vague terms as “the character” of the neighborhood. Teardowns are not usually the best option financially or environmentally. The greenest option is a house that is already built.
The residents of the neighborhood have expressed their desire to see this land redeveloped as mixed use, residences and businesses a place to “live, work and play.”
Currently St Anthony’s Hospital is zoned a hospital campus. In order for the Hospital to
receive top dollar price in the sale of their property to developers they need the support of
the community probably to a general urban or urban center filing for multi-units either a
G NUE-NU 8 to 12 or 20 or a living center mixed deeds. Furthermore I believe it is
important that St Anthony’s Hospital live up to their promise to maintain a medical
presence, namely an emergency care facility in our community. The City must obtain a
written commitment from St Anthony’s Hospital to leave a medical facility on the Sloans
Lake campus as a condition precedent to considering the favorable re-zoning issues that
St Anthony’s Hospital desires. Consideration also should be given to use existing
buildings for community use such as a Senior Center or Recreation Center.
Absolutely! I live in the 2100 block of the Witter Cofield district, arguably the most beautiful block in northwest Denver, in a Victorian home built by Frank Reistle in 1890, one of Denver’s earliest engravers. As I look outside my front window, to the right I see the beautiful historic landmark, the Neefe house, built by one of Denver’s earliest brewers. Across the street from me is the Denver square built by Jimmy Doyle in the early 1900s, a political influencer and well-known socialite. One and a half blocks from me is another well-known historic landmark, the Half Moon house, where former Senator Tim Wirth resided while living in northwest Denver. I love my neighborhood and am glad that my neighbors had the foresight to get the area designated as an historic district in the early 1990s.
In addition to the historic designation of my neighborhood Witter Cofield in the 1990s and then later the Wolff Place Historic District, I was supportive of the Ghost district, southeast of the 32nd and Lowell area designated last year as a landmark district.
I think it was wise that significant portions of District 1 were moved from a two-unit to single unit designation in the Denver zoning code revision last year. This change will help control much of the "run-away" scrapes that have occurred over several contiguous properties in the district in the last several years. I also strongly support Denver's Landmark Ordinance and the three historic districts here (including my own, Witter Cofield!), and I would support other like community organizational efforts in the district.
St. Anthony’s future is likely a quality mixed-use development that will feature residential and community-servicing businesses and perhaps some office space. I intend to advocate for a continued community-serving medical presence on the site (preferably urgent care), and also for an opportunity for a rigorous community involvement process. I think it would be great if we could save the historic chapel on the site. I would support outcomes of an updated community process to help determine the future of the site.
Historic preservation in District 5 has had a positive effect upon many areas in the District. One area is Historic Montclair, specifically the gentrification of the Molkery. I understand the from my step grandmother, oral local history of the building to be originally constructed in the late 1880’s as a place said to have housed dairy cows and tuberculosis patients. A man, little known to many in the District today, Baron Walter Von Richthofen, is said to be responsible for the concept and building of the Molkery, as well as, being one of the first to develop the surrounding area. History! It is why we are, what we are, today. An old and dilapidated building that once frightened me as a child playing in the park, restored to its grandeur, adding beauty to the neighborhood through its classic and extraordinary architecture. It adds many things through its preservation, but most importantly a place creating neighborhood community, and for community gatherings, which were normalcy in times gone by.
There are many issues significant to the preservation in the District. A few of the most significant issues are the current proposals of the redevelopment of many vacant and soon to be vacant facilities and land in District 5. Redevelopment projects, such as the old University Medical Center, need to incorporate existing neighborhoods and structures into the development plans. Development needs to be done responsibly, preserving the character of the neighborhoods, with accountability to the community and residents. Understanding new construction and architecture need to be incorporated into longstanding, and compliment, established neighborhood plans. There is not just one area or neighborhood of the District history specific when considering and executing new development.
As a dual major from the University of Denver one of my majors is in History. As such, preserving historic structures and incorporating historic structures in District 5 and the City of Denver, through adaptive reuse, is very important to me. I would start by educating residents new to District 5, as well as Denver, and those interested in developing specifically in District 5. If you are not from the area or have family with roots in the community, there is no way to know what was here before them, or why. I remember my step grandmother telling me a Baron lived and built his castle right up the street from where she lived. Can you imagine what a child of ten thought? Castles were only in faraway places where princesses lived, not 5 blocks from where I was standing. It is our responsibility to educate and pass on the history, so generations are not lost, and people understand the important role many areas of District 5 played in the development of Denver. It is our responsibility as community activists and leaders to work to ensure developers, builders and residents know and understand reuse of historic structures can be done cost effectively, and to continually have dialogue to ensure reuse is always part of any new development plan, not automatic demolition.
District 5 is one of the more historic areas in Denver. We are fortunate to have some beautiful homes and structures especially in the Park Hill, Mayfair, Mayfair Park, Montclair, East Montclair and Lowry neighborhoods. Many have been registered as historic landmarks. Preservation is an important part of the culture of the district, with areas like Richtofen, the Molkery, Cranmer (Sundial) Park, and our beautiful boulevards, among other spaces. Our district residents are very sensitive to historic issues and pride themselves on a sense of place and history.
I was a chairperson of the original Lowry redevelopment and we had a great opportunity to build a new neighborhood while incorporating and maintaining some of the historic buildings of the Air Force base. We consulted with the Colorado Historical Society to guide us on historic structures. We were careful to preserve what we could and the historic society helped us create historic interpretations for both the remaining structures and those that would be razed. We preserved the headquarters (also the original home of the Air Force Academy) and the Eisenhower chapel, hangars and other sites.
The maintenance of our historic designated structures and parks is always a concern for stressed city budgets. The sundial pavilion at Cranmer Park is in disrepair and desperately needs work. The beautiful boulevards along Monaco, 17th, Montview, 6th Avenue are generally well maintained and need to continue to be so.
Denver doesn't have the ability to expand outside its borders. This provides us with some unique challenges and opportunities. Fortunately we have some areas in District 5 that can be redeveloped to help grow our economy and improve our neighborhoods while maintaining our historic landmarks. We want to be sensitive to historic preservation opportunities at the Air Force Finance Center, Colfax Avenue and the former site of the University Health Sciences Center.
One of Denver's most promising industries is the growing green and energy efficiency fields. We can update many of our historic buildings to make them more functional and current while still maintaining their historicity.
Our historic structures keep District 5 beautiful and unique. I have heard from several developers who have many adaptive reuse projects around the city and their experience has been that it is sometimes more difficult to wade through the permitting process for adaptive reuse than it would be to raze the structure and start over again. As City Councilwoman I want to study these processes to see what incentives there can be to encourage adaptive reuse when it is desirable, but not impede the development process. Many developers would be happy to maintain and support historical structures in their projects given the intrinsic value of the original structures materials, labor and energy use that went into them, but regulation and variable responsiveness on the city's behalf has sometimes been discouraging.
District 5 has an enormous variety of homes and commercial businesses, from circa-1800’s farmhouses to mid-century moderns and pedestrian-friendly storefronts. In recent years, some of our neighborhoods (including Park Hill, East Colfax, and Hilltop) have fought high-profile battles to maintain the integrity of their areas. I plan to work closely with the neighborhoods so that we can have a broad approach to handle development issues as they arise.
The most significant issue is finding the delicate balance between maintaining/improving our neighborhoods’ character and meeting the needs of property owners.
I sincerely appreciate thoughtful reuse, and I want to act as an advocate for those developers who carefully consider the visual and historic context of their project(s). The “new” 7-11 store at Colfax and Race is a perfect example of how an existing Colfax structure can be commercially revitalized and improve the local landscape; I want to actively encourage that kind of development in District 5. Within District 5, it’s also important to support businesses in our smaller commercial “pocket” districts to help ensure their long-term survival.
My connection is personal. I have lived in the Potter Highlands Historic District in a historic Queen Anne house, and it was the reason we moved there. We also lived for a short time in a home at 747 Downing Street that was the one-time residence of former Colorado Governor Carr. I later had the pleasure of voting for its historic landmark designation, which passed. We now live downtown in the Flour Mill Lofts – another designated historic place. And my favorite historic place in Denver is the “Queen” of Lower Downtown – Union Station. I’ve cast votes in favor of its preservation and protection and I see the redevelopment around it as exciting for my district, Denver and the entire region.
Within District 9 we have the Baker, Potter-Highlands, LoDo and Ballpark districts. I think people move to historic neighborhoods because they are attracted to the character of them, and helping neighborhoods understand protection in reasonable ways is critical. Understanding how to balance improvements inside and out and the renovation criteria of historic preservation in pragmatic ways is a labor of love. I think this is an issue as relevant today as it has been in the past.
I did vote on everything for Union Station and listened to the Union Station Advocates speak about their vision of the plaza, how to engage residents and visitors and using materials in accord with preservation principles. I believe in Union Station’s preservation and celebrating it as a historic place. I think it will be more notable with the modern additions of the redevelopment plan. It is and should always be the heart of the entire site. I agree with the Union Station Advocates and appreciate their passion and ideas for the historic station.
Growing up in a mid-western city and settling into Denver as an adult I have a deep appreciation and personal connection to historic preservation in Denver and overall. I have worked and traveled to some of the oldest places in civilization and firmly believe we must honor our past to realize the best future. Living in Stapleton I don’t live among some of the great historic treasurers in the city but I am quite fond of going into downtown on Larimer or Blake to see some of the great restored buildings and homes that dot each street.
As Denver continues to grow, it is important not to forget about its roots. We must strive to maintain a balance between moving into the future and preserving the past. One area that I would like to see given more attention is the preservation of our schools. Many of Denver’s educational institutions have been around for more than one hundred years. While we must continue to modernize our schools for our students, we should also take care to maintain their historical integrity. Actions such as designating East High School a historical landmark represent progress and I would like to see the same attention paid to more of our schools, such as the current project at Byers Junior High School. Education is one of the pillars of our society and it is critical that we continue to protect, and progress it.
My goals of economic growth, investment in education and collaborative government can all be supported by preservation. Preservation can bring jobs though restoration work, enhance a sense of community which is important for healthy neighborhoods and bring together groups from across the District and city. Preservation may not be the premier way to achieve some of these objectives, but it has the added benefit of contributing to the greater sense of community and community pride, which is something that can lead to long-term benefits for District 11 and Denver as a whole.
As a Denver Native I have some very strong feelings as to the history our city offers. Through the foresight of many as a city we have many historic neighborhoods that have kept their unique charm. As a city we have also been able to hold on to many historical buildings, many of which are downtown. This also adds to the charm of the heart of the city. Our historic preservation is what is one of many reasons why Denver is known for it uniqueness and hospitality. There are way too many sites to claim as a favorite. The communities of Five Points and Curtis Park are areas that one could spend hours walking and enjoying the history these communities offer.
Most District 11 is comprised of some of the newer neighborhoods in Denver. However, the Park Hill neighborhood has some of the city's most classic housing stock and unique neighborhood architecture. The District 11 portion of Park Hill is the home of the historic Smiley Middle School and open space. The Hiawatha Davis Recreation Center, known then as the Skyland Recreation Center, was the training ground of future Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups. There is a wonderful community history to preserve in Park Hill.
Through awareness to others of the historical significance the district has had, from the Park Hill community, transformation of Stapleton from and International Airport to a thriving community and the potential growth happening in Montbello, Parkfield and Green Valley Ranch.
