COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2040

DENVER’S PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

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Adopted by Denver City Council April 22, 2019

Denveright. Your Voice. Our Future.

DENVER THE MILE HIGH CITY

Your voice.

Our future.

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DENVER THE MILE HIGH CITY

The City and County of Denver

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The community’s vision for 2040...

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

P. 08

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Equitable, Affordable and Inclusive

P. 26

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Strong and Authentic Neighborhoods

P. 32

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Connected, Safe and Accessible Places

P. 38

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Economically Diverse and Vibrant

P. 44

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Environmentally Resilient

P. 50

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Healthy and Active

P. 56

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Denver and the Region

P. 62

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INTRODUCTION

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INTRODUCTION

Planning Denver’s Future

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WHAT IS THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN?

A holistic and sustainable vision to guide the future of Denver

Comprehensive Plan 2040 creates a vision and goals to tie together the city’s plans and policies

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CITYWIDE PLANS

• Generated by multiple departments
• Contain detailed goals, objectives and strategies
• Reflect the vision and advance the goals established in the comprehensive plan

WHAT IS THIS PLAN?

Comprehensive Plan 2040 is the vision for Denver and its people. It reflects the voice of thousands of residents and is the guiding document for shaping the city we will become over the next twenty years. The plan is rooted in a strong planning tradition for our city. This tradition values what makes Denver great, including its diverse community, unique natural setting and rich history as the heart of the Rocky Mountain region.

The vision, composed of six vision elements, is the backbone of this plan. It knits together a set of long-term, integrated goals. The vision and goals provide a common language to connect the plans, policies and programs of multiple city departments.

HOW TO USE THIS PLAN

City leaders, elected officials, staff and the community should look to Comprehensive Plan 2040 as the guide for important policies and decisions. The city will use the plan and its supplements to:

• Provide a framework and common goals for all city plans
• Guide policy decisions
• Inform changes to city regulations
• Inform the city’s resource and budgeting decisions
• Evaluate and measure progress toward achieving citywide goals

OTHER CITY PLANS

A suite of city plans advance the vision of Comprehensive Plan 2040 through more detailed goals and actions. These other citywide plans are referenced throughout this document in sidebars called “Where to Find More.” Two of those plans, Blueprint Denver and Game Plan for a Healthy City, are adopted by Denver City Council as supplements to the comprehensive plan due to their broad, long-term vision. Small area plans, which include neighborhood plans, are also adopted as supplements to the comprehensive plan. These localized plans advance the citywide vision while providing important and specific guidance for a smaller area. Comprehensive plan supplements do not change the fundamental vision or goals of the plan, but they are an important way to keep the plan current and relevant over time.

Other city plans referenced in this plan are not adopted as supplements to the comprehensive plan since the majority of their content is focused on implementation strategies, often with a shorter time horizon. In addition to advancing implementation, these plans may also build upon the comprehensive plan’s vision.

All of our city plans are essential to guiding the implementation of the vision and goals in Comprehensive Plan 2040. Future plans should benefit from the Comprehensive Plan 2040 vision and goals as a consistent framework for citywide planning.

INTRODUCTION

About Denveright

Denveright is a set of community-driven plans that shape Denver’s future land use, mobility, parks, recreational resources, and more.

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Citywide strategies from Comprehensive Plan 2000, the 2002 Blueprint Denver land use and transportation plan and the 2003 Game Plan for parks and recreation have served Denver well for the last decade and a half. They have guided our transportation choices; promoted new mixed-use development; created and enhanced parks, trails and recreation centers; and catalyzed areas of change while preserving the character of stable neighborhoods.

But a lot has changed since those plans were adopted.

RTD’s FasTracks system has added significant new transit options to the region. Our population has experienced rapid growth. We’ve learned smarter and more modern ways to plan for the future of our city with inclusivity and climate change in mind.

Denveright represents an unprecedented opportunity to align citywide plans to guide future investments so that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Denveright strategies come straight from the community, and are designed to help the city prepare for and deliver a future that is responsive to their goals, visions and priorities.

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Your Vision for Denver

You helped planners create six “vision elements” that serve as the basis for Comprehensive Plan 2040 and drive each plan’s goals.

Your Voice

Thousands of Denverites shared their unique perspectives on what makes Denver great and how it can evolve to be even better. You shared your voice in many ways — by attending meetings and workshops; taking online map-based surveys; talking with the Denveright street team at festivals, community events and transit stations; joining a Community Think Tank; and more. Through coordinated Denveright outreach and the individual plans’ efforts, there were limitless opportunities to help shape our city’s future.

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INTRODUCTION

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Your Voice. Our Future.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROCESS

Denverites shaped the community values and vision that are the foundation for this plan.

The vision of Comprehensive Plan 2040 represents the voice of our community. Throughout a three-year planning process, thousands of Denverites shared their unique perspectives on what makes Denver great and how it can evolve to be even better.

Listening to the community took many forms: public meetings and workshops; online map-based surveys in English and Spanish; talking with the Denveright street team at festivals, community events and transit stations; participating in a task force and more.

The Denveright process included four task forces and one community think tank. Valuable input from these diverse groups of stakeholders also helped to shape the plan's vision.

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INTRODUCTION

From Community Values to Goals

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COMMUNITY VALUES

THE VALUES COME FROM YOU

• Why are they important?
• They inform the vision

Thousands of Denverites shared what was most important to them about their community:

• Active and Vibrant
• Equity
• Walkable, Bikeable, Accessible and Transit-Friendly
• Access to Opportunity
• Environmental Stewardship
• Access to Amenities, Services and Healthy Food
• Engaged Community
• Diverse, Friendly and Open
• Business-Friendly and Entrepreneurial
• Sense of History and Cultural Heritage
• Outdoor Lifestyle with Connection to the Mountains
• Affordable Housing and Transportation
• Great Parks and Open Spaces
• Safe and Inviting

ALL OF THE VALUES INFORM THE VISION

VIS·ION

noun

How the community imagines the physical, economic, and social fabric of our city

Why is it important? Provides the framework for all city plans

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The vision is made up of six vision elements

• I
• II
• III
• IV
• V
• VI

VISION ELEMENTS

• EQUITABLE, AFFORDABLE AND INCLUSIVE
• STRONG AND AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOODS
• CONNECTED, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE PLACES
• ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT
• ENVIRONMENTALLY RESILIENT
• HEALTHY AND ACTIVE

GOALS

Provide direction, set expectations for what the plan can do to help achieve the vision, and establish a decision-making framework.

STRATEGIES

Recommended actions to help achieve the goals.

INTRODUCTION

Vision Elements

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In 2040...

Denver is an equitable, inclusive community with a high quality of life for all residents, regardless of income level, race, ethnicity, gender, ability or age.

GOALS

1.1 Ensure all Denver residents have safe, convenient and affordable access to basic services and a variety of amenities.

1.2 Support housing as a continuum to serve residents across a range of incomes, ages and needs.

1.3 Develop housing that is affordable to residents of all income levels.

1.4 Preserve existing affordable housing.

1.5 Reduce the involuntary displacement of residents and businesses.

1.6 Integrate equity considerations into city policies, processes and plans.

1.7 Make neighborhoods accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

1.8 Increase housing options for Denver’s most vulnerable populations.

1.9 Improve equitable access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.

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In 2040...

Denver’s neighborhoods are complete, unique and reflective of our city’s diverse history.

GOALS

2.1 Create a city of complete neighborhoods.

2.2 Enhance Denver’s neighborhoods through high-quality urban design.

2.3 Preserve the authenticity of Denver’s neighborhoods and celebrate our history, architecture and culture.

2.4 Ensure every neighborhood is economically strong and dynamic.

2.5 Create and preserve parks and public spaces that reflect the identity of Denver’s neighborhoods.

2.6 Empower Denverites to be involved and collaborative in city government.

2.7 Leverage the arts and support creative placemaking to strengthen community.

2.8 Conduct intentional, equitable and measurable neighborhood planning.

2.9 Ensure all neighborhoods are safe.

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In 2040...

Denver is connected by safe, high-quality, multimodal transportation options.

GOALS

3.1 Deliver a multimodal network that encourages more trips by walking, rolling, biking and transit.

3.2 Provide a safe transportation system that serves all users.

3.3 Maximize the public right-of-way to create great places.

3.4 Create an equitable and connected multimodal network that improves access to opportunity and services.

3.5 Ensure the development of a frequent, high-quality, and reliable transit network.

3.6 Build and maintain safe bicycle and pedestrian networks.

3.7 Expand funding options for multimodal infrastructure.

3.8 Strengthen multimodal connections in mixed-use centers and focus growth near transit.

3.9 Advance innovative curb lane management and parking policies.

3.10 Embrace innovations in transportation policy and technologies to improve movement throughout the city.

The vision elements form a sustainable, comprehensive vision for our city. Each vision element is linked to a set of broad, long-term goals.

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In 2040...

Denver is a global city with a robust economy that reflects the diversity of our community.

GOALS

4.1 Ensure economic mobility and improve access to opportunity.

4.2 Grow a strong, diversified economy.

4.3 Sustain and grow Denver’s local neighborhood businesses.

4.4 Ensure Denver has a productive, competitive and knowledgeable workforce.

4.5 Strengthen Denver as a global city that will be competitive in the economy of today and tomorrow.

4.6 Enable Denver’s youth to access quality education and compete in the global economy.

4.7 Accelerate Denver’s economic vitality through arts, culture and creativity.

4.8 Expand participation in arts and culture and ensure that arts and culture are accessible to all.

4.9 Stimulate the growth of ideas and innovation.

4.10 Promote a vibrant food economy and leverage Denver’s food businesses to accelerate economic opportunity.

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In 2040...

Denver is a thriving, sustainable city connected to nature and resilient to climate change.

GOALS

5.1 Mitigate climate impact by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

5.2 Prepare for and adapt to climate change.

5.3 Conserve water and use it more efficiently.

5.4 Integrate stormwater into the built environment by using green infrastructure to improve water quality and reduce runoff.

5.5 Enhance and protect the South Platte River.

5.6 Protect and expand the city’s green infrastructure network.

5.7 Reduce the disposal of solid waste and conserve raw materials.

5.8 Clean our soils, conserve land and grow responsibly.

5.9 Protect and improve air quality.

5.10 Promote diverse and environmentally responsible food systems.

5.11 Cultivate safe, prepared and resilient communities through emergency planning.

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In 2040...

Denver is a city of safe, accessible and healthy communities.

GOALS

6.1 Create and enhance environments that support physical activity and healthy living.

6.2 Provide high-quality parks, recreation facilities and programs that serve all Denver residents.

6.3 Ensure access to affordable, nutritious and culturally-diverse foods in all neighborhoods.

6.4 Increase access to health services for all.

6.5 Incorporate health analysis into relevant city policies, processes and planning.

INTRODUCTION

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Measuring Our Success

The following metrics provide a snapshot of the current state of Denver and will help us to measure our success moving forward. Each metric sets a quantifiable outcome that will enable the city to assess how close we are to meeting the longterm vision of this plan. For certain metrics, especially for reducing cost-burdened households, it will be helpful to measure by both race and income to better understand disparities between populations.

No metric can tell us everything about one vision element. The purpose is to assess the metrics collectively to understand our current state and our future progress.

The city will use annual updates on the plan to report progress on the metrics over time. See more about annual reporting on page 23.

See the online appendix for a full description of the methodology behind each metric.

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Making it Happen

The city is committed to implementing the goals and strategies in this plan. Denver already embraces the strong spirit of collaboration needed to advance the plan’s vision. Going forward, we will work together to build upon that spirit and better integrate a holistic, inter-disciplinary approach into city projects, processes and decision making.

Collaboration extends beyond city departments and city officials. Implementation will only be successful through partnerships with the community—including nonprofits, businesses, and employers. These partners offer perspectives, strategies and resources that are essential to realizing our vision for the future.

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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

The following strategies are essential to the successful implementation of Comprehensive Plan 2040.

1 Align key city resource decisions with the comprehensive plan vision.

• Use the comprehensive plan to establish clear priorities that will inform the city’s annual budget process and guide investments, including the general fund and Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Encourage city departments to connect resources and work program priorities to the comprehensive plan vision and goals.

2 Coordinate implementation actions across departments for effective and collective impact.

• Collaborate between city departments to prioritize and combine projects that advance common goals.
• Improve the integration of regulations—such as design standards for streets and the public realm—across multiple disciplines and departments.
• Analyze the cumulative impact of proposed new funding or finance tools and identify opportunities to advance multiple goals through one tool or approach.
• Build partnerships with the community, nonprofits, employers and businesses to help promote and implement the plan.

3 Regularly track and report progress to the community on achieving the goals and vision of the plan.

• Provide an annual update on implementation across all departments
• Use the plan’s metrics to regularly assess implementation progress.

4 Update the plan and keep it relevant.

Comprehensive Plan 2040 should evolve over time. This will occur through two primary methods:

• Amendments to the plan, which should be informed by regular assessments of implementation progress and metrics.
• Adopted supplements to the plan, including neighborhood plans, to advance and refine the plan’s goals.

PLAN SUPPLEMENTS

When evaluating plans to be adopted as supplements to Comprehensive Plan 2040, the Denver Planning Board and City Council shall consider the following criteria:

1. An inclusive community process was used to develop the plan.
2. The plan is consistent with the vision, goals and strategies of Comprehensive Plan 2040.
3. The plan demonstrates a long-term view.

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TRACKING OUR PROGRESS

For Comprehensive Plan 2040 to stay relevant over time, it is vital to track our progress and report back to the community.

INTRODUCTION

How to Use This Plan

A helpful guide to the key elements of this plan.

VISION ELEMENTS

Each section contains a vision element that is supported by multiple goals. The vision elements are summarized on pages 18-19.

GOALS

Broad, long-term goals to advance the plan vision. Many goals advance more than one vision element. For example, the goals for multi-modal transportation in “Connected, Safe, and Accessible Places” also advance the vision elements of “Environmentally Resilient” and “Healthy and Active.” Reading about all of the vision elements is the best way to understand the plan’s holistic vision.

STRATEGIES

The most important actions to achieve the goal. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all strategies for a particular goal. Instead, it highlights key actions, typically ones that are less detailed and more likely to stay relevant over time.

WHERE TO FIND MORE

Important city plans with objectives, strategies and approaches most relevant to the vision element. Reading these plans will provide more information about the specific actions recommended to realize the goals.

VISION ELEMENT IN ACTION

This highlights city plans, projects, or other information most relevant to the vision element in that section.

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VISION ELEMENTS: ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT

In 2040, Denver is a global city with a robust economy that reflects the diversity of our community.

Our vision calls for a diverse, well-rounded economy and a world-class city known for innovation, creativity, natural beauty and culture. Realizing our city's economic potential means that all Denver residents—even the most vulnerable—have the opportunity to benefit from the city's economic success. This entails fostering opportunities for career development, a commitment to support local businesses and creative industries, connecting residents to quality local jobs, and educating Denverites so that they can participate in the global economy.

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GOAL 1

Ensure economic mobility and improve access to opportunity.

A. Improve economic mobility through workforce training, career development, education and wealth creation. B. Build the capacity and strength of businesses owned by women and people of color. C. Support business development and grow the talent necessary to compete in the global economy.

GOAL 2

Grow a strong, diversified economy.

A. Broaden the tax base with a focus on fiscal activity that is resilient to changes over time. B. Facilitate the growth of a diverse business sector that serves as the foundation for a global, next-generation economy. C. Leverage Denver's community assets, outdoor lifestyle, quality parks and recreation amenities and natural environment to attract a wide range of talent, entrepreneurs and businesses.

GOAL 3

Sustain and grow Denver's neighborhood businesses.

A. Promote small, locally-owned businesses and restaurants that reflect the unique character of Denver. B. Target investments and small business support to the most underserved or distressed neighborhoods. C. Address the needs of culturally-relevant businesses that are most vulnerable to involuntary displacement.

GOAL 4

Ensure Denver has a highly productive, competitive and knowledgeable workforce

A. Develop a highly trained local workforce with the skills and knowledge to effectively compete for a diverse range of local jobs. B. Provide training and programs to connect Denverites to quality middle-income jobs. C. Encourage businesses to work with local workforce training and education organizations to better train local residents for job and career opportunities.

GOAL 5

Strengthen Denver as a global city that will be competitive in the economy of today and tomorrow.

A. Deepen global connections and attract an appropriate balance of foreign, direct investment. B. Create a business environment that supports new investment and that values cultural diversity. C. Promote Denver International Airport as the gateway between Denver and world.

GOAL 6

Enable Denver's youth to compete in a global economy.

A. Create partnerships between employers and educators to directly connect students to entrepreneurs and business leaders. B. Support Denver Public Schools to address achievement gaps and ensure equitable access to quality education.

GOAL 7

Accelerate Denver's economic vitality through arts, culture and creativity.

A. Encourage the development of creative districts. B. Enhance cultural tourism and promote the city’s diversity of innovative industries. C. Grow public-private partnerships and explore tools to support creative businesses and job creation.

WHERE TO FIND MORE ...

BLUEPRINT DENVER - 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

DENVER FOOD VISION - 2017 Denver’s long-term strategic plan for food.

IMAGINE 2020 - 2014 Denver’s cultural plan.

VISION ELEMENTS: ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT

GOAL 8

Expand participation in arts and culture and ensure that arts and culture are accessible to all.

STRATEGIES A. Support multi-arts education for all ages and strengthen the pathway to careers in the creative sector. B. Remove barriers that limit participation in arts and culture including physical, economic and cultural barriers.

GOAL 9

Stimulate the growth of ideas and innovation.

STRATEGIES A. Create a culture of innovation and encourage the “accidental collision” of ideas that results in new technologies. B. Encourage entrepreneurial and emerging business growth by fostering a startup ecosystem with places, mentors, peers and systems to assist innovators and businesses.

GOAL 10

Create a vibrant food economy and leverage Denver's food businesses to accelerate economic opportunity.

STRATEGIES A. Develop Denver as an epicenter for the regional food economy. B. Support the creation, expansion and economic vitality of Denver food businesses. C. Spur innovation and entrepreneurship across food and agricultural industries.

ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT IN ACTION

An Innovative Economy

Denver is unique in its understanding of how to adapt to the economy of the future. We have the public-private leadership needed to support the culture, infrastructure and technology that will enable us to compete at the global scale. As exemplified by Panasonic’s new smart city, Denver is embracing a new way of building business and community that focuses on clean, smart technology — from microgrids to building automation systems that reduce energy use and keep indoor air healthy. Building the next generation economy will result in new innovations and high-quality jobs while building a strong connection between economic growth and healthy communities.

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For a complete list of all goals and strategies in the plan, including the city agencies and partners expected to lead each item, see the Implementation Matrix, available as an online appendix.

VISION ELEMENTS

EQUITABLE, AFFORDABLE AND INCLUSIVE

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What equitable, affordable, and inclusive means to Denver:

Diverse, Friendly and Open

Affordable Housing and Transportation Choices

Access to Amenities and Services

Equity

Where are we today?

Denver is experiencing many trends, amplified by rapid population growth, that threaten our community's values of equity and inclusivity. In the past ten years, for the first time in decades, the city became less ethnically and racially diverse. There are growing disparities between our neighborhoods, with communities of color often experiencing greater barriers to opportunity, and longtime residents and businesses who can no longer afford to stay in place. These challenges put Denver at risk of losing its rich diversity of people and cultures. Today many youth and adults do not have equitable access to the key amenities, services and opportunities that advance quality of life. Addressing these inequities and mitigating the negative impacts of gentrification—especially involuntary displacement—is essential to realizing our future vision. This includes helping our most vulnerable residents access tools to build their wealth, including quality education and attainable homeownership.

VISION ELEMENTS: EQUITABLE, AFFORDABLE AND INCLUSIVE

In 2040, Denver is an equitable, inclusive community with a high quality of life for all residents, regardless of income level, race, ethnicity, gender, ability or age.

To achieve our vision for an equitable city, with the promise of opportunity for all Denverites, we must focus on the needs of our most vulnerable residents. This means the benefits of growth and change are equitably shared by all community members and no neighborhood is disproportionately burdened by the region’s growth. It also means providing reliable and quality basic services—including public safety and clean water—for all of our residents. Denver strives to be inclusive for all community members by reducing involuntary displacement and expanding equitable access to the services, amenities and places that make our city great.

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GOAL 1

Ensure all Denver residents have safe, convenient and affordable access to basic services and a variety of amenities.

STRATEGIES

A. Increase development of housing units close to transit and mixed-use developments. B. Implement a high-quality, affordable and accessible multi-modal transportation system. C. Improve equitable access to resources that improve quality of life, including cultural and natural amenities, health care, education, parks, recreation, nutritious food and the arts. D. Improve equitable access to city resources and city meetings through proactive and transparent communications, easy-to-access information and materials available in more than one language.

GOAL 2

Build housing as a continuum to serve residents across a range of incomes, ages and needs.

STRATEGIES

A. Create a greater mix of housing options in every neighborhood for all individuals and families. B. Ensure city policies and regulations encourage every neighborhood to provide a complete range of housing options. C. Foster communities of opportunity by aligning housing strategies and investments to improve economic mobility and access to transit and services. D. Increase the development of senior-friendly and family-friendly housing, including units with multiple bedrooms in multifamily developments.

GOAL 3

Develop housing that is affordable to residents of all income levels.

STRATEGIES

A. Maximize and ensure the long-term sustainability of city funding sources for workforce and affordable housing. B. Use land use regulations to enable and encourage the private development of affordable, missing middle and mixed-income housing, especially where close to transit. C. Continue to advocate for changes to state law that remove barriers to access affordable housing options. D. Develop and promote programs to help individuals and families, especially those most vulnerable to displacement, access affordable housing. E. Leverage available publicly owned land for affordable housing development.

GOAL 4

Preserve existing affordable housing.

STRATEGIES

A. Expand existing tools, such as tax relief programs, to preserve the long-term affordability of housing throughout Denver. B. Create additional tools, including community land trusts and regulatory incentives, to preserve existing affordable housing. C. Incentivize the reuse of existing smaller and affordable homes.

GOAL 5

Reduce the involuntary displacement of residents and businesses.

STRATEGIES

A. Advance a comprehensive approach to mitigating involuntary displacement that includes expanding economic mobility, creating new affordable housing and preserving existing affordability. B. Stabilize residents and businesses at risk of displacement through programs and policies that help them to stay in their existing community. C. Evaluate city plans, projects and major regulatory changes for the potential to contribute to involuntary displacement; identify and implement strategies to mitigate anticipated impacts to residents and businesses.

WHERE TO FIND MORE . . .

BLUEPRINT DENVER • 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

GAME PLAN FOR A HEALTHY CITY • 2019 Denver’s citywide plan for parks and recreation.

HOUSING AN INCLUSIVE DENVER • 2017 Denver’s comprehensive housing plan.

DENVER MOVES: TRANSIT • 2018 Denver’s vision and guiding framework for transit.

AGE MATTERS ACTION PLAN • 2018 Denver’s plan to address the needs of its aging population.

IMAGINE 2020 • 2014 Denver’s cultural plan.

VISION ELEMENTS: EQUITABLE, AFFORDABLE AND INCLUSIVE

GOAL 6

Integrate equity considerations into city policies, processes and plans.

STRATEGIES A. Adopt strategies to ensure that city plans and processes, including budget decisions, incorporate equity. B. Track the information and measure the data needed to understand disparities and to evaluate the equity impacts of public programs and projects.

GOAL 8

Increase housing options for Denver’s most vulnerable populations.

STRATEGIES A. Expand investments in housing options and services for people experiencing homelessness. B. Partner with organizations to develop permanent and transitional housing affordable to very low-income populations. C. Ensure that city regulations enable a range of flexible housing options to meet the needs of those experiencing or transitioning out of homelessness. D. Expand the supply of housing accessible to seniors and people with disabilities, including more housing choices for seniors to age in place.

GOAL 7

Make neighborhoods accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

STRATEGIES A. Encourage the integration of age-friendly community features into public and private development. B. Prioritize infrastructure improvements that allow for residents of all abilities to access and live in any neighborhood. C. Design and program public spaces and recreation centers to accommodate people of all ages and abilities.

GOAL 9

Improve equitable access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.

STRATEGIES A. Support Denver Public Schools in its efforts to eliminate barriers to success and to provide high-quality eduction for all students regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender status, religion or economic status. B. Improve the quality, availability and affordability of early childhood care, education and child development services. C. Promote and encourage use of the Denver Public Library system, community centers, schools and other resources that provide opportunities for lifelong learning. D. Partner with higher-education institutions to ensure residents have access to local, quality higher-education.

EQUITABLE, AFFORDABLE, AND INCLUSIVE IN ACTION

What does equity mean for Denver?

EQUITY DEFINED

Equity is when everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from, has the opportunity to thrive. Where there is equity, a person’s identity does not determine their outcome. Equitable, inclusive communities are places of value that provide access to resources and opportunities for all people to improve the quality of their life. As a city, we advance equity by serving individuals, families and communities in a manner that reduces or eliminates persistent institutional biases and barriers based on race, ability, gender identity and sexual orientation, age and other factors.

WHAT DOES INEQUITY LOOK LIKE?

In Denver, many neighborhoods do not have access to basic amenities and opportunities including parks, a clean environment, affordable transportation options and quality education. Residents in these areas tend to have more health problems and lower incomes as a result of fewer opportunities.

These inequities conflict with our values of fairness and providing everyone an opportunity to succeed. They mean that residents are not able to access the resources needed to improve their quality of life. They are less likely to build wealth and stability, making them more vulnerable to involuntary displacement (when they can no longer afford to stay in their community). Many of these residents live in neighborhoods that were historically marginalized and are now experiencing reinvestment and gentrification, so the threat of involuntary displacement is high. Due to these patterns, Denver’s values of diversity and rich cultural experiences are threatened.

EQUITY IS ABOUT PROCESS AND OUTCOMES

It takes accountability to achieve equity. It is necessary for all citizens and communities to fully participate in and influence public decision-making in order to achieve equitable outcomes. Engaging community members who are most directly affected by inequity is the most effective way to advance planning for shared growth.

EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT

Equitable development is an approach to meeting the needs of underserved communities through policies and programs that reduce disparities, while fostering places that are healthy and vibrant. Truly equitable development leads to greater choice and opportunities and improves everyone’s quality of life.

EQUITY VERSUS EQUALITY

Equality means treating every person the same. Equity means giving everyone access to opportunities for what they need. Equity acknowledges that treating each person or place exactly the same may not result in fair opportunities to succeed. The diagram below illustrates this concept. With equality, everyone receives the same bicycle. The result is that many people do not have what they need to succeed. An equitable approach recognizes the unique needs of different people and gives each person an option to reach their full potential.

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STRONG AND AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOODS

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What strong and authentic neighborhoods mean to Denver:

Diverse, Friendly and Open

Affordable Housing and Transportation Choices

Access to Amenities and Services

Walkable, Bikeable, Accessible and Transit-friendly

Equity

Access to Opportunity

Sense of History and Cultural Heritage

Where are we today?

Our city's great neighborhoods are a primary reason for Denver’s desirability and the recent wave of extraordinary population growth. This includes many neighborhoods with rich cultural and architectural history. One challenge we face is to how to continue to grow, which brings many benefits, without losing what makes our neighborhoods so special—local shops, unique architecture and authentic culture. Another challenge is the increasing inequity between neighborhoods. Some areas are experiencing increases in income and access to opportunity, while others are falling behind in important indicators such such as health, educational attainment and proximity to essential amenities, including fresh food and open space. We must work to reverse these inequities and preserve our legacy as a city of strong, authentic neighborhoods.

VISION ELEMENTS: STRONG AND AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOODS

In 2040, Denver's neighborhoods are complete, unique, and reflective of our city's diverse history.

Our neighborhoods vary not only by size and character, but also through their cultural identity and community assets. While architecture styles, housing preferences and local business may change through the years, it is often the people and culture—and the reflection of that culture in the built environment—that create the character of a neighborhood. An authentic neighborhood is one which is able to stay true to its spirit, culture and roots as it evolves. Ensuring the building blocks of a strong and authentic neighborhood are available and easily accessible is central to Denver’s success.

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GOAL 1

Create a city of complete neighborhoods.

STRATEGIES A. Build a network of well-connected, vibrant, mixed-use centers and corridors. B. Ensure neighborhoods offer a mix of housing types and services for a diverse population. C. Ensure neighborhoods are safe, accessible and well-connected for all modes. D. Encourage quality infill development that is consistent with the surrounding neighborhood and offers opportunities for increased amenities.

GOAL 2

Enhance Denver's neighborhoods through high-quality urban design.

STRATEGIES A. Enhance collaboration between city agencies to ensure quality design and innovation across the public and private realm. B. Establish a scalable, predictable and adaptable approach to improve design quality across the city. C. Create people-oriented places that embrace community character with thoughtful transitions, aspirational design and an engaging public realm. D. Use urban design to contribute to economic viability, public health, safety, environmental well-being, neighborhood culture, and quality of life. E. Ensure civic buildings and public spaces enhance and contribute to the design legacy of Denver.

GOAL 3

Preserve the authenticity of Denver's neighborhoods and celebrate our history, architecture and culture.

STRATEGIES A. Create a citywide preservation plan to preserve the diversity of historic places, and complete Discover Denver, the citywide building survey identifying historic resources. B. Continue the city’s commitment to existing historic districts and landmarks and increase public awareness of the benefits of historic preservation through education and outreach. C. Ensure city policies and regulations support historic preservation and eliminate barriers in city processes to help all neighborhoods preserve what matters most. D. Expand resources to preserve and enhance neighborhood culture. E. Support the stewardship and reuse of existing buildings, including city properties.

GOAL 4

Ensure every neighborhood is economically strong and dynamic.

STRATEGIES A. Grow and support neighborhood-serving businesses. B. Embrace the international nature of our neighborhoods through support of immigrant-owned businesses. C. Make city-led catalytic investments in neighborhoods to advance community goals.

GOAL 5

Create and preserve parks and public spaces that reflect the identity of Denver’s neighborhoods.

STRATEGIES A. Ensure that parks and recreational programs reflect the unique context and cultural identity of the neighborhoods they share. B. Design public spaces to facilitate social connections and enhance cultural identity.

GOAL 6

Empower Denverites to be involved and collaborative in city government.

STRATEGIES A. Continue to strengthen trust and communication between the city and all neighborhoods. B. Provide proactive communication and transparency about city policies, public safety, processes and plans. C. Improve the engagement and representation of all Denverites, including communities of color, in neighborhood groups and city processes. D. Build the capacity of underrepresented citizens and provide resources to increase their involvement in decision-making.

GOAL 7

Leverage the arts and support creative placemaking to strengthen community.

STRATEGIES A. Infuse arts, culture and creativity into all aspects of community planning and design. B. Embrace existing communities and their cultural assets. C. Integrate community-inspired art and artistic expression into the public realm. D. Use city-owned facilities to expand arts and cultural programming.

GOAL 8

Conduct intentional, equitable and measurable neighborhood planning.

STRATEGIES A. Create diverse and inclusive opportunities for communities to participate in planning. B. Ensure all neighborhoods have a future vision that is both community-driven and long-term. C. Ensure neighborhood plan recommendations are consistent with the local vision and with this comprehensive plan.

GOAL 9

Ensure all neighborhoods are safe.

STRATEGIES A. Encourage design and new development to improve public health and safety. B. Address social harms such as mental health, substance abuse, fear of crime and traffic-related deaths through policing that responds to the unique needs of each neighborhood. C. Actively involve communities in strategies to promote safety.

WHERE TO FIND MORE . . .

BLUEPRINT DENVER • 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

GAME PLAN FOR A HEALTHY CITY • 2019 Denver’s citywide plan for parks and recreation.

DENVER FOOD VISION • 2017 Denver’s long-term strategic plan for food.

IMAGINE 2020 • 2014 Denver’s cultural plan.

VISION ELEMENTS: STRONG AND AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOODS

STRONG AND AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOODS IN ACTION

Neighborhood Contexts

Neighborhood contexts help us understand the differences in built environment between our neighborhoods. The context-based approach recognizes that neighborhoods are unique, with different needs and characteristics. Neighborhood contexts, which are mapped in Blueprint Denver, should guide policies and regulations to reflect the different needs and characteristics of an area, including land use, design, public spaces and transportation. The neighborhood contexts are distinguished from one another by their physical and functional characteristics, including but not limited to:

• street, alley and block patterns
• building placement and height
• diversity, distribution and intensity of land uses
• diversity of mobility options
• types and scales of public spaces

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VISION ELEMENTS

CONNECTED, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE PLACES

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What connected, safe, and accessible means to Denver:

Walkable, Bikeable, Accessible and Transit-Friendly

Access to Quality Education, Training and Lifelong Learning

Access to Opportunity

Safe and Inviting

Mobility Choices

Where are we today?

From 2002-2017, Denver made great strides to improve our transportation system. Since 2002, miles of sidewalk within the city increased by 1% each year and on-street bikeway mileage increased an annual average of 19%. RTD’s FasTracks continues to add light rail and commuter rail throughout the city and region. Despite these improvements, we have more work to do. Seventy-three percent of commuters drive alone and the rate of Denverites using transit dropped between 2002 and 2016. These trends, combined with significant population growth, mean increased traffic congestion, lower air quality and negative impacts on our quality of life. We also experience less safety on our streets, with increasing numbers of traffic-related injuries and fatalities in recent years. Denver is ready to reinvent its transportation system with a focus on safety, equity, sustainability and smart technology.

VISION ELEMENTS: CONNECTED, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE PLACES

In 2040, Denver is connected by safe, high-quality, multimodal transportation options.

Our future rests on a safe, equitable and sustainable multimodal transportation network. As Denver continues to grow, we need to shift how we plan and build our mobility system. Transitioning from a car-centric culture and making it easier to choose walking, rolling, biking and transit will strengthen our economy, improve safety, protect our climate and advance public health. Every Denver resident—regardless of age, ability, income or neighborhood—must have access to more transportation options. Achieving this vision entails bold actions and committed investments, especially when it comes to providing quality, reliable transit service. Denver must embrace the same spirit of ingenuity and collaboration that led to the Transcontinental Railroad, Denver International Airport, and FasTracks in order to create an affordable, safe and convenient 21st century transportation network.

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GOAL 1

Deliver a multimodal network that encourages more trips by walking, rolling, biking and transit.

STRATEGIES A. Prioritize transportation projects that will advance Denver’s mode share goals. B. Adopt policies that require Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs for developments to maximize use of alternative modes and reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips on Denver’s streets. C. Measure roadway capacity by person trips, rather than auto trips, and prioritize projects and programs that achieve the most efficient levels of moving people.

GOAL 2

Provide a safe transportation system that serves all users.

STRATEGIES A. Implement the city’s Vision Zero Action Plan to achieve zero traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2030. B. Build streets that are safe for everyone, especially for the most vulnerable, including the elderly, those with disabilities and children. C. Create a transportation system to serve all ages and physical abilities.

GOAL 3

Maximize the public right-of-way to create great places.

STRATEGIES A. Create streets to foster economic activity, contribute to great urban design and accommodate green infrastructure, including street trees. B. Develop tools, such as street design standards, to prioritize how valuable right-of-way is allocated among various demands including mobility, utilities, green infrastructure, trees and design amenities. C. Protect, enhance and expand Denver’s legacy pathways: its historic parkways, boulevards, greenways and trails.

GOAL 4

Create an equitable and connected multimodal network that improves access to opportunity and services.

STRATEGIES A. Ensure focused transportation investments—on streets as well as neighborhood trails—in areas with populations more dependent on walking, rolling and transit. B. Use the multimodal network to connect vulnerable populations to employment, education, parks and health services. C. Support efforts to enhance service and reduce fares for low-income and young transit users.

GOAL 5

Ensure the development of a frequent, high-quality and reliable transit network.

STRATEGIES A. Promote a citywide network of frequent transit service—including buses— that is reliable, safe and accessible to users of all ages and abilities. B. Implement Denver Moves: Transit, including the frequent transit network and transit capital investment corridors. C. Explore the city’s legislative, organizational and financial capacity to supplement, own, and/or operate high-quality transit service.

GOAL 6

Build and maintain safe bicycle and pedestrian networks.

STRATEGIES A. Create a citywide network for bicycling, walking and rolling that is safe and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. B. Implement the bicycle network, including facilities easy to use, recommended in Denver Moves: Bicycles. C. Implement the complete network of pedestrian infrastructure recommended in Denver Moves: Pedestrians & Trails.

GOAL 7

Expand funding options for multimodal infrastructure.

STRATEGIES A. Explore new and long-term funding tools to enable increased investments in mobility projects and services. B. Continue to make significant increases in the city’s annual budget allocation for capital investment in mobility and increase budgets for maintenance and operations.

WHERE TO FIND MORE . . .

BLUEPRINT DENVER · 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

GAME PLAN FOR A HEALTHY CITY · 2019 Denver’s plan for the vibrant parks network that forms the backbone of the city’s green infrastructure system.

DENVER MOVES: PEDESTRIANS & TRAILS · 2018 Denver’s long-term plan for walking, rolling and trails.

DENVER MOVES: TRANSIT · 2018 Denver’s vision and guiding framework for transit.

VISION ZERO ACTION PLAN · 2017 Denver’s plan to reach the goal of zero traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

DENVER MOVES: BICYCLES · 2011 Denver’s long-term plan for a complete bicycle and multi-use network. This includes the 2016 Enhanced Bikeway Study.

STRATEGIC PARKING PLAN · 2010 A plan for parking management in Denver.

STRATEGIC TRANSPORTATION PLAN · 2008 Denver’s vision for moving people.

VISION ELEMENTS: CONNECTED, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE PLACES

GOAL 8

Strengthen multimodal connections in mixed-use centers and focus growth near transit.

STRATEGIES

A. Improve multimodal connections within and between mixed-use centers including downtown, Denver International Airport and major urban centers. B. Promote transit-oriented development and encourage higher density development, including affordable housing, near transit to support ridership.

GOAL 10

Embrace innovations in transportation policy and technologies to improve movement throughout the city.

STRATEGIES

A. Deploy smart technology innovations to improve safety, traffic flow, curb lane management, wayfinding, trip planning and parking. B. Proactively plan for the impacts of new technology, including driverless vehicles.

GOAL 9

Advance innovative curb lane management and parking policies.

STRATEGIES

A. Promote strategies to balance demand for the curb lane (where vehicles park and load) that responds to the land uses on that street. B. Promote on-street parking management strategies that maximize use of the curb lane and are tailored to the context and needs of specific areas at different times of the day. C. Balance the demand for on- and off-street parking with other community goals including affordability and sustainability. D. Implement innovations in pricing and regulations to better optimize the supply of curb lane access.

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CONNECTED, SAFE, AND ACCESSIBLE PLACES IN ACTION

Vision Zero Action Plan

The Vision Zero Action Plan is Denver's approach to reaching the goal of no traffic-related deaths or serious injuries by 2030. A central tenet of Vision Zero is that people should not be killed or seriously injured as a consequence of mobility.

HOW DENVER COMMUTES VERSUS TRAFFIC DEATHS

Although people walking and rolling represent 5% of all commute trips in Denver, they represent 38% of all traffic deaths.

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SPEED OF CRASH VS. LIKELIHOOD OF DEATH OR INJURY

A key theme in the Vision Zero Action Plan is to create safe speeds. The likelihood of fatality or severe injury greatly increases with faster speeds.

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Source: Teft, Brian C. Impact speed and a pedestrian's risk of severe injury or death. Accident Analysis & Prevention. 2013.

VISION ELEMENTS

ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT

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What economically diverse and vibrant means to Denver:

Access to Opportunity

Access to Quality Education, Training and Lifelong Learning

Business-Friendly and Entrepreneurial

Diverse Employment Options

Equity

Strong Arts and Culture

Where are we today?

Denver is fortunate to have a strong economy that plays an ever-growing role in the global market. In the 1980s, the city's economy withered due to energy crises and declining oil prices. Denver and the region learned from this experience, gradually building a diverse economy that can better weather economic downturns. Today we enjoy a robust economy with significant job growth across many industry sectors. Our economic success brings many positives—new businesses and job opportunities, global connections and a culture of innovation. It has also created challenges in recent years—increased housing prices, higher rents for small businesses and fewer middle-skill jobs. As Denver continues to build a next-generation economy, we must focus on growing equitably and improving economic opportunity for all of our residents.

VISION ELEMENTS: ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT

In 2040, Denver is a global city with a robust economy that reflects the diversity of our community.

Our vision calls for a diverse, well-rounded economy and a world-class city known for innovation, creativity, natural beauty and culture. Realizing our city’s economic potential means that all Denver residents —even the most vulnerable—have the opportunity to benefit from the city’s economic success. This entails strong career development, a commitment to support local businesses and creative industries, connecting residents to quality local jobs, and educating Denverites so that they can participate in the global economy.

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GOAL 1

Ensure economic mobility and improve access to opportunity.

STRATEGIES A. Improve economic mobility through workforce training, career development, quality education and wealth creation. B. Build the capacity and strength of businesses owned by women and people of color and increase city contracting with these businesses. C. Support business development and grow the talent necessary to compete in the global economy.

GOAL 2

Grow a strong, diversified economy.

STRATEGIES A. Broaden the tax base with a focus on fiscal activity that is resilient to changes over time. B. Facilitate the growth of a diverse business sector that serves as the foundation for a global, innovative economy. C. Leverage Denver’s community assets, outdoor lifestyle, quality parks and recreation amenities and natural environment to attract a wide range of talent, entrepreneurs and businesses. D. Ensure a broad range of jobs to align with the skills and interests of local residents.

GOAL 3

Sustain and grow Denver’s local neighborhood businesses.

STRATEGIES A. Promote small, locally-owned businesses and restaurants that reflect the unique character of Denver. B. Target investments and small business support to the most underserved or distressed neighborhoods. C. Address the needs of culturally-relevant businesses that are most vulnerable to involuntary displacement.

GOAL 4

Ensure Denver has a productive, educated, competitive and knowledgeable workforce.

STRATEGIES A. Develop a highly trained local workforce with the skills and knowledge to effectively compete for a diverse range of local jobs. B. Provide training and programs to connect Denverites to high quality jobs at a range of skill levels. C. Encourage businesses to work with local workforce training and education organizations to better prepare residents for job and career opportunities.

GOAL 5

Strengthen Denver as a global city that will be competitive in the economy of today and tomorrow.

STRATEGIES A. Deepen global connections and attract an appropriate balance of foreign, direct investment. B. Create a business environment that supports new investment and that values cultural diversity. C. Promote Denver International Airport as the gateway between Denver and world.

GOAL 6

Enable Denver’s youth to access quality education and compete in the global economy.

STRATEGIES A. Create partnerships between employers and educators to directly connect students to entrepreneurs and business leaders. B. Support Denver Public Schools to address achievement gaps and ensure equitable access to quality education.

GOAL 7

Accelerate Denver’s economic vitality through arts, culture and creativity.

STRATEGIES A. Encourage the development of creative districts. B. Advance cultural tourism and expand the city’s diversity of innovative industries. C. Grow public-private partnerships and create tools to support creative businesses and job creation.

WHERE TO FIND MORE . . .

BLUEPRINT DENVER • 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

DENVER FOOD VISION • 2017 Denver’s long-term strategic plan for food.

IMAGINE 2020 • 2014 Denver’s cultural plan.

VISION ELEMENTS: ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT

GOAL 8

Expand participation in arts and culture and ensure that arts and culture are accessible to all.

STRATEGIES A. Support multi-arts education for all ages and strengthen the pathway to careers in the creative sector. B. Remove barriers that limit participation in arts and culture including physical, economic and cultural barriers.

GOAL 9

Stimulate the growth of ideas and innovation.

STRATEGIES A. Create a culture of innovation and encourage the "accidental collision" of ideas that results in new technologies. B. Encourage entrepreneurial and emerging business growth by fostering a startup ecosystem with places, mentors, peers and systems to assist innovators and businesses.

GOAL 10

Create a vibrant food economy and leverage Denver's food businesses to accelerate economic opportunity.

STRATEGIES A. Develop Denver as an epicenter for the regional food economy. B. Support the creation, expansion and economic vitality of Denver food businesses. C. Spur innovation and entrepreneurship across food and agricultural industries.

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ECONOMICALLY DIVERSE AND VIBRANT IN ACTION

An Innovative Economy

Denver is unique in its understanding of how to adapt to the economy of the future. We have the public-private leadership needed to support the culture, infrastructure and technology that will enable us to compete at the global scale. As exemplified by Panasonic's new smart city, Denver is embracing a new way of building business and community that focuses on clean, smart technology — from microgrids to building automation systems that reduce energy use and keep indoor air healthy. Building the next generation economy will result in new innovations and high-quality jobs while building a strong connection between economic growth and healthy communities.

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VISION ELEMENTS

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESILIENT

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What environmentally resilient means to Denver:

• Environmental Stewardship
• Protecting our Air, Water and Climate
• Great Parks and Open Spaces
• Outdoor Lifestyle with Connection to the Mountains
• Sustainability

A commitment to climate

The science is clear, our planet is facing a global crisis attributed largely to human behavior that is changing climate patterns around the world. This environmental emergency threatens to alter our normal landscape limiting where we can live, where we can grow our food and how we are able to access natural resources. As we look to our future we recognize that reversing our contribution to climate change is critical. How we plan our city can help us reduce our drain on resources and reduce Denver’s carbon footprint to eliminate our collective contribution to the climate change crisis. That commitment must be our over-arching guide.

Where are we today?

Rapid climate change—including rising temperatures and extreme weather events—is an increasing problem for our city, nation and world. From 1984 to 2014, Colorado statewide average annual temperatures warmed by two degrees (F). Denver is expected to see its number of extreme heat days (100° or higher) rise in the next 20 years. Without significant action, our city could experience infrastructure damage, drought and constrained water supply, reduced tree canopy, large power outages during hot summer months, lower air quality and higher rates of asthma, and a loss of water quality and aquatic life. Climate change could also detract from our vision for an equitable city since it most negatively impacts our vulnerable communities, including lower-income and elderly residents.

Many historic development patterns hurt the city's natural environment and contribute to climate change, including increases in paved surfaces and the loss of trees, streams and wetlands. The vision for 2040 relies on reversing many of these patterns through a strong commitment to building a more sustainable city.

VISION ELEMENTS: ENVIRONMENTALLY RESILIENT

In 2040, Denver is a thriving, sustainable city connected to nature and resilient to climate change.

Denver is committed to grow more sustainably and adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. This includes promoting sustainable development patterns and restoring valuable natural habitat. Through these commitments, the health and overall quality of life for our residents will greatly improve. Denverites value their connection to nature and envision a citywide network of green infrastructure including parks, public spaces, trails and creeks. Our vision for 2040 rests on a bold commitment to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a sustainable city where future generations will thrive. It is our responsibility to the global community and the future of the planet to embody sustainability and build a smarter, greener city.

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GOAL 1

Mitigate climate impact by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

STRATEGIES A. Embrace clean and local energy that comes from renewable sources such as sun and wind. B. Reduce energy use by buildings and advance green building design, including green and cool roofs. C. Invest in multimodal transportation and support a clean, carbon-free transportation system. D. Become a leader in smart technologies that help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

GOAL 2

Prepare for and adapt to climate change.

STRATEGIES A. Prepare for the impacts of climate change including increased temperatures, loss of tree canopy, infrastructure damage, increased frequency of extreme weather events and reduced snowpack and earlier snow melt. B. Plan for climate change through collaboration, innovation and special attention to the city's most vulnerable populations, who are disproportionately impacted by climate change.

GOAL 3

Conserve water and use it more efficiently.

STRATEGIES A. Encourage requirements for water-conserving landscaping for private development and publicly owned land. B. Support Denver Water's Integrated Resource Plan, including strategies to reduce water use, ensure use of metering or submetering in multi-tenant buildings, increase water recycling and efficiency and promote alternative water sources.

GOAL 4

Integrate stormwater into the built environment by using green infrastructure to improve water quality and reduce runoff.

STRATEGIES A. Embrace stormwater as an asset and integrate it into the design of streets, open spaces and neighborhoods. B. Restore and enhance waterways so they serve as community amenities. C. Improve and protect all of Denver's waterways so they are swimmable and fishable and promote life and safety. D. Encourage low-impact development that reduces impervious surfaces and positively impacts community health by using trees, low-water landscaping and green infrastructure. E. Prepare a multi-disciplinary water plan that identifies high-need areas, uses innovative best practices and prioritizes both green and gray infrastructure to treat and manage stormwater runoff.

GOAL 5

Enhance and protect the South Platte River.

STRATEGIES A. Promote the value of Denver's only river and expand its role in creating great neighborhoods, improving flood management and expanding natural habitat. B. Restore the river's ability to provide natural benefits that promote water quality, flood control, ecosystem health and socio-economic growth. C. Develop a multi-disciplinary plan to guide the future of the river including its environmental, stormwater, water quality, flood mitigation, recreation and urban design components.

WHERE TO FIND MORE...

BLUEPRINT DENVER · 2019 Denver's citywide land use and transportation plan.

GAME PLAN FOR A HEALTHY CITY · 2019 Denver's plan for the vibrant parks network that forms the backbone of the city's green infrastructure system.

80x50 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN · 2018 Denver's plan to mitigate climate change through strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

80 x 50 CLIMATE GOAL STAKEHOLDER REPORT · 2017 Denver's approach to achieve its 80x50 greenhouse gas reduction goal.

DENVER FOOD VISION · 2017 Denver's long-term strategic plan for food.

CLIMATE ADAPTION PLAN · 2014 Denver's plan to prepare for the risks and impacts of climate change.

VISION ELEMENTS: ENVIRONMENTALLY RESILIENT

GOAL 6

Protect and expand Denver’s green infrastructure network.

STRATEGIES A. Recognize parks, public space, trees and plants as vital elements of green infrastructure and ensure that the provision of these elements keeps pace with Denver’s growth. B. Connect parks, open spaces, trails, river corridors, parkways and street trees into an integrated green infrastructure network. C. Maintain and expand the citywide tree canopy. D. Preserve and enhance the city’s system of parkland and adapt park landscapes to be more climate and heat resistant.

GOAL 7

Improve solid waste diversion and conserve raw materials.

STRATEGIES A. Increase Denver’s solid waste diversion rate through increased composting and recycling, including multifamily and commercial sectors. B. Reduce waste through the reuse and conservation of materials. C. Prioritize the reuse of existing buildings and explore incentives to salvage or reuse materials from demolished structures. D. Promote the use of recycled materials in the construction of new buildings.

GOAL 8

Clean our soils, conserve land and grow responsibly.

STRATEGIES A. Promote infill development where infrastructure and services are already in place. B. Encourage mixed-use communities where residents can live, work and play in their own neighborhoods. C. Focus growth by transit stations and along high- and medium-capacity transit corridors. D. Support the redevelopment of brownfields to foster environmental clean-up and advance healthy communities. E. Identify, remediate and restore contaminated soils.

GOAL 9

Protect and improve air quality.

STRATEGIES A. Attain national ambient air quality standards. B. Improve Denver’s air by reducing the use of single-occupancy vehicles, advancing renewable energy sources, expanding the use of transit, promoting innovative and alternative technologies and supporting mixed-use, walkable neighborhoods.

GOAL 10

Promote diverse and environmentally responsible food systems.

STRATEGIES A. Encourage climate-smart food production practices. B. Expand and preserve regional food system assets and infrastructure. C. Reduce food waste to help ensure that today’s food systems preserve natural assets for the food systems of tomorrow.

GOAL 11

Cultivate safe, prepared and resilient communities through emergency planning.

STRATEGIES A. Coordinate emergency planning with regional partners and the state to reduce the impact of emergencies on Denver’s residents, businesses and environment. B. Promote community safety through outreach and education on emergency preparedness.

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESILIENT IN ACTION

80x50 Climate Goal Stakeholder Report

In 2017, a group of diverse stakeholders worked to create a broad list of transformative approaches to greenhouse gas reductions. These systems thinkers wove together the technical, financial, market, regulatory and social factors that impact energy systems into a report that meets the city’s target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 80% below 2005 levels by 2050.

The Vision of the 80x50 Stakeholders:

• Make Denver a leader in clean and local energy that comes from the sun, wind, or other innovative renewable technologies.
• Transform Denver buildings into high-performing places to live, work, learn and play.
• Inspire community action and ensure environmental justice and equity as Denver transitions to a carbon-free energy system.
• Transform Denver into a community where people walk, roll, bike, take transit or carpool for most trips in a safe, accessible and affordable transportation network.
• Aggressively transition toward a clean, carbon-free transportation system that improves the health and livability of Denver’s communities.
• Become a leader in sustainable, smart transportation through innovative partnerships, policies, programs and technology.

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VISION ELEMENTS

HEALTHY AND ACTIVE

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What healthy and active means to Denver:

• Safe and Inviting
• Outdoor Lifestyle with Connection to the Mountains
• Walkable, Bikeable, Accessible and Transit-Friendly
• Access to Amenities and Services
• Great Parks and Open Spaces
• Active and Vibrant

Where are we today?

Our city is built on a legacy of beautiful outdoor spaces and healthy, active lifestyles. Despite this legacy, Denver is falling behind on many key indicators of health. Rates of childhood obesity are increasing and historically disadvantaged communities are more likely to have health problems. At the same time, Denver’s ratio of parkland per capita has been declining and many residents lack affordable, safe transportation connections to open spaces, recreational amenities, and health services. Addressing these challenges is essential to advancing a thriving city. Our vision is for healthy and complete communities, understanding that health includes topics addressed by goals in other chapters—including clean air and water, green buildings, economic stability and safe and active transportation options.

VISION ELEMENTS: HEALTHY AND ACTIVE

In 2040, Denver is a city of safe, accessible and healthy communities.

A healthy city is one that addresses all components of community health including sustainable and clean natural environments, affordable and nutritious food, and reliable, safe and accessible active transportation infrastructure. A healthy Denver includes better access to the services and amenities needed to improve and maintain physical and mental health—from quality health services to a strong network of urban and mountain parks. It is the vision of our great city to increase opportunity for healthy living for people of all ages, incomes and abilities.

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GOAL 1

Create and enhance environments that support physical activity and healthy living.

STRATEGIES A. Recognize parks, recreation and the urban forest as vital components of a complete community. B. Promote walking, rolling and biking through the development of a safe and interconnected multimodal network. C. Design safe public spaces and recreational areas to serve people of all ages and backgrounds.

GOAL 2

Provide high-quality parks, recreation facilities and programs that serve all Denver residents.

STRATEGIES A. Ensure equitable access to parks and recreation amenities for all residents. B. Make Denver’s healthy outdoor lifestyle accessible to residents of all ages and backgrounds. C. Expand the supply of parks, recreational facilities and programs relative to Denver’s population growth. D. Preserve and maintain Denver’s mountain parks and increase access to them for underrepresented populations, especially youth.

GOAL 3

Ensure access to affordable, nutritious and culturally-diverse foods in all neighborhoods.

STRATEGIES A. Expand efforts to recruit and retain fresh-food retailers in low-income and underserved areas. B. Expand community food production and sharing. C. Build community-driven food resources. D. Increase enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

GOAL 4

Increase access to health services for all.

STRATEGIES A. Improve collaboration between health organizations, schools, faith-based organizations and other community organizations to promote preventive care and improve access to health services. B. Increase education and mobilization for community health campaigns. C. Increase access to behavioral health screening and interventions by integrating these services with physical health services.

GOAL 5

Incorporate health analysis into relevant city policies, processes and planning.

STRATEGIES A. Integrate health impacts and considerations into relevant city programs and projects. B. Work across multiple city departments and partners to address health impacts.

WHERE TO FIND MORE . . .

GAME PLAN FOR A HEALTHY CITY • 2019 Denver’s citywide plan for parks and recreation.

BLUEPRINT DENVER • 2019 Denver’s citywide land use and transportation plan.

DENVER MOVES: TRANSIT • 2018 Denver’s transit vision and implementation plan.

DENVER MOVES: PEDESTRIANS AND TRAILS • 2018 Denver’s long-term plan for walking, rolling and trails.

DENVER FOOD VISION • 2017 Denver’s long-term strategic plan for food.

BE HEALTHY DENVER • 2014 The city’s community health improvement plan (CHIP).

DENVER MOVES: BICYCLES • 2011 Denver’s long-term plan for a complete bicycle and multi-use network. This includes the 2016 Enhanced Bikeway Study.

HEALTHY AND ACTIVE: IN ACTION

Game Plan for a Healthy City

Denver is a thriving community with diverse people, places, and systems—similar to a living being, rather than a set of independent elements. Amid recent growth and change, the city’s future health depends on holistic, innovative strategies to create a 21st-century city.

Parks and recreation, once considered a nonessential bonus to basic city infrastructure, are now valued as a critical contributor to the city’s environmental and human health and as a provider of green infrastructure.

Trees and vegetation in our parks and along our parkways and streets help to clean the air we breathe and provide shade that reduces energy use. Our parks hold, clean and filter stormwater, decreasing the load on our storm sewer system. Bikeways through our linear parks promote fitness and relieve commuter traffic on congested streets. Investment in parks and recreation infrastructure has a positive ripple effect throughout our city.

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This is our future Healthy City...

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“Parks have often been seen as one of the ‘nice-to-haves’ but they are important pieces of city infrastructure, just like having streets to get places. They are an integral part of the health and social well-being of our community.”

Allegra “Happy” Haynes Executive Director, Denver Parks and Recreation

DENVER AND THE REGION

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DENVER AND THE REGION

Denver prides itself as the heart of the Rocky Mountain region, serving as Colorado’s epicenter of commerce, arts and culture. Situated where the high plains meet the foothills, Denver’s identity is tied to its historical legacies—including urban design, parks and parkways—and its connection to nature and the mountains. Largely isolated from other major metropolitan areas, Denver has an intrinsic connection to the transportation systems that connect it to the rest of the country.

Denverites appreciate the richness of experiences found in this dynamic city: a vibrant downtown street, an active city park, a peaceful night in a neighborhood. As the region faces continued growth and urbanization over the next 20 years, strong regional collaboration is necessary to shape a collective future of vibrant, connected, lifelong communities offering a broad spectrum of housing, transportation and employment. Denver has a responsibility to be a regional leader in sustainable land use and transportation practices that enhance the quality of life for all residents. Denver strives to maintain its identity as a city founded on inclusivity, diversity and openness, embracing its unique community characteristics while acknowledging the dynamism that comes with being a world-class urban center.

GOAL 1

Be a regional leader in smart growth.

STRATEGIES A. Demonstrate the benefits of compact, mixed-use development for the region. B. Monitor increases in population and employment annually to ensure Blueprint Denver has appropriate policies and strategies to manage expected future growth. C. Develop a strategic implementation plan and program for regional centers and other key growth areas in Denver. D. Protect our natural resources and open space.

GOAL 2

Embrace Denver’s role as the center of regional growth.

STRATEGIES A. Direct significant growth to regional centers and community centers and corridors with strong transit connections. B. Establish growth targets for specific regional centers to help the region achieve its goals for directing growth to designated urban centers. C. Add a significant amount of jobs and housing in downtown.

GOAL 3

Lead the advancement and promotion of regional collaboration.

STRATEGIES A. Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) on key topics including growth, equity, transportation, housing, arts, culture, open space preservation, waste management, homelessness and aging. B. Coordinate with RTD, DRCOG and local jurisdictions to lead investments in multimodal regional connections, including transit corridors. C. Advocate for the reduction of physical and social barriers between jurisdictions for the benefit of the region.

GOAL 4

Capitalize on Denver’s role as a transportation hub and enhance connections to the region and beyond.

STRATEGIES A. Leverage the regional investment in RTD’s FasTracks program to develop a network of transit-oriented centers at rail stations. B. Utilize Denver Union Station’s role as the heart of the RTD system to strengthen downtown’s principal role in the regional economy. C. Promote Denver International Airport as a vibrant, well-connected economic center and leverage its national and international connections to strengthen the regional economy.

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Growth in Denver and the Region

A strong regional economy paired with a high quality of life in the metro area has led to decades of significant growth along the Front Range. Denver itself has experienced a similar growth trend since 1990, growing by almost 250,000 people and could approach a population close to 900,000 by 2040. The region's growth will outpace Denver's, adding almost 1.2 million residents by 2040.

People have a wide latitude of choices of where to live in the U.S. and the world. Denver natives and those who move here continue to choose Denver as a place to start and raise families, to advance their education, change careers, and to grow old. We must foster people's choice to live in Denver by creating affordable, inclusive communities and taking care of our cherished neighborhoods and open spaces.

Blueprint Denver - Preferred Growth Strategy

Blueprint Denver provides the city's growth strategy. It focuses on promoting mixed-use development near transit and guiding growth to regional centers, community centers and corridors, and high intensity residential areas in and near downtown. Denver must model smart growth for the region—embracing compact development patterns linked to multimodal transportation investments. How our city grows will have a great impact on the region's health for years to come.

Denver's growth strategy strengthens our existing neighborhoods through thoughtful infill development that enhances the city's unique character. Regional centers, anchored by high-quality and frequent transit service, dot the cityscape. Auto-oriented corridors are transformed into mixed-use corridors with housing, jobs and entertainment as well as great access to transit. Other areas of the city experience context-sensitive growth and change at strategic locations. Development projects include urban parks and open spaces for all citizens to enjoy. Commitment to a compact development pattern focused on strategic infill locations linked with strong transportation options assists in improving public health indicators, such as air quality, while reducing water usage and preserving more open space.

Mile High Collaboration

The Mile High Compact is an intergovernmental agreement signed by 46 Denver-area communities that affirms the commitment to a shared regional vision. Member communities agree to adopt a comprehensive land use plan that includes a common set of elements and to use growth management tools supported by the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) Metro Vision plan to collaboratively guide growth. Metro Vision calls for directing growth to the region's urban centers while limiting uncontrolled growth at the edges of the region. Along with other DRCOG members, Denver has established an urban growth boundary limiting growth to areas appropriate for new development and has designated 32 urban centers to focus new housing and jobs. Denver plays a critical part of the overall regional strategy to handle growth in a manner that's sustainable for future generations. As the region's primary city, Denver has the region's most urban places and neighborhoods, with some of the most important infill development sites. Blueprint Denver continues the city's vision for compact development patterns tied closely to reliable, frequent, high quality-transit options.

GLOSSARY & APPENDICES

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Glossary

1. Measuring Our Success* (document available online)

2. Implementation Matrix* (document available online)

*Appendices are for reference and are available online or by request from Community Planning and Development.

Denveright.

GLOSSARY

Air quality

The degree to which the ambient air is pollution-free, assessed by measuring a number of indicators of pollution. Good air quality means that air pollution poses little or no risk and allows clear views of distant objects such as the mountains or downtown skyline.

Affordable housing

In general, housing for which the occupant(s) pay(s) no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. For this plan, affordable housing is a general term that includes attainable housing. Affordable housing may be subsidized or naturally occurring affordable housing, which is not subsidized but still affordable compared to average market rents/prices.

Authentic neighborhoods

Neighborhoods reflecting the unique culture and history of the people who live there.

Brownfields

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a brownfield is an abandoned, idled, or under-used industrial or commercial facility where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination.

Built environment

This term refers to the various "man made" elements of a city or neighborhood, or those not found in nature, such as buildings, roads, street lights, parks and infrastructure.

Carbon emissions

Carbon emissions refer to the amount of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) released into the atmosphere as a by-product of burning fossil fuels such as gas, coal or oil.

Career development

Career development is the ongoing acquisition or refinement of skills and knowledge, including job mastery and professional development, coupled with career planning activities.

Citywide plans

Citywide planning incorporates input from all areas of the city and involves multiple city departments and initiatives. These plans encompass the entire city (rather than specific neighborhoods or areas), establish goals for the future of the city, analyze and improve internal processes, and provide policy guidance to achieve those goals.

Climate change

Climate change refers to any significant change in the measures of climate lasting for an extended period of time. Climate change includes major changes, occurring over several decades or longer, in temperature, precipitation or wind patterns. (Denver's Climate Adaption Plan)

Climate mitigation

Efforts to reduce or prevent greenhouse gas emissions. Examples of mitigation efforts can include increasing renewable energy use, upgrading and replacing equipment to more energy efficient models and informing consumer behavior to make sustainable decisions. Policy and infrastructure mitigation efforts range from increasing public transportation and bicycle pathways to enhancing natural carbon sinks (areas that accumulate and store carbon) such as trees. (Denver Climate Action Plan)

Climate adaptation

Efforts to prepare for and adjust to the current and future impacts of climate change. Examples of climate adaptation include increasing energy efficiency to help offset increases in energy consumption due to extreme weather, ensuring the availability of cooling centers in the face of extreme heat events and upgrading stormwater infrastructure to better withstand extreme rainfall events. (Denver Climate Action Plan)

Collective impact

Collective impact occurs when multiple partners commit to advancing the same vision or goal. It relies on collaborative actions that result in comprehensive, effective outcomes.

Community land trust

A private, not-for-profit entity that acquires and manages property for the dual purposes of perpetually affordable housing and community benefit.

Community think tank

A forum created for the Denveright planning process for community leaders to share thoughts on important topics related to all Denveright plans. Composed of Denver community members who represent the diversity of our city, the think tank provided input on key items that cut across all Denveright plans.

Community values

The core principles and concepts important to the Denver community. They must be acknowledged, honored and constantly defended to ensure change and development occur in accordance with these core principles.

Complete neighborhood

A neighborhood where all residents have safe and convenient access to the goods and services needed in daily life. This includes a variety of housing options, fresh food and other commercial services, open spaces and recreational facilities, affordable active transportation options, high quality transit, and civic amenities. An important element of a complete neighborhood is to meet the needs of people of all ages and abilities.

Creative district

An area with a concentration of artistic and cultural activities/ facilities, arts and entertainment businesses or artistic/ cultural and creative sector production. The Colorado Creative District Program is a State funded program aimed at supporting the development of Creative Districts across the state.

Curb lane

A curb lane is an outermost lane of a roadway that is wide enough to be safely shared side by side by a bicycle and a wider motor vehicle at the same time.

Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG)

The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is a planning organization where local governments collaborate to establish guidelines, set policy and allocate funding in the areas of: transportation and personal mobility; growth and development; and aging and disability resources.

Economic mobility

The ability of an individual, family or some other group to move along the economic spectrum in terms of wealth and income.

Equity

Equity is when everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from, has the opportunity to thrive (Colorado Department of Public Health). Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible (Metro Denver Partnership for Health). Healthy equity practice intentionally supports policies, delivers public services and allocates resources to advance health equity and eliminate institutional biases and barriers. Equity acknowledges that treating every person or place exactly the same may not result in fair opportunities to succeed.

FasTracks

The RTD FasTracks Program is a multi-billion dollar comprehensive transit expansion plan to build 122 miles of new commuter rail and light rail, 18 miles of bus rapid transit, 21,000 new parking spaces at light rail and bus stations, and enhance bus service for easy, convenient bus/rail connections across the eight-county district.

Flex/ innovation

Designated by Blueprint Denver, these manufacturing districts serve the purpose of craft/maker space, high-tech design and manufacturing with a mix of employment and residential land uses.

Food systems

A food system is the process of how food gets from a farm or ranch to an individual and their family. The food system begins with the land, water, seeds and tools that farmers and ranchers convert into food. The

GLOSSARY

food system also encompasses the cleaning, moving, processing, repacking, packaging, distributing, selling and coking that happens between the farm and the plate (Denver Food Vision).

Goals

As they pertain to Comprehensive Plan 2040, goals are broad, long-term aims that support the vision. Although goals are organized by vision element, many goals advance more than one vision element.

Green infrastructure

Public or private assets—including both natural and engineered facilities—that protect, support or mimic natural systems to provide stormwater management, water quality, reduced flooding risks, urban heat island effect mitigation, reduced energy demands, climate change resiliency and enhanced community livability. For the purposes of this plan, green infrastructure reflects a broad definition that includes trees, plants, parks, and greenways.

Greenhouse gas

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and make the planet warmer. Examples of greenhouse gases include: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases. The largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from human activities in the United States is from burning fossil fuels for electricity, heat and transportation (EPA).

Gray infrastructure

The traditional type of stormwater infrastructure in which sewerage mains, tunnels and wastewater treatment plants play a key role in collecting, conveying and treating the sewage and stormwater prior to discharge.

Health analysis

Evaluates the health effects of proposed projects, plans and policies; highlights health disparities; provides evidence-based recommendations to improve health; raises awareness about health; makes health effects more explicit; and engages and empowers communities to improve the health of their residents.

High-capacity transit

From the Denver Moves: Transit plan, high-capacity transit includes any form of public transit that has an exclusive right-of-way, a non-exclusive right-of-way, or a combination of both. High-capacity transit vehicles make fewer stops, travel at higher speeds, have more frequent service, and carry more people than local service transit. High-capacity transit can include light rail, rapid streetcar, commuter rail, and bus rapid transit. See Denver Moves: Transit for a full description.

Impervious surfaces

Land surfaces that repel water and do not let rainwater infiltrate, or soak into, the ground. This includes roads, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots. More of these surfaces contribute to the Urban Heat Island effect and exasperate flooding from stormwater issues.

Inclusive

Inclusive of many cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Welcoming to all people and intentionally including those who might otherwise be excluded.

Infill development

The process of developing vacant or under-used parcels within existing urban areas that are already largely developed.

Infrastructure

Refers to the fundamental facilities and systems serving a country, city, or other area, including the services and facilities necessary for its economy to function. Examples of infrastructure include roads, sidewalks, water and sewer systems, power and telecommunications lines.

Involuntary displacement

When property values and/or rents in an area rise and residents and/or businesses are forced to relocate to neighborhoods where real estate is less costly.

Land use

Land use is a broad term encompassing all the different ways that humans use or develop land for economic, residential, recreational, conversational and governmental purposes. The concept of land use is closely intertwined with human community development.

Middle skill jobs

Jobs that require more education and training than a high school diploma but less than a four-year college degree (Harvard Business School)

Missing middle housing

Housing types that fall between high-density and single-unit houses, such as duplexes, fourplexes, row homes and townhomes, and provide options affordable to moderate income residents. This type of housing serves people who live well above the poverty line, but still struggle to afford housing in Denver, such as teachers and firefighters.

Mixed-use development

Mixes of residential, commercial and office space within the same buildings and/or districts.

Mobility

The ability to move from one place to another, or movement of people and goods from one place to another.

Multimodal streets

Streets that accommodate multiple modes of travel including rapid transit (bus and rail options), bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles.

Natural environment

All living and non-living things that occur naturally on a particular region.

Neighborhood equity index

Produced by the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, the Neighborhood Equity index is a representation of some of the socioeconomic, built environment, health care and health barriers that residents of Denver neighborhood face in accessing opportunities to lead healthy, productive lives. The index helps to inform decision makers about where city investment and resources are needed most in order for those living in Denver’s underserved neighborhoods to reach their full potential.

Neighborhood planning

A type of small area planning that happens at the neighborhood level and achieves the following benefits:

• Engages the community in identifying a future vision for the area and then provides strategies and recommendations for achieving that vision.
• Provides detailed recommendations for land use and future investments to help ensure neighborhoods grow as envisioned by the plan.
• Provides a level of analysis, detail, and guidance on issues affecting local areas that citywide plans cannot.

Pedestrian facilities

Elements that serve people walking including sidewalks, pedestrian signals and crosswalks.

Physical environment

The part of the human environment that includes purely physical factors, such as soil, climate and water supply.

Placemaking

Placemaking refers to a collaborative process by which community members can shape their public realm in order to maximize shared value. With community-based participation at its center, an effective placemaking process capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration, and potential, and results in the creation of quality public spaces that contribute to people’s health, happiness, and well-being. (Project for Public Spaces)

Public realm

Any publicly owned streets, pathways, right of ways, parks and publicly accessible open spaces.

Public right-of-way

The public right-of-way is an area of land owned or controlled by the city for the purposes of constructing, operating and maintaining public facilities such as streets, alleys, sidewalks and bike paths for the needs of transportation, utilities and other public infrastructure.

GLOSSARY

Regulations

Rules that derive their authority from legislation (laws) and provide the specific ways in which those laws are interpreted and applied. Examples include the zoning code and rules and regulations adopted by city departments.

Resiliency

The ability of a community to adapt to both internal and external social, economic and environmental challenges without adverse effect to its residents, essential functions and identity.

Regional Transportation District (RTD)

The regional public transportation agency for the six County Denver metro areas.

Strategies

As they relate to this plan, some of the most important actions that will help to achieve the plan's goals.

Stormwater

Stormwater runoff is generated when water from rain and snowmelt flows over land or impervious surfaces (like paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops) and is not absorbed into the ground. As the runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces, it accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants.

Sustainability

The long-term social, economic and environmental health of a community. A sustainable city survives today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

Transitional housing

Programs that provide extended shelter and supportive services primarily for homeless individuals and/or families with the goal of helping them live independently and transition into permanent housing.

Transit priority street

From Blueprint Denver—transit priority streets are the Transit Capital Investment Corridors in Denver Moves: Transit. This includes high-capacity transit corridors, medium-capacity transit corridors, and speed and reliability corridors. These are streets where transit is prioritized over other modes when making decisions about how to design or operate the right-of-way.

Tree canopy

The layer of tree leaves, branches and stems that provide tree coverage of the ground when viewed from above. In urban areas, the tree canopy provides an important stormwater management function by intercepting rainfall that would otherwise run off of paved surfaces and be transported into local waters though the storm drainage system. Tree canopy also reduces the temperature of an urban area caused by the paving a other modification of land, reduces heating/cooling costs, lowers air temperatures, reduces air pollution, increases property values, provides wildlife habitat, and provides aesthetic and community benefits such as improved quality of life.

Urban design

The process of designing and shaping the physical features of cities including streets, buildings, parks and public spaces.

Value manufacturing

Designated by Blueprint Denver, these light industrial districts within Denver serve the primary purpose of light manufacturing, wholesale trade, transportation, and warehousing.

Vision

The vision is the backbone of the comprehensive plan and includes the six vision elements. It knits together a set of long-term, integrated goals that provide a guide for the future.

Vision elements

The vision elements form a sustainable, comprehensive vision for our city. Each vision element is linked to a set of broad, long-term goals.

Vulnerable populations

Vulnerable populations typically include those with a larger percentage of elders, children or lower incomes.

Water quality

Water quality is the degree to which water is clean and whether it is suitable for drinking, for making plants grow, or for fish to live in, etc.